arXiv subjects

Amr Mohamed

Publications and source records attributed to Amr Mohamed.

At least 73 records · Page 4Linked to original sources

arXiv2020

Edge Computing For Smart Health: Context-aware Approaches, Opportunities, and Challenges

Improving efficiency of healthcare systems is a top national interest worldwide. However, the need of delivering scalable healthcare services to the patients while reducing costs is a challenging issue. Among the most promising approaches for enabling smart healthcare (s-health) are edge-computing capabilities and next-generation wireless networking technologies that can provide real-time and cost-effective patient remote monitoring. In this paper, we present our vision of exploiting multi-access edge computing (MEC) for s-health applications. We envision a MEC-based architecture and discuss the benefits that it can bring to realize in-network and context-aware processing so that the s-health requirements are met. We then present two main functionalities that can be implemented leveraging such an architecture to provide efficient data delivery, namely, multimodal data compression and edge-based feature extraction for event detection. The former allows efficient and low distortion compression, while the latter ensures high-reliability and fast response in case of emergency applications. Finally, we discuss the main challenges and opportunities that edge computing could provide and possible directions for future research.

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arXiv2020

FacebookVideoLive18: A Live Video Streaming Dataset for Streams Metadata and Online Viewers Locations

With the advancement in personal smart devices and pervasive network connectivity, users are no longer passive content consumers, but also contributors in producing new contents. This expansion in live services requires a detailed analysis of broadcasters' and viewers' behavior to maximize users' Quality of Experience (QoE). In this paper, we present a dataset gathered from one of the popular live streaming platforms: Facebook. In this dataset, we stored more than 1,500,000 live stream records collected in June and July 2018. These data include public live videos from all over the world. However, Facebook live API does not offer the possibility to collect online videos with their fine grained data. The API allows to get the general data of a stream, only if we know its ID (identifier). Therefore, using the live map website provided by Facebook and showing the locations of online streams and locations of viewers, we extracted video IDs and different coordinates along with general metadata. Then, having these IDs and using the API, we can collect the fine grained metadata of public videos that might be useful for the research community. We also present several preliminary analyses to describe and identify the patterns of the streams and viewers. Such fine grained details will enable the multimedia community to recreate real-world scenarios particularly for resource allocation, caching, computation, and transcoding in edge networks. Existing datasets do not provide the locations of the viewers, which limits the efforts made to allocate the multimedia resources as close as possible to viewers and to offer better QoE.

cs.MM↗

arXiv2020

POKs Based Secure and Energy-Efficient Access Control for Implantable Medical Devices

Implantable medical devices (IMDs), such as pacemakers, implanted cardiac defibrillators, and neurostimulators are medical devices implanted into patients' bodies for monitoring physiological signals and performing medical treatments. Many IMDs have built-in wireless communication modules to facilitate data collecting and device reprogramming by external programmers. The wireless communication brings significant conveniences for advanced applications such as real-time and remote monitoring but also introduces the risk of unauthorized wireless access. The absence of effective access control mechanisms exposes patients' life to cyber attacks. In this paper, we present a lightweight and universally applicable access control system for IMDs. By leveraging Physically Obfuscated Keys (POKs) as the hardware root of trust, provable security is achieved based on standard cryptographic primitives while attaining high energy efficiency. In addition, barrier-free IMD access under emergent situations is realized by utilizing the patient's biometrical information. We evaluate our proposed scheme through extensive security analysis and a prototype implementation, which demonstrates our work's superiority on security and energy efficiency.

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arXiv2019

QoE-Aware Resource Allocation for Crowdsourced Live Streaming: A Machine Learning Approach

Driven by the tremendous technological advancement of personal devices and the prevalence of wireless mobile network accesses, the world has witnessed an explosion in crowdsourced live streaming. Ensuring a better viewers quality of experience (QoE) is the key to maximize the audiences number and increase streaming providers' profits. This can be achieved by advocating a geo-distributed cloud infrastructure to allocate the multimedia resources as close as possible to viewers, in order to minimize the access delay and video stalls. Moreover, allocating the exact needed resources beforehand avoids over-provisioning, which may lead to significant costs by the service providers. In the contrary, under-provisioning might cause significant delays to the viewers. In this paper, we introduce a prediction driven resource allocation framework, to maximize the QoE of viewers and minimize the resource allocation cost. First, by exploiting the viewers locations available in our unique dataset, we implement a machine learning model to predict the viewers number near each geo-distributed cloud site. Second, based on the predicted results that showed to be close to the actual values, we formulate an optimization problem to proactively allocate resources at the viewers proximity. Additionally, we will present a trade-off between the video access delay and the cost of resource allocation.

cs.DC↗

arXiv2018

Proactive Video Chunks Caching and Processing for Latency and Cost Minimization in Edge Networks

Recently, the growing demand for rich multimedia content such as Video on Demand (VoD) has made the data transmission from content delivery networks (CDN) to end-users quite challenging. Edge networks have been proposed as an extension to CDN networks to alleviate this excessive data transfer through caching and to delegate the computation tasks to edge servers. To maximize the caching efficiency in the edge networks, different Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) servers assist each others to effectively select which content to store and the appropriate computation tasks to process. In this paper, we adopt a collaborative caching and transcoding model for VoD in MEC networks. However, unlike other models in the literature, different chunks of the same video are not fetched and cached in the same MEC server. Instead, neighboring servers will collaborate to store and transcode different video chunks and consequently optimize the limited resources usage. Since we are dealing with chunks caching and processing, we propose to maximize the edge efficiency by studying the viewers watching pattern and designing a probabilistic model where chunks popularities are evaluated. Based on this model, popularity-aware policies, namely Proactive caching policy (PcP) and Cache replacement Policy (CrP), are introduced to cache only highest probably requested chunks. In addition to PcP and CrP, an online algorithm (PCCP) is proposed to schedule the collaborative caching and processing. The evaluation results prove that our model and policies give better performance than approaches using conventional replacement policies. This improvement reaches up to 50% in some cases.

cs.MM↗

arXiv2018

Design Challenges of Multi-UAV Systems in Cyber-Physical Applications: A Comprehensive Survey, and Future Directions

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have recently rapidly grown to facilitate a wide range of innovative applications that can fundamentally change the way cyber-physical systems (CPSs) are designed. CPSs are a modern generation of systems with synergic cooperation between computational and physical potentials that can interact with humans through several new mechanisms. The main advantages of using UAVs in CPS application is their exceptional features, including their mobility, dynamism, effortless deployment, adaptive altitude, agility, adjustability, and effective appraisal of real-world functions anytime and anywhere. Furthermore, from the technology perspective, UAVs are predicted to be a vital element of the development of advanced CPSs. Therefore, in this survey, we aim to pinpoint the most fundamental and important design challenges of multi-UAV systems for CPS applications. We highlight key and versatile aspects that span the coverage and tracking of targets and infrastructure objects, energy-efficient navigation, and image analysis using machine learning for fine-grained CPS applications. Key prototypes and testbeds are also investigated to show how these practical technologies can facilitate CPS applications. We present and propose state-of-the-art algorithms to address design challenges with both quantitative and qualitative methods and map these challenges with important CPS applications to draw insightful conclusions on the challenges of each application. Finally, we summarize potential new directions and ideas that could shape future research in these areas.

cs.RO↗

arXiv2018

Estimating the Number of Sources: An Efficient Maximization Approach

Estimating the number of sources received by an antenna array have been well known and investigated since the starting of array signal processing. Accurate estimation of such parameter is critical in many applications that involve prior knowledge of the number of received signals. Information theo- retic approaches such as Akaikes information criterion (AIC) and minimum description length (MDL) have been used extensively even though they are complex and show bad performance at some stages. In this paper, a new algorithm for estimating the number of sources is presented. This algorithm exploits the estimated eigenvalues of the auto correlation coefficient matrix rather than the auto covariance matrix, which is conventionally used, to estimate the number of sources. We propose to use either of a two simply estimated decision statistics, which are the moving increment and moving standard deviation as metric to estimate the number of sources. Then process a simple calculation of the increment or standard deviation of eigenvalues to find the number of sources at the location of the maximum value. Results showed that our proposed algorithms have a better performance in comparison to the popular and more computationally expensive AIC and MDL at low SNR values and low number of collected samples.

cs.IT↗

arXiv2018

Non-data-aided SNR Estimation for QPSK Modulation in AWGN Channel

Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) estimation is an important parameter that is required in any receiver or communication systems. It can be computed either by a pilot signal data-aided approach in which the transmitted signal would be known to the receiver, or without any knowledge of the transmitted signal, which is a non-data-aided (NDA) estimation approach. In this paper, a NDA SNR estimation algorithm for QPSK signal is proposed. The proposed algorithm modifies the existing Signal- to-Variation Ratio (SVR) SNR estimation algorithm in the aim to reduce its bias and mean square error in case of negative SNR values at low number of samples of it. We first present the existing SVR algorithm and then show the mathematical derivation of the new NDA algorithm. In addition, we compare our algorithm to two baselines estimation methods, namely the M2M4 and SVR algorithms, using different test cases. Those test cases include low SNR values, extremely high SNR values and low number of samples. Results showed that our algorithm had a better performance compared to second and fourth moment estimation (M2M4) and original SVR algorithms in terms of normalized mean square error (NMSE) and bias estimation while keeping almost the same complexity as the original algorithms

eess.SP↗

arXiv2018

On Realistic Target Coverage by Autonomous Drones

Low-cost mini-drones with advanced sensing and maneuverability enable a new class of intelligent sensing systems. To achieve the full potential of such drones, it is necessary to develop new enhanced formulations of both common and emerging sensing scenarios. Namely, several fundamental challenges in visual sensing remain unsolved including: 1) Fitting sizable targets in camera frames; 2) Effective viewpoints matching target poses; 3) Occlusion by elements in the environment, including other targets. In this paper, we introduce Argus: an autonomous system that utilizes drones to incrementally collect target information through a two-tier architecture. To tackle the stated challenges, Argus employs a novel geometric model that captures both target shapes and coverage constraints. Recognizing drones as the scarcest resource, Argus aims to minimize the number of drones required to cover a set of targets. We prove this problem is NP-hard, and even hard to approximate, before deriving a best-possible approximation algorithm along with a competitive sampling heuristic which runs up to 100x faster according to large-scale simulations. To test Argus in action, we demonstrate and analyze its performance on a prototype implementation. Finally, we present a number of extensions to accommodate more application requirements and highlight some open problems.

cs.RO↗

arXiv2018

A Survey of Machine and Deep Learning Methods for Internet of Things (IoT) Security

The Internet of Things (IoT) integrates billions of smart devices that can communicate with one another with minimal human intervention. It is one of the fastest developing fields in the history of computing, with an estimated 50 billion devices by the end of 2020. On the one hand, IoT play a crucial role in enhancing several real-life smart applications that can improve life quality. On the other hand, the crosscutting nature of IoT systems and the multidisciplinary components involved in the deployment of such systems introduced new security challenges. Implementing security measures, such as encryption, authentication, access control, network security and application security, for IoT devices and their inherent vulnerabilities is ineffective. Therefore, existing security methods should be enhanced to secure the IoT system effectively. Machine learning and deep learning (ML/DL) have advanced considerably over the last few years, and machine intelligence has transitioned from laboratory curiosity to practical machinery in several important applications. Consequently, ML/DL methods are important in transforming the security of IoT systems from merely facilitating secure communication between devices to security-based intelligence systems. The goal of this work is to provide a comprehensive survey of ML /DL methods that can be used to develop enhanced security methods for IoT systems. IoT security threats that are related to inherent or newly introduced threats are presented, and various potential IoT system attack surfaces and the possible threats related to each surface are discussed. We then thoroughly review ML/DL methods for IoT security and present the opportunities, advantages and shortcomings of each method. We discuss the opportunities and challenges involved in applying ML/DL to IoT security. These opportunities and challenges can serve as potential future research directions.

cs.CR↗

arXiv2017

Multimodal deep learning approach for joint EEG-EMG data compression and classification

In this paper, we present a joint compression and classification approach of EEG and EMG signals using a deep learning approach. Specifically, we build our system based on the deep autoencoder architecture which is designed not only to extract discriminant features in the multimodal data representation but also to reconstruct the data from the latent representation using encoder-decoder layers. Since autoencoder can be seen as a compression approach, we extend it to handle multimodal data at the encoder layer, reconstructed and retrieved at the decoder layer. We show through experimental results, that exploiting both multimodal data intercorellation and intracorellation 1) Significantly reduces signal distortion particularly for high compression levels 2) Achieves better accuracy in classifying EEG and EMG signals recorded and labeled according to the sentiments of the volunteer.

cs.LG↗

arXiv2016

Energy and Bursty Packet Loss Tradeoff over Fading Channels: A System Level Model

Energy efficiency and quality of service (QoS) guarantees are the key design goals for the 5G wireless communication systems. In this context, we discuss a multiuser scheduling scheme over fading channels for loss tolerant applications. The loss tolerance of the application is characterized in terms of different parameters that contribute to quality of experience for the application. The mobile users are scheduled opportunistically such that a minimum QoS is guaranteed. We propose an opportunistic scheduling scheme and address the cross layer design framework when channel state information is not perfectly available at the transmitter and the receiver. We characterize the system energy as a function of different QoS and channel state estimation error parameters. The optimization problem is formulated using Markov chain framework and solved using stochastic optimization techniques. The results demonstrate that the parameters characterizing the packet loss are tightly coupled and relaxation of one parameter does not benefit the system much if the other constraints are tight. We evaluate the energy-performance trade-off numerically and show the effect of channel uncertainty on the packet scheduler design.

cs.IT↗

arXiv2016

Directed Graph-based Wireless EEG Sensor Channel Selection Approach for Cognitive Task Classification

Wireless electroencephalogram (EEG) sensors have been successfully applied in many medical and computer brain interface classifications. A common characteristic of wireless EEG sensors is that they are low powered devices, and hence an efficient usage of sensor energy resources is critical for any practical application. One way of minimizing energy consumption by the EEG sensors is by reducing the number of EEG channels participating in the classification process. For the purpose of classifying EEG signals, we propose a directed acyclic graph (DAG)-based channel selection algorithm. To achieve this objective, the EEG sensor channels are first realized in a complete undirected graph, where each channel is represented by a node. An edge between any two nodes indicates the collaboration between these nodes in identifying the system state; and the significance of this collaboration is quantified by a weight assigned to the edge. The complete graph is then reduced into a directed acyclic graph that encodes the knowledge of the non-increasing order of the channel ranking for each cognitive task. The channel selection algorithm utilizes this directed graph to find a maximum path such that the total weight of this path satisfies a predefined threshold. It has been demonstrated experimentally that channel utilization has been reduced by 50% in the worst case scenario for a three-state system and an EEG sensor with 14 channels; and the best classification accuracy obtained is 81%.

cs.HC↗

arXiv2016

Distributed interference management using Q-Learning in Cognitive Femtocell networks: New USRP-based Implementation

Femtocell networks have become a promising solution in supporting high data rates for 5G systems, where cell densification is performed using the small femtocells. However, femtocell networks have many challenges. One of the major challenges of femtocell networks is the interference management problem, where deployment of femtocells in the range of macro-cells may degrade the performance of the macrocell. In this paper, we develop a new platform for studying interference management in distributed femtocell networks using reinforcement learning approach. We design a complete MAC protocol to perform distributed power allocation using Q-Learning algorithm, where both independent and cooperative learning approaches are applied across network nodes. The objective of the Q-Learning algorithms is to maximize aggregate femtocells capacity, while maintaining the QoS for the Macrocell users. Furthermore, we present the realization of the algorithms using GNURadio and USRP platforms. Performance evaluation are conducted in terms of macrocell capacity convergence to a target capacity and improvement of aggregate femtocells capacity.

cs.NI↗

arXiv2016

Secure Degrees of Freedom of the MIMO Multiple Access Channel with Multiple unknown Eavesdroppers

We investigate the secure degrees of freedom (SDoF) of a two-transmitter Gaussian multiple access channel with multiple antennas at the transmitters, the legitimate receiver with the existence of an unknown number of eavesdroppers each with a number of antennas less than or equal to a known value $N_E$. The channel matrices between the legitimate transmitters and the receiver are available everywhere, while the legitimate pair does not know the eavesdroppers' channels matrices. We provide the exact sum SDoF for the considered system. A new comprehensive upperbound is deduced and a new achievable scheme based on utilizing jamming is exploited. We prove that Cooperative Jamming is SDoF optimal even without the instantaneous eavesdropper CSI available at the transmitters.

cs.IT↗

arXiv2016

Secure Degrees of Freedom of the Gaussian MIMO Wiretap and MIMO Broadcast Channels with Unknown Eavesdroppers

We investigate the secure degrees of freedom (SDoF) of the wiretap and the K user Gaussian broadcast channels with multiple antennas at the transmitter, the legitimate receivers and an unknown number of eavesdroppers each with a number of antennas less than or equal to a known value NE. The channel matrices between the legitimate transmitter and the receivers are available everywhere, while the legitimate pair have no information about the eavesdroppers' channels. We provide the exact sum SDoF for the considered system. A new comprehensive upperbound is deduced and a new achievable scheme based on utilizing jamming is exploited. We prove that cooperative jamming is SDoF optimal even without the eavesdropper CSI available at the transmitters.

cs.IT↗

arXiv2016

Energy-Aware Cooperative Wireless Networks with Multiple Cognitive Users

In this paper, we study and analyze cooperative cognitive radio networks with arbitrary number of secondary users (SUs). Each SU is considered a prospective relay for the primary user (PU) besides having its own data transmission demand. We consider a multi-packet transmission framework which allows multiple SUs to transmit simultaneously thanks to dirty-paper coding. We propose power allocation and scheduling policies that optimize the throughput for both PU and SU with minimum energy expenditure. The performance of the system is evaluated in terms of throughput and delay under different opportunistic relay selection policies. Towards this objective, we present a mathematical framework for deriving stability conditions for all queues in the system. Consequently, the throughput of both primary and secondary links is quantified. Furthermore, a moment generating function (MGF) approach is employed to derive a closed-form expression for the average delay encountered by the PU packets. Results reveal that we achieve better performance in terms of throughput and delay at lower energy cost as compared to equal power allocation schemes proposed earlier in literature. Extensive simulations are conducted to validate our theoretical findings.

cs.NI↗

arXiv2016

Encoding Distortion Modeling For DWT-Based Wireless EEG Monitoring System

Recent advances in wireless body area sensor net- works leverage wireless and mobile communication technologies to facilitate development of innovative medical applications that can significantly enhance healthcare services and improve quality of life. Specifically, Electroencephalography (EEG)-based applications lie at the heart of these promising technologies. However, the design and operation of such applications is challenging. Power consumption requirements of the sensor nodes may turn some of these applications impractical. Hence, implementing efficient encoding schemes are essential to reduce power consumption in such applications. In this paper, we propose an analytical distortion model for the EEG-based encoding systems. Using this model, the encoder can effectively reconfigure its complexity by adjusting its control parameters to satisfy application constraints while maintaining reconstruction accuracy at the receiver side. The simulation results illustrate that the main parameters that affect the distortion are compression ratio and filter length of the considered DWT-based encoder. Furthermore, it is found that the wireless channel variations have a significant influence on the estimated distortion at the receiver side.

cs.OH↗