Editorial: Machine learning algorithms for brain imaging: new frontiers in neurodiagnostics and treatment.

Machine-Learning Implementation in Clinical Anesthesia: Opportunities and Challenges.

Machine learning (ML) techniques discover knowledge from large amounts of data. Modeling in ML is becoming essential to software systems in practice. The accuracy and efficiency of ML models have been focused on ML research communities, while there is less attention on validating the qualities of ML models. Validating ML applications is a challenging and time-consuming process for developers since prediction accuracy heavily relies on generated models. ML applications are written by relatively more data-driven programming based on the black box of ML frameworks. All of the datasets and the ML application need to be individually investigated. Thus, the ML validation tasks take a lot of time and effort. To address this limitation, we present a novel quality validation technique that increases the reliability for ML models and applications, called MLVal. Our approach helps developers inspect the training data and the generated features for the ML model. A data validation technique is important and beneficial to software quality since the quality of the input data affects speed and accuracy for training and inference. Inspired by software debugging/validation for reproducing the potential reported bugs, MLVal takes as input an ML application and its training datasets to build the ML models, helping ML application developers easily reproduce and understand anomalies in the ML application. We have implemented an Eclipse plugin for MLVal that allows developers to validate the prediction behavior of their ML applications, the ML model, and the training data on the Eclipse IDE. In our evaluation, we used 23,500 documents in the bioengineering research domain. We assessed the ability of the MLVal validation technique to effectively help ML application developers: (1) investigate the connection between the produced features and the labels in the training model, and (2) detect errors early to secure the quality of models from better data. Our approach reduces the cost of engineering efforts to validate problems, improving data-centric workflows of the ML application development.

This special issue of Deep Underground Science and Engineering (DUSE) showcases pioneering research on the transformative role of machine learning (ML) and Big Data in deep underground engineering. Edited by guest editors Prof. Asoke Nandi (Brunel University of London, UK), Prof. Ru Zhang (Sichuan University, China), Prof. Tao Zhao (Chinese Academy of Sciences, China), and Prof. Tao Lei (Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, China), this issue highlights the innovative applications of ML technique in reshaping structural safety, tunneling operations, and geotechnical investigations. As underground engineering challenges grow in complexity, ML and Big Data have become indispensable tools for improving prediction accuracy, optimizing operational efficiency, and ensuring the long-term safety and sustainability of infrastructure. By leveraging vast datasets, automating critical processes, and predicting complex engineering outcomes, these technologies are enabling smarter, more reliable engineering practices that drive both performance and resilience. The contributions to this special issue illustrate the diverse and impactful applications of ML and Big Data in deep underground engineering. One article introduces ALSTNet, an advanced data-driven model that integrates long- and short-term time-series data using autoencoders to predict tunnel structural behaviors. When applied to strain monitoring data from the Nanjing Dinghuaimen tunnel, ALSTNet outperforms traditional models, offering promising potential for early disaster prevention in real-world engineering scenarios. Another study presents two robust ML models—Gene Expression Programming (GEP) and a Decision Tree-Support Vector Machine (DT-SVM) hybrid algorithm—to assess pillar stability in deep underground mines. Validated with 236 case histories, these models demonstrate exceptional accuracy and provide valuable tools for project managers to evaluate pillar stability during both the design and operational phases of mining projects. Yet another study demonstrates the use of fuzzy C-means clustering combined with ML models in Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) operations. This innovative approach enhances prediction accuracy, providing more reliable insights for TBM tunneling processes and boosting efficiency in underground excavation projects. Several other papers focus on optimizing monitoring systems for underground structures. One contribution presents a low-cost micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) sensor designed to monitor tilt and acceleration in underground structures. Aided by ML algorithms, this sensor facilitates real-time monitoring and early warning capabilities, thereby significantly improving safety during underground construction. Another paper introduces a ML-based optimization model for underwater shield tunnels, showing how strategically placed monitoring points—such as at the spandrel and arch crown—can improve the accuracy of stress distribution predictions and enhance structural health monitoring. Additionally, this special issue addresses the challenge of predicting rock fragmentation post-blasting. A suite of hybrid ML models—Random Forest, AdaBoost, and Gradient Boosting—optimized with the Bayesian Optimization Algorithm (BOA), showcases superior prediction accuracy. These models offer an advanced and highly reliable method for predicting rock fragmentation in mining engineering applications. The integration of ML with sensor technologies, optimization algorithms, and predictive models in these papers highlights the tremendous potential of AI to revolutionize deep underground engineering. As these technologies continue to evolve, they promise to drive substantial improvements in safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability within the sector. Through this special issue, DUSE reaffirms its commitment to promote the application of ML technique in deep underground engineering. We look forward to future contributions that continue to explore new applications and push the boundaries of what is possible in this rapidly advancing field.

Photo by Josh Riemer on Unsplash
 Introduction
 With the rapid advancements in neurotechnological machinery and improved analytical insights from machine learning in neuroscience, the availability of big brain data has increased tremendously. Neurological health research is done using digitized brain data.[1] There must be adequate data governance to secure the privacy of subjects participating in brain research and treatments. If not properly regulated, the research methods could lead to significant breaches of the subject’s autonomy and privacy. This paper will address the necessity for neuroprotection laws, which effectively govern the use of big brain data to ensure respect for patient privacy and autonomy.
 Background
 Artificial intelligence and machine learning can be integrated with neuroscience big brain data to drive research studies. This integrative technology allows patterns of electrical activity in neurons to be studied in detail.[2]Specifically, it uses a robotic system which can reason, plan, and exhibit biologically intelligent behavior. Machine learning is a method of computer programming where the code can adapt its behavior based on big brain data.[3] The big brain data is the collection of large amounts of information for the purpose of deciphering patterns through computer analysis using machine learning.[4] The information that these technologies provide is extensive enough to allow a researcher to read a patient’s mind. AI and machine learning technologies work by finding the underlying structure of brain data, which is then described by patterns known as latent factors, eventually resulting in an understanding of the brain’s temporal dynamics.[5]
 Through these technologies, researchers are able to decipher how the human brain computes its performances and thoughts. However, due to the extensive and complex nature of the data processed through AI and machine learning, researchers may gain access to personal information a patient may not wish to reveal. From a bioethical lens, tensions arise in the realm of patient autonomy. Patients are not able to control the transmission of data from their brains that is analyzed by researchers. Governing brain data through laws may enhance the extent of patient privacy in the case where brain data is being used through AI technologies.[6] A responsible approach to governing brain data would require a sophisticated legal structure.
 Analysis
 Impact on Patient Autonomy and Privacy 
 In research pertaining to big brain data, the consent forms do not fully cover the vast amounts of information that is collected. According to research, personal data has become the most sought out commodity to provide content to corporations and the web-based service industry. Unfortunately, data leaks that release private information frequently occur.[7] The storage of an individual’s data on technologies accessible on the internet during research studies makes it vulnerable to leaks, jeopardizing an individual’s privacy. These data leaks may cause the patient to be identified easily, as the degree of information provided by AI technologies are personalized and may be decoded through brain fingerprinting methods.[8]
 There has been an extensive growth in the development and use of AI. It is efficient in providing information to radiologists who diagnose various diseases including brain cancer and psychiatric disease, and AI assists in the delivery of telemedicine.[9] However, the ethical pitfall of reduced patient autonomy must be addressed by analyzing current AI technologies and creating more options for patient preference in how the data may be used. For instance, facial recognition technology[10] commonly used in health care produces more information than listed in common consent forms, threatening to undermine informed consent. Facial recognition software collects extensive data and may disclose more information than a person would prefer to provide despite being a useful tool for diagnosing medical and genetic conditions.[11] In addition, people may not be aware that their images are being used to generate more clinical data for other purposes. It is difficult to guarantee the data is anonymized. Consent requirements must include informing people about the complexity of the potential uses of the data; software developers should maximize patient privacy.[12] Furthermore, there is a “human element” in the use of AI technologies as medical providers control the use and the extent to which data is captured or accessed through the AI technologies.[13] People must understand the scope of the technology and have clear communication with the physician or health care provider about how the medical information will be used. 
 Existing Laws for Brain Data Governance 
 A strict system of defined legal responsibilities of medical providers will ensure a higher degree of patient privacy and autonomy when AI technologies and data from machine learning are used. Governing specific algorithmic data is crucial in safeguarding a patient’s privacy and developing a gold standard treatment protocol following the procurement of the information.[14] Certain AI technologies provide more data than others, and legal boundaries should be established to ensure strong performance, quality control, and scope for patient privacy and autonomy. For instance, currently AI technologies are being used in the realm of intensive neurological care. However, there is a significant level of patient uncertainty about how much control patients have over the data’s uses.[15] Calibrated legal and ethical standards will allow important brain data to be securely governed and monitored.
 Once brain signals are recorded and processed from one individual, the data may be merged with other data in Brain Computer Interface Technology (BCI).[16] To ensure a right and ability to retrieve personal data or pull it from the collection, specific regulations for varying types of data are needed.[17] The importance of consent and patient privacy must be considered through giving patients a transparent view of how brain data is governed.[18] The legal system must address discriminatory issues and risks to patients whose data is used in studies. Laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Protection Act (CCPA) can serve as effective models to protect aggregated data. These laws govern consumer information and ensure the compliance when personal data is collected.[19] California voters recently approved expansion of the CCPA to health data. The Washington Privacy Act, which would have provided rights to access, change, and withdraw personal data, failed to pass. Other states should improve privacy as well,[20] although a federal bill would be preferable. Scientists at the Heidelberg Academy of Sciences argue for data security to be governed in a manner that balances patient privacy and autonomy with the commercial interests of researchers.[21] The balance could be achieved through privacy protections like those in the Washington Privacy Act. Although the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) provides an overall framework to deter the likelihood of dangers to patient protection and privacy, more thorough laws are warranted to combat pervasive data transfer and analysis that technology has brought to the health care industry.[22] Breaches of patient privacy under current HIPAA regulations include releasing patient information to a reporter without their consent and sending HIV data to a patient’s employer without consent.[23] HIPAA does not cover information being shared with outside contractors who do not have an agreement with technology companies to keep patient data confidential. HIPAA regulations also do not always address blatant breaches on patient data confidentiality.[24] Patients must be provided with methods to monitor the data being analyzed to be able to view the extent of private information being generated via AI technologies. In health research, the medical purposes of better diagnosis, earlier detection of diseases, or prevention are ethical justifications for the use of the data if it was collected with permission, the person understood and approved the uses of the data, and the data was deidentified.
 A standard governance framework is required in providing the fairest system of care to patients who allow their brain data to be examined. Informed consent in the neuroscience field could reaffirm the privacy and autonomy of patients by ensuring that they understand the type of information collected. Laws also could protect data after a patient’s death. Malpractice in the scope of brain data could give people a cause of action critical in safeguarding patient’s rights. Data breach lawsuits will become common but generally do not cover deidentified data that becomes part of big data collection. A more synchronized approach to the collection and consent process will encourage an understanding of how big data is used to diagnose and treat patients. Some altruistic people may even be more likely to consent if they know the largescale data collection is helpful to treat and diagnose people. Others should have the ability to opt out of sharing neurological data, especially when there is not certainty surrounding deidentification.[25]
 Conclusion
 Artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies have the potential to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of people globally by extracting and aggregating brain data specific to individuals. However, the secure use of the data is necessary to build trust between care providers and patients, as well as in balancing the bioethical principles of beneficence and patient autonomy. We must ensure the highest quality of care to patients, while protecting their privacy, informed consent, and clinical trust. More sophis

The integration of machine learning (ML) with big data has revolutionized industries by enabling the extraction of valuable insights from vast and complex datasets. This convergence has fueled advancements in various fields, leading to the development of sophisticated models capable of addressing complicated problems. However, the application of ML in big data environments presents significant challenges, including issues related to scalability, data quality, model interpretability, privacy, and the handling of diverse and high-velocity data. This survey provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of ML applications in big data, systematically identifying the key challenges and recent advancements in the field. By critically analyzing existing methodologies, this paper highlights the gaps in current research and proposes future directions for the development of scalable, interpretable, and privacy-preserving ML techniques. Additionally, this survey addresses the ethical and societal implications of ML in big data, emphasizing the need for responsible and equitable approaches to harnessing these technologies. The insights presented in this paper aim to guide future research and contribute to the ongoing discourse on the responsible integration of ML and big data.

Machine learning (ML) algorithms have garnered increased interest as they demonstrate improved ability to extract meaningful trends from large, diverse, and noisy data sets. While research is advancing the state-of-the-art in ML algorithms, it is difficult to drastically improve the real-world performance of these algorithms. Porting new and existing algorithms from single-node systems to multi-node clusters, or from architecturally homogeneous systems to heterogeneous systems, is a promising optimization technique. However, performing optimized ports is challenging for domain experts who may lack experience in distributed and heterogeneous software development. This work explores how challenges in ML application development on heterogeneous, distributed systems shaped the development of the HadoopCL2 (HCL2) programming system. ML applications guide this work because they exhibit features that make application development difficult: large & diverse datasets, complex algorithms, and the need for domain-specific knowledge. The goal of this work is a general, MapReduce programming system that outperforms existing programming systems. This work evaluates the performance and portability of HCL2 against five ML applications from the Mahout ML framework on two hardware platforms. HCL2 demonstrates speedups of greater than 20x relative to Mahout for three computationally heavy algorithms and maintains minor performance improvements for two I/O bound algorithms.

Machine learning (ML) applications face many new, hardly predictable aspects in their production environments. Detecting new aspects in an ML production environment and understanding their impacts on the ML application is crucial if organizations are to ensure ML applications functionality. A monitoring entity is essential if one is to monitor ML applications in their production environments, to both continually minimize risks and improve ML application’s performance. But existing monitoring approaches are struggling to deal with specifics that arise from ML applications. We aim at deriving monitoring practices and providing a holistic view over required steps in successful ML applications monitoring. Since there has been little research on this topic, we followed a qualitative research approach, i.e., we conducted an interview study combined with a multivocal literature review. Thus, we provide a theoretical framework of an ML-enabled agent in its production environment, five characteristics of ML applications’ production environments and 17 monitoring practices – 14 practices arranged sequentially on a typical quality management cycle and three cross-sectional practices. To outline the ML specifics that arise in monitoring ML applications, we investigate the five ML production environment characteristics’ influences on the ML monitoring practices.

There is approximately 1 in every 44 children in the United States suffers from autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a disorder characterized by social and behavioral impairments. Communication difficulties, interpersonal difficulties, and behavioral difficulties are the top common symptoms. Even though symptoms can begin as early as infancy, it may take multiple visits to a pediatric specialist before an accurate diagnosis can be made. In addition, the diagnosis can be subjective, and different specialists may give different scores. There is a growing body of research suggesting differences in brain development and/or environmental and/or genetic factors contribute to autism development, but scientists have yet to identify exactly the pathology of this disorder. ASD can currently be diagnosed by a set of diagnostic evaluations, regarded as the gold standard, such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) or the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). A team of qualified clinicians is needed for performing the behavioral and communication tests as well as clinical history information, hence a considerable amount of time, effort, and subjective judgment is involved in using these gold-standard diagnostic instruments. In addition to standard observational assessment, recent advancements in neuroimaging and machine learning suggest a rapid and objective alternative, using brain imaging. An investigation of the employment of different imaging modalities, namely Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI), and resting state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) for autism diagnosis is presented in this comprehensive work. A detailed study of the implementation of feature engineering tools to find discriminant insights from different brain imaging modalities, including the use of novel feature representations, and the use of a machine learning framework to assist in the accurate classification of autistic individuals is introduced in this dissertation. Based on three large publicly available datasets, this extensive research highlights different decisions along the pipeline and their impact on diagnostic accuracy. It also identifies potentially impacted brain regions that contribute to an autism diagnosis. Achieving high global state-of-the-art cross-validated accuracy confirms the benefits of feature representation and feature engineering in extracting useful information, as well as the potential benefits of utilizing neuroimaging in the diagnosis of autism. This should enable an early, automated, and more objective personalized diagnosis.

ABSTRACTBackgroundTraumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a global health concern, with mild TBI (mTBI) being the most common form. Despite its prevalence, accurately diagnosing mTBI remains a significant challenge. While advanced neuroimaging techniques like diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) offer promise for more robust diagnosis, their clinical application is limited by inconsistent and heterogeneous post‐injury findings. Recently, machine learning (ML) techniques, utilizing DTI metrics as features, have shown increasing utility in mTBI research. This approach helps identify distinct between‐group features, paving the way for more precise and efficient diagnostic and prognostic tools.PurposeThis review aims to analyze studies employing ML techniques to assess changes in DTI metrics after mTBI.Study TypeSystematic review.Population or Subjects or Phantom or Specimen or Animal ModelWe conducted a systematic review, adhering to PRISMA guidelines, on the application of ML with DTI for mTBI diagnosis and prognosis on human subjects. This review identified 36 articles.Field Strength/SequenceN/A.AssessmentStudy quality was assessed using the Modified QualSyst Assessment Tool.Statistical TestsN/A.ResultsThe review found ML techniques using DTI Metrics either alone or in combination with other modalities (i.e., structural MRI, functional MRI, clinical scores, or demographics) can effectively classify mTBI patients from controls. These approaches have also demonstrated potential in classifying mTBI patients according to the degree of recovery and symptom severity. In addition, these ML models showed strong predictive power toward cognitive scores and brain structural decline, as quantified by brain‐predicted age difference.Data ConclusionLarger, externally validated studies are needed to develop robust models for the diagnosis and prognosis of mTBI, using imaging biomarkers (including DTI) in conjunction with non‐imaging, on‐field, or clinical data. Despite the high predictive performance of ML algorithms, the clinical application remains distant, likely due to the small sample size of studies and lack of external validation, which raises concerns about overfitting.Evidence Level5.Technical EfficacyStage 1.

Operation of climate-adaptive building shells utilizing machine learning under sparse data conditions

Healthcare data rapidly increases, and patients seek customized, effective healthcare services. Big data and machine learning (ML) enabled smart healthcare systems hold revolutionary potential. Unlike previous reviews that separately address AI or big data, this work synthesizes their convergence through real-world case studies, cross-domain ML applications, and a critical discussion on ethical integration in smart diagnostics. The review focuses on the role of big data analysis and ML towards better diagnosis, improved efficiency of operations, and individualized care for patients. It explores the principal challenges of data heterogeneity, privacy, computational complexity, and advanced methods such as federated learning (FL) and edge computing. Applications in real-world settings, such as disease prediction, medical imaging, drug discovery, and remote monitoring, illustrate how ML methods, such as deep learning (DL) and natural language processing (NLP), enhance clinical decision-making. A comparison of ML models highlights their value in dealing with large and heterogeneous healthcare datasets. In addition, the use of nascent technologies such as wearables and Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is examined for their role in supporting real-time data-driven delivery of healthcare. The paper emphasizes the pragmatic application of intelligent systems by highlighting case studies that reflect up to 95% diagnostic accuracy and cost savings. The review ends with future directions that seek to develop scalable, ethical, and interpretable AI-powered healthcare systems. It bridges the gap between ML algorithms and smart diagnostics, offering critical perspectives for clinicians, data scientists, and policymakers.

Machine Learning in CLL

Machine learning (ML), a branch of artificial intelligence, where machines learn from big data, is at the crest of a technological wave of change sweeping society. Cardiovascular medicine is at the forefront of many ML applications, and there is a significant effort to bring them into mainstream clinical practice. In the field of cardiac electrophysiology, ML applications have also seen a rapid growth and popularity, particularly the use of ML in the automatic interpretation of ECGs, which has been extensively covered in the literature. Much lesser known are the other aspects of ML application in cardiac electrophysiology and arrhythmias, such as those in basic science research on arrhythmia mechanisms, both experimental and computational; in the development of better techniques for mapping of cardiac electrical function; and in translational research related to arrhythmia management. In the current review, we examine comprehensively such ML applications as they match the scope of this journal. The current review is organized in 3 parts. The first provides an overview of general ML principles and methodologies that will afford readers of the necessary information on the subject, serving as the foundation for inviting further ML applications in arrhythmia research. The basic information we provide can serve as a guide on how one might design and conduct an ML study. The second part is a review of arrhythmia and electrophysiology studies in which ML has been utilized, highlighting the broad potential of ML approaches. For each subject, we outline comprehensively the general topics, while reviewing some of the research advances utilizing ML under the subject. Finally, we discuss the main challenges and the perspectives for ML-driven cardiac electrophysiology and arrhythmia research.

Machine learning (ML) is a collection of algorithms allowing computers to learn directly from data without predetermined equations. It is used widely to analyze "big data". In gastrointestinal surgery, surgeons deal with various data such as clinical parameters, surgical videos, and pathological images, to stratify surgical risk, perform safe surgery and predict patient prognosis. In the current "big data" era, the accelerating accumulation of a large amount of data drives studies using ML algorithms. Three subfields of ML are supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. In this review, we summarize applications of ML to surgical practice in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases of care. Prediction and stratification using ML is promising; however, the current overarching concern is the availability of ML models. Information systems that can manage "big data" and integrate ML models into electronic health records are essential to incorporate ML into daily practice. ML is fundamental technology to meaningfully process data that exceeds the capacity of the human mind to comprehend. The accelerating accumulation of a large amount of data is changing the nature of surgical practice fundamentally. Artificial intelligence (AI), represented by ML, is being incorporated into daily surgical practice.

The proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) has catalyzed a transformative shift in the financial sector, redefining the construction and implementation of pricing models. By leveraging advanced algorithms capable of processing heterogeneous datasets, these technologies enhance predictive accuracy and enable real-time adaptation to volatile market conditions. Conventional models such as CAPM and Black-Scholes are constrained by their dependence on linear frameworks and backward-looking data, limiting their adaptability to dynamic market conditions. In contrast, ML and AI algorithms possess the ability to analyze vast and diverse datasets, uncover intricate patterns, and adapt dynamically to changing market environments. This review delves into the various applications of ML and AI in financial pricing, highlighting significant advancements in algorithmic trading, asset pricing, and risk management. Furthermore, it discusses the integration of these cutting-edge technologies with big data analytics, which facilitates improved decision-making processes. By examining current trends and future directions in the financial landscape, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how ML and AI are reshaping financial pricing, ultimately leading to enhanced market efficiency and more informed financial practices.