Bespoke Approximation of Multiplication-Accumulation and Activation Targeting Printed Multilayer Perceptrons

Printed Electronics (PE) feature distinct and remarkable characteristics that make them a prominent technology for achieving true ubiquitous computing. This is particularly relevant in application domains that require conformal and ultra-low cost solutions, which have experienced limited penetration of computing until now. Unlike silicon-based technologies, PE offer unparalleled features such as non-recurring engineering costs, ultra-low manufacturing cost, and on-demand fabrication of conformal, flexible, non-toxic, and stretchable hardware. However, PE face certain limitations due to their large feature sizes, that impede the realization of complex circuits, such as machine learning classifiers. In this work, we address these limitations by leveraging the principles of Approximate Computing and Bespoke (fully-customized) design. We propose an automated framework for designing ultra-low power Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) classifiers which employs, for the first time, a holistic approach to approximate all functions of the MLP's neurons: multiplication, accumulation, and activation. Through comprehensive evaluation across various MLPs of varying size, our framework demonstrates the ability to enable battery-powered operation of even the most intricate MLP architecture examined, significantly surpassing the current state of the art.Comment: Accepted for publication at the 42th IEEE/ACM International Conference on Computer Aided Design (ICCAD) 2023, San Francisco, US

Primary treatment of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia with dexamethasone, rituximab, and cyclophosphamide

Purpose Alkylating agents and the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab are among appropriate choices for the primary treatment of symptomatic patients with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia ( WM), and they induce at least a partial response in 30% to 50% of patients. To improve these results, we designed a phase II study that included previously untreated symptomatic patients with WM who received a combination of dexamethasone, rituximab, and cyclophosphamide ( DRC). Patients and Methods Seventy-two patients were treated with dexamethasone 20 mg intravenously followed by rituximab 375 mg/ m(2) intravenously on day 1 and cyclophosphamide 100 mg/ m2 orally bid on days 1 to 5 ( total dose, 1,000 mg/ m2). This regimen was repeated every 21 days for 6 months. Patients’ median age was 69 years and many had features of advanced disease such as anemia ( 57%), hypoalbuminemia ( 40%), and elevated serum beta(2)-microglobulin ( 43%). Results On an intent-to-treat basis, 83% of patients ( 95% Cl, 73% to 91%) achieved a response, including 7% complete, 67% partial, and 9% minor responses. The median time to response was 4.1 months. The 2-year progression-free survival rate for all patients was 67%; for patients who responded to DRC, it was 80%. The 2-year disease-specific survival rate was 90%. Treatment with DRC was well tolerated, with 9% of patients experiencing grade 3 or 4 neutropenia and approximately 20% of patients experiencing some form of toxicity related to rituximab. Conclusion Our large, multicenter trial showed that the non -stem-cell toxic DRC regimen is an active, well-tolerated treatment for symptomatic patients with WM