Interference Reduction Research Articles

Kolam-Inspired Frequency Hopping: An Innovative Approach for Interference Reduction in Wireless Communication

The integration of cultural patterns into engineering applications opens new avenues for innovation and efficiency. This research explores the application of Kolam patterns, a traditional Indian art form characterized by its symmetry and periodicity, in frequency hopping for wireless communication systems. Kolam-inspired frequency hopping sequences are designed and compared with conventional pseudorandom sequences using key performance metrics, including Bit Error Rate (BER) and Signal-to-Interference Ratio (SIR). Simulations conducted under varying conditions of frequencies, number of users, hops, and Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) reveal that Kolam-based sequences demonstrate superior interference management and lower error rates. The results underscore the potential of Kolam patterns to improve spectral efficiency and reliability in modern communication networks. This study paves the way for further exploration of cultural and mathematical patterns in optimizing wireless technologies.

Effective signal denoising with adaptive polynomials

Abstract The study presents an informatic model for signal processing and noise reduction, harnessing the assistance of mathematics. Advanced noise reduction algorithms are applied to improve signal quality. A MATLAB program was developed integrating algorithms designed to reduce noise regardless of its parameter. Employment of adaptive polynomials was also utilized to enhance the reduction of noise interference. All algorithms within the model have been thoroughly automated, ensuring seamless execution. The results demonstrate significant improvements in signal clarity, with filtered signals closely matching the expected noiseless signals. One of the model’s aims was to achieve a significant reduction in noise emitted by rapidly moving objects, an aim that was effectively achieved. The model is applicable in various fields requiring precise signal analysis, demonstrating robust noise reduction capabilities. As an example, it could encompass security-oriented applications such as radar systems and communication networks.

Does sleep quality mediate the association between post-traumatic stress disorder symptom severity and pain interference in trauma-affected refugees?

Poor sleep quality is well recognised in both post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and pain conditions. Comorbid chronic pain is prevalent in populations with PTSD and is believed to maintain symptoms of PTSD and increase the complexity of the condition. Ongoing diminished sleep quality may serve to maintain pain and PTSD symptoms, and thus affect the efficacy of first-line PTSD treatment. This study examined the mechanisms underlying the PTSD-pain relationship over time by investigating if perceived sleep quality mediates the relationship between PTSD symptom severity and levels of pain interference. Furthermore, we considered whether the interrelation between these three variables could in fact be linked in an alternative model where the causality was reversed, with pain interference mediating the relation between PTSD severity and perceived sleep quality. Relationships among our variables were assessed within a path analysis framework, conducted and controlled for covariates using structural equation modelling and mediation analysis. The analysis of our hypothesised model revealed that improvement in perceived sleep quality was a significant partial mediator of the association between reduction in PTSD severity and pain interference. Approximately 28% of the effect of PTSD severity on pain interference was mediated by improvement in perceived sleep quality. Evaluation of our alternative model revealed a non-significant mediation effect. Sleep thus represents a modifiable mechanism that contributes to the mutual maintenance of PTSD and pain. The study is the first to investigate these relationships in trauma-affected refugees and thus contributes new knowledge and clinical implications for the treatment of poor sleep quality and pain symptomatology in trauma-affected refugees.

Compact metasurface antenna for Sub-6 GHz applications with isolated n77/n78 bands using CSRR

Abstract A compact (0.35 λ0× 0.35 λ0 where λ0 is free space wavelength at the lower resonance frequency 3.50 GHz) bio-inspired tulip flower-shaped antenna (TFSA) is proposed. A double negative (DNG) metamaterial complementary split ring resonator (CSRR) is introduced near the feed in the hybrid triangular-circular patch which inserts a notch-band (4.20-4.38 GHz) in the wide bandwidth (3.15-7.05 GHz) and makes the antenna response dual-band. Consequently, this results in in-band interference reduction in 5G-Sub-6 GHz applications. A slotted FSS is placed at a distance of 28.507 mm beneath the monopole-reduced ground of the antenna to enhance the reduced gain from 4.39 dBi to 7.22 dBi. A further gain is improved to 12.84 dBi by placing a full copper surface (0.35 λ0× 0.35 λ0) as the reflector layer is placed below FSS at 1.6 mm. Finally, prototyped TFSA with FSS and reflector model achieve a dual bands reflection coefficient response (3.15-4.20 GHz): n77/n78, and (4.38-7.03 GHz): n46/n47/n96/n102/n79. The antenna reflection coefficient is tested using Keysight 14 GHz FieldFox Microwave Analyzer N9916A, and radiation patterns in the E-plane and H-plane are measured using an 18 GHz anechoic chamber. The comparison of simulated results with measured results is found an excellent match in bandwidth and with shapes of gain radiation patterns. The reflector and FSS jointly make the radiation pattern strong in the E-plane above the TFSA radiator. The antenna is well suited for n77/n78 (3.30-4.20 GHz), n79(4.40-4.99 GHz), n46 (5150-5925MHz), n47 (5855 – 5925MHz), n96/n102 (5925-6425MHz), 5.8 GHz HiperLAN, WiMAX 3.5GHz applications. An electrical equivalent circuit model of the proposed TFSA antenna is presented and validated using ADS software.

Internet-Delivered Pain Resilience Therapy: A Multi-Subject Case Series

ObjectivePain is a multifaceted phenomenon; therefore, innovative, multisystem approaches are recommended as a path to pain recovery. Pain Resilience Therapy (PRT) was developed as a novel, resilience-focused approach to pain management. MethodsThree people with chronic pain received tele-physical therapy using PRT. The primary aim of PRT was to facilitate the development of pain resilience. Addressing vulnerability was a secondary aim. Treatment results were assessed using validated self-report measures for pain intensity, resilience, vulnerability, interference, patient outcome expectations, expectancies, and perspectives. ResultsAll patients demonstrated a reduction in pain intensity and pain interference (PROMIS®) with associated improvements in activity, sleep, mood, and stress measured by the Defense and Veterans Pain Rating Scale (DVPRS 2.0). Resilience (positive affect/coping) and self-efficacy increased, as measured by the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ), Self-Efficacy for Rehabilitation (SER), Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire (CPAQ), and the Pain Resilience Scale (PRS). Certain measures related to vulnerability (negative mood and fear avoidance) also improved. The PRT intervention was safely delivered and patients reported their health as very much improved measured by the Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) survey. ConclusionThis case series supports the application of PRT’s resilience-focused approach to attenuate pain and vulnerability while improving physical and psychological well-being. Although there is a need for research elucidating change mechanisms, assisting patients/clients in accessing resources that facilitate resilience is a valid pathway to pain recovery. This case series is a step toward integrating an understanding of resilience within the broader context of pain and disability.

Advanced, Real-Time Programmable FPGA-Based Digital Filtering Unit for IR Detection Modules

This paper presents a programmable digital filtering unit dedicated to operating with signals from infrared (IR) detection modules. The designed device is quite useful for increasing the signal-to-noise ratio due to the reduction in noise and interference from detector–amplifier circuits or external radiation sources. Moreover, the developed device is flexible due to the possibility of programming the desired filter types and their responses. In the circuit, an advanced field-programmable gate array FPGA chip was used to ensure an adequate number of resources that are necessary to implement an effective filtration process. The proposed circuity was assisted by a 32-bit microcontroller to perform controlling functions and could operate at frequency sampling of up to 40 MSa/s with 16-bit resolution. In addition, in our application, the sampling frequency decimation enabled obtaining relatively narrow passband characteristics also in the low frequency range. The filtered signal was available in real time at the digital-to-analog converter output. In the paper, we showed results of simulations and real measurements of filters implementation in the FPGA device. Moreover, we also presented a practical application of the proposed circuit in cooperation with an InAsSb mid-IR detector module, where its self-noise was effectively reduced. The presented device can be regarded as an attractive alternative to the lock-in technique, artificial intelligence algorithms, or wavelet transform in applications where their use is impossible or problematic. Comparing the presented device with the previous proposal, a higher signal-to-noise ratio improvement and wider bandwidth of operation were obtained.

Optimizing the function of aircraft WiFi based on the Internet of Things

Abstract. This paper explores the potential of full-duplex wireless communication technology to mitigate interference in aircraft WiFi systems, thereby enhancing the internet access quality and passenger experience. The study focuses on the application of Internet of Things (IoT) technology to improve the resilience of aircraft WiFi systems against interference. Through a series of MATLAB simulations, the research demonstrates that full-duplex technology can effectively cancel out interference signals, leading to clearer and more stable communication quality. The results show that the combined signal, after cancellation, closely resembles the original communication signal, indicating a significant reduction in interference. Despite the promising results, the study acknowledges limitations such as idealized assumptions in the simulation, hardware and software constraints, and the lack of consideration for the complex electromagnetic environment encountered during actual flight operations. Future research should focus on developing more advanced interference detection and mitigation algorithms, and further investigation into the integration of full-duplex technology with existing aircraft WiFi systems, considering hardware constraints and environmental factors, is necessary to fully realize its potential in enhancing communication performance.

Design and Analysis of Sierpinski Fractal Antennas for Millimeter‐Wave 5G and Ground‐Based Radio Navigation Applications

ABSTRACTThe paper describes compact fractal antennae combined with ground defected structures (DGS) and substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) techniques for enhancing resonate and multiband behavior concerning bandwidth, gain, and radiation in the desired mm‐wave region. Based on the proposed antennae, multiple good notches over wide bands depict a good radiation pattern. The antennae's ultra wide bandwidths (UWB) are 16, 16, and 11.4 GHz concerning resonant frequencies 26.34, 30.35, 34.5, 36.65 GHz; 25.8, 32.2, 35.3 GHz; 30.22, 37.68 GHz, of concerning antennae ant 1 (FA1), 4 (FA2), and 6 (FA3), respectively. The proposed antenna (FA3) with the SIW technique has a peak gain of 5.9 dBi and a peak front‐to‐back ratio of 20 dB, respectively. The proposed antennas are targeted to cover the practical contribution aspect, including advanced 5G bands support (24–40 GHz), broadband spectrum, frequency agility, low 3 dB beamwidth, interference reduction, and medical application suitability, respectively. The proposed antennae also cover the desired mm wave 5G region with different resonating notches over ultra‐wide bandwidth, such as n257, n258, n259, n260, and n261, and ground‐based radio navigation applications. Results are validated with vector network analyzer, spectrum analyzer, and power sensor in the presence of absorber, respectively.

What determines the overall quality of postoperative pain management? Aquestion of perspective

The outcome domains pain intensity, pain-related interference, side effects, (treatment) information, participation and personal interaction have all been identified as relevant factors in the management of perioperative pain. However, it is not yet clear which of these are particularly significant for the subjectively perceived overall quality of postoperative pain management. Anewly developed questionnaire was used in this cross-sectional study to assess the relevance of these domains for patients and compare the relevance to healthcare professionals (HCP). The patient survey (n = 40) was conducted on the first postoperative day at Jena University Hospital, Germany. In order to investigate group differences, 63 HCP (disciplines: n = 15 anaesthesiology, n = 17 surgery, n = 31 nursing) were recruited. The questionnaire primarily included all pairwise comparisons between the domains with regard to the overall quality of postoperative pain management. The resulting sum scores for each domain were the primary outcome measure, which were analysed using generalized estimating equations. Within the group of patients, there were significant differences in the prioritization of the six outcome domains, with personal interaction followed by intensity and interference having received the highest ratings. There were also significant differences within the domains between the perspectives of patients and HCP, as well as between the HCP themselves. The study demonstrates that personal interaction and the reduction of pain intensity and interference are three key factors that are significant for patients' experience of postoperative pain management. However, the extent to which the harmonisation of these three factors with those given prominence by HCP would positively impact postoperative pain management remains unclear and should be investigated further.

7874 Management Of “Hyperandrogenism” Confounded By Dermatology Biotin Prescriptions

Abstract Disclosure: S.S. Sundar: None. S. Shankar: None. M.S. Vaishnav: None. L. Lekkala: None. S. Sathyanarayana: None. C. Siddlingappa: None. K. M: None. T.-. Kamala: None. R.B. V: None. V. Nath: None. M.D. Chitra: None. P. Ravikumar: None. Introduction: Immunoassay interferences include: Cross-reactions, heterophile antibodies, biotin and anti-analyte antibodies, with positive or negative bias, leading to difficulties in clinical decision-making (confounding diagnosis, unnecessary investigations or inappropriate treatments). The interfering substance may be exogenous (e.g., drug or substance absorbed by patient) or endogenous (e.g., antibodies produced by patient). Clinical Case 2023 Dec 1 Dermatology management for hyperandrogenism 28-year-old female evaluated for acne 3 years (increased 4 months), hair fall 6 months and hirsutism 3 years (threading) Total Testosterone 443 ng/dL (10-55) CLIA Free Testosterone 8.9 pg/mL (0.1-6.4) ELISA DHEAS 209 µg/dL (35-430) CLIA S Cortisol 8 am 6.9 µg/dL (2.6-10.5) CLIA LH 4.2 mIU/mL (1.9-12.5); FSH 5.3 mIU/mL (3.0-8.0) T3 133 ng/dL (80-200); T4 8.5 ug/dL (4.8-12.7), TSH 3.78 µIU/mL (0.5-5.3) HbA1c 5.0%; Glucose fasting 81 mg/dL; Insulin fasting 39.4 mU/L (3-25); HOMA-IR 5.2; HOMA%B 380; HOMA%S 19.2; T3 133 ng/dL (80-200) 2023 Dec 14 Endocrinology for “scaringly” very high testosterone levels Menstrual history: Menarche 11 years; Cycles regular. Unmarried Family history: Diabetes++; Hirsutism+; Infertility- Physical exam: Height 159 cm; Weight 55 kg; BMI 21.8 kg/m2; Ferriman Gallwey score 11; Pulse 75; BP 79/62; Thyroid: Grade 0. In view of total testosterone levels in “neoplastic androgen excess” range, further endocrinology evaluations (multiple labs and assays) were carried out. However, discordance between the mild clinical versus severe biochemical hyperandrogenism was noted. Review of the dermatology prescription indicated that patient had consumed only one 10 mg tablet of biotin 36 hours before the earlier blood draw obtained by dermatologist. Total Testosterone 22.3 and 33.8 ng/dL (6-82) ECLIA; 19.7 (15-70) LCMS Free Testosterone 0.69 pg/mL (< 2.85) (ELISA) DHEAS 101 µg/dL (45-380) LCMS Androstenedione 104 ng/dL (75-205) LCMS 17OH Progesterone 0.89 ng/mL (0.16-2.05) EIA; 0.40 (0.35-2.9) LCMS S Cortisol 5.92 ug/dl (6-18) ECLIA; 5.45 (5-23) LCMS FSH 2.74; LH 6.07; Prolactin 20.1 ng/mL (4.7-23.3) T3 114 ng/dL; T4 7.2 µg/dL; TSH 1.29 Diagnosis Falsely elevated total testosterone (and free testosterone) levels due to biotin immunoassay interference. Clinical Lessons: Very limited studies exist confirming the exact clinical indications for biotin (eg: improvement of hair quality or quantity, or nail growth). FDA warning highlights biotin’s interference (false elevations or reductions) with immunoassays relying on biotin-streptavidin technology. Physicians must ask patients about supplement usage, and discontinue biotin for 8 hours for patients taking 10 mg/day, 3 days for 100-300 mg/day, 7 days for children taking 2 and 15 mg/kg/daily, and inform laboratory if diagnostic test was performed while taking biotin. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Research of productivity and interlayer interference mechanism of multilayer co-production in reservoirs with multi-pressure systems

Abstract Due to the differences of physical and fluid properties in vertical oil layers, the interlayer contradictions are prominent and affect the reservoir utilization degree seriously. Therefore, the coordination between reasonable bottom-hole flow pressure and optimal production, as well as the reduction of interlayer interference are the primary concerns during the co-production of multi-layer oil reservoirs. Based on the reservoir engineering and fluid mechanics in porous media theory, this work adopt the comprehensive pressure system and consider the interlayer interference to establish a multi-branch horizontal well productivity model and interlayer interference mathematical model. By analyzing the main controlling factors and interference mechanisms, this article establishes a pattern of interlayer interference, and improves the quantitative characterization interlayer interference theory in multi-layer combined mining. The study has shown that: (1) The interlayer interference is beneficial for balancing the production of different layers and improving development efficiency, it is greatly affected by interlayer heterogeneity; (2) When the number of layers exceeds 2 layers, the interference coefficient increases; With the increase of the layer thickness, the thicker oil layers have higher productivity, and the thickness of layer has a significant effect on the production of low-pressure layer; When the production pressure difference increases, the interlayer interference can be reduced; (3) The interlayer interference mathematical model constructed in this paper has high prediction accuracy and strong practicality, which has theoretical guidance significance for the division of strata in comprehensive adjustment of reservoirs.

Performance analysis of multiuser mmWave DCT-spread CP-Less OFDM communication system

In this paper, we propose a framework for multiuser mmWave DCT-Spread CP-less OFDM communication system and analyze it comprehensively. Due to excessive cyclic prefix (CP) usage in conventional multicarrier systems, spectral efficiency reduces and increases transmission latency. Our proposed system enhances spectral efficiency and reduces transmission latency. We introduce an image encryption algorithm based on DNA encoding combined with a chaotic map is introduced to enhance physical layer security (PLS). The impact of block diagonalization (BD) channel precoding for multiuser interference (MUI) reduction and designed subcarrier mapping with time-domain Tukey windowing for out-of-band (OOB) power emission reduction are investigated. In addition, the paper studies the applicability of discrete cosine transforms (DCT)-Spreading for peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR) reduction. Simulation results demonstrate that Turbo and Repeat and Accumulate (RA) channel coding and minimum mean square error (MMSE) and Cholesky decomposition (CD)-based zero-forcing (ZF) signal detection schemes improve bit error rate (BER) performance of the proposed system for different users.

Interference Reduction in UWB Receivers Using Miniaturized Axially Rotated Resonator Based UWB Notch Filter

Interference Reduction in UWB Receivers Using Miniaturized Axially Rotated Resonator Based UWB Notch Filter

Chronic pain after traumatic brain injury: a collaborative care approach.

Chronic pain is common after traumatic brain injury (TBI), frequently limits daily activities, and is associated with negative outcomes such as decreased community participation. Despite the negative impact of chronic pain, few people with TBI receive effective treatment. This paper describes a collaborative care (CC) intervention, TBI Care, adapted specifically to treat chronic pain in people living with TBI, emphasizing expert clinician input, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, and other non-pharmacological approaches for decreasing pain interference. 79 participants engaged in the CC intervention from two academic medical rehabilitation clinics with weekly assessments of pain intensity, interference, and medication use. Participant feedback on the intervention was gathered by interview with the care manager (CM) at the last treatment session and/or booster session. Provider feedback was gathered by a confidential survey post intervention. Ninety percent of participants received at least 11 of the target 12 sessions with a care manager (CM), the majority occurring over the phone. Participants endorsed an average of 7 pain locations. All participants received pain education, skills in self-monitoring, goal setting/behavioral activation and relaxation training. Pain interference scores (impact on activity and enjoyment), tracked weekly by the CM, significantly decreased across sessions. 89% of participants received recommendations for CBT skills, 65% received referrals for additional treatments targeting pain interference, and 43% received care coordination. 75% of participants reported 6 or more medications/supplements at both the first and last session, with changes recommended primarily for headache treatment. Feedback from participants and providers was positive. TBI Care, a novel patient-centered CC approach, was flexibly delivered, tailored to the needs of those living with TBI and chronic pain, with a high level of participant engagement, and satisfaction among participants and providers. This approach, prioritizing pain self-management strategies and other non-pharmacological approaches, along with optimizing pharmacological treatment, led to significant reductions in self-reported pain interference and intensity during the intervention. Using a CC model in TBI is feasible and successfully improved access to evidence-based treatments for chronic pain as well as outcomes for pain interference and intensity. ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT03523923.

A computational account of conflict processing during mental imagery.

Previous studies examining conflict processing within the context of a color-word Stroop task have focused on both stimulus and response conflicts. However, it has been unclear whether conflict can emerge independently of stimulus conflict. In this study, a novel arrow-gaze mental-rotation Stroop task was introduced to explore the interplay between conflict processing and mental rotation. A modelling approach was utilized to provide a process-level account of the findings. The results of our Stroop task indicate that conflict can emerge from mental rotation in the absence of stimulus conflict. The strength of this imagery conflict effect decreases and even reverses as mental rotation angles increase. Additionally, it was observed that participants responded more quickly and with greater accuracy to small rather than large face orientations. A comparison of three conflict diffusion models-the diffusion model for conflict tasks (DMC), the dual-stage two-phase model (DSTP), and the shrinking spotlight model (SSP)-yielded consistent support for the DSTP over the DMC and SSP in the majority of instances. The DSTP account of the experimental results revealed an increased nondecision time with increasing mental rotation, a reduction in interference from incompatible stimuli, and an improved drift rate in response selection phase, which suggests enhanced cognitive control. The findings from the model-based analysis provide evidence for a novel interaction between cognitive control and mental rotation.

Electrophysical Characteristics of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Composites Filled with Magnetite and Carbon Fiber Fillers.

With the rapid development of wireless communication technologies and the miniaturization trend in the electronics industry, the reduction of electromagnetic interference has become an important issue. To solve this problem, a lot of attention has been focused on polymer composites with combined functional fillers. In this paper, we report a method for creating an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic composite with a low amount of conductive carbon and magnetic fillers preparation. Also, we investigate the mechanical, thermophysical, and electrodynamic characteristics of the resulting composites. Increasing the combined filler amount in the ABS composite from 1 to 5 wt % leads to a composite conductivity growth of almost 50 times. It is necessary to underline the temperature decrease of 5 wt % mass loss and, accordingly, the composite heat resistance reduction with an increase in the combined filler from 1 to 5 wt %, while the thermal conductivity remains almost constant. It was established that electrodynamic and physical-mechanical characteristics depend on the agglomeration of fillers. This work is expected to reveal the potential of combining commercially available fillers to construct effective materials with good electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection using mass production methods (extrusion and injection molding).

Abnormal endothermic liquid–liquid phase transition upon cooling Pd40Ni40P20 melts

Liquid–liquid phase transition (LLPT) is the transformation of a liquid from one distinctive structure to another with the same composition. However, the origin of the structural variation at LLPT is still controversial. Here, we used ab initio molecular dynamics simulation to verify and investigate a high-temperature LLPT in a Pd40Ni40P20 melt; this melt showed a reduction in the nuclei interference of the conventional low-temperature LLPT. An abnormal endothermic LLPT was confirmed with flash differential scanning calorimetry, indicating a change in the atomic short-range-order structure around the P–P bond and a decrease in the number of specific icosahedral-like clusters, such as ⟨0 2 8 0⟩ and ⟨0 2 8 1⟩. The structural change of the P-centered clusters changed the solidification path through potential energy adjustments. Our results showed the structural mechanism of the unusual endothermic phenomenon and provided a different insight into regulating the properties of metallic glasses.

Enhancement of bionic cilia flow rate sensor signals by single-well stochastic resonance

Abstract Based on the characteristics of non-periodic signals in bionic cilia flow rate sensors, an investigation on the real-time signal processing methodologies is conducted in single-well stochastic resonance. In this research, we derive a model for an adaptive single-well stochastic resonance system featuring nonlinear recuperation. To assess the scientific robustness and practical viability of the algorithm, a validation experiment was formulated utilizing the single-well stochastic resonance capacitance online detection and processing hardware system. The experimental findings show a notable reduction in noise interference, a marked enhancement in signal quality, and an approximate 0.55 increase in the maximum cross-correlation coefficient among sensor signals. Consequently, the model fulfills the requirements for effectively handling non-periodic signals from sensors.

Impact of Medical Cannabis on Recovery from Playing-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Musicians: An Observational Cohort Study.

Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) are musculoskeletal symptoms that interfere with the ability to play at the level a musician is accustomed to. Musicians have an 84% lifetime prevalence of PRMD. Many types of analgesia are inappropriate for this population due to their risks, but cannabidiol (CBD) has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce the perception of pain. Medical cannabis has also been shown to be safer than other analgesia in terms of serious adverse events. This study explores the impact of medical cannabis for PRMD on perceptions of pain and mental health outcomes. Participants (n = 204) completed questionnaires at baseline and six months: the Musculoskeletal Pain Intensity and Interference Questionnaire for Musicians (MPIIQM) and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Participants self-selected their group: non-cannabis users (n = 42), new medical cannabis users (n = 61), and long-term medical cannabis users (n = 101). Data were analyzed using paired t-tests for within-group and ANOVA for between-group differences. At six months, there was no difference (p = 0.579) in cannabidiol dose between new (24.87 ± 12.86 mg) and long-term users (21.48 ± 12.50 mg). There was a difference in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) dose (p = 0.003) between new (3.74 ± 4.22 mg) and long-term users (4.41 ± 5.18 mg). At six months, new cannabis users had a significant reduction in pain intensity as measured by The Musculoskeletal Pain Intensity and Interference Questionnaire for Musicians (MPIIQM40) (p = 0.002). Non-users (p = 0.035), new users (p = 0.002), and long-term cannabis users (p = 0.009) all had significant reductions in pain interference (MPIIQM50) at six months. At six months, non-cannabis (p = 0.022) and long-term cannabis users (p = 0.001) had an improvement in DASS-21. The change in pain intensity was the only difference between groups, F(2, 201) = 3.845, p = 0.023. This difference was between long-term (0.83 ± 0.79) and new users (-2.61 ± 7.15). No serious adverse events occurred, and a minority experienced tiredness, cough, and dry mouth. This practice-based evidence demonstrated that the multidimensional approach to care provided by the Musicians' Clinics of Canada benefited all groups at six months. Medical cannabis significantly reduced pain intensity in new users of medical cannabis with PRMD, and all groups saw improvements in pain interference. In keeping with prior studies, medical cannabis seems to be effective at reducing perceptions of pain, including for PRMD. CBD/THC dosing was within guideline recommendations, and no patients experienced any serious adverse events. Limitations include multiple factors impacting patients' decisions to opt in or out of medical cannabis. These include cost, comorbidities, and disease chronicity. In conclusion, medical cannabis reduces pain intensity in new users, and when combined with a multidimensional approach to care, patients with PRMD can see improvements in pain as well as mental wellbeing.

High Q ultra-thin nona-band polarization insensitive homogeneous single layer metasurface for electronics and space industry with electromagnetic interference and antenna radar cross section reduction

In this article, a nona-band metasurface with unit cell dimensions of 0.038λo×0.038λo×0.019λo (20×20×1.0 mm3) is designed on a FR-4 substrate (Dielectric constant εr = 4.4 and loss tangent = 0.02) of 1.0 mm thickness with 35 µm copper (Conductivity = 5.8×107 S/m) cladding with unit cell periodicity is 20 mm. 10×10 metasurface array size is 200×200×1.0 mm3. In TE/TM mode, the absorbance is greater than 99 % at the intended frequency bands (i.e., 5.76, 8.6, 12.68, 14.38, 17.05, 17.94, 19.20, 20.88, 22.62, and 23.62 GHz), and its reflectivity is almost zero. Results indicated that the metasurface is found to extremely independent on the angles of polarization of the incident wave and the absorber is almost insensitive to the incident angle (0° – 90°) for TE/TM modes. The unit cell of metasurface is having negative permittivity, near zero permeability and negative refractive index at all intended bands which confirm exotic properties of the metasurface. The metasurface is having high quality-factor (Q = 72) at 5.76 GHz frequency therefore, this metasurface is also useful for dielectric sensing application in intended bands. The metasurfaces unparalleled properties make it suitable for EMI shielding, sensing applications in the C, X, and Ku-bands, the reduction of mono-static RCS, the improvement of isolation in MIMO antennas, and the reduction of unintended noise produced by copper components used in satellite and RADAR communication.