bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Innovation and Collaboration in the Leather Processing Industry: A Case Study of the KIWANGO Leather Cluster
Authors: China Cecilia R. , Mgumia Athman , Trojer Lena , Nungu Amos 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
In the era of Industry 4.0, fostering innovation through strong collaboration among universities, industry, and government is crucial. However, the Tanzanian economy has faced challenges due to weak links between these entities. To address this, Sida initiated the Innovation Systems and Cluster Development Program (ISCP-Tz) in partnership with the University of Dar es Salaam. This was followed by a program at COSTECH focused on fostering innovation for socioeconomic development. As part of these programs, 15 clusters, including KIWANGO Leather, were selected for documentation of their experiences. KIWANGO Leather exemplifies successful collaboration between cluster firms, the university, local government, and research institutions. Operationalizing guidelines for collaboration led to cooperative innovations, knowledge exchange, internships, and long-term partnerships established through Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The cluster's experiences highlight a non-linear, inclusive innovation process with positive outcomes. This paper aims to showcase this innovative approach and its results, encouraging actors in emerging innovation ecosystems in the Global South to adopt and scale up similar strategies for knowledge co-creation that can contribute to sustainable development. By adopting these approaches and fostering collaborative networks, countries can leverage their resources and expertise to drive innovation, create economic growth, and address societal challenges.
Eight-year survival and growth of Sakhalin fir (Abies sachalinensis) seedlings with one weeding operation: Impact of mechanical site preparation, vegetation release, summer planting, stock type, and forwarder trail
Authors: Harayama Hisanori , Tsuyama Ikutaro , Yamada Takeshi , Kitao Mitsutoshi , Furuya Naoyuki , Yazaki Kenichi , Sugai Tetsuto , Uemura Akira , Sasaki Shozo , Utsugi Hajime 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

In Hokkaido, northern Japan, bareroot Sakhalin fir seedlings are conventionally planted in short periods during spring and fall following strip site preparation that alternates managed and unmanaged strips to reduce labor requirements. Postplanting, seven years of weeding are imperative owing to the relentless encroachment of evergreen dwarf bamboo from unmanaged strips. Given diminishing forest labor availability, this protocol poses increasing challenges. We hypothesized that comprehensive mechanical site preparation (MSP) to eradicate dwarf bamboo across the entire site could reduce weeding frequency by delaying the regeneration of competing vegetation. Furthermore, using container seedlings could extend the planting season to summer. Over an eight-year period, we examined the survival and growth of summer-planted bareroot and container seedlings in a fully MSP-treated site, with a single weeding operation conducted in the fifth year. Whole-site MSP induced a shift from dwarf bamboo to deciduous woody and herbaceous species, fostering consistently high Sakhalin fir seedling survival and growth rates despite the lone weeding operation. Container seedlings exhibited superior establishment after summer planting and maintained higher survival rates over eight years relative to bareroot seedlings. Planting in the forwarder trail detrimentally impacted overall seedling growth and survival. These findings advocate for container seedling summer planting alongside comprehensive MSP as an effective Sakhalin fir reforestation technique, mitigating weeding frequency and broadening the planting timeframe.
Unravelling recharge mechanisms along the Guarani Aquifer System (SAG) outcrop in southern Brazil
Authors: Kuhn Isadora Aumond , Reginato Pedro Antonio Roehe , Rooyen Jared van , Kirchheim Roberto 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Understanding recharge is an important step to quantify the sustainability of the groundwater reserve and promoting the adequate implementation of management policies. In southern Brazil, the Guarani Aquifer System (SAG) is increasingly utilised as a source of water for both rural/urban populations and agricultural activities. Being 90% confined, the regional SAG outcrop zones are generally considered the recharge areas, yet local system recharge mechanics have still to be constrained. Water table time series data over a two-year period from 21 monitoring wells in the southern outcrop zone were interrogated to assess local recharge of the SAG. Recharge estimates calculated using the Water Table Fluctuation (WTF) method were compared to the time series data in terms of auto- and cross-correlation factors. In turn, alluding to the memory effect of the water table that is controlled by the flow pathways to the well and its response to local rainfall events. It is apparent that the local conditions strongly affect water percolating through the unsaturated zone, with evidence of both matrix and preferential flow pathways feeding the monitoring sites. Matrix flow is broadly occurring within the study area and preferential flow has a more restricted occurrence yet is associated with the highest rate of recharge. Although future studies may quantify actual recharge amount related to each mechanism, this work explicitly shows that preferential flow mechanisms should not be disregarded, providing insight into aquifer sustainability and its vulnerability to modern contaminants.
Benchmarking and new generative methods for single-cell transcriptome data in bulk RNA sequence deconvolution
Authors: Nishikawa Toui , lee Masatoshi , Amau Masataka 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Numerous methods for bulk RNA sequence deconvolution have been developed to identify cellular targets of diseases by understanding the composition of cell types in disease-related tissues. However, issues of heterogeneity in gene expression between subjects and the shortage of reference single-cell RNA sequence (scRNAseq) data remain to achieve accurate bulk deconvolution. In our study, we investigated whether a new data generative method named sc-CMGAN and benchmarking generative methods (Copula, CTGAN and TVAE) could solve these issues and improve the accuracy of bulk deconvolutions. We also evaluated the robustness of sc-CMGAN using three deconvolution methods and four public datasets. In almost all conditions, the generative methods contributed to improved deconvolution accuracy. Notably, sc-CMGAN outperformed the benchmarking methods and demonstrated higher robustness. This study is the first to examine the impact of data augmentation on bulk deconvolution. The new generative method, sc-CMGAN, is expected to become the gold standard for the preprocessing of bulk deconvolution.
Snail robots as a new paradigm for swarm robotics in unstructured environments
Authors: zhao Da , Luo Haobo , Tu Yuxiao , Meng Chongxi , LAM Tin Lun 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Terrestrial robot swarms that can self-reconfigure offer adaptable solutions for various tasks and environments. However, most existing terrestrial robot swarms remain confined to controlled indoor environments. We introduce a novel 3D terrestrial snail robotic swarm system inspired by the morphological attributes of land snails, specifically engineered for unstructured environments. Contemporary reconfigurable terrestrial robotic swarms rely on free connections for adaptability and scalability. Unfortunately, these mechanisms often compromise stability or are time-intensive in reconfiguration. Addressing these limitations, we present a hybrid-connection system that integrates two distinct modes, drawing inspiration from the unique adhesive mechanisms of land snails. The free mode, mirroring a snail's routine locomotion, leverages magnet-embedded tracks to create a medium-stability connection with an iron spherical shell. This facilitates crucial movements such as sliding, yawing, and transitioning amongst other robots, thereby augmenting the swarm's configurational adaptability and operational efficiency. In contrast, the strong mode, analogous to a snail's enhanced suction response when disturbed, utilizes an active vacuum sucker with directional polymer stalks. This mode provides robust adhesion to the spherical shell, establishing high stability for fixed configurations. The system expertly balances mobility and secure connection needs by assigning specific functions to each mode. Our outdoor experiments highlight not only the advanced capabilities of individual snail robot units but also the exceptional synergy within the swarm, effectively demonstrating its proficiency in navigating diverse terrains and executing manipulative tasks. This research propels the evolution of terrestrial robotic swarms, widening the horizons for their real-world applications, particularly in unstructured outdoor environments.
Rapid detection of fetal compromise using input length invariant deep learning on fetal heart rate signals
Authors: Mendis Lochana , Palaniswami Marimuthu , Keenan Emerson , Brownfoot Fiona 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Standard clinical practice to assess fetal well-being during labour utilises monitoring of the fetal heart rate (FHR) using cardiotocography. However, visual evaluation of FHR signals can result in subjective interpretations leading to inter and intra-observer disagreement. Therefore, recent studies have proposed deep-learning-based methods to interpret FHR signals and detect fetal compromise. These methods have typically focused on evaluating fixed-length FHR segments at the conclusion of labour, leaving little time for clinicians to intervene. In this study, we propose a novel FHR evaluation method using an input length invariant deep learning model to progressively evaluate FHR as labour progresses and achieve rapid detection of fetal compromise. Using a new performance metric called time to predict (TTP), we achieve a 25% reduction in the time taken to detect fetal compromise compared to the state-of-the-art multimodal convolutional neural network (MCNN), with equivalent sensitivity at a 20% false positive rate. A diagnostic system based on our approach could potentially enable earlier intervention for fetal compromise and improve clinical outcomes.
Enablers, Challenges, and Carbon Emissions of Green and Low-Carbon Building Practices in Chongqing, China
Authors: Bo Dong 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
The construction industry in China has embraced green construction evaluation standards, acknowledging the significance of addressing carbon emissions during the construction phase. This study provides an overview of the enablers, challenges, and carbon emissions associated with green and low-carbon building practices in Chongqing, China, highlighting key factors contributing to successful implementation and obstacles hindering progress. A questionnaire survey was conducted to understand these aspects better, distributing 420 questionnaires among individuals of different age groups, education levels, working units, and job experiences. Stakeholders from various sectors within the construction industry provided their perspectives. The study examines several enablers, including the development of building regulations, cost optimization for operation and maintenance, integration of renewable energy, planning policies, improvement of occupant comfort, lower project capital costs, and increased property value. The findings indicate that stakeholders generally agree on the positive contribution of these enablers to the implementation of green and low-carbon building practices. Energy and construction material optimization ranked the highest among the enablers, followed by government subsidies, tax breaks, environmentally friendly practices, and collaborative innovation. These enablers are crucial for achieving sustainability objectives and reducing carbon emissions in the built environment. The findings presented in this study offer valuable insights for policymakers, industry professionals, and stakeholders, enabling them to make informed decisions and take proactive measures to minimize carbon emissions in the construction sector. By addressing these challenges and leveraging the enablers, adopting green and low-carbon building practices can be accelerated, promoting sustainable development and reducing the environmental impact of the built environment in Chongqing, China.
Angiogenesis-related lncRNAs index: A predictor for CESC prognosis, immunotherapy efficacy, and chemosensitivity
Authors: Gou Siqi , Huang Xueyuan , Xu Jiayu , Teichmann Alexander Tobias , Zhang Jing , Wang Rui , Yang Guanhu , Chi Hao , Wang Qin 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma(CESC) is a common gynecologic tumor and patients with advanced and recurrent disease usually have a poor clinical outcome. Angiogenesis is involved in the biological processes of tumors and can promote tumor growth and invasion. In this paper, we created a signature for predicting prognosis based on angiogenesis-related lncRNAs(ARLs). This provides a prospective direction for enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy in CESC patients. We screened seven OS-related ARLs by univariate and multivariate regression analyses and Lasso analysis and developed a prognostic signature at the same time. Then, we performed an internal validation in the TCGA-CESC cohort to increase the precision of the study. In addition, we performed a series of analyses based on ARLs, including immune cell infiltration, immune function, immune checkpoint, tumor mutation load, and drug sensitivity analysis. Our created signature based on ARLs can effectively predict the prognosis of CESC patients. To strengthen the prediction accuracy of the signature, we built a nomogram by combining signature and clinical features.
Duodenal Malignant Melanoma：Primary and Metastatic
Authors: zhou Bing , Li Xiaohua , Liu Jincai , Peng Lizi , liu Xianwei 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Duodenal malignant melanoma is rare, and its early clinical symptoms are insidious, making it difficult to diagnose in its early stages.
Methods
We explored the clinicopathological characteristics of duodenal malignant melanomas and association with BRAF mutations. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemical marker detection, and BRAF V600E mutation inspection via Sanger sequencing for two clinical cases of duodenal malignant melanoma were performed. The relevant literature was reviewed, and the clinical pathology was analyzed.
Results
The two patients (a 63-year-old female [Patient 1] and a 54-year-old male [Patient 2]) experienced pain and discomfort in their upper abdomen; moreover, they had endoscopic space-occupying lesions in the second part of their duodenum and invasively growing solid sheets of round, oval, or polygonal microscopic atypical tumor. Additionally, one of them had skin malignant melanoma and pigmentation, whereas the other was positive for BRAF V600E mutation. Tumor cell immunohistochemical analysis detected Vim, HMB45, Melan-A, and S-100 positive expression. They both underwent surgical treatment; however, Patients 1 and 2 died after 1 and 28 months, respectively.
Conclusion
Primary and metastatic cases should be diagnosed through previous medical history analysis and detailed physical and auxiliary examinations. This would enable a diagnosis based on characteristic histomorphology and immunohistochemical markers. An early diagnosis and surgical treatment can prolong patient survival and the molecular inspection of BRAF mutations can guide follow-up treatment.
Effect of anthropogenic city noise on the vocalizations of four disparate forest birds
Authors: Bahía Rocío , Lambertucci Sergio A. , Speziale Karina L. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
The impact of urbanization on biodiversity is often underestimated, as in the case of noise pollution generated by anthropic activities. Birds inhabiting urban and peri-urban areas are exposed to noisy environments that make communication difficult. We evaluate how anthropogenic sounds associated with urbanization (automobiles, airplanes, and helicopters) affect the song of four disparate bird species of the Andean-Patagonian Forest: The Thorn-tailed Rayadito(Aphrastura spinicauda), the White-crested Elaenia (Elaenia albiceps), the Green-backed Firecrown(Sephanoides sephanoides) and the Austral Parakeet (Enicognathus ferrugineus). Between October 2021 and February 2022 we placed audio recorders (AudioMoth v 1.2.0) in wooded areas of a city surrounded by a National Park, in Argentine Patagonia. We selected groups of recordings where an individual was vocalizing before, during and after the occurrence of anthropogenic noise. From each recording, we analyzed frequency (minimum, maximum and dominant frequency) and temporal bioacoustic parameters (duration of vocalization and pause length between syllables). We found that all birds were affected by anthropogenic noise, but bird responses varied between species. Frequency bioacoustic parameters changed during the disturbance in two of the species studied, and all the birds modified at least one of the temporal bioacoustic parameters during the anthropogenic noise. Our results showed how noise produced by human activities affected sound communication, and therefore the behavior of birds. Given the increase in urbanization over recent decades, and consequently in anthropogenic sound, noise pollution should be considered as a disruptor for bird communication and potentially a threat, even in low populated and protected areas.
Strong response of microbial carbon use efficiency to nitrogen deposition in deep soil of two tropical forests, southern China
Authors: Jiang Yamin , Su Tianyan , Wang Huafeng , Yang Qiu , Lu Jingli , Fu Qunyou , Mao Han , Xu Wenxian , Luo Yiqi , Liu Wenjie , Yang Huai , Fang Mengyang 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background and Aims: Soil microbial carbon use efficiency (CUE) directly impacts the carbon balance between the atmosphere and soil. Atmospheric N deposition may alter soil microbial CUE due to the effect of nitrogen availability on microbial metabolism. However, how N deposition affects the forest ecosystem soil microbial CUE is still not clear.
Methods: This study examined the responses of microbial CUE to short-term N addition treatments in the top (0–10 cm) and deep (60–80 cm) soils from two tropical forests in Hainan, southern China. Additionally, a meta-analysis was conducted to reveal a global pattern of forest soil microbial CUE response to N deposition.
Results: Forest topsoil microbial CUE did not significantly respond to N addition at the global scale and in Hainan. However, microbial CUE increased by 25% (on average) in the deep soil layers with N addition. The increased bacterial abundance and growth rate with N addition partially explained the higher soil microbial CUE of deep soil. We also found that when microbes were N-limited, high soil organic carbon content resulted in low microbial CUE, while the secretion of more N-cycling enzymes promoted microbial CUE. On a global scale, significant decreases in pH and microbial biomass carbon would result in topsoil microbial CUE reduction with N deposition.
Conclusion: Deep soil could store more C with a higher CUE under N deposition in the N-limited tropical forest. Soil microbial nutrients limitation should take into consideration in predicting the feedback of soil C stock to global N deposition.
A nanocrystalline ZSM–5 aggregate having a hierarchical architecture for the catalytic cracking of waste cooking oil
Authors: Liu Haoyu , Zhang Guoliang , Yuan Hong 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
A series of hierarchical ZSM–5 nanocrystalline aggregates (HNZ–5) was synthesized using a hydrothermal method with tetrapropylammonium hydroxide as a structural guide. The morphologies and structures of these materials were characterized by X–ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, N2–Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area analysis and assessment of pore size distribution. HNZ–5 specimens having different Si/Al molar ratios all showed suitable hierarchical architectures and the maximum surface area was found to be 329 m2/g. Temperature–programmed desorption with NH3 indicated that the total acidity of this material increased with increases in the Al3+ content to a maximum of 0.47 mmol/g at a Si/Al ratio of 15. In addition, 27Al magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectra showed that the acid sites were associated with tetrahedral and octahedral Al sites. This HNZ–5 was applied to the catalytic cracking of a model waste cooking oil compound and gave a light olefins yield as high as 43.9% at 550°C. Extending the reaction time to 6000 min provided a yield of light olefins in excess of 30%. These data confirm that the hierarchical pore structure of this HNZ–5 resulting from the self–assembly of nanocrystals, together with exposed acidic sites, promoted the catalytic conversion of large molecules.
The use of the Voice trainer app for vocal control in people with a degenerative ataxia: a pilot intervention study.
Authors: Knuijt Simone , Nonnekes Jorik , de Warrenburg Bart van , Nijkamp Marthè , Scholten Saskia , de Swart Bert , Kalf Hanneke 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Dysarthria is disabling in persons with degenerative ataxia. There is limited evidence for speech therapy interventions. In this pilot study, we used the Voice trainer app, which was originally developed for patients with Parkinson’s disease, as a feedback tool for vocal control. We hypothesized that patients with ataxic dysarthria would benefit from the Voice trainer app to better control their loudness and pitch, resulting in a lower speaking rate and better intelligibility.
Methods
This intervention study consisted of 5 therapy sessions of 30 minutes within 3 weeks using the principles of the Pitch Limiting Voice Treatment. Patients received real time visual feedback on loudness and pitch during the exercises. Besides, they were encouraged to practice at home or to use the Voice trainer in daily life. We used observer-rated and patient-rated outcome measures. The primary outcome measure was intelligibility, as measured by the Dutch sentence intelligibility test.
Results
Twenty-one out of 25 included patients with degenerative ataxia completed the therapy. We found no statistical significant improvements in intelligibility (p = .56). However, after the intervention patients were speaking slower (p = .03) and the pause durations were longer (p <.001). The patients were satisfied about using the app.
Discussion
At group level we found no evidence for an effect of the Voice trainer app on intelligibility in degenerative ataxia. Because of the heterogeneity of ataxic dysarthria, a more tailor made rather than generic intervention seems warranted.