Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Mining Disparate Sources for Question Answering

Author(s): Sun, Huan | Advisor(s): Yan, Xifeng | Abstract: Today's paradigm of information search is in the midst of a significant transformation. Question answering (QA) techniques that can directly and precisely answer user questions are becoming more and more desired, in contrast to traditional search engines retrieving lengthy web pages. The big data age is endowed with large-scale diversified information sources, such as structured knowledge bases (KBs), unstructured texts, semi-structured tables, as well as human networks including social and expert networks. How to mine such large-scale and disparate sources to advance question answering? In this dissertation, we systematically investigate this problem from the perspectives of text mining, network analysis and human behavior understanding. Specifically, our research lies in: (1) Text-based question answering. We recognize that KBs are usually far from complete and information required to answer questions may not always exist in KBs. This framework jointly utilizes web texts and knowledge bases: It mines answers directly from large-scale web corpora, and meanwhile employs KBs as a significant auxiliary to boost QA performance. (2) Table-based question answering. Owing to their prevalence on the Web and large topical diversity, we explore tables, which are distinctive from KBs and texts, for question answering. Specifically, we investigate the problem of given millions of tables, how to precisely retrieve table cells to answer a user question. We propose a table cell search framework to deal with it. The framework is compared with state-of-the-art KB-based QA systems. Experimental results validate the hypothesis that web tables provide rich knowledge missing from existing KBs, and thus serve as a good complement. (3) Expert-based question answering. The intelligence possessed by current machines is still limited in many aspects. Human intelligence, contributed by crowdsourcing platforms and collaborative networks, should be exploited to complement machine-aided question answering and problem solving. We are among the first to quantitatively analyze task/question routing behaviors of experts in real collaborative networks, which aims at detecting the efficiency bottleneck and optimizing human collaboration.The developed methodologies and frameworks in this dissertation hence pave the path for building intelligent systems which can utilize an array of complementary knowledge sources including knowledge bases, texts, tables, and human networks to directly answer user questions in various domains, discover novel knowledge, and thereby assist problem solving and decision making.
Hacking Threat in Arab Cyberspace: Appraisal Analysis on Al-Hakirz Al-Muslimun’s Hacktivism Narratives

This research aims to describe the negotiation of the attitude of the hacker group الهاكرز المسلمون (al-hākirz al-muslimūn) 'Muslim hackers' (MH) in the narrative of their hacking threats to the governments of Sweden, Australia and Israel. A descriptive-explanatory design was applied by taking three hacking threat videos on the YouTube channel "Hacker News" as a data source. Data collection was carried out through the stages of transcription, re-reading, printing, and classification. Meanwhile, data analysis referring to the appraisal theoretical framework is carried out through the stages of reduction, presentation, analysis and interpretation, and concluding. The research results showed that affect was found in 11 data (25.0%), judgment in 17 data (38.6%), appreciation in 16 data (36.4%) The type attitude is dominated by judgment and appreciation with negative intentions. This negative attitude is amplified by a force strategy that contains 'volume up' graduations to the highest level. MH stated its position firmly and strongly by making subjectivity the sole source. The research results reveal new findings amidst various previous studies which does not explain the speaker's attitude in the threat narrative they provide. As the phenomenon of cyber warfare develops, the threat of MH hacking have a significant impact in exerting political pressure on the object of the threat.
Predictors of Motivation and Barriers to ICT-Enabling Education for Sustainability

There is an increasing interest and effort in reorienting university curricula to address sustainability and preparing teachers to get involved in embedding sustainability and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in teaching and curricula enabled by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Evidence shows that this interest and effort is often prevented by various barriers at three levels: teacher- level barriers, school-level barriers, and system-level barriers. In this study, the attempt was geared towards identifying the constituencies of these three levels of barriers and examining the extent to which they predict teachers’ motivation to embed sustainability and SDGs in various school subject areas, including arts-based education. A survey of 1253 teachers in Malaysia revealed that the teacher- and system-level barriers explain 83% of the motivation variance. By identifying, addressing, and investigating these barriers, higher education institutions—and especially teacher education—could be better informed in reorienting university curricula to embed ICT-enabled Education for Sustainability (ICTeEfS). These results were also used in planning and implementing in-service teacher training interventions in the context of a European Commission Erasmus+-funded project.
Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli in Feces and Wastewater Treatment System in Swine Farms, Thailand

The antimicrobial resistance (AMR) problem is one that demands urgent interventions to minimize the rapid spread in humans, animals and the environment. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL-Ec) could spread from livestock farms to environment or circulate in farms via wastewater. This study aimed to quantify and characterize ESBL-Ec in swine feces and wastewater samples collected from 2 conventional swine farms with wastewater treatment systems. Microbiological analysis was performed on fecal and wastewater samples, and the concentration of cefotaxime (CTX)-resistant bacteria, indicative of ESBL-Ec, was determined across different stages of wastewater treatment. Additionally, ESBL-Ec was isolated and identified from fresh feces, swine house wastewater, and treated wastewater from covered lagoons and photosynthetic ponds. Results indicated a higher concentration of CTX-resistant bacteria in the wastewater in the early process of wastewater treatment. However, CTX-resistant bacteria were not detected in the final photosynthetic pond in one of the 2 farms. ESBL-Ec was identified in fresh feces from swine houses and wastewater treatment plants in both farms. Further antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed diverse resistance patterns among the ESBL-Ec isolates, with tetracycline and gentamicin demonstrated the highest resistance rates. The ESBL genes identified belonged to the CTX-M-14, CTX-M-17 and CTX-M-55. This study demonstrated the presence of ESBL-Ec in swine feces and wastewater, emphasizing the importance of effective wastewater treatment before discharging to limit the spread of AMR bacteria. HIGHLIGHTS ESBL producers was isolated from fecal and wastewater samples from swine farms The wastewater treatment system could reduce cefotaxime-resistant bacteria CTX-M-14, CTX-M-17 and CTX-M-55 genes were detected in swine farms, Thailand GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
166 kW Liquid-Insulated Medium-Frequency Transformer With Hybrid Foil-Litz Windings

The safe operation of high-power solid-state transformers (SSTs) in medium-voltage grid-connected applications relies on medium-frequency transformers (MFTs). In MFTs, hybrid foil-litz windings present a cost-effective alternative to litz wire, since foil is employed as the main conductor. This innovative topology exhibits lower ohmic losses than conventional foil windings. Besides, the dielectric stress in the insulation is mitigated, facilitating a more compact design. This paper presents the experimental validation of a <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">${166}\; \mathrm{k}\mathrm{W}$</tex-math></inline-formula> MFT prototype rated for the <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$ {17.5}\;\mathrm{k}\mathrm{V}$</tex-math></inline-formula> AC/<inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$ {26.3}\; \mathrm{k}\mathrm{V}$</tex-math></inline-formula> DC insulation class. The MFT features hybrid foil-litz windings insulated with ester liquid. The design of the active parts, the insulation and the cooling system are described. The performances of alternative design concepts is evaluated. The power rating of the MFT prototype is verified experimentally by the temperature rise test at full load, operating the MFT within the cell of an SST. The insulation withstand is confirmed through dielectric tests, including AC and DC overvoltage tests up to <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$ {54}\; \mathrm{k}\mathrm{V}$</tex-math></inline-formula> peak, and the lightning impulse up to <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$ {95}\; \mathrm{k}\mathrm{V}$</tex-math></inline-formula>.
Reduction in Long COVID Symptoms and Symptom Severity in Vaccinated Compared to Unvaccinated Adults

Abstract Background The impact of vaccination prior to infection on postacute sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19, PASC), also known as long COVID, remains unclear. Here we assess the protective effect of vaccination on long COVID in a community-based setting. Methods The Immunity Associated with SARS-CoV-2 (IASO) study is an ongoing prospective cohort of working adults that began in October 2020. Participants are actively followed for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. We compared the prevalence of symptoms and symptom severity in vaccinated compared to unvaccinated cases. Our primary definition of long COVID was the presence of symptoms at 90 days postinfection; 30 days postinfection was also examined. Results Overall, by 90 days postinfection, 13% of cases had long COVID, with 27% of unvaccinated cases and 8% of vaccinated cases reporting long COVID (relative risk [RR], 0.31 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .22–.42]). Vaccination was also associated with significantly lower average severity scores at all timepoints (eg, relative severity at 90 days postinfection: −2.70 [95% CI, −1.68 to −3.73]). In the pre-Omicron era, 28% of unvaccinated cases and 18% of vaccinated cases reported long COVID (P = .07), and vaccinated cases reported less severe symptoms including less difficulty breathing (P = .01; 90-day RR, 0.07). Conclusions Vaccinated cases had lower prevalence of long COVID and reduced symptom severity.
Cacao, the origin of chocolate, can lower lipid profiles? A systematic review

Dyslipidemia is a non-communicable metabolic disorder characterized by abnormal blood fat levels, including total cholesterol, Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), and Triacylglycerol (TG). Dyslipidemia can lead to life-threatening complication. One of non-pharmacological treatment for dyslipidemia patient is healthy lifestyle such as nutritional modification. Cacao is a rich source of polyphenols with various health benefits. Polyphenols, mainly consisting of flavonoids, act as potent antioxidants. They contribute to increased blood flow, lowered blood pressure, elevated HDL, protection of LDL against oxidation, reduced cardiovascular disease risk, sun protection for the skin, and improved blood flow to the brain. This study aimed to investigate the impact of cacao product such as cocoa and chocolate on patients with dyslipidemia. The research employed the systematic literature review method of Randomized Control Trial (RCT). A total of 10 journal articles from the PubMed online journal system, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect were selected based on keywords using the PICO method and specific research criteria. The variables in this study included cocoa and chocolate administration and dyslipidemia, focusing on lipid profiles (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and TG). The study results conclude that several factors influence the effect of cacao products administration on changes in lipid profiles (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and TG). These factors encompass the type of active ingredient, duration, administration dosage, age, underlying diseases, patient compliance, and additional interventions.
Assessment of antimicrobial activity and mycelium insights of Terfezia claveryi truffle harvested from Tindouf desert

This work focuses on the bioactivity characterization of the edible desert truffle Terfezia claveryi harvested from the Tindouf area in the South–West of Algeria. We investigated the morphological and germination features of T. claveryi spores under light and scanning electron microscopy. Afterward, we isolated the mycelium from a unique spore, which was then used in seedling-optimized in vitro biomass liquid culture. After that, we focused on the antibacterial and antifungal properties of this mushroom (fruit body flesh and mycelium) evaluated respectively by disc Agar diffusion method and Denis and Webster methods I and II. Furthermore, we tested antagonism against plant-pathogenic fungal species using three confrontation methods on a solid medium. Finally, we developed undescribed protocols for extracting, purifying, and describing bioactive compounds. Results showed that developing T. claveryi spore germination, mycelium isolation, and axenic liquid subcultures is very slow. The flesh extract is only antibacterial, while the one from the culture medium is antifungal and antibacterial. The most bioactive extract on bacteria, yeast, and plant-pathogenic fungal strains tested is the one from the mycelium of T. claveryi. The latter strain showed good antagonistic power against some plant-pathogenic fungal tested strains, probably owing to antibiotic component biosynthesis with antifungal ability.
Modelling the geomorphic history of the Tribeč Mts. and the Pohronský Inovec Mts. (Western Carpathians) with the CHILD model

Abstract Numerical models were developed in order to provide a suitable computational framework for exploring research questions related to long-term landscape evolution. We used the Channel-Hillslope Integrated Landscape Development (CHILD) model to prove three hypotheses concerning the processes contributing to the neotectonic landscape evolution of the Tribeč Mts. and the Pohronský Inovec Mts. (Western Carpathians): (1) simultaneous planation and uplift; (2) temporally and spatially varying uplift; (3) exhumation of a part of the area from below Neogene sediments. Given the size of the area, its lithological variability and the insufficient knowledge of the palaeogeographical settings, using a detachment-limited model to express river incision into bedrock as well as water (rill) erosion on hillslopes proved the best solution. Results of the simulations were compared with real topography through hypsographic curves and the distribution of remnants of planation surfaces. The real surface corresponds best to a combination of the hypotheses (2) and (3), with more intensive Quaternary tectonic uplift of the Pohronský Inovec Mts. and the adjacent Rázdiel part of the Tribeč Mts. , and exhumation of a mature palaeosurface from below Miocene sediments in the east of the Tribeč Mts.
In situ earliest Cambrian tube worms and the oldest metazoan-constructed biostrome (Placentian Series, southeastern Newfoundland)

“Ladatheca” cylindrica (Grabau, 1900) was a eurytopic metazoan with a calcareous operculum and an elongate, gently tapering conch up to 15+ cm long and with an apical angle of approximately 0.75–2.0°. This apparent polychaete was geographically widespread in the sub-trilobitic Lower Cambrian of middle latitude, siliciclastic (middle and upper Placentian Series, Avalon Zone) and low latitude, carbonate platform (Tommotian Stage, Siberia(? ) and Kazakhstan; and, probably, the upper Meishucunian Stage, southwestern China) sequences. In situ conchs (vertically to steeply inclined, apex down) of “Ladatheca” cylindrica are common in deep subtidal, siliciclastic mudstones (Chapel Island Formation) and in a peritidal algal mud mound(? ) limestone (West Centre Cove Formation) in southeastern Newfoundland. Closely juxtaposed conchs locally form a worm reef at the top of the West Centre Cove Formation. This structure is older than the oldest archaeocyathan build-ups and is the earliest known metazoan-constructed biostrome. “Ladatheca” cylindrica was a dominant element of the sessile benthos prior to its apparent ecological displacement by Coleoloides typicalis Walcott, 1889, in the upper Placentian Series.
Analysis of the Accuracy of Magnetic Resonance Enterography for the Detection of Active Inflammation and Disease Activity in Patients With Crohn’s Disease: A Single-Center Experience in Najran, Saudi Arabia

Background: Magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging modality that has been used for the detection of active inflammation and disease activity in patients with Crohn's disease. However, its diagnostic accuracy in the Najran population has not been well-studied. Study aim: This study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of MRE in detecting active inflammation and disease activity in patients with Crohn's disease in the Najran population. Methods: The study included 51 patients with Crohn's disease, and their demographic, clinical, radiological, laboratory, and endoscopic data were analyzed. Results: The results showed that MRE findings, such as the radiological score for active inflammation and the presence of extra-intestinal manifestations, were significantly associated with the final diagnosis of active inflammation. Furthermore, the timing of MRE in relation to symptom activity and the indication for performing MRE were significantly associated with the final diagnosis. The study findings demonstrate the potential of MRE as a valuable tool for diagnosing and assessing disease activity in Crohn's disease patients in the Najran population.
Caenorhabditis elegans as a Screening Model for Probiotics with Properties against Metabolic Syndrome

There is a growing need to develop new approaches to prevent and treat diseases related to metabolic syndromes, including obesity or type 2 diabetes, that focus on the different factors involved in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Due to the role of gut microbiota in the regulation of glucose and insulin homeostasis, probiotics with beneficial properties have emerged as an alternative therapeutic tool to ameliorate metabolic diseases-related disturbances, including fat excess or inflammation. In the last few years, different strains of bacteria, mainly lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and species from the genus Bifidobacterium, have emerged as potential probiotics due to their anti-obesogenic and/or anti-diabetic properties. However, in vivo studies are needed to demonstrate the mechanisms involved in these probiotic features. In this context, Caenorhabditis elegans has emerged as a very powerful simple in vivo model to study the physiological and molecular effects of probiotics with potential applications regarding the different pathologies of metabolic syndrome. This review aims to summarize the main studies describing anti-obesogenic, anti-diabetic, or anti-inflammatory properties of probiotics using C. elegans as an in vivo research model, as well as providing a description of the molecular mechanisms involved in these activities.
Factors affecting consumers’ behavioral intentions to use and adopt digital wallets

The current research paper aims to pinpoint the determinants that impact consumers' perceived ease and perceived usefulness of digital wallet usage in Jordan. To accomplish this, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) has been used, which encompasses additional dimensions like the perceived risk of COVID-19, social influence, government support, promotional benefits, perceived value, and personal innovativeness. A quantitative research approach was employed in this paper; an online survey was applied to gather data from a total of 401 participants. The gathered data underwent analysis using a two-step PLS-SEM method. The study outcomes show that digital wallet users' perception of promotional benefits and perceived value significantly and positively affect the digital wallet's perceived usefulness. However, governmental support and social influence do not have a significant impact on digital wallets' perceived usefulness.
Time Trend Analysis of Comorbidities in Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Population-Based Study from 53,142 Hospitalizations in Poland

Background: (1) Influence of comorbidities on life expectancy and treatment outcomes is one of the main concerns of modern rheumatology, due to their rising prevalence and increasing impact on mortality and disability. The main objective of our study was to analyze the time trends and shifts in the comorbidity profile and mortality over 10 years in the Polish population with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). (2) Data from 2011–2020 years were acquired from the General Hospital Morbidity Study in the National Institute of Public Health—National Institute of Hygiene (NIH-PIB) as ICD-10 codes. Based on ICD10 codes, we calculated the percentage shares for comorbidities, with the relative risk ratios and odds ratios. We analyzed the hospitalization rates and mortality from the overlapping conditions. Also, we analyzed age and sex related differences in the clinical manifestations of AS patients. (3) Results: From 53,142 hospitalizations of patients with AS, we found that the male population presented higher rates of cardiovascular (2.7% vs. 1.3% p < 0.001) and pulmonary conditions (1.2% vs. 0.8% p < 0.025). Inflammatory bowel diseases were more common in the female population than in males (2.3% vs. 1.7%, p < 0.001). In the years 2011–2020, we observed a decline in the number of hospitalized patients due to cardiovascular (p < 0.001) and respiratory system conditions (p < 0.001), yet the relative risk and odd ratios remained high. In the years 2011–2020, 4056 patients received biological treatment (7%). The number of initiated biological therapies correlated negatively with the number of reported hospitalizations due to ischemic heart diseases (IHD) (p < 0.031, r = −0.8). Furthermore, in the logistic regression model, we found strong collinearity between cardiovascular and pulmonary comorbidities (VIF = 14; tolerance = 0.1); also, the number of reported IHD’s correlated positively with the number of pulmonary infections (p < 0.031, r = 0.7) (4). Conclusions: Cardiopulmonary comorbidities are a main factor associated with increased mortality in patients with AS, especially in hospitalized patients. The mortality rates among patients with AS admitted to hospital due to other conditions other than movement disorders exceed the populational risk. The number of biologically treated patients correlated negatively with hospital admissions due to IHD.
Winter distribution of eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) in relation to prey distribution and anthropogenically altered landscape in south-eastern Norway

Sammendrag . 4 Introduction . 5 Methods . 7 1. Study area . 7 2. Field Method . 7 3. GIS . 9 4. Statistical analysis . 9 Results . 10 Discussion/ Conclusion . 15 References . 18 Appendix . 21
Energy Efficient ECC Authenticated Key Exchange Protocol for Star Topology Wireless Sensor Networks

The article proposes a new energy-efficient protocol designed for star topology wireless sensor networks. The protocol has been implemented using ECC, although it can be easily adapted to any algebraic structure, where the discrete logarithm problem is computationally challenging. In addition to the formal description, the authors provide the results of an investigation concerned with the protocol's security properties, conducted by verifying the model using Scyther software. The publication also includes an analysis of the protocol's energy consumption, performed with the use of hardware platforms with ARM microcontrollers.