Digital Macro Research Articles

An ADC-Less RRAM-Based Computing-in-Memory Macro With Binary CNN for Efficient Edge AI

Resistive random-access memory (RRAM) based non-volatile computing-in-memory (nvCIM) has been regarded as a promising solution to enable efficient data-intensive artificial intelligence (AI) applications on resource-limited edge systems. However, existing weighted-current summation-based nvCIM suffers from device non-idealities and significant time, storage, and energy overheads when processing high-precision analog signals. To address these issues, we propose a 3T2R digital nvCIM macro for a fully hardware-implemented binary convolutional neural network (HBCNN), focusing on accelerating edge AI applications at low weight precision. By quantizing the voltage-division results of RRAMs through inverters, the 3T2R macro provides a stable rail-to-rail output without analog-to-digital converters or sensing amplifiers. Moreover, both batch normalization and sign activation are integrated on-chip. The hybrid simulation results show that the proposed 3T2R digital macro achieves an 86.2% (95.6%) accuracy on the CIFAR-10 (MNIST) dataset, corresponding to a 4.7% (1.9%) accuracy loss compared to the software baselines, which also feature a peak energy efficiency of 51.3 TOPS/W and a minimum latency of 8 ns, realizing an energyefficient, low-latency, and robust AI processor.

Rodent Heart and Brain Tissue Preparation for Digital Macro Photography after Ischemia-reperfusion

Macro photography is applicable for imaging various tissue samples at high magnification to perform qualitative and quantitative analyses. Tissue preparation and subsequent image capture are steps performed immediately after the ischemia-reperfusion (IR) experiment and must be performed in a timely manner and with appropriate care. For the evaluation of IR-induced damage in the heart and brain, this paper describes 2,3,5-triphenyl-2H-tetrazolium chloride (TTC)-based staining followed by macro photography. Scientific macro photography requires controlled lighting and an appropriate imaging setup. The standardized methodology ensures high-quality, detailed digital images even if a combination of an inexpensive up-to-date digital camera and macro lens is used. Proper techniques and potential mistakes in sample preparation and image acquisition are discussed, and examples of the influence of correct and incorrect setups on image quality are provided. Specific tips are provided on how to avoid common mistakes, such as overstaining, improper sample storage, and suboptimal lighting conditions. This paper shows the appropriate methodology for rat heart and brain tissue slicing and staining and provides guidelines for establishing lighting and camera setups and photography techniques for high-resolution image acquisition.

Rodent Heart and Brain Tissue Preparation for Digital Macro Photography after Ischemia-reperfusion.

Macro photography is applicable for imaging various tissue samples at high magnification to perform qualitative and quantitative analyses. Tissue preparation and subsequent image capture are steps performed immediately after the ischemia-reperfusion (IR) experiment and must be performed in a timely manner and with appropriate care. For the evaluation of IR-induced damage in the heart and brain, this paper describes 2,3,5-triphenyl-2H-tetrazolium chloride (TTC)-based staining followed by macro photography. Scientific macro photography requires controlled lighting and an appropriate imaging setup. The standardized methodology ensures high-quality, detailed digital images even if a combination of an inexpensive up-to-date digital camera and macro lens is used. Proper techniques and potential mistakes in sample preparation and image acquisition are discussed, and examples of the influence of correct and incorrect setups on image quality are provided. Specific tips are provided on how to avoid common mistakes, such as overstaining, improper sample storage, and suboptimal lighting conditions. This paper shows the appropriate methodology for rat heart and brain tissue slicing and staining and provides guidelines for establishing lighting and camera setups and photography techniques for high-resolution image acquisition.

Raynaud’s phenomenon—an update on diagnosis, classification and management

Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is used to describe a symptom complex caused by digital vascular compromise. RP is a clinical diagnosis. The typically episodic nature of RP has resulted in a reliance upon patient self-report for diagnosis. The term 'primary RP' is generally applied when no underlying pathology can be demonstrated. Whilst 'primary RP' is currently considered a distinct disorder, there is evidence that the term may comprise several entities that include a functional vasospastic disorder, a physiologically appropriate thermoregulatory response, subclinical atherosclerosis and 'cold intolerance'. Optimal management may differ depending on cause. The term 'secondary RP' encompasses a broad range of rheumatological, haematological, endocrinological and vascular pathology. RP can range from relatively benign but intrusive vasospasm, to the progressive obliterative microangiopathy of systemic sclerosis (SSc), in which severe digital ischaemia can threaten tissue viability. SSc has formed the focus of much of the research into RP but, consistent with most medical symptom complexes, the aetiopathogenesis of RP varies greatly dependent on cause. Vasospasm within the digital macro- and microvasculature occurs in SSc, but digital ischaemia is further compounded by a progressive obliterative microangiopathy. Recent work exploring the patient experience of SSc-RP is challenging the 'episodic' paradigm of 'Raynaud's', with important implications for clinical trials utilising diary-based patient-reported outcome instruments for assessing Raynaud's symptoms. This review shall examine the causes, pathogenesis, clinical features, classification and management of RP. A practical approach to the evaluation and management of RP is outlined, highlighting important knowledge gaps and unmet research needs where applicable. Key Points • Raynaud's phenomenon is a symptom complex related to digital vascular compromise secondary to broad-ranging pathology. • Raynaud's phenomenon, as currently classified, likely encompasses a number of aetiopathogenic processes. • Raynaud's phenomenon causes significant disease-related morbidity in autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as systemic sclerosis.

Effectiveness of implant surface debridement using particle beams at differing air pressures.

Because implant surface decontamination is challenging, air powder abrasive systems have been suggested as an alternative debridement method. This in vitro study investigated the effectiveness of different powder formulations and air pressures in cleaning implant surfaces and the extent of surface damage. A validated ink model of implant biofilm was used. Sterile 4.1 × 10 mm Grade 4 titanium implants were coated in a blue indelible ink to form a uniform, visually detectable biofilm‐like layer over the implant threads and mounted into a bone replica material with bony defects to approximate peri‐implantitis. Air powder abrasive treatments were undertaken using glycine, sodium bicarbonate, or calcium carbonate powder at air pressures of 25, 35, 45, and 55 psi. Digital macro photographs of the threads were stitched to give composite images of the threads, so the amount of ink remaining could be quantified as the residual area and expressed as a percentage. Implant surfaces were also examined with scanning electron microscopy to grade the surface changes. No treatment cleaned all the surface of the threads. The powders were ranked in order of decreasing effectiveness and decreasing surface change into the same sequence of calcium carbonate followed by sodium bicarbonate followed by glycine. Higher air pressure improved cleaning and increased surface change, with a plateau effect evident. All powders caused some level of surface alteration, with rounding of surface projections most evident. With air powder abrasive systems, there is a trade‐off between cleaning efficacy and surface damage. Using this laboratory model, sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate powders were the most effective for surface cleaning when used at air pressures as low as 25 psi.

Functional Assessment of Synoptic Pathology Reporting for Ovarian Cancer

Background: Ovarian cancer has one of the highest death/incidence rates and is commonly diagnosed at an advanced stage. In the recent WHO classification, new histotypes were classified which respond differently to chemotherapy. The e-standardized synoptic cancer pathology reports offer the clinicians essential and reliable information. The aim of our project was to develop an e-template for the standardized synoptic pathology reporting of ovarian carcinoma [based on the checklist of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the recent WHO/FIGO classification] to introduce a uniform and improved quality of cancer pathology reports. A functional and qualitative evaluation of the synoptic reporting was performed. Methods: An indispensable module for e-synoptic reporting was developed and integrated into the Hospital Information System (HIS). The electronic pathology system used a standardized structure with drop-down lists of defined elements to ensure completeness and consistency of reporting practices with the required guidelines. All ovarian cancer pathology reports (partial and final) with the corresponding glass slides selected from a 1-year current workflow were revised for the standard structured reports, and 42 tumors [13 borderline tumors and 29 carcinomas (mainly serous)] were included in the study. Results: Analysis of the reports for completeness against the CAP checklist standard showed a lack of pTNM staging in 80% of the partial or final unstructured reports; ICD-O coding was missing in 83%. Much less frequently missed or unstated data were: ovarian capsule infiltration, angioinvasion and implant evaluation. The e-records of ovarian tumors were supplemented with digital macro- and micro-images and whole-slide images. Conclusions: The e-module developed for synoptic ovarian cancer pathology reporting was easily incorporated into HIS.CGM CliniNet and facilitated comprehensive reporting; it also provided open access to the database for concerned recipients. The e-synoptic pathology reports appeared more accurate, clear and conclusive than traditional narrative reports. Standardizing structured reporting and electronic tools allows open access and downstream utilization of pathology data for clinicians and tumor registries.

Coral injuries observed at Mesophotic Reefs after the Deepwater Horizon oil discharge

Pathologies in over 400 octocoral and antipatharian colonies were quantified in the aftermath of the DWH oil discharge. Observations were made in September 2011 at water depths of 65–75m in the Pinnacle Reef trend area offshore from Mississippi and Alabama, Gulf of Mexico, using a digital macro camera deployed from an ROV to examine the coral populations for injury at two principal sites: Alabama Alps Reef (AAR) and Roughtongue Reef (RTR). Taxa observed to exhibit injury included gorgonian octocorals Hypnogorgia pendula, Bebryce spp., Thesea nivea, and Swiftia exserta, the antipatharian Antipathes atlantica, and the sea whips Stichopathes sp., and Ellisella barbadensis. The most common type of injury was a biofilm with a clumped or flake-like appearance covering sea-fan branches. Extreme injuries were characterized by bare skeletons, broken and missing branches. Comparing the 2011 results to previous photo surveys of the same study sites between 1997 and 1999, we found significantly more occurrences of injury in 2011 among taxa with growth forms >0.5m. We hypothesize that Tropical Storm Bonnie facilitated and accelerated the mixing process of dispersant-treated hydrocarbons into the water column, resulting in harmful contact with coral colonies at mesophotic depths. Analysis of total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (tPAH) concentrations in sediments at AAR and RTR found levels elevated above pre-discharge values, but orders of magnitude below toxicity thresholds established for fauna in estuarine sediments. The tPAH concentrations measured in octocoral and echinoderm tissue samples from AAR and RTR were detectable (mean values ranged from 51 to 345ppb); however, bioeffect thresholds do not currently exist with which to evaluate the potential harm these levels may cause. Our findings indicate that coral injuries observed in 2011 may have resulted from an acute, isolated event rather than ongoing natural processes.

The Application and Use of Calibration Strips in Quantitative Digital Imaging

Digital Macro Imaging in modern medicine has the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes if accurate data can be extracted efficiently and valid meta data can be added to a clinical database. At the present time much data from standard photographic images is not quantitative and is therefore of limited use. Our approach is to develop simple tools and methodologies that make it possible to internally calibrate images and our subsequent goal is to develop an online analytical tool set that will import, display, calibrate, save and share images and data in a clinically secure setting. In this paper we describe the process of developing a range of calibration strips that can be used by clinical staff with little or no experience of photography in most environments including, the clinic, the ward, the GP surgery or the home.. The imaging strips provide an internal calibration standard that help ensure the wound, lesion, or dermatology is properly framed for downstream linear, colour and shape measurements. Once photographed, the calibrated imaged can then be used in a quantitative way for longitudinal or comparative analysis. We believe this approach has the potential to benefit benefit to the clinical photography department, the clinician, the researcher, clinical trials specialist and, most importantly, the patient.

The morphological and settling properties of ANAMMOX granular sludge in high-rate reactors

Digital macro photography and settling tests were carried out to investigate the morphological and settling characteristics of ANAMMOX granules in a high-rate reactor. The ANAMMOX granules could be divided into settling and floating granules. The settling granules with an average diameter of 2.96±0.99 mm were smaller than the floating granules with an average diameter of 4.58±1.22 mm. A settling model was established and validated to correlate the settling velocity with the density (ρG), mass shape factor (ψmass), shape-correction factor (characterized by sphericity (Φ(')) or roundness (ξ)) and projected area equivalent sphere diameter (dP) of ANAMMOX granules. The sphericity was more suitable than the roundness for describing the settling behavior. The sensitivity of four parameters was in the order of ρG,ψmass, dP and Φ('). Based on the settling model, ANAMMOX granules with diameter of 1.75-4.00 mm were supposed to be optimal for the ANAMMOX process.

Digital macro photography of cactus and succulent plants

Digital macro photography of cactus and succulent plants

Troubleshooting digital macro photography for image acquisition and the analysis of biological samples

For years, image acquisition and analysis have been an important part of life science experiments to ensure the adequate and reliable presentation of research results. Since the development of digital photography and digital planimetric methods for image analysis approximately 20years ago, new equipment and technologies have emerged, which have increased the quality of image acquisition and analysis. Different techniques are available to measure the size of stained tissue samples in experimental animal models of disease; however, the most accurate method is digital macro photography with software that is based on planimetric analysis. In this study, we described the methodology for the preparation of infarcted rat heart and brain tissue samples before image acquisition, digital macro photography techniques and planimetric image analysis. These methods are useful in the macro photography of biological samples and subsequent image analysis. In addition, the techniques that are described in this study include the automated analysis of digital photographs to minimize user input and exclude the risk of researcher-generated errors or bias during image analysis.

Great Auricular Nerve Injury, the “Subauricular Band” Phenomenon, and the Periauricular Adipose Compartments

Experience with anatomical dissection has suggested that two potential complications of rhytidectomy are related to the anatomy of the periauricular adipose compartments: great auricular nerve injury and the "subauricular band" phenomenon. This study describes this anatomy and its relationship to these potential complications. The results of 24 fresh hemifacial cadaver dissections were included in this study. Injections included the use of methylene blue and fixable dye injected into specific regions around the ear. The study incorporated digital macro photography, time-lapse photography, and three-dimensional cross-sections in multiple planes (coronal, sagittal, and axial planes) to identify structural relationships. This study defined five periauricular adipose compartments. The main branch of the great auricular nerve always ran within the subauricular membrane. The subauricular membrane was located between the subauricular and inferior adipose compartments. Inadequate dissection of the lateral neck and postauricular area along with failure to release this membrane completely results in banding of the lateral neck, a stigma of face lift surgery. McKinney's point was consistently found to lie where the great auricular nerve travels deep to the inferior border of Lore's fascia and the tail of the parotid. Below this point, the great auricular nerve is closer to the skin surface and more susceptible to potential injury. Two possible complications of rhytidectomy, great auricular nerve injury and the "subauricular band" phenomenon, are avoidable by understanding the anatomy of the periauricular adipose compartments.

Single front-end SOC for accessing CD/DVD/BD with maximum speed

A single front-end SOC with the capability to access all kinds of optical disc is presented. It has the capability to process CD/DVD/BD with maximum speed. It contains an analog front end (AFE), partial response maximum likelihood (PRML) detector, servo-control block, buffer control block etc. It also has numerous analog cores such as analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and phase locked loop (PLL) and digital macros such as digital signal processor (DSP), ARM microprocessor and memories. The presented SOC parallelizes the embedded blocks with the divided channel frequency to enable maximum speed access. It contains 32 million transistors in a 63 mm2 die, and is fabricated with 0.13 mum CMOS technology. It has a channel frequency of 530 MHz and a power consumption of 1.1 W at BD 1x speed. It was fully verified with CD/DVD/BD with maximum speed.

A 12-ps-resolution digital variable-delay macro cell on GaAs 100 K-gates gate array using a meshed air bridge structure

A digital variable-delay macro cell (DVDM) on a GaAs 100 K-gates gate array has been developed for measurement instruments and for elimination of clock skew on printed circuit boards. Three new technologies for high resolution are introduced into the DVDM: (1) a meshed air bridge structure bringing 29% reduction of propagation delay, (2) a rising edge selector circuit creating 33% decrement of standard deviation /spl sigma/ on delay, and (3) a delay circuit with a discharge control path for a high resolution of 12 ps. The DVDM produces 24.4 ns span and 12 ps resolution, about one-quarter that of a conventional DVDM. Linearity error is less than /spl plusmn/27 ps. Power dissipation of the DVDM is 250 mW/cell, about one-third of the value for a conventional Si bipolar junction transistor analog delay circuit.

Design tools for digital macro systems

The early stages of system design and evaluation are rarely treated in a systematic way. Furthermore, system design tools have mostly been applied to the later phases of the design cycle. The paper presents a quantitative basis for the high-level design of digital systems in the form of probabilistic and simulation models and several performance measures. These tools form a major part of an overall system design methodology which has been valuable in the design, optimisation and evaluation of large-scale digital systems. The application of the modelling tools to the design of a distributed processing system is demonstrated. Validation of the results by simulation reveal an average error of less than 3% for this example.

Design tools for digital macro systems

The early stages of system design and evaluation are rarely treated in a systematic way. Furthermore, system design tools have mostly been applied to the later phases of the design cycle. The paper presents a quantitative basis for the high-level design of digital systems in the form of probabilistic and simulation models and several performance measures. These tools form a major part of an overall system design methodology which has been valuable in the design, optimisation and evaluation of large-scale digital systems. The application of the modelling tools to the design of a distributed processing system is demonstrated. Validation of the results by simulation reveal an average error of less than 3% for this example.