Abstract: A computer implemented method performs data skipping in a hierarchically organized computing system. A group of processor units determines leaf node data sketches for data in leaf nodes in the hierarchically organized computing system. The leaf node data sketches summarize attributes of data in the leaf nodes. The group of processor units aggregates the leaf node data sketches at intermediate nodes in the hierarchically organized computing system to form aggregated data sketches at the intermediate nodes and retains data sketches received at the intermediate nodes from a group of child nodes to form retained data sketches. The retained data sketches are one of leaf node data sketches and the aggregated data sketches. The group of processor units searches the data using the retained data sketches and the data skipping within the hierarchically organized computing system in response to queries made to the intermediate nodes in the hierarchically organized computing system.

Abstract: A computer implemented method performs data skipping in a hierarchically organized computing system. A group of processor units determines leaf node data sketches for data in leaf nodes in the hierarchically organized computing system. The leaf node data sketches summarize attributes of data in the leaf nodes. The group of processor units aggregates the leaf node data sketches at intermediate nodes in the hierarchically organized computing system to form aggregated data sketches at the intermediate nodes and retains data sketches received at the intermediate nodes from a group of child nodes to form retained data sketches. The retained data sketches are one of leaf node data sketches and the aggregated data sketches. The group of processor units searches the data using the retained data sketches and the data skipping within the hierarchically organized computing system in response to queries made to the intermediate nodes in the hierarchically organized computing system.

Abstract: Systems, methods and/or computer program products for controlling and visualizing topic modeling results using a topic modeling interface. The interface allows user directed exploration, understanding and control of topic modeling algorithms, while offering both semantic summaries and/or structure attribute explanations about results. Explanations and differentiations between results are presented using metrics such as cohesiveness and visual displays depicting hierarchical organization. Through user-manipulation of features of the interface, iterative changes are implemented through user-feedback, adjusting parameters, broadening or narrowing topic results, and/or reorganizing topics by splitting or merging topics. As users trigger visual changes to results being displayed, users can compare and contrast output from the topic modeling algorithm.

Abstract: An ultrasonic CMP polishing pad analyzer is disclosed. The analyzer provides a manufacturer or other user an ability to inspect a CMP polishing pad without removing the pad from the CMP machine by creating and displaying a topographical image of an in-service polishing pad. The analyzer includes an ultrasonic transducer and an analyzer body mounted to the CMP machine such that the ultrasonic transducer is positioned to receive reflected ultrasonic signals from a surface of the polishing pad.