Dealing with data scarcity is the biggest challenge faced by Artificial Intelligence(AI),and it will be interesting to see how we overcome this obstacle in the future,but for now,“THE SHOW MUST GO ON!!!”As AI spread...Dealing with data scarcity is the biggest challenge faced by Artificial Intelligence(AI),and it will be interesting to see how we overcome this obstacle in the future,but for now,“THE SHOW MUST GO ON!!!”As AI spreads and transforms more industries,the lack of data is a significant obstacle:the best methods for teaching machines how real-world processes work.This paper explores the considerable implications of data scarcity for the AI industry,which threatens to restrict its growth and potential,and proposes plausible solutions and perspectives.In addition,this article focuses highly on different ethical considerations:privacy,consent,and non-discrimination principles during AI model developments under limited conditions.Besides,innovative technologies are investigated through the paper in aspects that need implementation by incorporating transfer learning,few-shot learning,and data augmentation to adapt models so they could fit effective use processes in low-resource settings.This thus emphasizes the need for collaborative frameworks and sound methodologies that ensure applicability and fairness,tackling the technical and ethical challenges associated with data scarcity in AI.This article also discusses prospective approaches to dealing with data scarcity,emphasizing the blend of synthetic data and traditional models and the use of advanced machine learning techniques such as transfer learning and few-shot learning.These techniques aim to enhance the flexibility and effectiveness of AI systems across various industries while ensuring sustainable AI technology development amid ongoing data scarcity.展开更多
Agricultural trade promotes the transfer of water resources,which has an impact on regional water scarcity,particularly in arid regions.Nevertheless,the understanding of how agricultural trade influences water scarcit...Agricultural trade promotes the transfer of water resources,which has an impact on regional water scarcity,particularly in arid regions.Nevertheless,the understanding of how agricultural trade influences water scarcity and the populations under different water scarcity levels is still insufficient.This study examines the impact of domestic agricultural(food crop)trade on water scarcity in Northwest China by integrating a grid-based dynamic water balance model with a linear programming model.The results indicate that the agricultural blue water(surface and groundwater)footprint and green water(soil water)footprint in the Northwest region peaked in 2014,with the green water footprint being 17%higher than the blue water footprint.The increase in trade volume has effectively alleviated water scarcity in Northwest China,with green water playing a greater role than blue water,especially in Shaanxi and Ningxia.As trade volumes rise,the population facing mild water scarcity continues to grow after trade,with increases of 4.56%,6.70%,and 5.36%in 2000,2010 and 2014.Agricultural trade significantly alleviates the pressure of severe water scarcity and boosts the region's population carrying capacity.This study provides scientific evidence to support stronger coordination of water resources between regions,especially agricultural water trade between water-rich and water-scarce areas,and to inform the formulation of rational allocation policies for balancing regional water resource distribution and benefits.展开更多
Roots play a critical role in acquisition and utilization of nitrogen in wheat,influencing nitrogen use efficiency(NUE),and ultimately determining yield.However,the detailed responses of root tips to fluctuations in n...Roots play a critical role in acquisition and utilization of nitrogen in wheat,influencing nitrogen use efficiency(NUE),and ultimately determining yield.However,the detailed responses of root tips to fluctuations in nitrogen availability and the underlying regulatory mechanisms enabling adaptation to nitrogenlimited conditions,remain elusive.In this study,we used single-cell nuclear transcriptomics of the highnitrogen utilization variety(HNV)Zhengmai 1860(ZM1860)to construct a comprehensive map of root tip cells under both controlled and nitrogen starvation(N-starv)conditions.Identification of various cell types and their associated genes highlighted the diversity of cellular processes.Using single-nucleus consensus weighted gene co-expression network analysis(hdWGCNA),we identified key modules central to nitrogen metabolism.These identified the prominent role of epidermal cells(EC).The gene TaGS1.2,which is involved in glutamine synthesis,exhibited increased expression under nitrogen-deficient conditions,validating its functional significance in nutrient acquisition.Serving as a key functional gene that adapts to nitrogen-deficient conditions this gene also positively regulated root development.Analysis of the transcriptional regulatory network in EC further revealed the pivotal role of TaG S1.2 in the nitrogen metabolism network.We also uncovered mechanisms that enhance cell-to-cell communication in nitrogen-deficient environments by identifying specific receptors.Single-cell nuclear transcriptome mapping offers valuable insights into the complex responses of root tip cells to nitrogen scarcity and guides future breeding strategies aimed at developing more nitrogen-efficient wheat varieties.展开更多
The capital of Guinea, Conakry, faces a notable difficulty due to a water shortage, which is worsened by the rapid increase in population and urban development. The Guinean Water Company (SEG) faces challenges in supp...The capital of Guinea, Conakry, faces a notable difficulty due to a water shortage, which is worsened by the rapid increase in population and urban development. The Guinean Water Company (SEG) faces challenges in supplying water to the entire city due to its limited area of approximately 420 km<sup>2</sup> and a population of 2 million. Moreover, the population growth rate is anticipated to increase dramatically, exacerbating the difficulty of fulfilling future water requirements. As a result, this study employs data from the Knoema website and the Institute of National Statistics of Guinea (INS) to examine the water production and distribution process by the SEG. The study examines the challenges related to water scarcity in Conakry and suggests strategies to assist the city in managing the present circumstances and planning for the future. The primary objective is to get a long-lasting water supply and uphold water quality to advance public health.展开更多
Background:In the current social environment,scarcity,as a universally present objective state,profoundly impacts individuals’decision-making and health through the subjective feeling it induces,known as a“scarcity ...Background:In the current social environment,scarcity,as a universally present objective state,profoundly impacts individuals’decision-making and health through the subjective feeling it induces,known as a“scarcity mindset.”Particularly,the feeling of scarcity related to money and sleep time is not only widespread but also directly linked to an individual’s mental health.Purpose:This study aims to delve into the relationship between the feeling of scarcity and mental health,with a specific focus on the relationship between the feeling of money scarcity or sleep time scarcity and mental health,as well as the role of sleep quality or life satisfaction in this relationship.Procedure:We determined the sampling quotas based on the population and economic development levels of each province in the“China Statistical Yearbook(2021)”(National Bureau of Statistics,2021).Participants were selected using the Probability Proportional to Size(PPS)sampling method.Data was collected by distributing online questionnaires to participants,and the relationships between the main variables were explored using structural equation modeling.Results:1.In China,the feeling of sleep time scarcity is stronger than the feeling of money scarcity among the public.2.The feeling of money scarcity is positively correlated with depression and anxiety,whereas the feeling of sleep time scarcity is only positively correlated with depression.3.The feeling of scarcity mainly leads to depression and self-denial through reducing life satisfaction,and it leads to anxiety through reducing sleep quality.Conclusion:The feeling of scarcity in money and sleep time is related to different dimensions of mental health.Therefore,reasonably planning financial allocation and ensuring an adequate amount of sleep can reduce the sense of scarcity,thereby improving mental health.Additionally,improving sleep quality and increasing life satisfaction can alleviate the adverse effects of scarcity on mental health.展开更多
Water scarcity has become a pressing global issue, worsening food security, hindering economic development, compromising environmental quality, and threatening human health and other fundamental societal needs. Viet N...Water scarcity has become a pressing global issue, worsening food security, hindering economic development, compromising environmental quality, and threatening human health and other fundamental societal needs. Viet Nam is among the countries severely affected by water scarcity. This study comprehensively assesses the extent and scale of water scarcity in the Srepok River Basin, considering the impacts of water resource allocation, balance, and environmental flows. The areas heavily affected by water scarcity include Ea Hleo, Ea Krong Ana, and several Srepok River branches, with water scarcity periods mainly concentrated in February, March, and April. The influence of climate change has increased the extent and level of water scarcity in the river, affecting an estimated 1.4 million people for at least one month and about 1 million for at least three months. The agricultural sector is significantly affected by water scarcity, with water shortages of 50% according to the baseline scenario and over 60% according to climate change scenarios.展开更多
It would be very helpful for making countermeasures against complex water scarcity by analysis on systematic water scarcity.Based on the previous researches on water scarcity classification,a classification system of ...It would be very helpful for making countermeasures against complex water scarcity by analysis on systematic water scarcity.Based on the previous researches on water scarcity classification,a classification system of water scarcity was established according to contributing factors,which comprises three water scarcity categories caused by anthropic factors,natural factors and mixed factors respectively.Accordingly,the concept of systematic water scarcity was proposed,which can be defined as one type of water scarcity category caused by the discordance between water demand pattern determined by anthropic factors and water supply pattern controlled by natural factors in an evaluation region during a period.Systematic water scarcity has four features,namely space-time characteristic,scale property,externality and integrity,and can be divided into four developing phases including critical phase,early phase,middle phase and late phase according to various degrees of water scarcity.展开更多
Mountain water, which contributes 50% to 90% to the lower reaches of the watershed, has a considerably low utility efficiency. The water accessibility could be a quantitative measure of water scarcity in the mountains...Mountain water, which contributes 50% to 90% to the lower reaches of the watershed, has a considerably low utility efficiency. The water accessibility could be a quantitative measure of water scarcity in the mountains. It can be used effectively for emergency water shortage planning and water resource management. In the present study, Dongchuan District, a typical county in the Hengduan Mountains in Yunnan province of Southwest China, was selected as the study area, and the minimal cumulative resistance(MCR) model was used to simulate the least-cost path(LCP) from 1255 point features of natural villages, as well as 12,368 dryfield centroids, to their respective surrounding river systems, which serve as a source for emergency drinking water and irrigation during droughts. The average length of the LCP for each administrative village was calculated to represent the accessibility to water sources for agricultural production and daily life in these mountain villages. The distribution of population and dryfields, as well as other geographic elements, were analyzed to classify the degree of water scarcity in these villages. The results indicate that the area facing the highest risk of water shortage for agricultural irrigation is located in northern Dongchuan, in particular along the two sides of the Xiaojiang Valley, and that the area with the highest risk of water shortage for daily life needs is located along the Xiaojiang Valley.展开更多
There are so many Isolated Islands (inhabited islands) in the world, including Japan. However, at present islanders, there have been faced with the decline of industries, serious concerns of rapid aging and very low b...There are so many Isolated Islands (inhabited islands) in the world, including Japan. However, at present islanders, there have been faced with the decline of industries, serious concerns of rapid aging and very low birthrate without children and water scarcity issues etc. It can be said that these situations are under the environment which shows a microcosm of Japanese and/or world survival society in the near future. In this paper, the experimental data on the reduction of the mixed water (seawater & rainwater) salinity by the sound wave when changing the volume ratio were first shown, taking into the characteristics of the Isolated Islands. Next, the main analysis result on the water qualities of mixed water with which sound wave was irradiated was shown and the consideration mainly based on the WHO drinking water quality standards was carried out. Finally, through a simple water quality improvement apparatus using small hydroelectric power, a consideration regarding a possibility of the purification of the water (to be a drinking water) based on the solar circulation energy (regenerative type’s natural energy) such as small hydropower utilization, natural sunlight utilization, natural gravity utilization, natural oscillation utilization has been described in the paper.展开更多
Water is at the core of sustainable development and is critical for socio-economic development, healthy ecosystems and for human survival. This research study has been carried out in Nakuru County, a tropical region i...Water is at the core of sustainable development and is critical for socio-economic development, healthy ecosystems and for human survival. This research study has been carried out in Nakuru County, a tropical region in the Rift Valley of Kenya, bounded between latitude 0.28°N and 1.16°S, and longitude 36.27°E and 36.55°E. The objective of the study has been to use GIS and remote sensing in assessment of water scarcity using Land use Land cover area changes, standard precipitation index and crop yields. Landsat satellite images for the year 1985, 1995, 2005 and 2015 were used. Classification was done using maximum likelihood algorithm while classification accuracy assessment entailed the use of confusion matrix method and ground truth data. Post classification change detection results gave percentage cropland areas as 21% in 1985, 29% in 1995, 53% in 2005 and also 53% in 2015. Eleven (11) ground rainfall stations and TRMM satellite rainfall data from 1985 to 2015 has been used to show meteorological drought. Validation of rainfall data done using correlation coefficient (R2) and root mean square (RMS) methods showed that ground rainfall data and TRMM data correlate. Modelling of 3 months SPI for each of the three seasons (MAM, JJA and OND) has been done using interpolation distance weighted method (IDW). 3 months SPI time scales curves gave October 1987 May 1993, and July 2004 as water scarce and dry seasons and were categorized as either Normal, moderately dry, severely dry and extremely dry. Crop yield trends curves showed crop yield decrease in this identified water scarce and dry years. Conclusion reached is that crop yields is not dependent on size of land ploughed only but mostly on rainfall quantities. Therefore, the findings of this research can be used as drought monitoring tools.展开更多
This study investigated how rural households cope with firewood scarcity in dryland areas of Eastern Uganda. A household survey was conducted in December 2008 to January 2009, where 490 respondents were randomly inter...This study investigated how rural households cope with firewood scarcity in dryland areas of Eastern Uganda. A household survey was conducted in December 2008 to January 2009, where 490 respondents were randomly interviewed. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were also held with community elders and women. Responses were analyzed both descriptively and qualitatively. Findings indicated that 99% of the households used firewood for cooking with a per capita consumption of 542.32 Kilograms. Commonly used tree species included Combretnum molle (42.7%) and Acacia polyacantha willd (18.2%). Over 78% of the households have a preference for acacia tree species for firewood. In particular, Acacia polyacantha willd (60.3%), Acacia hockii (16.9%) and Combretum collinum (9.6%) were the most preferred tree species. The scarcity of firewood supply was eminent from the average distance (2 ± 7 Km) traveled by collectors in search of them. Firewood collectors spent 1 to 10 hours with an average of 3 hours weekly in firewood collection activities. This resulted in per annum estimated opportunity cost of Shillings 432,000 (US 232 dollars) for those who collected on weekly basis and Shillings 1,080,000 shillings (US 580 dollars) for those who collected on daily basis. The frequency of collection decreased as distance increased among 89% of the households. Minority of households (1%) have resorted to deliberately planting trees on their own farms to ease problems of firewood shortage, and to modification of biomass stove so as to use less firewood. Households in their endeavour to circumvent the problem of continued scarcity have resorted to poorer quality tree/bushes for firewood (71.2%), alongside other coping strategies such as cooking meals once a day, avoidance of cooking some food types (70%), and using crop residues as fuel source (60%). There is a need for scaling-up on-farm tree planting as well as the use of improved biomass cook stoves in the region.展开更多
Contamination of surface and underground water by sea level rise, surface runoff, and land use activities such as industrial and agricultural activities can lead to water scarcity. Water could be available and accessi...Contamination of surface and underground water by sea level rise, surface runoff, and land use activities such as industrial and agricultural activities can lead to water scarcity. Water could be available and accessible but not suitable for human use. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region countries, the agriculture sector depends massively on water for farming activities, which consumes about 80% of the available water resources. In this context, the issue of environmental water scarcity is under highlighted, though the use of this term itself is still lacking in an international context (FAO). Meanwhile, the international goal of universal access to clean freshwater is included in global development targets (SDGs). This study provides some insights and deepens our understanding on environmental water scarcity, particularly MEN-A region countries. This review paper begins with an introduction to water scarcity and continues with a discussion of environmental issues associated with water scarcity in MENA region countries. Finally, we suggest some adaptive measures in two distinct areas such as agriculture sectors and policy makers and conclude that the lack of implementation of this particular term is hindering sustainable development in MENA region countries.展开更多
The improvement of the technical efficiency of energy use has been widely seen as an important way to alleviate energy scarcity.However,the energy rebound effect demonstrates the vulnerability and unsustainability of ...The improvement of the technical efficiency of energy use has been widely seen as an important way to alleviate energy scarcity.However,the energy rebound effect demonstrates the vulnerability and unsustainability of alleviating energy scarcity relying on technology.Under the background of the consistent development of energy factor market,it is of great importance to explore the paths and differences of energy source allocation constrained by technology and cost to promote the sustainable use of energy.This study analyzed the regional differences and threshold characteristics in the impact of the technical and cost efficiency of energy use on energy scarcity using the instrumental variable-two-stage least square method,based on the panel data of Chinese provinces from 2003 to 2017.The results showed that:①Technology and price were the critical forces of the technical and cost efficiency of energy use.They changed the degree of use of surplus production factors by affecting the complementary and replacement demand relationship between energy and non-energy factors.Meanwhile,the impact of energy use efficiency on energy scarcity showed regional and time features due to the different technology capabilities and different levels of market development in different regions and different time.②The alleviation of energy scarcity at the national level relied on the improvement of energy cost efficiency.At the regional level,the alleviation of energy scarcity in central China came from the improvement of the technical efficiency of energy use.However,the alleviation of energy scarcity in the eastern and western regions was due to the improvement of energy cost efficiency.③Constrained by the economic development,openness,science and technology input and the industrial development structure,the impact of the technical and cost efficiency of energy use on energy scarcity demonstrated a nonlinear feature.And structural mutation occurred after passing a specific‘inflection point’,which showed a significant threshold feature.Therefore,energy price should play an important role in energy use and it is necessary to pay attention to the regional differences and time characteristics of energy economic development to promote the sustainable development of energy resources.展开更多
Water scarcity is significantly increasing water stress in Africa and some parts of the world. This is due to human-induced factors such as climate change, human population increase that raises demand for food availab...Water scarcity is significantly increasing water stress in Africa and some parts of the world. This is due to human-induced factors such as climate change, human population increase that raises demand for food availability, and put great changes on land use which results in changes of hydrological mechanics and water availability as a whole. The investigation of this paper was based on a literature review and the examination of water scarcity in different African regions, and the major factors that result in this menace. Some possible strategies that can be employed to manage water scarcity at the domestic and national levels in the agricultural sector were described in this paper.展开更多
In the last few decades, water scarcity and its implications to economic, social and political dimensions has become a hot topic, especially for research agendas that try to establish a causal relationship with violen...In the last few decades, water scarcity and its implications to economic, social and political dimensions has become a hot topic, especially for research agendas that try to establish a causal relationship with violent conflicts. However, these agendas fail to deliver their promises in not providing empirical evidences to confirm theory. In this sense, the present paper provides a fresh look to water scarcity implications, presenting a theoretical framework and new causal mechanism based on complex interdependence theory applied to the physical reality in an international basin. As such, the inferred causal mechanism, its parts and causal direction is investigated applying process-tracing technique to the Rio Grande-Colorado River. The paper finds by tracing the causal mechanism evidences to confirm new theory and enough analytical power to test in other cases to increase confidence in theory to fulfill generalization requirement.展开更多
Population growth and climate changes as two synergistic phenomena have damaged water resources nationwide and worldwide.The water resources available for agriculture is one of the most critical limiting factors in fo...Population growth and climate changes as two synergistic phenomena have damaged water resources nationwide and worldwide.The water resources available for agriculture is one of the most critical limiting factors in food production enhancement in Iran.Agriculture must tackle the challenge of supplying the increasing demands for food due to population growth.For this purpose,we must get acquainted with how farmers make decisions and their adaptations to water scarcity conditions by studying their adaptation strategies.In this case,we can predict the farmers’behaviors by recognizing the optimal adaptation strategies under water scarcity crisis.This study aims to provide a model to examine and analyze the farmers’behaviors in the realm of water scarcity and the contributing factors to it,facilitating a better understanding of the potential implications of such scarcity,introducing the adaptation changeability procedures for agricultural water management and assistance to farmers to adapt,and developing the actions for mitigating the vulnerability of agriculture sector in Iran.In this study,175 farmers in Northeast Iran were interviewed to conduct an applied research by questionnaire survey.The research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire designed based on the theoretical literature and designed model.According to the research,the model of incremental adaptation strategies could determine the effects of a set of psychological and socioeconomic factors and the formation of adaptation decisions in water resources management under water scarcity conditions.The results indicated that the concern and attitude,farmers’knowledge and technical skill,self-efficiency and risk-taking level,social capital and information availability for farmers,and the internal norm are significantly and positively correlated in this model.The results provide a proper understanding of farmers’sustainable decision-making and a perspective on contributing factors to the strategy framework and improved policies in the form of incremental adaptation strategies when facing water scarcity in agricultural water resources management.Thus,this study will respond to deal with water scarcity by changing farmers’behaviors in dry lands and water scarce regions.展开更多
Integrated water resources management requires consistent and accurate data on available water storage in reservoirs as well as water stress level. Vietnam is enduring a significant deficit in collecting necessary inf...Integrated water resources management requires consistent and accurate data on available water storage in reservoirs as well as water stress level. Vietnam is enduring a significant deficit in collecting necessary information to manage its water resources in that manner. While reservoirs are abundant, the majority of them were constructed a long ago and often lack of regular and adequate measurement on storage volume. Furthermore, the condition of water stress is often missing or remains bias leading to certain risks in reservoir operation, e.g. during water scarcity period. This paper presents how remote sensing data can be used to acquire needed information that is fundamental to understand water resources conditions. The results indicated that Sentinel-1 and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) can be applied to determine water surface area and water stress, through vegetation health index (VHI). This information is deemed necessary to improve water resources monitoring and management and hence, ensure long-term drought resilience and water and food security.展开更多
Iraq is part of the Fertile Crescent with the two large rivers:Tigris and Euphrates and their tributaries that secure the required quantity and quality of water to the Iraqi population for their different uses;includi...Iraq is part of the Fertile Crescent with the two large rivers:Tigris and Euphrates and their tributaries that secure the required quantity and quality of water to the Iraqi population for their different uses;including agriculture,industry,and other domestic requirements.During the last decades,however,the quantity and quality of water in these rivers decreased causing water scarcity in the country.This scarcity is having severe impacts on food security in Iraq since large cultivated areas in different parts of the country that grow different agricultural products have been abandoned due to lack of water.The worsening situation is attributed mainly to global climate changes including decreasing rainfall amounts,increase in air temperature,and insufficient water inflows in the two main rivers and their tributaries.This last issue is exasperated by the unfair water sharing policies of the riparian countries namely Turkey and Iran.In writing this article relevant data from different sources were used.Numerous published reports and papers dealing with this important issue were consulted,while at the same time,the long experience of the authors in these very important issues was also drawn upon to elucidate the difficulties that are current today and those expected in the future in this field.展开更多
Despite significant advancements,the effectiveness of chimeric antigen receptor(CAR)-T-cell-based therapies in solid tumors remains limited.Key challenges include on-target effects,off-tumor toxicity and reduced CAR-T...Despite significant advancements,the effectiveness of chimeric antigen receptor(CAR)-T-cell-based therapies in solid tumors remains limited.Key challenges include on-target effects,off-tumor toxicity and reduced CAR-T-cell function within the tumor microenvironment,which is often characterized by metabolic stress triggered by factors such as amino acid scarcity.Activating transcription factor-4(ATF4)and its upstream regulator GCN2 play crucial roles in the metabolic reprogramming and functionality of CD4^(+)and CD8^(+)T cells.ATF4 can be activated by various cellular stress signals,including amino acid deprivation.While ATF4 activation may be associated with T-cell dysfunction,its role in stress adaptation presents an opportunity for therapeutic intervention-particularly in the tumor microenvironment,where T-cell exhaustion is a major challenge.In this study,we developed a strategy to harness the GCN2‒ATF4 axis in CAR-T cells.We employed an amino acid-dependent inducible promoter,which triggers ATF4-dependent gene expression to regulate CAR expression in T cells under conditions of amino acid scarcity within the tumor microenvironment.In vitro and murine xenograft models demonstrate the potential of this system to effectively restrict CAR expression to the tumor site.This targeted strategy not only enhances safety by minimizing off-tumor activity but also CAR-T-cell fitness by reducing exhaustion.By validating this pathophysiologically regulatable CAR expression system for solid tumors,our findings address key limitations of current CAR-T-cell therapies and pave the way for innovative strategies targeting solid malignancies.展开更多
基金supported by Internal Research Support Program(IRSPG202202).
文摘Dealing with data scarcity is the biggest challenge faced by Artificial Intelligence(AI),and it will be interesting to see how we overcome this obstacle in the future,but for now,“THE SHOW MUST GO ON!!!”As AI spreads and transforms more industries,the lack of data is a significant obstacle:the best methods for teaching machines how real-world processes work.This paper explores the considerable implications of data scarcity for the AI industry,which threatens to restrict its growth and potential,and proposes plausible solutions and perspectives.In addition,this article focuses highly on different ethical considerations:privacy,consent,and non-discrimination principles during AI model developments under limited conditions.Besides,innovative technologies are investigated through the paper in aspects that need implementation by incorporating transfer learning,few-shot learning,and data augmentation to adapt models so they could fit effective use processes in low-resource settings.This thus emphasizes the need for collaborative frameworks and sound methodologies that ensure applicability and fairness,tackling the technical and ethical challenges associated with data scarcity in AI.This article also discusses prospective approaches to dealing with data scarcity,emphasizing the blend of synthetic data and traditional models and the use of advanced machine learning techniques such as transfer learning and few-shot learning.These techniques aim to enhance the flexibility and effectiveness of AI systems across various industries while ensuring sustainable AI technology development amid ongoing data scarcity.
基金supported by the Tianshan Talents Program of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region(2022TSYCJU0002)the Basic and cross-cutting frontier scientific research pilot projects of Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB0720100)+3 种基金the Major Science and Technology Special Project of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region-Research and demonstration of nature-based restoration and conservation technology for degraded vegetation in the desert-oasis ecotone(2024A03009-4)the original innovation project of the basic frontier scientific research program,Chinese Academy of Sciences(ZDBS-LY-DQC031)the water system evolution and risk assessment in arid regions for original innovation project of institute(2023-2025)the Outstanding Member of the Youth Innovation Promotion Association of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(2019)(2024-2026).
文摘Agricultural trade promotes the transfer of water resources,which has an impact on regional water scarcity,particularly in arid regions.Nevertheless,the understanding of how agricultural trade influences water scarcity and the populations under different water scarcity levels is still insufficient.This study examines the impact of domestic agricultural(food crop)trade on water scarcity in Northwest China by integrating a grid-based dynamic water balance model with a linear programming model.The results indicate that the agricultural blue water(surface and groundwater)footprint and green water(soil water)footprint in the Northwest region peaked in 2014,with the green water footprint being 17%higher than the blue water footprint.The increase in trade volume has effectively alleviated water scarcity in Northwest China,with green water playing a greater role than blue water,especially in Shaanxi and Ningxia.As trade volumes rise,the population facing mild water scarcity continues to grow after trade,with increases of 4.56%,6.70%,and 5.36%in 2000,2010 and 2014.Agricultural trade significantly alleviates the pressure of severe water scarcity and boosts the region's population carrying capacity.This study provides scientific evidence to support stronger coordination of water resources between regions,especially agricultural water trade between water-rich and water-scarce areas,and to inform the formulation of rational allocation policies for balancing regional water resource distribution and benefits.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program(2022YFD1200204)the Henan Provincial Science and Technology Research and Development Program Joint Fund(222301420025)the Fund of Shennong Laboratory(SN01-2022-01)。
文摘Roots play a critical role in acquisition and utilization of nitrogen in wheat,influencing nitrogen use efficiency(NUE),and ultimately determining yield.However,the detailed responses of root tips to fluctuations in nitrogen availability and the underlying regulatory mechanisms enabling adaptation to nitrogenlimited conditions,remain elusive.In this study,we used single-cell nuclear transcriptomics of the highnitrogen utilization variety(HNV)Zhengmai 1860(ZM1860)to construct a comprehensive map of root tip cells under both controlled and nitrogen starvation(N-starv)conditions.Identification of various cell types and their associated genes highlighted the diversity of cellular processes.Using single-nucleus consensus weighted gene co-expression network analysis(hdWGCNA),we identified key modules central to nitrogen metabolism.These identified the prominent role of epidermal cells(EC).The gene TaGS1.2,which is involved in glutamine synthesis,exhibited increased expression under nitrogen-deficient conditions,validating its functional significance in nutrient acquisition.Serving as a key functional gene that adapts to nitrogen-deficient conditions this gene also positively regulated root development.Analysis of the transcriptional regulatory network in EC further revealed the pivotal role of TaG S1.2 in the nitrogen metabolism network.We also uncovered mechanisms that enhance cell-to-cell communication in nitrogen-deficient environments by identifying specific receptors.Single-cell nuclear transcriptome mapping offers valuable insights into the complex responses of root tip cells to nitrogen scarcity and guides future breeding strategies aimed at developing more nitrogen-efficient wheat varieties.
文摘The capital of Guinea, Conakry, faces a notable difficulty due to a water shortage, which is worsened by the rapid increase in population and urban development. The Guinean Water Company (SEG) faces challenges in supplying water to the entire city due to its limited area of approximately 420 km<sup>2</sup> and a population of 2 million. Moreover, the population growth rate is anticipated to increase dramatically, exacerbating the difficulty of fulfilling future water requirements. As a result, this study employs data from the Knoema website and the Institute of National Statistics of Guinea (INS) to examine the water production and distribution process by the SEG. The study examines the challenges related to water scarcity in Conakry and suggests strategies to assist the city in managing the present circumstances and planning for the future. The primary objective is to get a long-lasting water supply and uphold water quality to advance public health.
基金the Key Projects of Philosophy and Social Sciences Research,Ministry of Education(Grant Number 21JZD038).
文摘Background:In the current social environment,scarcity,as a universally present objective state,profoundly impacts individuals’decision-making and health through the subjective feeling it induces,known as a“scarcity mindset.”Particularly,the feeling of scarcity related to money and sleep time is not only widespread but also directly linked to an individual’s mental health.Purpose:This study aims to delve into the relationship between the feeling of scarcity and mental health,with a specific focus on the relationship between the feeling of money scarcity or sleep time scarcity and mental health,as well as the role of sleep quality or life satisfaction in this relationship.Procedure:We determined the sampling quotas based on the population and economic development levels of each province in the“China Statistical Yearbook(2021)”(National Bureau of Statistics,2021).Participants were selected using the Probability Proportional to Size(PPS)sampling method.Data was collected by distributing online questionnaires to participants,and the relationships between the main variables were explored using structural equation modeling.Results:1.In China,the feeling of sleep time scarcity is stronger than the feeling of money scarcity among the public.2.The feeling of money scarcity is positively correlated with depression and anxiety,whereas the feeling of sleep time scarcity is only positively correlated with depression.3.The feeling of scarcity mainly leads to depression and self-denial through reducing life satisfaction,and it leads to anxiety through reducing sleep quality.Conclusion:The feeling of scarcity in money and sleep time is related to different dimensions of mental health.Therefore,reasonably planning financial allocation and ensuring an adequate amount of sleep can reduce the sense of scarcity,thereby improving mental health.Additionally,improving sleep quality and increasing life satisfaction can alleviate the adverse effects of scarcity on mental health.
文摘Water scarcity has become a pressing global issue, worsening food security, hindering economic development, compromising environmental quality, and threatening human health and other fundamental societal needs. Viet Nam is among the countries severely affected by water scarcity. This study comprehensively assesses the extent and scale of water scarcity in the Srepok River Basin, considering the impacts of water resource allocation, balance, and environmental flows. The areas heavily affected by water scarcity include Ea Hleo, Ea Krong Ana, and several Srepok River branches, with water scarcity periods mainly concentrated in February, March, and April. The influence of climate change has increased the extent and level of water scarcity in the river, affecting an estimated 1.4 million people for at least one month and about 1 million for at least three months. The agricultural sector is significantly affected by water scarcity, with water shortages of 50% according to the baseline scenario and over 60% according to climate change scenarios.
基金Supported by the CAS /SAFEA International Partnership Program for Creative Research Teams(KZCX2-YW-T08)Innovation Foundation for Young Scitech Talents of Fujiang Province(2006F3115)
文摘It would be very helpful for making countermeasures against complex water scarcity by analysis on systematic water scarcity.Based on the previous researches on water scarcity classification,a classification system of water scarcity was established according to contributing factors,which comprises three water scarcity categories caused by anthropic factors,natural factors and mixed factors respectively.Accordingly,the concept of systematic water scarcity was proposed,which can be defined as one type of water scarcity category caused by the discordance between water demand pattern determined by anthropic factors and water supply pattern controlled by natural factors in an evaluation region during a period.Systematic water scarcity has four features,namely space-time characteristic,scale property,externality and integrity,and can be divided into four developing phases including critical phase,early phase,middle phase and late phase according to various degrees of water scarcity.
基金financially supported by the National Program on Key Basic Research Project (973 Program) (Grant No. 2015CB452706)
文摘Mountain water, which contributes 50% to 90% to the lower reaches of the watershed, has a considerably low utility efficiency. The water accessibility could be a quantitative measure of water scarcity in the mountains. It can be used effectively for emergency water shortage planning and water resource management. In the present study, Dongchuan District, a typical county in the Hengduan Mountains in Yunnan province of Southwest China, was selected as the study area, and the minimal cumulative resistance(MCR) model was used to simulate the least-cost path(LCP) from 1255 point features of natural villages, as well as 12,368 dryfield centroids, to their respective surrounding river systems, which serve as a source for emergency drinking water and irrigation during droughts. The average length of the LCP for each administrative village was calculated to represent the accessibility to water sources for agricultural production and daily life in these mountain villages. The distribution of population and dryfields, as well as other geographic elements, were analyzed to classify the degree of water scarcity in these villages. The results indicate that the area facing the highest risk of water shortage for agricultural irrigation is located in northern Dongchuan, in particular along the two sides of the Xiaojiang Valley, and that the area with the highest risk of water shortage for daily life needs is located along the Xiaojiang Valley.
文摘There are so many Isolated Islands (inhabited islands) in the world, including Japan. However, at present islanders, there have been faced with the decline of industries, serious concerns of rapid aging and very low birthrate without children and water scarcity issues etc. It can be said that these situations are under the environment which shows a microcosm of Japanese and/or world survival society in the near future. In this paper, the experimental data on the reduction of the mixed water (seawater & rainwater) salinity by the sound wave when changing the volume ratio were first shown, taking into the characteristics of the Isolated Islands. Next, the main analysis result on the water qualities of mixed water with which sound wave was irradiated was shown and the consideration mainly based on the WHO drinking water quality standards was carried out. Finally, through a simple water quality improvement apparatus using small hydroelectric power, a consideration regarding a possibility of the purification of the water (to be a drinking water) based on the solar circulation energy (regenerative type’s natural energy) such as small hydropower utilization, natural sunlight utilization, natural gravity utilization, natural oscillation utilization has been described in the paper.
文摘Water is at the core of sustainable development and is critical for socio-economic development, healthy ecosystems and for human survival. This research study has been carried out in Nakuru County, a tropical region in the Rift Valley of Kenya, bounded between latitude 0.28°N and 1.16°S, and longitude 36.27°E and 36.55°E. The objective of the study has been to use GIS and remote sensing in assessment of water scarcity using Land use Land cover area changes, standard precipitation index and crop yields. Landsat satellite images for the year 1985, 1995, 2005 and 2015 were used. Classification was done using maximum likelihood algorithm while classification accuracy assessment entailed the use of confusion matrix method and ground truth data. Post classification change detection results gave percentage cropland areas as 21% in 1985, 29% in 1995, 53% in 2005 and also 53% in 2015. Eleven (11) ground rainfall stations and TRMM satellite rainfall data from 1985 to 2015 has been used to show meteorological drought. Validation of rainfall data done using correlation coefficient (R2) and root mean square (RMS) methods showed that ground rainfall data and TRMM data correlate. Modelling of 3 months SPI for each of the three seasons (MAM, JJA and OND) has been done using interpolation distance weighted method (IDW). 3 months SPI time scales curves gave October 1987 May 1993, and July 2004 as water scarce and dry seasons and were categorized as either Normal, moderately dry, severely dry and extremely dry. Crop yield trends curves showed crop yield decrease in this identified water scarce and dry years. Conclusion reached is that crop yields is not dependent on size of land ploughed only but mostly on rainfall quantities. Therefore, the findings of this research can be used as drought monitoring tools.
文摘This study investigated how rural households cope with firewood scarcity in dryland areas of Eastern Uganda. A household survey was conducted in December 2008 to January 2009, where 490 respondents were randomly interviewed. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were also held with community elders and women. Responses were analyzed both descriptively and qualitatively. Findings indicated that 99% of the households used firewood for cooking with a per capita consumption of 542.32 Kilograms. Commonly used tree species included Combretnum molle (42.7%) and Acacia polyacantha willd (18.2%). Over 78% of the households have a preference for acacia tree species for firewood. In particular, Acacia polyacantha willd (60.3%), Acacia hockii (16.9%) and Combretum collinum (9.6%) were the most preferred tree species. The scarcity of firewood supply was eminent from the average distance (2 ± 7 Km) traveled by collectors in search of them. Firewood collectors spent 1 to 10 hours with an average of 3 hours weekly in firewood collection activities. This resulted in per annum estimated opportunity cost of Shillings 432,000 (US 232 dollars) for those who collected on weekly basis and Shillings 1,080,000 shillings (US 580 dollars) for those who collected on daily basis. The frequency of collection decreased as distance increased among 89% of the households. Minority of households (1%) have resorted to deliberately planting trees on their own farms to ease problems of firewood shortage, and to modification of biomass stove so as to use less firewood. Households in their endeavour to circumvent the problem of continued scarcity have resorted to poorer quality tree/bushes for firewood (71.2%), alongside other coping strategies such as cooking meals once a day, avoidance of cooking some food types (70%), and using crop residues as fuel source (60%). There is a need for scaling-up on-farm tree planting as well as the use of improved biomass cook stoves in the region.
文摘Contamination of surface and underground water by sea level rise, surface runoff, and land use activities such as industrial and agricultural activities can lead to water scarcity. Water could be available and accessible but not suitable for human use. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region countries, the agriculture sector depends massively on water for farming activities, which consumes about 80% of the available water resources. In this context, the issue of environmental water scarcity is under highlighted, though the use of this term itself is still lacking in an international context (FAO). Meanwhile, the international goal of universal access to clean freshwater is included in global development targets (SDGs). This study provides some insights and deepens our understanding on environmental water scarcity, particularly MEN-A region countries. This review paper begins with an introduction to water scarcity and continues with a discussion of environmental issues associated with water scarcity in MENA region countries. Finally, we suggest some adaptive measures in two distinct areas such as agriculture sectors and policy makers and conclude that the lack of implementation of this particular term is hindering sustainable development in MENA region countries.
文摘The improvement of the technical efficiency of energy use has been widely seen as an important way to alleviate energy scarcity.However,the energy rebound effect demonstrates the vulnerability and unsustainability of alleviating energy scarcity relying on technology.Under the background of the consistent development of energy factor market,it is of great importance to explore the paths and differences of energy source allocation constrained by technology and cost to promote the sustainable use of energy.This study analyzed the regional differences and threshold characteristics in the impact of the technical and cost efficiency of energy use on energy scarcity using the instrumental variable-two-stage least square method,based on the panel data of Chinese provinces from 2003 to 2017.The results showed that:①Technology and price were the critical forces of the technical and cost efficiency of energy use.They changed the degree of use of surplus production factors by affecting the complementary and replacement demand relationship between energy and non-energy factors.Meanwhile,the impact of energy use efficiency on energy scarcity showed regional and time features due to the different technology capabilities and different levels of market development in different regions and different time.②The alleviation of energy scarcity at the national level relied on the improvement of energy cost efficiency.At the regional level,the alleviation of energy scarcity in central China came from the improvement of the technical efficiency of energy use.However,the alleviation of energy scarcity in the eastern and western regions was due to the improvement of energy cost efficiency.③Constrained by the economic development,openness,science and technology input and the industrial development structure,the impact of the technical and cost efficiency of energy use on energy scarcity demonstrated a nonlinear feature.And structural mutation occurred after passing a specific‘inflection point’,which showed a significant threshold feature.Therefore,energy price should play an important role in energy use and it is necessary to pay attention to the regional differences and time characteristics of energy economic development to promote the sustainable development of energy resources.
文摘Water scarcity is significantly increasing water stress in Africa and some parts of the world. This is due to human-induced factors such as climate change, human population increase that raises demand for food availability, and put great changes on land use which results in changes of hydrological mechanics and water availability as a whole. The investigation of this paper was based on a literature review and the examination of water scarcity in different African regions, and the major factors that result in this menace. Some possible strategies that can be employed to manage water scarcity at the domestic and national levels in the agricultural sector were described in this paper.
文摘In the last few decades, water scarcity and its implications to economic, social and political dimensions has become a hot topic, especially for research agendas that try to establish a causal relationship with violent conflicts. However, these agendas fail to deliver their promises in not providing empirical evidences to confirm theory. In this sense, the present paper provides a fresh look to water scarcity implications, presenting a theoretical framework and new causal mechanism based on complex interdependence theory applied to the physical reality in an international basin. As such, the inferred causal mechanism, its parts and causal direction is investigated applying process-tracing technique to the Rio Grande-Colorado River. The paper finds by tracing the causal mechanism evidences to confirm new theory and enough analytical power to test in other cases to increase confidence in theory to fulfill generalization requirement.
文摘Population growth and climate changes as two synergistic phenomena have damaged water resources nationwide and worldwide.The water resources available for agriculture is one of the most critical limiting factors in food production enhancement in Iran.Agriculture must tackle the challenge of supplying the increasing demands for food due to population growth.For this purpose,we must get acquainted with how farmers make decisions and their adaptations to water scarcity conditions by studying their adaptation strategies.In this case,we can predict the farmers’behaviors by recognizing the optimal adaptation strategies under water scarcity crisis.This study aims to provide a model to examine and analyze the farmers’behaviors in the realm of water scarcity and the contributing factors to it,facilitating a better understanding of the potential implications of such scarcity,introducing the adaptation changeability procedures for agricultural water management and assistance to farmers to adapt,and developing the actions for mitigating the vulnerability of agriculture sector in Iran.In this study,175 farmers in Northeast Iran were interviewed to conduct an applied research by questionnaire survey.The research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire designed based on the theoretical literature and designed model.According to the research,the model of incremental adaptation strategies could determine the effects of a set of psychological and socioeconomic factors and the formation of adaptation decisions in water resources management under water scarcity conditions.The results indicated that the concern and attitude,farmers’knowledge and technical skill,self-efficiency and risk-taking level,social capital and information availability for farmers,and the internal norm are significantly and positively correlated in this model.The results provide a proper understanding of farmers’sustainable decision-making and a perspective on contributing factors to the strategy framework and improved policies in the form of incremental adaptation strategies when facing water scarcity in agricultural water resources management.Thus,this study will respond to deal with water scarcity by changing farmers’behaviors in dry lands and water scarce regions.
文摘Integrated water resources management requires consistent and accurate data on available water storage in reservoirs as well as water stress level. Vietnam is enduring a significant deficit in collecting necessary information to manage its water resources in that manner. While reservoirs are abundant, the majority of them were constructed a long ago and often lack of regular and adequate measurement on storage volume. Furthermore, the condition of water stress is often missing or remains bias leading to certain risks in reservoir operation, e.g. during water scarcity period. This paper presents how remote sensing data can be used to acquire needed information that is fundamental to understand water resources conditions. The results indicated that Sentinel-1 and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) can be applied to determine water surface area and water stress, through vegetation health index (VHI). This information is deemed necessary to improve water resources monitoring and management and hence, ensure long-term drought resilience and water and food security.
文摘Iraq is part of the Fertile Crescent with the two large rivers:Tigris and Euphrates and their tributaries that secure the required quantity and quality of water to the Iraqi population for their different uses;including agriculture,industry,and other domestic requirements.During the last decades,however,the quantity and quality of water in these rivers decreased causing water scarcity in the country.This scarcity is having severe impacts on food security in Iraq since large cultivated areas in different parts of the country that grow different agricultural products have been abandoned due to lack of water.The worsening situation is attributed mainly to global climate changes including decreasing rainfall amounts,increase in air temperature,and insufficient water inflows in the two main rivers and their tributaries.This last issue is exasperated by the unfair water sharing policies of the riparian countries namely Turkey and Iran.In writing this article relevant data from different sources were used.Numerous published reports and papers dealing with this important issue were consulted,while at the same time,the long experience of the authors in these very important issues was also drawn upon to elucidate the difficulties that are current today and those expected in the future in this field.
基金supported by Asfalia Biologics,AP-RM-22-006-Fondation d’Avenir,MetaboHUB-ANR-11-INBS-0010Inserm grants for UMRS976+1 种基金supported by a PhD fellowship from“Ministère de l’Education Nationale”by Asfalia Biologics(4th year of PhD training).
文摘Despite significant advancements,the effectiveness of chimeric antigen receptor(CAR)-T-cell-based therapies in solid tumors remains limited.Key challenges include on-target effects,off-tumor toxicity and reduced CAR-T-cell function within the tumor microenvironment,which is often characterized by metabolic stress triggered by factors such as amino acid scarcity.Activating transcription factor-4(ATF4)and its upstream regulator GCN2 play crucial roles in the metabolic reprogramming and functionality of CD4^(+)and CD8^(+)T cells.ATF4 can be activated by various cellular stress signals,including amino acid deprivation.While ATF4 activation may be associated with T-cell dysfunction,its role in stress adaptation presents an opportunity for therapeutic intervention-particularly in the tumor microenvironment,where T-cell exhaustion is a major challenge.In this study,we developed a strategy to harness the GCN2‒ATF4 axis in CAR-T cells.We employed an amino acid-dependent inducible promoter,which triggers ATF4-dependent gene expression to regulate CAR expression in T cells under conditions of amino acid scarcity within the tumor microenvironment.In vitro and murine xenograft models demonstrate the potential of this system to effectively restrict CAR expression to the tumor site.This targeted strategy not only enhances safety by minimizing off-tumor activity but also CAR-T-cell fitness by reducing exhaustion.By validating this pathophysiologically regulatable CAR expression system for solid tumors,our findings address key limitations of current CAR-T-cell therapies and pave the way for innovative strategies targeting solid malignancies.
