Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
SRA: a secure ReRAM-based DNN accelerator

Deep Neural Network (DNN) accelerators are increasingly developed to pursue high efficiency in DNN computing. However, the IP protection of the DNNs deployed on such accelerators is an important topic that has been less addressed. Although there are previous works that targeted this problem for CMOS-based designs, there is still no solution for ReRAM-based accelerators which pose new security challenges due to their crossbar structure and non-volatility. ReRAM's non-volatility retains data even after the system is powered off, making the stored DNN model vulnerable to attacks by simply reading out the ReRAM content. Because the crossbar structure can only compute on plaintext data, encrypting the ReRAM content is no longer a feasible solution in this scenario. In this paper, we propose SRA - a secure ReRAM-based DNN accelerator that stores DNN weights on crossbars in an encrypted format while still maintaining ReRAM's in-memory computing capability. The proposed encryption scheme also supports sharing bits among multiple weights, significantly reducing the storage overhead. In addition, SRA uses a novel high-bandwidth SC conversion scheme to protect each layer's intermediate results, which also contain sensitive information of the model. Our experimental results show that SRA can effectively prevent pirating the deployed DNN weights as well as the intermediate results with negligible accuracy loss, and achieves 1.14X performance speedup and 9% energy reduction compared to ISAAC - a non-secure ReRAM-based baseline.
PHANES: ReRAM-based photonic accelerator for deep neural networks

Resistive random access memory (ReRAM) has demonstrated great promises of in-situ matrix-vector multiplications to accelerate deep neural networks. However, subject to the intrinsic properties of analog processing, most of the proposed ReRAM-based accelerators require excessive costly ADC/DAC to avoid distortion of electronic analog signals during inter-tile transmission. Moreover, due to bit-shifting before addition, prior works require longer cycles to serially calculate partial sum compared to multiplications, which dramatically restricts the throughput and is more likely to stall the pipeline between layers of deep neural networks. In this paper, we present a novel ReRAM-based photonic accelerator (PHANES) architecture, which calculates multiplications in ReRAM and parallel weighted accumulations during optical transmission. Such photonic paradigm also serves as high-fidelity analog-analog links to further reduce ADC/DAC. To circumvent the memory wall problem, we further propose a progressive bit-depth technique. Evaluations show that PHANES improves the energy efficiency by 6.09x and throughput density by 14.7x compared to state-of-the-art designs. Our photonic architecture also has great potentials for scalability towards very-large-scale accelerators.
NovelRewrite: node-level parallel AIG rewriting

Logic rewriting is an important part in logic optimization. It rewrites a circuit by replacing local subgraphs with logically equivalent ones, so that the area and the delay of the circuit can be optimized. This paper introduces a parallel AIG rewriting algorithm with a new concept of logical cuts. Experiments show that this algorithm implemented with one GPU can be on average 32X faster than the logic rewriting in the logic synthesis tool ABC on large benchmarks. Compared with other logic rewriting acceleration works, ours has the best quality and the shortest running time.
Trust in Edge-based Internet of Things Architectures: State of the Art and Research Challenges

The Internet of Things (IoT) aims to enable a scenario where smart objects, inserted into information networks, supply smart services for human beings. The introduction of edge computing in IoT can reduce the decision-making latency, save bandwidth resources, and expand the cloud services to be allocated at the network’s edge. However, edge-based IoT systems currently face challenges in their decentralized trust management. Trust management is essential to obtain reliable mining and data fusion, improved user privacy and data security, and provisioning of services with context-awareness. In this survey, we first examine the edge-based IoT architectures currently reported in the literature. Then a complete review of trust requirements in edge-based IoT systems is produced. Also, we discuss about blockchain as a solution to solve several trust problems in IoT and analyze in detail the correlation between blockchain and edge computing. Finally, we provide a detailed analysis of performance aspects of trusted edge-based IoT systems and recommend promising research directions.
GIANT METREWAVE RADIO TELESCOPE DETECTION OF TWO NEW H i 21 cm ABSORBERS AT z ≈ 2

I report the detection of H i 21 cm absorption in two high column density damped Lyα absorbers (DLAs) at z ≈ 2 using new wide-band 250–500 MHz receivers on board the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope. The integrated H i 21 cm optical depths are 0.85 ± 0.16 km s−1 (TXS1755+578) and 2.95 ± 0.15 km s−1 (TXS1850+402). For the z = 1.9698 DLA toward TXS1755+578, the difference in H i 21 cm and C i profiles and the weakness of the radio core suggest that the H i 21cm absorption arises toward radio components in the jet, and that the optical and radio sightlines are not the same. This precludes an estimate of the DLA spin temperature. For the z = 1.9888 DLA toward TXS1850+402, the absorber covering factor is likely to be close to unity, as the background source is extremely compact, with the entire 5 GHz emission arising from a region of ⩽ 1.4 mas in size. This yields a DLA spin temperature of Ts = (372 ± 18) × (f/1.0) K, lower than typical Ts values in high-z DLAs. This low spin temperature and the relatively high metallicity of the z = 1.9888 DLA ([Zn/H] =(− 0.68 ± 0.04)) are consistent with the anti-correlation between metallicity and spin temperature that has been found earlier in damped Lyα systems.
A rocket-borne investigation of auroral electrodynamics within the auroral-ionosphere

This dissertation focuses on data analyzed from the Auroral Current and Electrodynamics Structure (ACES) sounding rocket mission. ACES consisted of two payloads launched nearly simultaneously in 2009 into a dynamic multiple-arc aurora. The mission was designed to observe the three-dimensional nature of an auroral arc current system. The payloads were flown along nearly conjugate magnetic field footpoints, separated in altitude with small temporal separation. The high altitude payload took in situ measurements of the plasma parameters above the current closure region to measure the input signature into the lower ionosphere. The low-altitude payload took similar observations within the current closure region, where perpendicular cross-field currents can flow. A detailed description of the experimental configuration is presented, including operational details of the fields and plasma instruments flown on both payloads. The methods used to process data from the electrostatic particle detectors and the fluxgate magnetometer on both payloads are presented. Data from the all-sky imager details the auroral configuration at the time of launch. In situ data are presented detailing observations of the electric fields, magnetic fields, and the electron differential energy flux, as the payloads crossed nearly conjugate magnetic field lines. Field-aligned currents were calculated from magnetometer observations on the high altitude payload. These data were combined with electron flux data to show that the high altitude payload traversed regions of upward and downward field-aligned current. The low altitude payload observed signatures in the residual magnetic field components consistent with perpendicular closure current. Ionospheric collisionality is investigated to determine if it is a significant mechanism to explain observed differences in the low energy electron flux between the high altitude and low altitude payload. As a result of increased ionospheric collisionality, the ionospheric conductivity is investigated to interpret the in situ electric field observations.
Processing-in-SRAM acceleration for ultra-low power visual 3D perception

Real-time ego-motion tracking and 3D structural estimation are the fundamental tasks for the ubiquitous cyper-physical systems, and they can be conducted via the state-of-the-art Edge-Based Visual Odometry (EBVO) algorithm. However, the intrinsic data-intensive process of EBVO emplaces a memory-wall hurdle in practical deployment on conventional von-Neumann-style computing systems. In this work, we attempt to leverage SRAM based processing-in-memory (PIM) technique to alleviate such memory-wall bottleneck, so as to optimize the EBVO systematically from the perspectives of the algorithm layer and physical layer. In the algorithm layer, we first investigate the data reuse patterns of the essential computing kernels required for the feature detection and pose estimation steps in EBVO, and propose PIM friendly data layout and computing scheme for each kernel accordingly. We distill the basic logical and arithmetical operations required in the algorithm layer, and in the physical layer, we propose a novel bit-parallel and reconfigurable SRAM-PIM architecture to realize the operations with high computing precision and throughput. Our experimental result shows that the proposed multi-layer optimization allows for high tracking accuracy of EBVO, and it can improve 11x processing speed and reduce 20x energy consumption compared to the CPU implementation.
Tutors’ assessment practices and students’ situated learning in higher education: chalk and cheese

This article uses situated learning theory to consider current tutor assessment and feedback practices in relation to learning practices employed by students outside the overt curriculum. The case is made that an emphasis on constructive alignment and explicitly articulating assessment requirements within curricula may be misplaced. Outside of the overt curriculum students appear to be interdependent learners, participating in communities of practice and learning networks, where sense-making occurs through negotiation and there is identity development. Such negotiation may translate curriculum requirements articulated by tutors into unexpected meanings. Hence, tutors’ efforts might be better placed on developing students’ ability to self-assess and to effectively evaluate and negotiate information, rather than primarily on their own delivery of the curriculum content and feedback. Tutors cannot be fully effective if they fail to consider students’ learning outside the overt curriculum, and ways to facilitate such learning processes are suggested together with future research directions.
Calibration of an Arduino-based low-cost capacitive soil moisture sensor for smart agriculture

Abstract Agriculture faces several challenges to use the available resources in a more environmentally sustainable manner. One of the most significant is to develop sustainable water management. The modern Internet of Things (IoT) techniques with real-time data collection and visualisation can play an important role in monitoring the readily available moisture in the soil. An automated Arduino-based low-cost capacitive soil moisture sensor has been calibrated and developed for data acquisition. A sensor- and soil-specific calibration was performed for the soil moisture sensors (SKU:SEN0193 - DFROBOT, Shanghai, China). A Repeatability and Reproducibility study was conducted by range of mean methods on clay loam, sandy loam and silt loam soil textures. The calibration process was based on the data provided by the capacitive sensors and the continuously and parallelly measured soil moisture content by the thermogravimetric method. It can be stated that the response of the sensors to changes in soil moisture differs from each other, which was also greatly influenced by different soil textures. Therefore, the calibration according to soil texture was required to ensure adequate measurement accuracy. After the calibration, it was found that a polynomial calibration function (R2 ≥ 0.89) was the most appropriate way for modelling the behaviour of the sensors at different soil textures.
Inside the Router: An interactive VR learning application to practice routing and network address translation

: This paper presents the evaluation of a VR learning application to practice routing and network address translation of a home router. The main didactical design feature of the application is the Inside the System approach, which lets the learners become part of the information system by performing the tasks themselves. Accordingly, process knowledge is to be built up and practiced and thus the competence level of Apply according to Krathwohl and Anderson is to be achieved by the learners. For comparability of evaluation results of VR learning apps, we introduced an evaluation design based on usability, VR specific design, and learning performance.
POLARIZATION IN EXOPLANETARY SYSTEMS CAUSED BY TRANSITS, GRAZING TRANSITS, AND STARSPOTS

We present results of numerical simulations of flux and linear polarization variations in transiting exoplanetary systems, caused by host star disk symmetry breaking. We consider different configurations of planetary transits depending on orbital parameters. The starspot contribution to the polarized signal is also estimated. Applying the method to known systems and simulating observational conditions, a number of targets is selected where transit polarization effects could be detected. We investigate several principal benefits of the transit polarimetry, particularly for determining orbital spatial orientation and distinguishing between grazing and near-grazing planets. Simulations show that polarization parameters are also sensitive to starspots, and they can be used to determine spot positions and sizes.
Macrophage migration inhibitory factor contributes to immunopathogenesis during Plasmodium yoelii 17XL infection

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a cytokine recognized regulator of the inflammatory immune response associated with several immune cells that produce inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, IL-18, and TNF-α. This study aimed to understand the effect of MIF on the immune response and pathogenesis during Plasmodium infection. Wild-type (Wt) and MIF knockout (Mif -/-) mice were intravenously infected with 1×103 Plasmodium yoelii (Py) 17XL-parasitized red blood cells. Our data showed that Py17XL-infected Wt mice died 11 days postinfection, while Mif -/- mice showed reduced parasitemia and an increase in their survival at day 11 up to 58%, importantly they succumb up to day 21 postinfection. The increased survival rate in Mif -/- mice was associated with less severe cachexia and anemia as a result of a mixed Th1/Th2 cytokine profile, high levels of IL-12, IL-17/IL-4, and IL-10 in serum; and high levels of IL-4 and IL-10, and low levels of IFN-γ in spleen cells compared to Py17XL infected Wt mice. Moreover, macrophages (Mφs) from Mif -/- mice exhibited higher concentrations of IL-10 and IL-12 and reduced levels of TNF-α and nitric oxide (NO) compared to Py17XL-infected Wt mice. These results demonstrate that MIF has an important role in regulating the immune response associated with host pathogenesis and lethality, which is relevant to consider in preventing/reducing complications in Plasmodium infections.
Checkpoint molecules on infiltrating immune cells in colorectal tumor microenvironment

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent cancer types worldwide, with a high mortality rate due to metastasis. The tumor microenvironment (TME) contains multiple interactions between the tumor and the host, thus determining CRC initiation and progression. Various immune cells exist within the TME, such as tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), and tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs). The immunotherapy approach provides novel opportunities to treat solid tumors, especially toward immune checkpoints. Despite the advances in the immunotherapy of CRC, there are still obstacles to successful treatment. In this review, we highlighted the role of these immune cells in CRC, with a particular emphasis on immune checkpoint molecules involved in CRC pathogenesis.
Mitochondrial autophagy in the sleeping brain

A significant percentage of the mitochondrial mass is replaced on a daily basis via mechanisms of mitochondrial quality control. Through mitophagy (a selective type of autophagy that promotes mitochondrial proteostasis) cells keep a healthy pool of mitochondria, and prevent oxidative stress and inflammation. Furthermore, mitophagy helps adapting to the metabolic demand of the cells, which changes on a daily basis. Core components of the mitophagy process are PINK1 and Parkin, which mutations are linked to Parkinson’s Disease. The crucial role of PINK1/Parkin pathway during stress-induced mitophagy has been extensively studied in vitro in different cell types. However, recent advances in the field allowed discovering that mitophagy seems to be only slightly affected in PINK1 KO mice and flies, putting into question the physiological relevance of this pathway in vivo in the whole organism. Indeed, several cell-specific PINK1/Parkin-independent mitophagy pathways have been recently discovered, which appear to be activated under physiological conditions such as those that promote mitochondrial proteome remodeling during differentiation or in response to specific physiological stimuli. In this Mini Review we want to summarize the recent advances in the field, and add another level of complexity by focusing attention on a potentially important aspect of mitophagy regulation: the implication of the circadian clock. Recent works showed that the circadian clock controls many aspects of mitochondrial physiology, including mitochondrial morphology and dynamic, respiratory activity, and ATP synthesis. Furthermore, one of the essential functions of sleep, which is controlled by the clock, is the clearance of toxic metabolic compounds from the brain, including ROS, via mechanisms of proteostasis. Very little is known about a potential role of the clock in the quality control mechanisms that maintain the mitochondrial repertoire healthy during sleep/wake cycles. More importantly, it remains completely unexplored whether (dys)function of mitochondrial proteostasis feedbacks to the circadian clockwork.
Infectious diseases associated with pediatric type 1 diabetes mellitus: A narrative review

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been frequently associated with an impaired immune response against infectious agents, making affected patients at risk for more severe disease and sometimes causing worse outcomes. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has seriously affected patients with both diabetes, in particular those carrying comorbidities or with poor glycemic control. As regards pediatric diabetes mellitus, the availability of more accurate and technological tools for glycemic management and the improved markers of metabolic control might mitigate the negative impact of infections. Notably, good metabolic control of diabetes since its diagnosis reduces not only the risk of microangiopathic complications but also of impaired immune response to infectious diseases. Therefore, vaccinations are strongly recommended. Our paper aims to provide the most updated evidence regarding infectious diseases in type 1 pediatric DM.
Audiological biomarkers of tinnitus in an older Portuguese population

Tinnitus is a phantom sound perceived in the absence of external acoustic stimulation. It is described in a variety of ways (e.g., buzzing, ringing, and roaring) and can be a single sound or a combination of different sounds. Our study evaluated associations between audiological parameters and the presence or severity of tinnitus, to improve tinnitus diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Our sample included 122 older participants (63 women and 59 men), aged 55–75 years from the Portuguese population, with or without sensory presbycusis and with or without tinnitus. All participants underwent a clinical evaluation through a structured interview, Ear, Nose, and Throat observation, and audiological evaluation (standard and extended audiometry, psychoacoustic tinnitus evaluation, auditory brainstem responses, and distortion product otoacoustic emissions). The Tinnitus Handicap Inventory was used to measure tinnitus symptom severity. Our data confirmed that the odds of developing tinnitus were significantly higher in the presence of noise exposure and hearing loss. Also, participants who had abrupt tinnitus onset and moderate or severe hyperacusis featured higher odds of at least moderate tinnitus. However, it was in the ABR that we obtained the most exciting and promising results, namely, in wave I, which was the common denominator in all findings. The increase in wave I amplitude is a protective factor to the odds of having tinnitus. Concerning the severity of tinnitus, the logistic regression model showed that for each unit of increase in the mean ratio V/I of ABR, the likelihood of having at least moderate tinnitus was 10% higher. Advancing knowledge concerning potential tinnitus audiological biomarkers can be crucial for the adequate diagnosis and treatment of tinnitus.
PD-1/L1 inhibitor plus chemotherapy in the treatment of sarcomas

There is an urgent clinical need for new therapeutic regimens for the effective treatment of advanced sarcomas. Accumulating evidence suggests that programmed death receptor-1/programmed death protein ligand-1 (PD-1/L1) inhibitors have synergistic effects with chemotherapy and have been approved for treatment of lung cancer, gastroesophageal cancer, and breast cancer. In this review, we reviewed the synergistic mechanism of PD-1/L1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy in the treatment of cancers, and the application of this combined regimen in several cancers, followed by a summary of the current evidence on the application of this combined regimen in the treatment of sarcomas as well as the main clinical trials currently underway. Based on the findings of this review, we believe that this combined approach will play an important role in the treatment of some subtypes of sarcomas in the future.