Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A New Privacy Breach: User Trajectory Recovery From Aggregated Mobility Data

Human mobility data have been ubiquitously collected through cellular networks and mobile applications, and publicly released for academic research and commercial purposes for the last decade. Since releasing individual’s mobility records usually gives rise to privacy issues, data sets owners tend to only publish aggregated mobility data, such as the number of users covered by a cellular tower at a specific timestamp, which is believed to be sufficient for preserving users’ privacy. However, in this paper, we argue and prove that even publishing aggregated mobility data could lead to privacy breach in individuals’ trajectories. We develop an attack system that is able to exploit the uniqueness and regularity of human mobility to recover individual’s trajectories from the aggregated mobility data without any prior knowledge. By conducting experiments on two real-world data sets collected from both the mobile application and cellular network, we reveal that the attack system is able to recover users’ trajectories with an accuracy of about 73%~91% at the scale of thousands to ten thousands of mobile users, which indicates severe privacy leakage in such data sets. Our extensive analysis also reveals that by generalization and perturbation, this kind of privacy leakage can only be mitigated. Through the investigation on aggregated mobility data, this paper recognizes a novel privacy problem in publishing statistic data, which appeals for immediate attentions from both the academy and industry.
Evaluation of the harmony exoskeleton as an upper extremity rehabilitation tool after stroke

We carried out an exploratory study to evaluate the safety of the Harmony upper body exoskeleton during stroke rehabilitation in a clinical setting. This robot contains a novel arrangement of active degrees of freedom about the shoulder complex that should be evaluated for safe interaction before assessing clinical efficacy. This study was performed with a fifty-eight year old male and began twenty-seven months after ischemic stroke. The subject's shoulder girdle motion, glenohumeral subluxation, and muscle status were monitored over twenty-two sessions. Glenohumeral subluxation was successfully avoided throughout arm motion, and palpated scapular motion was deemed satisfactory. Active range of motion and effort duration measurements showed slight changes between early and late sessions, but no significant improvement in daily function was anticipated. Nevertheless the Harmony exoskeleton was capable of maintaining glenohumeral joint closure and proper coordination of shoulder girdle motion during several multi-joint movements in a chronic stroke subject.
Hepatic irradiation persistently eliminates liver resident NK cells

Hepatic irradiation for the treatment of hepatobiliary malignancies often indirectly damages liver tissue and promotes the development of liver fibrosis. However, little is known concerning the effects of hepatic irradiation on the liver immune system, including natural killer (NK) cells. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate how hepatic irradiation influences the functions and characteristics of liver resident NK cells. An established murine hepatic irradiation model was used to examine the specific effects of hepatic irradiation on immune cell populations and metastasis. This analysis demonstrated that hepatic irradiation decreased the number of liver resident NK cells (DX5–TRAIL+), but did not affect the total NK number or proportions of NK cells in the liver or spleen. This effect was correlated with the hepatic irradiation dose. Surprisingly, the liver resident NK population had not recovered by two months after hepatic irradiation. We also found that hepatic irradiation limited the cytotoxic effects of liver-derived lymphocytes against a mouse hepatoma cell line and promoted hepatic metastases in an in vivo model, although adoptive transfer of activated NK cells could alleviate metastatic growth. Finally, we demonstrated that hepatic irradiation disrupted the development of liver-resident NK cells, even after the adoptive transfer of precursor cells from the bone marrow, liver, and spleen, suggesting that irradiation had altered the developmental environment of the liver. In summary, our data demonstrated that hepatic irradiation abolished the DX5–TRAIL+ liver-resident NK cell population and dampened antitumor activities in the liver for at least two months. Additionally, hepatic irradiation prevented differentiation of precursor cells into liver-resident NK cells.
Corpus-based evaluation of Chinese text normalization

This paper aims to present a method of developing a corpus consisting of various categories of Non-Standard Words (NSWs) and a representative test set which will be used for the evaluation of the text normalization modules proposed for Standard Mandarin and Taiwanese Mandarin. A total of 191,431 sentences with NSWs are extracted for the Standard Mandarin and a total of 731,524 sentences with NSWs are extracted for Taiwanese Mandarin. In order to make a representative test set, 1,000 sentences for Standard Mandarin and Taiwanese Mandarin are randomly chosen from these sentences, maintaining the same proportion of the source corpus as well as the similar proportion of each category of NSWs.
Performance analysis of ambient backscatter communications in RF-powered cognitive radio networks

Integrating ambient backscatter communications into RF-powered cognitive radio networks has been shown to be a promising method for achieving energy and spectrum efficient communications, which is very attractive for low-power or no-power communications. In such scenarios, a secondary user (SU) can operate in either transmission mode or backscatter mode. Specifically, an SU can directly transmit data if sufficient energy has been harvested (i.e., transmission mode). Or an SU can backscatter ambient signals to transmit data (i.e., backscatter mode). In this paper, for investigating the performance of such systems, we apply stochastic geometry to analyze coverage probability and achievable rates for both primary and secondary users considering both communication modes. Analytical tractable expressions are obtained. Extensive simulations are performed and the numerical results show the validity of our analysis. Furthermore, the results indicate that the performance of secondary systems can be improved with the integration of both communication modes with only limited impact on the performance of primary systems.
Real-time Downstream 25Gbit/s PAM4 for High Speed TDM-PONs with both 25 and 12.5Gbit/s ONUs

We experimentally achieved 40km, real-time, N1 ODN class (29dB) compliant PAM4 transmission with PAM4/NRZ receptions on the same PON. The emitted PAM4 is interpreted either as PAM4 or NRZ to allow full or half line-rates.
RRH clustering in cloud radio access networks with re-association consideration

Cloud Radio Access Network (C-RAN) is an evolution in the base station architecture, mainly composed of two elements: The Base Band Unit (BBU) and the Remote Radio Head (RRH). This new architecture separates the two elements (the BBUs from RRHs), to group all the BBUs into one cloud, while RRHs are distributed across many sites. Unlike in conventional architecture, many RRHs can be associated to one BBU when traffic load is low, allowing better exploitation of radio resources. A dynamic re-association between BBUs and RRHs is crucial, since coping with traffic load can enable reduction in power consumption and enhancement in energy efficiency. However, re-associations between BBUs and RRHs would cost frequent handovers for users connected to re-associated RRHs. Unlike the existing studies, the aim of this paper is to solve the dynamic aspect of the BBU-RRH association. To that end, we introduce a tunable bi-objective optimization problem formulated as a Set Partitioning Problem (SPP). The purpose is to jointly minimize the power consumption and the re-association rate of users experiencing a BBU change, subject to a minimum guarantee of Quality of Service (QoS). A heuristic approach is also introduced and provides close performance to the optimal solution.
Integration of CPU and GPU to accelerate RSA modular exponentiation operation

Now-a-days, the security of data becomes more and more important, people store many personal information in their phones. However, stored information require security and maintain privacy. Encryption algorithm has become the main force of maintaining the security of data. Thus, the algorithm complexity and encryption efficiency have become the main measurement of whether the encryption algorithm is save or not. With the development of hardware, we have many tools to improve the algorithm at present. Because modular exponentiation in RSA algorithm can be divided into several parts mathematically. In this paper, we introduce a conception by dividing the process of encryption and add the model into graphics process unit (GPU). By using GPU's capacity in parallel computing, the core of RSA can be accelerated by using central process unit (CPU) and GPU. Compute unified device architecture (CUDA) is a platform which can combine CPU and GPU together to realize GPU parallel programming and this is the tool we use to perform experience of accelerating RSA algorithm. This paper will also build up a mathematical model to help understand the mechanism of RSA encryption algorithm.
Clustering in wireless propagation channel with a statistics-based framework

In this article, we introduce a statistics-based clustering framework that is able to model the clustering problem corresponding to the channel propagation characteristics and evaluate the clustering results effectively. In the framework a Gaussian mixture model (GMM) is employed to model the channel multipaths. Then, we optimize the GMM parameters with the expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm. To evaluate the clustering results effectively, a compact index (CI) is devised, in which both the mean and variance of the clusters are considered. In the simulation, outdoor-to-indoor (O2I) channel measurement data is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework.
P1 promoter-driven HNF4α isoforms are specifically repressed by β-catenin signaling in colorectal cancer cells

ABSTRACT HNF4α is a key nuclear receptor for regulating gene expression in the gut. Although both P1 and P2 isoform classes of HNF4α are expressed in colonic epithelium, specific inhibition of P1 isoforms is commonly found in colorectal cancer. Previous studies have suggested that P1 and P2 isoforms might regulate different cellular functions. Despite these advances, it remains unclear whether these isoform classes are functionally divergent in the context of human biology. Here, the consequences of specific inhibition of P1 or P2 isoform expression was measured in a human colorectal cancer cell transcriptome. Results indicate that P1 isoforms were specifically associated with the control of cell metabolism, whereas P2 isoforms globally supported aberrant oncogenic signalization, promoting cancer cell survival and progression. P1 promoter-driven isoform expression was found to be repressed by β-catenin, one of the earliest oncogenic pathways to be activated during colon tumorigenesis. These findings identify a novel cascade by which the expression of P1 isoforms is rapidly shut down in the early stages of colon tumorigenesis, allowing a change in HNF4α-dependent transcriptome, thereby promoting colorectal cancer progression. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper. Summary: This study demonstrates that P1 and P2 promoter-driven HNF4α isoforms regulate different biologically relevant transcriptomic signatures in colorectal cancer cells, and are differently regulated from oncogenic β-catenin activation.
Experimentation of an adaptive and autonomous RF signalling strategy for detection

In this paper we discuss a straightforward signalling strategy for target detection and shared spectrum usage. We further combine additional practical concerns such as waveform modulus and extended target matched illumination to improve detection performance in dynamic interference environments. The impetus for the straightforward, yet suboptimal, strategy are the low cost drivers for small sensing platforms, such as small unmanned aerial systems (SUAS). Herein, we discuss a complete strategy and algorithm for sensing the environment, interrogating the target response and adapting the transmitted waveform to avoid the primary users while putting more energy on target than previous non-adaptive strategies. We give simulation results and initial experimental results to corroborate the theoretical and simulated findings.
Association of Autistic Traits With Depression From Childhood to Age 18 Years

Importance Population-based studies following trajectories of depression in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) from childhood into early adulthood are rare. The role of genetic confounding and of potential environmental intermediaries, such as bullying, in any associations is unclear. Objectives To compare trajectories of depressive symptoms from ages 10 to 18 years for children with or without ASD and autistic traits, to assess associations between ASD and autistic traits and an International Statistical Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10) depression diagnosis at age 18 years, and to explore the importance of genetic confounding and bullying. Design, Setting, and Participants Longitudinal study of participants in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children birth cohort in Bristol, United Kingdom, followed up through age 18 years. Data analysis was conducted from January to November 2017. Main Outcomes and Measures Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (SMFQ) at 6 time points between ages 10 and 18 years. An ICD-10 depression diagnosis at age 18 years was established using the Clinical Interview Schedule–Revised. Exposures were ASD diagnosis and 4 dichotomized autistic traits (social communication, coherence, repetitive behavior, and sociability). An autism polygenic risk score was derived using the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium autism discovery genome-wide association study summary data. Bullying was assessed at ages 8, 10, and 13 years. Results The maximum sample with complete data was 6091 for the trajectory analysis (48.8% male) and 3168 for analysis of depression diagnosis at age 18 years (44.4% male). Children with ASD and autistic traits had higher average SMFQ depressive symptom scores than the general population at age 10 years (eg, for social communication 5.55 [95% CI, 5.16-5.95] vs 3.73 [95% CI, 3.61-3.85], for ASD 7.31 [95% CI, 6.22-8.40] vs 3.94 [95% CI, 3.83-4.05], remaining elevated in an upward trajectory until age 18 years (eg, for social communication 7.65 [95% CI, 6.92-8.37] vs 6.50 [95% CI, 6.29-6.71], for ASD 7.66 [95% CI, 5.96-9.35] vs 6.62 [95% CI, 6.43-6.81]). Social communication impairments were associated with depression at age 18 years (adjusted relative risk, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.05-2.70), and bullying explained a substantial proportion of this risk. There was no evidence of confounding by the autism polygenic risk score. Analysis in larger samples using multiple imputation led to similar but more precise results. Conclusions and Relevance Children with ASD and ASD traits have higher depressive symptom scores than the general population by age 10 years, which persist to age 18 years, particularly in the context of bullying. Social communication impairments are an important autistic trait in relation to depression. Bullying, as an environmental intermediary, could be a target for interventions.
The Study of Cable Effect on High-Frequency Ultrasound Transducer Performance

Transmission cable has great influence upon the performance of the high-frequency ultrasound transducers, especially for those intrusive applications, where front-end tuning circuits are unavailable. In this paper, a method of modeling high-frequency ultrasound transducers by considering the cable effect was proposed based on the transmission line theory. A full examination of various cables effects were achieved through the proposed model. Typical transducer characteristics, including the output impedance and pulse-echo response are attained and good agreement with the experimental results of 12, 20, and 50 MHz transducers are found both in time and frequency domains. The cable was found to be able to greatly change both the resonance impedances and phases. Specifically for the 20 MHz transducer, a 2.2-m cable could cause an increase of the parallel resonance impedance and phase from 11.07 to 57.94 $\Omega$ and −35.15° to 14.31°, respectively, leading to a less efficient coupling and lower pulse-echo intensity while wider bandwidth. In addition, the increase of the cable length can further decrease the pulse-echo intensity but rarely alter the frequency response.
Heat exposure affects jejunal tight junction remodeling independently of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase in 9-day-old broiler chicks

Dysfunction of the intestinal epithelial barrier under elevated temperatures is assumed to prompt pathological conditions and to eventually impede chickens' growth, resulting in massive economic losses in broiler industries. The aims of this research were to determine the impact of acute heat stress on the intestinal tight junction network of broiler chicks (Gallus domesticus L.) and to elucidate whether adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) was involved in the integrated response of the broiler's gastrointestinal tract to heat stress. A total of 80 9-day-old Arbor Acres chicks were subjected to temperature treatment (thermoneutral versus heat stress) and AMPK inhibition treatment (5 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneal injection of compound C vs. sham treatment) for 72 h. In addition to monitoring growth performance, the mRNA and protein levels of key tight junction proteins, target components of the AMPK pathway, and biomarkers of intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress were assessed in the jejunum under both stressors at 24 and 72 h. An increase of the major tight junction proteins, claudin-1 and zonula occludens-1, was implemented in response to an exacerbated expression of the AMP-activated protein kinase. Heat stress did not affect zootechnical performance but was confirmed by an increased gene expression of heat shock proteins 70 and 90 as well as heat shock factor-1. In addition, hyperthermia induced significant effects on tight junction proteins, although it was independent of AMPK.
Validation of Different Nutritional Assessment Tools in Predicting Prognosis of Patients with Soft Tissue Spindle-Cell Sarcomas

Predicting outcomes in patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) is challenging. To improve these predictions, we retrospectively analyzed common nutritional assessment systems, including Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI), neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and controlling nutritional (CONUT) score against outcomes in 103 patients with STS, of whom 15 (14.6%) died within 1 year of diagnosis. GPS, GNRI, NLR, PLR, and CONUT scores significantly differed between patients who died within one year and patients who lived longer. Binomial logistic regression analysis showed that male sex, older age at diagnosis, higher GPS, higher stage, and unresectable STS were risk factors for death within a year of diagnosis. Overall survival was evaluated by Cox proportional hazards models, which correlated higher NLR, higher PLR, larger maximum diameter of tumor, higher stage, and unresectable STS with poor prognosis. We next examined prognostic factors in the 93 patients with resectable STS, and found male sex, higher GPS, and higher stage were correlated with poor prognosis in these patients. Our findings suggest that GPS, NLR, and PLR are simple predictors of outcome in patients with STS. Nutritional therapies might improve their GPS and prognosis.
Constrained Stochastic Game in Licensed-Assisted Access for Dynamic Contention Window Adaptation

Licensed-assisted access (LAA) allows operations on unlicensed spectrum for long term evolution. Enhanced listen-before-talk (LBT) scheme is required to improve LAA performance. In this letter, we investigate the LAA dynamic contention window adaptation scheme for individual and cooperative throughput optimization under buffer length constraint. We formulate a constrained stochastic game for this competitive scenario. The difference of buffer status is leveraged for collision alleviation and throughput improvement. A linear programming-based method is introduced to obtain the optimal policy, which is proved to be the constrained Nash equilibrium. Simulation results validate that the proposed scheme can achieve higher throughput than the existing LBT Cat-3 and Cat-4 schemes.
Capacitor voltage balancing and THD analysis in ANPC multilevel inverter

The comparative analysis of active neutral point clamped (ANPC) multilevel inverters (MLIs) with classical MLIs such as neutral point clamped (NPC) MLI, and flying capacitor (FC) MLI is presented in this paper. The natural voltage balancing across dc link capacitor is achieved in steady state using ANPC MLI. The redundant switching sequence logic is generated using phase-shifted pulse-width modulation (PS-PWM) strategy. Total harmonic distortion is presented at different modulation indices for 3-level and 5-level inverter voltage output. The simulation results are presented for the verification.
Switching performance optimization for a hybrid AC/DC microgrid using an improved VSG control strategy

The hybrid AC/DC microgrid gains a great attention in recent years as it can improve the energy efficiency and ensure the reliability of the system. This paper makes an investigation on the operation mode switching performance of an AC/DC combined hybrid microgrid based on a real system at Griffith University, Queensland, Australia. An improved virtual synchronous generator (VSG) control strategy is developed to optimize the switching performance from the grid-tied mode to the islanding mode. The basic VSG principle is described and the improved VSG model is introduced. Based on the improved model, a pre-synchronization method is proposed. Comparison of the microgrid performance between conventional droop control and the improved VSG control is carried out by simulation on Matlab/SIMULINK environment. Simulation results show the advantage of VSG control strategy and the validity of the pre-synchronization method.