Multimodal Data Fusion based on the Global Workspace Theory

We propose a novel neural network architecture, named the Global Workspace Network (GWN), which addresses the challenge of dynamic and unspecified uncertainties in multimodal data fusion. Our GWN is a model of attention across modalities and evolving through time, and is inspired by the well-established Global Workspace Theory from the field of cognitive science. The GWN achieved average F1 score of 0.92 for discrimination between pain patients and healthy participants and average F1 score = 0.75 for further classification of three pain levels for a patient, both based on the multimodal EmoPain dataset captured from people with chronic pain and healthy people performing different types of exercise movements in unconstrained settings. In these tasks, the GWN significantly outperforms the typical fusion approach of merging by concatenation. We further provide extensive analysis of the behaviour of the GWN and its ability to address uncertainties (hidden noise) in multimodal data

The Role of 3 Tesla MRA in the Detection of Intracranial Aneurysms

Intracranial aneurysms constitute a common pathological entity, affecting approximately 1–8% of the general population. Their early detection is essential for their prompt treatment. Digital subtraction angiography is considered the imaging method of choice. However, other noninvasive methodologies such as CTA and MRA have been employed in the investigation of patients with suspected aneurysms. MRA is a noninvasive angiographic modality requiring no radiation exposure. However, its sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy were initially inadequate. Several MRA techniques have been developed for overcoming all these drawbacks and for improving its sensitivity. 3D TOF MRA and contrast-enhanced MRA are the most commonly employed techniques. The introduction of 3 T magnetic field further increased MRA's sensitivity, allowing detection of aneurysms smaller than 3 mm. The development of newer MRA techniques may provide valuable information regarding the flow characteristics of an aneurysm. Meticulous knowledge of MRA's limitations and pitfalls is of paramount importance for avoiding any erroneous interpretation of its findings

Simulating lesion-dependent functional recovery mechanisms.

Functional recovery after brain damage varies widely and depends on many factors, including lesion site and extent. When a neuronal system is damaged, recovery may occur by engaging residual (e.g., perilesional) components. When damage is extensive, recovery depends on the availability of other intact neural structures that can reproduce the same functional output (i.e., degeneracy). A system's response to damage may occur rapidly, require learning or both. Here, we simulate functional recovery from four different types of lesions, using a generative model of word repetition that comprised a default premorbid system and a less used alternative system. The synthetic lesions (i) completely disengaged the premorbid system, leaving the alternative system intact, (ii) partially damaged both premorbid and alternative systems, and (iii) limited the experience-dependent plasticity of both. The results, across 1000 trials, demonstrate that (i) a complete disconnection of the premorbid system naturally invoked the engagement of the other, (ii) incomplete damage to both systems had a much more devastating long-term effect on model performance and (iii) the effect of reducing learning capacity within each system. These findings contribute to formal frameworks for interpreting the effect of different types of lesions

Proteoglycans Determine the Dynamic Landscape of EMT and Cancer Cell Stemness

Proteoglycans (PGs) are pivotal components of extracellular matrices, involved in a variety of processes such as migration, invasion, morphogenesis, differentiation, drug resistance, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Cellular plasticity is a crucial intermediate phenotypic state acquired by cancer cells, which can modulate EMT and the generation of cancer stem cells (CSCs). PGs affect cell plasticity, stemness, and EMT, altering the cellular shape and functions. PGs control these functions, either by direct activation of signaling cascades, acting as co-receptors, or through regulation of the availability of biological compounds such as growth factors and cytokines. Differential expression of microRNAs is also associated with the expression of PGs and their interplay is implicated in the fine tuning of cancer cell phenotype and potential. This review summarizes the involvement of PGs in the regulation of EMT and stemness of cancer cells and highlights the molecular mechanisms

Cranioplasty optimal timing in cases of decompressive craniectomy after severe head injury: a systematic literature review

AbstractObjectCranioplasty has been considered for several decades as a protective and cosmetic procedure. It has recently been postulated that cranioplasty may have a therapeutic role, and improve the patient’s functional outcome after decompressive craniectomy (DC). The appropriate timing for cranioplasty remains unknown. In our current study, we review the literature for evaluating the relationship of cranioplasty timing and its complication rate and outcome.MethodsThe PubMed database was searched to identify any relevant articles. The following terms were used as keywords: “cranioplasty”, “timing cranioplasty”, “early cranioplasty”, “late cranioplasty”, “delayed cranioplasty”, “early versus late cranioplasty”. Clinical studies with more than 10 participants, and closed head injury as the underlying cause for DC were included in our study. The study design, the timing performing cranioplasty, the complication rate, and the patients’ outcome were evaluated.ResultsTen clinical series met our inclusion criteria. The observed complication rate associated to cranioplasty after DC is not negligible. Several reports have demonstrated that late cranioplasty may minimize procedure-associated complications. Early cranioplasty has been associated with complications, but improves CSF dynamics, and regional cerebral perfusion and metabolism, minimizes the complications from a sunken scalp, reduces the overall length of hospitalization, and thus the overall cost of care.ConclusionsCranioplasty is a relatively simple procedure that is nevertheless burdened by considerable morbidity. However, an early cranioplasty procedure may improve the outcome in selected cases. Prospective, large-scale studies are necessary to outline the actual complication rate, the neurological outcome, and define the optimal timing for a cranioplasty

Intelligent dual curve-driven tool path optimization and virtual CMM inspection for sculptured surface CNC machining

This paper investigates the profitability of a dual‐curve driven surface finish tool path under the concept of optimizing crucial machining parameters such as toroidal end‐mill diameter, lead angle and tilt angle. Surface machining error as well as tool path time are treated as optimization objectives under a multi‐criteria sense, whilst a central composite design is conducted to obtain experimental outputs for examination and, finally, fit a full quadratic model considered as the fitness function for process optimization by means of a genetic algorithm. A benchmark sculptured surface given as a second‐order parametric equation was tested and simulated using a cutting‐edge manufacturing modeling software and best parameters recommended by the genetic algorithm were implemented for validation. Further assessment involves the virtual inspection to selected profile sections on the part. It was shown that the approach can produce dual‐curve driven tool trajectories capable of eliminating sharp scallop heights, maximizing machining strip widths as well as maintaining smoothness quality and machining efficiency