Computation capability characteristics of neuromorphic analog/mixed-signal spiking neural networks offer capable platform for implementation of cognitive tasks on resource-limited embedded platforms. In this paper, we derive stochastic model of spiking neural processing systems for energy-efficient recognition and inference of biomedical systems. We examine imperfections in the network dynamics and noise-induced information processing, influence of the uncertainty on the behavior of the emulated networks, and impact on the clustering accuracy of cardiac arrhythmia. Experimental results indicate that stochasticity at networks connections is a adequate resource for deep learning machines.

Advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) prepave regulators, consumers and corporations for the medium-term reality of autonomous driving with adaptive cruise control, collision avoidance and lane departure warning system. Various sensors like camera, RADAR and LIDAR, integrated into the vehicle assist driving. In addition, deep learning approaches are utilized in a wide range of applications ranging from object detection and scene segmentation to engine fault diagnosis and emission management to detect vehicle network intrusion. In this paper, we scope out the state of the art sensors subsystems in terms of its functionality, characteristics, specifications and communication protocol, and we describe cognitive deep learning based algorithms required for environment perception through these sensors. Subsequently, we analyze the cognitive algorithm by profiling the standard deep learning models, explore different compute platforms and possible algorithm and hardware optimization scenarios.

Synaptic dynamics is of great importance in realizing biophysically accurate neural behaviors and efficient synaptic learning in neuromorphic integrated circuits. In this paper, we propose a current-based synapse structure with multi-compartment receptors AMPA, NMDA and GABAa and a weight-dependent learning algorithm. The designed circuit offers distinctive dynamic features of receptors as well as a joint synaptic function. A cross-correlation methodology is applied to a two-layer RNN built by multi-compartment receptors to demonstrate the proposed synapse structure. An increased computation efficiency is verified through temporal synchrony detection among the neural layers in a noisy environment. The design implemented in TSMC 65 nm CMOS technology consumes 1.92, 3.36, 1.11 and 35.22 pJ per spike event of energy for AMPA, NMDA, GABAa and the advanced learning circuit, respectively.

In pulse-based neural networks, synaptic dynamics can have direct influence on learning of neural codes, and encoding of spatiotemporal spike patterns. In this paper, we propose an adaptive synapse circuit for increased flexibility and efficacy of signal processing units in neuromorphic structures. The synapse acts as a multi-layer computational network, and includes multi-compartment dendrites and different types of post-synaptic back propagating signals. With built-in temporal control mechanisms, the resulting reconfigurable network allows the implementation of synaptic homeostatics.

The pathophysiological processes underlying the ECG tracing demonstrate significant heart rate and the morphological pattern variations, for different or in the same patient at diverse physical/temporal conditions. Within this framework, spiking neural networks (SNN) may be a compelling approach to ECG pattern classification based on the individual characteristics of each patient. In this paper, we study electrophysiological dynamics in the self-organizing map SNN when the coefficients of the neuronal connectivity matrix are random variables. We examine synchronicity and noise-induced information processing, influence of the uncertainty on the system signal-to-noise ratio, and impact on the clustering accuracy of cardiac arrhythmia.

Simulating large spiking neural networks with a high level of realism in a FPGA requires efficient network architectures that satisfy both the resource and interconnect constraints, as well as the changes in traffic patterns due to learning processes. In this paper, we propose a dataflow architecture based on a multipath ring topology that offers traffic shaping capabilities, and high energy-efficiency for the neuron-to-neuron communications.