Fusion Criterion Research Articles

Bone graft substitutes used in anterior lumbar interbody fusion: a contemporary systematic review of fusion rates and complications.

Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) uses a broad-footprint interbody cage designed to maximize fusion rates for treating degenerative disc disease. Bone graft substitutes are being increasingly utilized during ALIF to replace or supplement autologous iliac crest bone grafts. This approach aims to optimize fusion efficacy while minimizing associated postoperative complications. The objective of this systematic review was to examine recent studies on fusion rates and postoperative complications associated with bone graft substitutes used in ALIF. We conducted a systematic review of the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Embase, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases, to critically examine a decade of research (January 1, 2012, to July 6, 2023) on the effectiveness and safety of various bone graft substitutes in ALIF. This timeframe was chosen to build on a previous systematic review published in 2013. The PRISMA guidelines were used. In total, 27 articles met our stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria. A substantial portion of these studies (67%) focused on recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) and highlighted its efficacy for achieving high fusion rates. However, the literature presents a dichotomy regarding the association of rhBMP-2 with increased postoperative complications. Notably, the methodologies for evaluating spinal fusion varied across studies. Only one-third of studies employed computed tomography to assess interbody fusion at 12 months postoperatively, highlighting the urgent need to establish uniform fusion criteria to facilitate more accurate comparative analyses. Moreover, there was considerable variability in the criteria used for diagnosing and detecting postoperative complications, significantly influencing the reported incidence rates. This review underscores the need for continued research into bone graft substitutes, particularly focusing on assessment of long-term complications. Future research endeavors should concentrate on developing comprehensive clinical guidelines to aid in the selection of the most suitable bone graft substitutes for use in ALIF, thereby enhancing patient outcomes and surgical efficacy.

Enhanced Generative Adversarial Networks for Isa Furnace Matte Grade Prediction under Limited Data

Due to the scarcity of modeling samples and the low prediction accuracy of the matte grade prediction model in the copper melting process, a new prediction method is proposed. This method is based on enhanced generative adversarial networks (EGANs) and random forests (RFs). Firstly, the maximum relevance minimum redundancy (MRMR) algorithm is utilized to screen the key influencing factors of matte grade and remove redundant information. Secondly, the GAN data augmentation model containing different activation functions is constructed. And, the generated data fusion criterion based on the root mean squared error (RMSE) and the coefficient of determination (R2) is designed, which can tap into the global character distributions of the copper melting data to improve the quality of the generated data. Finally, a matte grade prediction model based on RF is constructed, and the industrial data collected from the copper smelting process are used to verify the effectiveness of the model. The experimental results show that the proposed method can obtain high-quality generated data, and the prediction accuracy is better than other models. The R2 is improved by at least 2.68%, and other indicators such as RMSE, mean absolute error (MAE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) are significantly improved.

Underground coal gangue recognition based on composite fusion of feature and decision

Abstract The underground coal gangue separation and in-situ filling can reduce environmental pollution, promote the recycling of resources, and ensure the safe operation of mining. However, the harsh environment and abnormal working conditions are a significant challenge to the separation technology. Therefore, it is essential to develop a coal gangue classification method that is highly accurate, robust, and can handle abnormal working conditions. To address the above problems, this paper innovatively combines spectral modalities with image modalities to establish a multimodal fusion idea of composite fusion. Firstly, the feasibility of spectral-image fusion and effective fusion criterion are explored under the concat fusion strategy through various feature combinations and classification algorithms under ideal conditions to improve the performance of the model; Secondly, feature fusion is introduced into the single-layer perceptron and its potential in deep learning is explored to improve the performance of the model; Then the quantitative criteria of the judgment matrix are improved based on the analytical hierarchy method (AHP) to improve the scientificity and objectivity of decision making; Finally, the effectiveness of our method is verified by testing the bimodal dataset of simulated working conditions. The results show that the accuracy of the composite fusion of spectral and image features reaches 91.43%, and our AHP can be applied to all basic model scenarios, which makes the method highly applicable and feasible. The fusion of deep neural networks shows the strong potential of modal fusion in deep learning. This method can provide a new idea for intelligent separation of underground coal gangue.

Impact of Spinal Deformity and Surgery on Health-Related Quality of Life in Cerebral Palsy: A Multicenter Prospective Controlled Trial.

Spinal fusion for scoliosis associated with cerebral palsy (CP) is challenging to study because specialized outcome measures are needed. Therefore, evidence in favor of the benefits of surgery has not been firmly established. This study aimed to determine if corrective spinal fusion improves health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children with CP scoliosis at 2 years. Children with CP and scoliosis who met the criteria for posterior spinal fusion were offered enrollment at 16 US and Canada centers. Participants' families selected either operative intervention (OP) or nonoperative treatment (NON) in discussion with their surgeon with no influence by the decision to participate in the research study. Demographic, clinical data (function level, magnitude of deformity, comorbidities), and HRQoL (CPCHILD Questionnaire) were collected at baseline and 2 years. Change (from baseline) in total CPCHIL scores was the primary outcome. Three hundred one OP and 34 NON subjects had complete baseline and 2-year data. At baseline, both groups were comparable in function level, comorbid status, and CPCHILD scores (52.1 ±15.3 vs. 53.4 ±14.5; P=0.66). The OP group had a larger spinal deformity magnitude (84.5˚ ± 21.8˚ vs. 66.3˚ ± 18.1˚) (P=0.001). The total CPCHILD score improved in the OP group by 6.6 points (P<0.001). NON scores were unchanged (+1.2; P=0.65) during follow-up. There were also significant score increases in the OP group for 5 of 6 CPCHILD domains. The change in CPCHILD scores from enrollment to 2 years was more significant in the OP group (P=0.05). For children with CP who undergo spinal fusion, HRQoL improved over preoperative levels and an unchanged nonoperative control group. Level II.

Usability of a novel Hounsfield units measurement procedure to quantify intercorporal bone graft remodeling in patients after posterior lumbar interbody fusion: a case series

BackgroundThere is a lack of knowledge about the biological process of intercorporal bone graft remodeling after posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery and whether this process is associated with changes in back pain and intercorporal fusion status. As an alternative to the commonly used but unreliable fusion criteria, Hounsfield units can be used to quantify biological activity and changes in bone mineral content. However, studies assessing Hounsfield units conducted to date do not provide sufficient details about how the bone grafts were segmented to measure the Hounsfield units to allow for replication, and did not assess individual patient trends in graft changes over time. Using the data of nine patients after posterior lumbar interbody fusion, a novel Hounsfield units measurement procedure was developed and used to explore its usability to quantify the bone graft remodeling process.Case detailsWe report a case series of nine patients (six male, three female, mean age 64 years, all Caucasian) who all had computed tomography scans performed at 1 and 2 years after posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery. Overall, seven out of the nine (78%) cases had a 3–41% increase in their bone grafts’ Hounsfield units between 1 and 2 years after surgery. The cases showed large interindividual variability in their Hounsfield units values over time, which coincided with varying levels of back pain and intercorporal fusion status.ConclusionThe Hounsfield units measurement procedure used for this case series may be useful to quantify intercorporal bone graft remodeling in patients after posterior lumbar interbody fusion, and may be used as an adjunct diagnostic measure to monitor bone graft remodeling over time. Future research is warranted to explore how to interpret bone graft Hounsfield units-values and Hounsfield units trajectories in light of clinical variables or intercorporal fusion status.

Interspinous Motion Measurement Could Serve as a Quantitative Method for Assessing Bony Fusion after Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion (ACCF).

A retrospective diagnostic test study. To establish quantitative fusion criteria for ACCF. Currently, the criteria of fusion after ACCF remains controversial. Evaluation techniques such as observation of continuous bony trabeculae across the fusion site, were qualitative and conducted by naked eyes, limiting its accuracy. Dynamic fusion indicators such as interspinous motion (ISM), have been successfully utilized in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for evaluating fusion and detecting pseudarthrosis. However, the accuracy of ISM in ACCF is unclear. Patients underwent ACCF in our hospital were reviewed. Imaging data including dynamic radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans were collected. The distance and angle form of ISM (ISM-dis and ISM-ang) were measured on dynamic radiograph, with CT as the gold standard for fusion. The correlation between ISM methods was analyzed using Spearmann correlation. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were used to evaluate the accuracy and generate optimal cut-off values. Three observers independently measured the data twice to determine interobserver and intraobserver reliability. Our study included 178 imaging datasets. ISM-dis showed positive correlation with ISM-ang (r=0.914). The area under ROC (AUC) for ISM-dis and ISM-ang was 0.926 and 0.893. Applying a cutoff value of 1.50mm to ISM-dis yielded a sensitivity of 87.8% and specificity of 92.3% for detecting pseudarthrosis. For ISM-ang, a cutoff value of 1.75° resulted in a sensitivity of 79.1% and specificity of 92.3%. Intraobserver reliabilities for ISM-dis (0.986, 0.984 and 0.972) were higher than for ISM-ang (0.935, 0.963 and 0.935), as was interobserver reliability (0.985 for ISM-dis and 0.956 for ISM-ang). Fusion rates calculated using ISM-dis and ISM-ang were 52.4% and 61.9%. ISM can serve as an alternative to CT for assessing fusion, with ISM-dis at a 1.50mm cutoff and ISM-ang at 1.75° demonstrating high diagnostic accuracy.

Risk factors for poor neurological recovery after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: imaging characteristics

BackgroundPoor neurological recovery in patients after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion has been frequently reported; however, no study has analyzed the preoperative imaging characteristics of patients to investigate the factors affecting surgical prognosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors that affect the preoperative imaging characteristics of patients and their influence on poor neurologic recovery after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 89 patients who met the criteria for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion for the treatment of single-level cervical spondylotic myelopathy and evaluated the patients’ neurological recovery based on the recovery rate of the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores at the time of the final follow-up visit. Patients were categorized into the “good” and “poor” groups based on the JOA recovery rates of ≥ 50% and < 50%, respectively. Clinical information (age, gender, body mass index, duration of symptoms, preoperative JOA score, and JOA score at the final follow-up) and imaging characteristics (cervical kyphosis, cervical instability, ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL), calcification of herniated intervertebral discs, increased signal intensity (ISI) of the spinal cord on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), and degree of degeneration of the discs adjacent to the fused levels (cranial and caudal) were collected from the patients. Univariate and binary logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for poor neurologic recovery.ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 52.56 ± 11.18 years, and the mean follow-up was 26.89 ± 11.14 months. Twenty patients (22.5%) had poor neurological recovery. Univariate analysis showed that significant predictors of poor neurological recovery were age (p = 0.019), concomitant OPLL (p = 0.019), concomitant calcification of herniated intervertebral discs (p = 0.019), ISI of the spinal cord on T2WI (p <0.05), a high grade of degeneration of the discs of the cranial neighboring levels (p <0.05), and a high grade of discs of the caudal neighboring levels (p <0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that ISI of the spinal cord on T2WI (p = 0.001 OR = 24.947) and high degree of degeneration of adjacent discs on the cranial side (p = 0.040 OR = 6.260) were independent risk factors for poor neurological prognosis.ConclusionISI of the spinal cord on T2WI and high degree of cranial adjacent disc degeneration are independent risk factors for poor neurological recovery after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. A comprehensive analysis of the patients’ preoperative imaging characteristics can help in the development of surgical protocols and the management of patients’ surgical expectations.

Effects of volumetric energy density on melting modes, printability, microstructures, and mechanical properties of laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) printed pure nickel

Volumetric energy density (VED) is a fundamental criterion for the laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) process, influencing various forming characteristics. This study employed L-PBF to print pure nickel (Ni) using different VEDs across various melting modes. The thermodynamics in the different melt pools, obtained microstructural features, and tensile properties were characterized and investigated. The results reveal a higher likelihood of keyhole mode melt pool formation than the conduction mode due to the peak temperature exceeding 3005 K. The larger size and slower cooling rate of the keyhole mode melt pool facilitate the formation of cellular subgrains in the central zone and the overall grain coarsening. Compared to the conduction mode, the microstructure in the keyhole mode exhibits a higher dislocation density and a distinct distribution pattern for each type of dislocation. Unlike the L-PBF of commercial Ni alloys, where alloy element distribution significantly impacts tensile performance, the tensile performance of L-PBF Ni is governed by the interaction between grain morphology, dislocation density and distribution.

Distributed fusion filtering for multi-rate nonlinear systems with random sensor failures under event-triggering round-robin-like scheme

The distributed fusion filtering problem is addressed for the multi-rate nonlinear systems with random sensor failures (RSFs) over sensor networks, where a prediction compensation approach is proposed to transform the system unlike the lifting technique. The RSFs are portrayed by using stochastic variables with known statistical properties that satisfy certain probability distribution. In order to prevent data conflicts and reduce unnecessary data transmission, the event-triggering round-robin-like scheme (ETRRLS) is introduced to schedule the data transmission among sensor nodes. The main objectives of this paper are to design a local distributed filtering scheme based on the information of itself and ETRRLS scheduled neighboring nodes, and obtain an upper bound on the local filtering error (LFE) covariance which is minimized based on the filter gains design. Afterward, the local filters are fused by using the sequential covariance intersection fusion criterion. Moreover, we provide a sufficient condition, which can ensure the boundedness of the trace of LFE covariance. Finally, a simulation example is presented to illustrate the effectiveness and superiority of the newly proposed distributed fusion estimation algorithm.

A Review of Lawson Criterion for Nuclear Fusion

In the pursuit for abundant clean energy from nuclear fusion, the Lawson Criterion is cited by fusion researchers and experimentalists as the condition to exceed for fusion of atomic nuclei to occur. In his 1955 paper J.D. Lawson analyzed a fusion plasma conforming to thermodynamic principles at steadystate but with stated omissions and simplifications. Modern fusion researchers developed many incantations of the Lawson Criterion urging their brand leads to fusion ignition, necessarily to sell a rational fusion hypothesis and attract research funding. Others have shown how confined fusion in the laboratory cannot satisfy a positive energy balance due to energy losses from the system. A literature search for "fusion energy balance" shows a suspicious absence of this sanity-check to verify the energy condition was met. This paper applies conservation of energy from classical thermodynamics to a fusion plasma and summarizes eleven modern Lawson-like interpretations in a uniform way, doing so shows the requirements for fusion ignition are not met. Indeed despite billions of speculative dollars spent, sustained laboratory fusion has not been demonstrated in any experimental apparatus built and tested to date worldwide. Heed the warning, in 1955 John D. Lawson wrote: “To conclude we emphasize that these conditions, though necessary are far from sufficient. The working cycle that has been assumed is very optimistic.”

BIOMEDICAL IMAGE SEGMENTATION BASED ON DEEP LEARNING ALGORITHMS

A new biomedical image segmentation method based on deep learning networks has been constructed. Under the framework of deep learning, a dual-branch deep learning network structure was designed to perform average pooling and maximum pooling on input image data, respectively. The results of pooling processing are sent to multi-layer convolution for further processing, where 2D convolution and dilated convolution are used, respectively, and the more flexible SoftMax function is selected for activation processing. Multiple fully connected processes were used between each link and between two branches to form better fusion criteria. The experimental results show that our method has a more ideal segmentation effect in both homologous and heterogeneous training segmentation experiments, with AC, SE, and SP indicators reaching over 95%, 84%, and 99%, respectively.

Lawson Criterion Analysis of D-3He Fusion Reaction

The Lawson criterion constitutes a pivotal condition for the viability of sustained fusion reactions. This study employs numerical methods and data analysis in Microsoft Excel to ascertain the Lawson criterion for D-³He fusion at temperatures ranging from 75 to 150 keV. Furthermore, the investigation examines the influence of bremsstrahlung radiation and evaluates fusion reactivity based on Hively and Bosch-Hale parameters. Hively’s reactivity value falls within the range of 1.121 × 10−22 – 6.750 × 10−22 m3/s, the instability occurs at temperatures < 100 keV. The Bosch-Hale value differs significantly from the Hively reactivity, which is 1.208 × 10−22 – 2.340 × 10−22 m3/s. The bremsstrahlung radiation within the range of 4.819 × 10−20 – 6.802 × 10−20 keV exhibits minimal impact on the reaction. The Lawson criterion value within the scope of this study typically falls within the range of 0.437 × 1021 – 1.452 × 1021 s/m3. This range signifies the necessary combination of confinement time and plasma density to facilitate the generation of clean energy within a temperature range of 75 to 150 keV, thus propelling the fusion process toward the ignition phase.

The GM-JMNS-CPHD Filtering Algorithm for Nonlinear Systems Based on a Generalized Covariance Intersection.

Some fusion criteria in multisensor and multitarget motion tracking cannot be directly applied to nonlinear motion models, as the fusion accuracy applied in nonlinear systems is relatively low. In response to the above issue, this study proposes a distributed Gaussian mixture cardinality jumping Markov-cardinalized probability hypothesis density (GM-JMNS-CPHD) filter based on a generalized inverse covariance intersection. The state estimation of the JMNS-CPHD filter combines the state evaluation of traditional CPHD filters with the state estimation of jump Markov systems, estimating the target state of multiple motion models without knowing the current motion models. The performances of the generalized covariance intersection (GCI)GCI-GM-JMNS-CPHD and generalized inverse covariance intersection (GICI)GICI-GM-JMNS-CPHD methods are evaluated via simulation results. The simulation results show that, compared with algorithms such as Sensor1, Sensor2, GCI-GM-CPHD, and GICI-GM-CPHD, this algorithm has smaller optimal subpattern assignment (OSPA) errors and a higher fusion accuracy.

Invasiveness of decompression surgery affects modeled lumbar spine kinetics in patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis.

Introduction: The surgical treatment of degenerative spondylolisthesis with accompanying spinal stenosis focuses mainly on decompression of the spinal canal with or without additional fusion by means of a dorsal spondylodesis. Currently, one main decision criterion for additional fusion is the presence of instability in flexion and extension X-rays. In cases of mild and stable spondylolisthesis, the optimal treatment remains a subject of ongoing debate. There exist different opinions on whether performing a fusion directly together with decompression has a potential benefit for patients or constitutes overtreatment. As X-ray images do not provide any information about internal biomechanical forces, computer simulation of individual patients might be a tool to gain a set of new decision criteria for those cases. Methods: To evaluate the biomechanical effects resulting from different decompression techniques, we developed a lumbar spine model using forward dynamic-based multibody simulation (FD_MBS). Preoperative CT data of 15 patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis at the level L4/L5 who underwent spinal decompression were identified retrospectively. Based on the segmented vertebrae, 15 individualized models were built. To establish a reference for comparison, we simulated a standardized flexion movement (intact) for each model. Subsequently, we performed virtual unilateral and bilateral interlaminar fenestration (uILF, bILF) and laminectomy (LAM) by removing the respective ligaments in each model. Afterward, the standardized flexion movement was simulated again for each case and decompression method, allowing us to compare the outcomes with the reference. This comprehensive approach enables us to assess the biomechanical implications of different surgical approaches and gain valuable insights into their effects on lumbar spine functionality. Results: Our findings reveal significant changes in the biomechanics of vertebrae and intervertebral discs (IVDs) as a result of different decompression techniques. As the invasiveness of decompression increases, the moment transmitted on the vertebrae significantly rises, following the sequence intact ➝ uILF ➝ bILF ➝ LAM. Conversely, we observed a reduction in anterior-posterior shear forces within the IVDs at the levels L3/L4 and L4/L5 following LAM. Conclusion: Our findings showed that it was feasible to forecast lumbar spine kinematics after three distinct decompression methods, which might be helpful in future clinical applications.

Event-Triggered Distributed Fusion Estimator for Asynchronous Markov Jump Systems with Correlated Noises and Fading Measurements.

In this study, we investigate event-triggered distributed fusion estimation for asynchronous Markov jump systems subject to correlated noises and fading measurements. The measurement noises are interrelated, and they are simultaneously coupled with the system noise. The sensor samples measurements uniformly, and the sampling rates of the sensors are different. First, the asynchronous system is synchronized at state update points; then, the local filter is obtained. Furthermore, a variance-based event-triggered strategy is introduced between the local estimator and the fusion center to decrease the energy consumption of network communication. Then, a distributed fusion estimation algorithm is proposed using a matrix-weighted fusion criterion. Finally, the effectiveness of the algorithm is verified using computer simulations.

Comparative cohort study of paraspinal muscle volume change between uniportal full endoscopic and mini open posterolateral transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion

BackgroundRecent literature of uniportal full endoscopic posterolateral transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion demonstrates good clinical and radiological outcomes with minimally invasive benefits of potentially preserving paraspinal muscle. There is no literature on paraspinal muscle volume change between the endoscopic and microscopic mini open interbody fusion. MethodsWe included patients who met the indication criteria for lumbar fusion and underwent either uniportal full endoscopic posterolateral transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion or open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion. Clinical parameters of visual analog scale and Oswestry disability index were measured at preoperative, postoperative 1 week, 3 months postoperative and final follow up. Magnetic Resonance Imaging measurement of preoperative and postoperative Kjaer grade, right and left psoas muscle mass area, right and left paraspinal muscle mass area were performed. Results74 levels of Endo-TLIF and 42 patients with mini open TLIF (MIS-TLIF) were included. There was statistically significant greater improvement in VAS and ODI in Endo-TLIF cohort at 1 week significant improvement of Kjaer grade at postoperative 1 year in Endo-TLIF compared to MIS-TLIF. There is statistically significant improvement in paraspinal muscle mass area in Endo-TLIF (104.83 ± 316.45) mm2 compared to MIS-TLIF (89.88 ± 185.14) mm2 ConclusionUniportal Endoscopic Posterolateral Lumbar Transforaminal Interbody Fusion achieved improved paraspinal and psoas muscle bulk and less fatty infiltration in the operated level as compared to mini open Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion while both cohorts achieved equivalent positive clinical outcomes.

Cellular Bone Matrix in Spine Surgery - Are They Worth the Risk: A Systematic Review.

Systematic Review. To review the literature for complications and outcomes after the implantation of cellular bone matrix (CBM) during spine fusion. The PubMed database was queried from inception to January 31, 2023 for any articles that discussed the role of and identified a specific CBM in spinal fusion procedures. Adverse events, reoperations, methods, and fusion rates were collected from all studies and reported. Six hundred articles were identified, of which 19 were included that reported outcomes of 7 different CBM products. Seven studies evaluated lumbar fusion, 11 evaluated cervical fusion, and 1 study reported adverse events of a single CBM product. Only 4 studies were comparative studies while others were limited to case series. Fusion rates ranged from 68% to 98.7% in the lumbar spine and 87% to 100% in the cervical spine, although criteria for radiographic fusion was variable. While 7 studies reported no adverse events, there was no strict consensus on what constituted a complication. One study reported catastrophic disseminated tuberculosis from donor contaminated CBM. The authors of 14 studies had conflicts of interest with either the manufacturer or distributor for their analyzed CBM. Current evidence regarding the use of cellular bone matrix as an osteobiologic during spine surgery is weak and limited to low-grade non-comparative studies subject to industry funding. While reported fusion rates are high, the risk of severe complications should not be overlooked. Further large clinical trials are required to elucidate whether the CBMs offer any benefits that outweigh the risks.

Early efficacy and safety of mini open (air/water medium) endoscopy assisted anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of mini open (air/water medium) endoscopy assisted anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (MOEA-ACDF) for the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). Methods: A follow-up study. The clinical data of 30 patients with CSM treated by MOEA-ACDF from January to December in 2021 in the Henan NO.3 Provincial People's Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Of the patients, 20 were male and 10 were female, the mean age was (49.8±9.3) years (ranged 28-70 years). The CSM occurred at C3-4 level in 2 cases, at C4-5 level in 3 cases, at C5-6 level in 22 cases and at C6-7 level in 3 cases. Each case was compared at the moment of pre-operation and final follow-up by the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, C2-7 Cobb angle, and anterior column height of surgical segment. The postoperative complications were recorded. Prevertebral soft tissue edema and hydrops were assessed. The fusion rate was evaluated. The JOA improvement rate was computed at the final follow-up. Results: All the operations were successfully completed and all the patients received follow-up for (12.7±2.7) months (ranged 9-20 months). The mean operation time was (85.3±11.0) min (ranged 65-110 min). The postoperative drainage volume was (16.7±7.4) ml (ranged 5-35 ml). The JOA score and the C2-7 Cobb angle both improved at the final follow-up when compared with those before the operation (15.3±1.3 vs 12.2±2.3, 15.5°±6.1° vs 12.3°±6.0°, both P<0.001). The anterior column height of surgical segment at the final follow-up was (35.6±2.5) mm, and it was higher than that before the operation [(34.1±2.4) mm](P<0.001). No postoperative complications such as dysphagia, hoarseness, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, nerve injury, hematoma occurred. Postoperative review of cervical MRI revealed 3 cases of prevertebral soft tissue edema and hydrops without obvious symptoms. At the final follow-up, cervical spine X-ray or CT showed that all fusion segments met the criteria for osseous fusion, and the fusion rate was 100%. No complications such as neurological aggravation, internal fixation failure, fusion cage sinking, and adjacent segment degeneration was recorded at the final follow-up. At the final follow-up, the comprehensive efficacy evaluated by JOA improvement rate indicated the excellent and good rate was 90.0%(27/30): 19 cases got an excellent outcome, 8 cases got good and 3 cases got medium outcome. Conclusion: MOEA-ACDF combines the endoscopic system with ACDF technology in the treatment of CSM can achieve satisfactory clinical efficacy with high safety, and effectively restore the cervical intervertebral height and physiological curvature.

Data Fusion in Infrastructure-Augmented Autonomous Driving System: Why? Where? and How?

This paper is the first to provide a thorough system design overview along with the fusion methods selection criteria of a real-world cooperative autonomous driving system enabled by the Internet of Things (IoT), named Infrastructure-Augmented Autonomous Driving (IAAD). We present an in-depth introduction to the IAAD hardware and software on both road-side and vehicle-side. We extensively characterize the IAAD system and observe that the network condition fluctuation along the road is the main roadblock for cooperative autonomous driving. To address this challenge, we propose new fusion methods, dubbed "inter-frame fusion" and "planning fusion" to complement the state-of-the-art "intra-frame fusion". We demonstrate that each fusion method has its own benefit and constraint. In order to select the best fusion method under varying network conditions, we propose ‘fusion criteria’ to instruct the IAAD system to intelligently make the selection and implement a system framework named adaptive spatial-temporal (S-T) choice to realize the adaptive fusion guided by the ’fusion criteria’. Our real-world field data verifies that S-T choice has significantly improved autonomous driving’s safety and reliability by decreasing the fusion miss ratio from 30% to 7% and remain the planning displacement error within the 1.7m instead of 4m when the network condition exacerbates.

Deep learning and heterogeneous signal fusion approach to precursor feature recognition and early warning of coal and gas outburst

Coal and gas outburst is one of the main disasters during the production process of coal mines. Accurate recognition and advanced early warning are crucial to effectively preventing and controlling outburst. Acoustic Emission (AE) or Electromagnetic Resonance (EMR) continuous monitoring technologies have been widely used in outburst prediction due to their advantages of positive response and significant precursor characteristics of impending hazards. However, using a single signal and its one-dimensional time-domain characteristic for predicting outburst may lead to false and omissions alarms due to low credibility and lack of potential information, which may reduce the reliability and advance of early warning. To solve this problem, a new method for precursory feature recognition and early warning of outburst based on a two-dimensional CNN (Convolutional Neural Network) and heterogeneous signal fusion is proposed. Establish an outburst precursor feature recognition model based on Faster R-CNN and AE-EMR two-dimensional time-frequency signals, providing more reliable evidence sources for the fusion early warning of outburst; Then construct an outburst early warning model based on TBM (Transferable Belief Model), revealing the early warning criteria of heterogeneous signal fusion. The proposed method is applied to the Shiping Coal Mine. It is found that the outburst precursor recognition accuracy of AE and EMR achieve 98.00% and 98.57%; The heterogeneous signal fusion model usually warns to be advanced by 1–2 days, and the minimum warning time can be about 60 min in advance. The research results have practical significance in improving the reliability and advancement of outburst early warning and enhancing the ability to control safety risks in the coal mine production process.