bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Surface Quality in Micro End-Milling of Ultrafine-Grained Low Carbon Steel Micromolds Through Strategic Toolpath Selection
Authors: De Assis Cleiton Lazaro Fazolo , Mecelis Guilherme Rosatti , Coelho Reginaldo Teixeira , Rodrigues Alessandro Roger 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Surface quality in micromachining significantly affects the performance and functionality of high-precision components, especially in fields such as aerospace, medical devices, and microelectronics. The selection of toolpath strategy, cutting speed, and feed per tooth determines both surface roughness and texture characteristics, which influence wear resistance, fluid dynamics, and overall part behavior. This study explores the impact of three toolpath strategies—Helical, Offset, and Raster—on the surface quality of micromilled ultrafine-grained low carbon steel micromolds, using cutting speeds of 40 m/min and 100 m/min, and feed per tooths of 2 µm/tooth and 8 µm/tooth. Surface roughness parameters (Sa, Sq, Sz) and texture descriptors (Sal, Str) were examined under these varying cutting conditions. The Helical toolpath consistently produced smoother and more isotropic surfaces at lower feed per tooth, making it suitable for applications requiring high surface uniformity, such as optical components and tribological parts. In contrast, the Raster toolpath generated finer, anisotropic features at higher feed per tooths, beneficial for directional flow applications like microfluidic devices. The Offset toolpath offered a balanced outcome between the two, providing moderate roughness and texture uniformity. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) confirmed the significant influence of feed per tooth and cutting speed on texture. These results highlight the importance of optimizing machining parameters to achieve tailored surface characteristics for advanced engineering applications.
A microfluidic investigation unveils the role of gravity and shear stress on Pseudomonas fluorescens motility and biofilm growth
Authors: Marra Daniele , Rizzo Moreno , Caserta Sergio 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Biofilms proliferation in confined environments poses a recurring challenge across several fields, ranging from contamination in biomedical devices to fouling of industrial equipment, to potential system loss of function in long term human space missions. It's crucial to note that surfaces in contact with the fluid, where submerged biofilm develops, experience different bulk stresses resulting from the combination of flow and gravity, a factor often overlooked in biofilm studies. In our research, we aim to quantify the synergistic effect of gravity and shear stress on monotrichous bacteria motility and biofilm growth, considering Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25 as model organisms. Role of gravity was investigated by comparing top and bottom surfaces of rectangular microfluidic channels under controlled laminar flow. Results proved gravity induces asymmetric distribution of bacterial cells along the channel resulting in different cell density and surface contamination. We report for the first time also the evolution of cell distribution over time during spatial reorganization, providing a detailed quantitative analysis and classification of cell motility under flow. Both bacteria motility and biofilm morphology development are affected by external mechanical stresses, resulting in different biocontamination under flow, depending on flow intensity and direction of gravity vector.
Cross-modal Feature Fusion via Mutual Assistance: A Novel Network for Enhanced Object Detection
Authors: Jin Xuebo , Li Jiaxi , Ma Huijun , Su Tingli , Kong Jianlei , Bai Yuting 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This paper presents Mutual Feature Fusion Network (MFFNet), a novel cross-modal object detection framework that leverages infrared and visible light images to enhance detection accuracy. MFFNet employs a dual-stream backbone network based on YOLOv5 to extract features from both modalities independently. The proposed Interassisted Fusion Block (IFB) integrates within the network's intermediate layers, facilitating complementary fusion of features by enabling mutual assistance between the two modalities. To address the issue of uneven sample difficulty, we introduce the Generalized Efficient Intersection over Union (EIOU) loss function, which adaptively adjusts weights to prioritize high-quality anchor boxes. Extensive experiments on two public datasets, M3FD and LLVIP, demonstrate that MFFNet achieves state-of-the-art performance in terms of detection accuracy and efficiency. By effectively exploiting the complementary strengths of infrared and visible light modalities, MFFNet significantly improves detection accuracy, especially for small objects and in challenging lighting conditions. The code for this study is available on GitHub: GitHub Repository.
Carrier communication module detection method based on improved genetic BP algorithm network
Authors: Yang Lei , Liu Qiming , Wang Guohui , Li Huadong , Li Lei , Yang Lei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In order to improve the detection ability of carrier communication module, an improved genetic BP algorithm network model is constructed, which includes BP algorithm model, genetic algorithm model, fitness evaluation module and communication anomaly diagnosis module, and can realize the comprehensive factor evaluation in the process of carrier communication. And through the point cloud registration algorithm based on machine learning to detect carrier communication anomalies, in the face of various factors such as power line conditions, signal transmission distance, signal interference, channel conditions, carrier communication equipment, system design and implementation, can quickly detect carrier communication conditions, greatly improving the detection capability of carrier communication module. Point Cloud Registration (PCR) algorithm is used to detect anomalies in real time, and the carrier communication anomaly diagnosis can be judged. Through the experiment, the error rate of carrier communication is greatly reduced, which lays a foundation for the next research.
Multi-Task Faces (MTF) Data Set: A Legally and Ethically Compliant Collection of Face Images for Various Classification Tasks
Authors: Haffar Rami , Sánchez David , Domingo-Ferrer Josep 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Human facial data offer valuable potential for tackling classification problems, including face recognition, age estimation, gender identification, emotion analysis, and race classification. However, recent privacy regulations, particularly the EU General Data Protection Regulation, have restricted the collection and usage of human images in research. As a result, several previously published face data sets have been removed from the internet due to inadequate data collection methods and privacy concerns.
While synthetic data sets have been suggested as an alternative, they fall short of accurately representing the real data distribution. Additionally, most existing data sets are labeled for just a single task, which limits their versatility. To address these limitations, we introduce the Multi-Task Face (MTF) data set, designed for various tasks including face recognition and classification by race, gender, and age, as well as for aiding in training generative networks.
The MTF data set comes in two versions: a non-curated set containing 132,816 images of 640 individuals, and a manually curated set with 5,246 images of 240 individuals, meticulously selected to maximize their classification quality. Both data sets were ethically sourced, using publicly available celebrity images in full compliance with copyright regulations.
Along with providing detailed descriptions of data collection and processing, we evaluate the MTF data set's effectiveness in training five deep learning models across the aforementioned classification tasks. Both MTF data sets can be accessed through the following link. \url{https://github.com/RamiHaf/MTF_data_set}
Misperception of non-Happy Facial Features: Overshadowing and Priming by a Smiling Mouth
Authors: Gutiérrez-García Aida , Fernández-Martín Andrés , Alguacil Sonia , Calvo Manuel G. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

A smile underlies the well-known recognition advantage of prototypical happy faces in expression categorization tasks. However, a smiling mouth also has ‘side effects’: It biases a tendency to incorrectly judge as “happy” blended expressions with non-happy eyes (neutral, sad, etc.). This reveals interference with the accurate processing of such mixed-smile expressions, which are otherwise ubiquitous in social settings. To account for this effect, we investigated two mechanisms: Perceptual overshadowing driven by the smile visual saliency, and categorical priming driven by the smile diagnostic value. In Experiment 1, we obtained diagnostic values for the mouth and eye regions of facial expressions of emotion. In Experiment 2, facilitation and interference effects of prime mouths on probe eyes were examined as a function of diagnostic values. In Experiment 3, overshadowing and priming were compared. Results showed, first, a high diagnostic value of the smiling mouth, followed by disgusted, sad, and angry mouths. Second, in accordance with the diagnostic values, the mouth expressions, especially the smile, facilitated the recognition of congruent eye expressions and interfered with the recognition of incongruent eye expressions. This supports the categorical priming hypothesis. And, third, the smiling mouth still caused some (albeit limited) interference with the processing of facial information unrelated to expression (masculine/feminine appearance of the expresser). This would be consistent with an overshadowing-inattentional blindness hypothesis. An alternative affective priming hypothesis is discussed.
Effect of nano- and micro-polystyrene particles on intestinal epithelial functions and enteric neuronal activity in vitro
Authors: Elfers Kristin , Benz Pascal , Burmester Marion , Hein Silja , Hansen Kathrin , Sieg Holger , Böhmert Linda , Paul Maxi B , Mazzuoli-Weber Gemma 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Based on their ubiquitous distribution in various ecosystems, plastic particles of different origin and sizes enter the (human) food chain, are ingested and reach the gastrointestinal tract, where they interact with the intestinal (epithelial) tissue. To a certain extent, they may enter or cross the intestinal epithelium, getting into contact with enteric neurons. Therefore, a potential risk for the gastrointestinal health has been suggested early on. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the effect of polystyrene particles of nano- (100 nm) and micro-size (1.0 µm), firstly, on intestinal epithelial electrophysiological processes using the Ussing chamber technique and, secondly, on enteric neuronal properties using neuroimaging on primary cultured enteric neurons. The results indicate a size-dependent impairment of epithelial integrity and electrogenic glucose transport upon particle application. Additionally, both sizes of particles induced a change in neuronal response parameters to nicotinergic stimulation after a 24 h incubation. Taken together, these results emphasise the potential of nano- and micro polystyrene particles to interact and affect intestinal epithelial as well as enteric neuronal functionality and stress the need for more detailed investigations of the effect of plastic particles present in the (human) diet on intestinal physiology and involvement of the enteric nervous system.
The bacterial microbiome and pathogen reservoir potential of Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks in South Africa
Authors: Ackermann Rebecca E. , Gall Cory A. , Brayton Kelly A. , Collins Nicola E. , Wyk Ilana , Wentzel Jeanette , Kolo Agatha O. , Oosthuizen Marinda C. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Tick-borne bacterial pathogens from both domestic and wild animals play a significant role in the (re)emergence of human diseases. Primary tick endosymbionts have considerable influence on tick fitness and pathogen acquisition or transmission, while secondary endosymbionts are more likely to be pathogens. Rhipicephalus sanguineus is one of the most widespread tick species as they predominantly parasitise domestic dogs, though they have also been documented to feed on domestic animals and humans. This makes them ideal vectors of bacterial pathogens that can pose a significant threat to human health. Rhipicephalus sanguineus is host to a species-specific Coxiellaendosymbiont. Tick-borne pathogens and endosymbiotic bacteria can be studied through a targeted microbiome approach.
Methods: We utilised a 16S rRNA microbiome and amplicon sequence variant (ASV) approach to study the bacterial groups present in the midgut and salivary gland tissues of R. sanguineus ticks collected from dogs in a rural community in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga, South Africa, from 2016 to 2019.
Results: Post processing, we obtained 43,161 total sequence reads which were clustered into ASVs by sample year. After contaminants were removed there were ASVs belonging to seven genera: Coxiella, Anaplasma, Escherichia/Shigella, Ehrlichia, Borrelia, Rickettsia and Wolbachia. Coxiella endosymbionts dominated the microbiome. In 2017 Anaplasma was introduced to the microbiome and increased at the 2019 sampling. All other genera were present at low levels.
Conclusions: Our study highlights the changes in the microbiome of the R. sanguineus ticks over time. We found high numbers of two pathogenic Anaplasma species, A. platys and A. centrale, which cause disease in dogs and cattle, respectively, although A. platys infections in humans have been documented. With the exclusion of Wolbachia, the other detected genera could have pathogenic potential. Given our findings of pathogenic bacterial species, our study highlights the role that R. sanguineusmight play as a reservoir of pathogens.
DAGShare: A Secure and Efficient Distributed Personal File Sharing System
Authors: Arshad Hira , Fatima Sumbal , Mian Adnan Noor 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Many approaches have been proposed to share data in a decentralized manner using blockchain, which solves many security and data management issues but has some limitations, such as transaction fees, mining time, power consumption, etc. The alternative to a traditional blockchain is using IOTA, a directed acyclic graph (DAG) based system, but this also has the limitation of on-chain storage. To address these challenges we propose DAGShare, a DAG-based system with off-chain storage on an interplanetary file system (IPFS), a content-based addressable system. The DAGShare combines the IOTA network and IPFS to provide a secure and scalable personal file-sharing system in which members can create new groups and join other groups. The system inherits blockchain features and resolves its limitations. The system also provides an access control mechanism to grant system access rights by using IPFS-cluster-service that is not present in the IPFS server and IOTA. We provide a security evaluation of our system using the AVISPA tool and show that it is not only secure but also scalable as compared with IOTA using file sharing and retrieval experiments.
Application of 3D printing model of linear accelerator machine to enhance the learning and apprentice performance for the radiological technology student
Authors: Tochaikul Gunjanaporn , moonkum Nutthapong 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The teaching of instrumentation has consistently been the subject of undergraduate program in radiological technology (RT). However, opportunities for students to engage in face-to-face operation of linear accelerator machine (LINAC) during their education and training processes have been limited by financial and timeframe considerations. So, the aim of this study is to integrate a 3D-printed model and assess its effectiveness in teaching LINAC to RT undergraduate students. For this purpose, a LINAC physical model was developed using a fused deposition modeling 3D printer, with access through free online software. Color coding was implemented alongside with explanatory color cards to enhance understanding. A total of 114 participants were randomly divided into two groups: a control group and a 3D model group. Compare the theoretical scores of the 3D model group were found to be significantly higher than those of the control group, with p-value < 0.05. Moreover, the increase in student opportunity for hand-on training prior to their apprenticeships allowed participants in the 3D model group to reduced anxiety and better performance in clinical situation. To summarize participant feedback regarding the integration of this novel 3D technology in the context of LINAC learning and training. Results indicated that over 94% of students perceived the alternative teaching method as essential for enhancing both of their understanding and practical performance. In conclusion, the use of modern 3D-printed models technology, presents a potential tool for stimulating teaching and training activities, thereby improving overall educational outcomes in RT programs.
In vitro study of the effects of diode laser on dentin hypersensitivity and evaluation of intra-pulpal temperature variation
Authors: Rodriguez Christian Giancarlo Bernal , Manna Maria Paula Novaes Camargo , Tarrilo Fiorella Elizabeth Arévalo , Zezell Denise Maria , Eduardo Carlos de Paula 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of different wavelengths of high-power diode lasers for the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity by analyzing morphological changes and temperature variation.Methods Human third molars were irradiated with four different wavelengths from five commercial brands. Temperature variation was measured using thermocouples, and morphological changes were assessed using scanning electron microscopy.Results Lasers with wavelengths of 940 nm, 976 nm, and 980 nm, used without a photoinitiator (1 Watt in continuous mode, applied in two 30-second irradiation phases with a 30-second interval), promoted dentinal tubule obliteration without causing thermal damage. Lasers with wavelengths of 808 nm, 940 nm, 976 nm, and 980 nm, when combined with a photoinitiator, resulted in even lower temperature variation compared to the non-photoinitiator groups, although no regular fused surface was observed.Conclusion Diode laser parameters, with the exception of Group 1, are potentially safe for dentinal tubule obliteration. However, the use of a photoinitiator may be necessary to achieve a more regular fused dentin surface, although this may increase temperature variation.
Optimizing Large Language Models with Randomized Multimodal Data Injection: A Novel Enhancement Methodology
Authors: Howie Donald , Montague Ezekiel , Barros Ludovic , Kostandinov Raphael , Stanhope Gregory 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The rapid scaling of language models has resulted in improved performance across a wide array of linguistic tasks, but challenges remain in integrating non-textual data and adapting to complex, multimodal environments. Introducing a novel technique that integrates random multimodal data streams into language model architectures presents a significant leap forward in addressing the limitations of current models. This approach leverages stochastic injections of visual and auditory data during both pre-training and fine-tuning phases, enabling the model to generalize more effectively and produce contextually richer outputs. Experiments show marked improvements in contextual understanding, generalization to unseen tasks, and adaptability, while maintaining computational efficiency. The methodology’s randomization element, combined with multimodal integration, ensures that the model develops a more robust, flexible framework for handling complex multimodal data in real-world applications, paving the way for more advanced machine learning architectures.
Trichomonas vaginalis adhesion protein 33 (TvAP33) promotes HPV infection by upregulating the expression of HPV membrane receptor molecules
Authors: Sheng Wanxin , Zhou Jingwei , zhang Han , Tian Wenjie , Zhang Yani , Yang Zhenke , Tian Xiaowei , Wang Shuai , Mei Xuefang , Zhang Zhenchao 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: An increasing number of studies have identified Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis) as a risk factor for human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, yet experimental data and the mechanisms involved are still lacking.
Methods: Wild-type and T. vaginalis adhesion protein 33 (TvAP33) knockdown T. vaginaliswere used to infect HaCaT cells and the vaginal tissue of mice, while HaCaT cells were also transfected to overexpress TvAP33. The effects of TvAP33 on the expression of HPV membrane receptor molecules and HPV infection were assessed. Infection of HaCaT cells with low expression of HPV membrane receptor molecules by T. vaginalis with reduced TvAP33 expression was conducted to analyze whether TvAP33 influences HPV infection through HPV membrane receptor molecules.
Results: In this study, we found that T. vaginalissignificantly enhances HPV invasion into HaCaT cells and the mouse vagina, and increases the expression of HPV membrane receptor molecules CD151 and HSPG2. Reducing the expression of TvAP33 led to a significant decrease in both HPV invasion rate and CD151/HSPG2 expression. Conversely, overexpressing TvAP33 in HaCaT cells resulted in a notable increase in HPV invasion and CD151/HSPG2 expression. Furthermore, simultaneous reduction of the expression of TvAP33 in trophozoites and CD151/HSPG2 in HaCaT cells further decreased HPV invasion rates. These findings suggest that TvAP33 promotes HPV infection by upregulating CD151 and HSPG2 expression.
Conclusions: This study not only confirms that T. vaginalis can facilitate HPV infection through both in vivo and in vitro experiments but also explores the mechanism by which TvAP33 enhances HPV infection by upregulating HPV receptor expression. These results provide a theoretical basis for understanding the mechanisms of T. vaginalis co-infection with HPV.
A Predictive Model for Traffic Noise Reduction Effects of Street Green Spaces with Variable Widths of Coniferous Vegetation
Authors: Meng Qi , Evgrafova Olga , Li Mengmeng 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Street green spaces can effectively attenuate traffic noise, but the crucial role of coniferous trees and shrubs in the reduction of green space noise has not been systematically explored. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the mechanism of the influence of plant morphological characteristics and planting forms on the noise reduction effect using field measurements of the noise reduction effect of 36 street green spaces planted with coniferous trees and shrubs. It was found that for the same width of street green spaces, the noise reduction effects of planting single and multiple trees were significantly different, and this difference increased with an increase in street green space width. The noise reduction effect of planting low shrubs in street green spaces was significantly different from that of planting common shrubs in the same width, and their difference increased with an increase in street green space width. The factors that significantly affected the noise reduction effect of the 5 m–wide street green space were tree height, crown width, and DBH, and all of them were positively correlated. In addition, the noise reduction effect of the street green space planted with conifers was affected by the road and pavement widths. Finally, this study constructed a stepwise regression model for the noise reduction effect of street green spaces based on plant morphological parameters, planting methods, and physical characteristics of the road to quantify the crucial role of each factor in the noise reduction effect of street green spaces. The results of this study can provide plant noise reduction strategies for urban landscape planning and design to create a healthy urban acoustic environment.