Background:Work engagement(WE)is critical to quality primary healthcare delivery.However,limited research has explored its levels and determinants among healthcare professionals in low-and middle-income countries.This...Background:Work engagement(WE)is critical to quality primary healthcare delivery.However,limited research has explored its levels and determinants among healthcare professionals in low-and middle-income countries.This study assessed the levels and correlates of work engagement among physician assistants(PAs)in Ghana.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted among 439 PAs from October to December 2024.Participants were recruited via emails,social media platforms,and posters featuring study links and scannable questionnaire codes.WE was measured using the validated Utrecht Work Engagement Scale questionnaire.Results:Overall,WE levels were average,with similar trends across the three subdomains.In the bootstrapped multivariate linear regression model,anxiety was negatively associated with WE(β=-0.49,95%confidence interval[CI]:-0.77 to-0.21).Conversely,working in an urban area(β=0.36,95%CI:0.05 to 0.67),holding the rank of PA/Senior PA(β=0.27,95%CI:0.03 to 0.52),reporting good self-rated health(β=0.54,95%CI:0.19 to 0.88),and working at health centers(β=0.86,95%CI:0.22 to 1.50)were positively associated with WElevels.Conclusion:WE levels are average in the study sample,highlighting the need for strategic interventions to improve and sustain the healthcare workforce's motivation and performance.Addressing workplace stressors,enhancing professional development opportunities,and fostering supportive work environments could improve engagement among PAs and healthcare professionals in general.Strengthening WE is essential for ensuring resilient quality primary healthcare systems and achieving the goals of universal health coverage.展开更多
Background:This study evaluates the ability of mobile AI voice assistants(AI-VAs)to provide accurate medical advice for early knee osteoarthritis(KOA)and compares their performance with conventional web searches and h...Background:This study evaluates the ability of mobile AI voice assistants(AI-VAs)to provide accurate medical advice for early knee osteoarthritis(KOA)and compares their performance with conventional web searches and human clinicians.Methods:From September to October 2024,two AI-VAs(Apple’s Siri and Huawei’s Xiaoyi)were tested on 15 KOA-related questions in Chinese and English.The assessment focused on the accuracy of voice recognition,response capabilities,and medical advice.Siri was further tested in four international regions(USA,UK,Germany,Hong Kong)using localized languages.Results:In Chinese-language tests,Siri and Xiaoyi showed comparable voice recognition(recognition accuracy:95.6%vs.93.3%)and response ability(speech response:88.9%vs.85.7%).However,Siri provided significantly more accurate medical advice(medical advice:95.6%vs.53.3%;Z=2.762,P<0.001).External validation via Global Quality Score further confirmed Siri’s superiority(mean Global Quality Score=4.0 vs.Xiaoai=0.9).Siri outperformed Xiaoyi in English-language tests(53.3%vs.0%).While Siri’s medical advice accuracy(95.6%)surpassed non-specialist clinicians(Z=2.685,P=0.007),it primarily reflects filtered search results(Baidu/Google)rather than clinical synthesis.Claims of equivalence to junior surgeons(98.2%)must be interpreted cautiously,as AI-VAs lack diagnostic reasoning capabilities.This distinction is critical to avoid overstating their role in clinical decision-making.Conclusion:Current AI-VAs offer limited value in providing precise medical advice for KOA,primarily serving as intermediaries for web search results.Their performance varies across languages,regions,and search engines.展开更多
This study analyzed how impressions are formed online depending on the type of social media and the implications that may come from the over-disclosure of information. Using a Qualtrics survey, 97 participants viewed ...This study analyzed how impressions are formed online depending on the type of social media and the implications that may come from the over-disclosure of information. Using a Qualtrics survey, 97 participants viewed the profile of a female teaching assistant on Twitter and Facebook. While there was little difference between the two social media, the use of self-disclosure on Twitter seemed slightly more inappropriate for sharing personal information.展开更多
To investigate the levels of exposure to particulate-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon （PAH） and to estimate the risk these levels pose to traffic assistants （TAs） in Tianjin （a rnegacity in North China）, a ...To investigate the levels of exposure to particulate-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon （PAH） and to estimate the risk these levels pose to traffic assistants （TAs） in Tianjin （a rnegacity in North China）, a measurement campaign （33 all-day exposure samples, 25 occupational-exposure samples and 10 indoor samples） was conducted to characterize the TAs＇ exposure to PAHs, assess the cancer risk and identify the potential sources of exposure. The average total exposure concentration of 14 PAHs was approximately 2871 ＋ 928 ng/rn3 （on-duty）, and 1622 ＋ 457 ng/m3 （all-day）. The indoor PAHs level was 1257 ＋ 107 ng/m3. After 8000 Monte Carlo simulations, the cancer risk resulting from exposure to PAHs was found to be approximately 1.05 x 10-4. A multivariate analysis was applied to identify the potential sources, and the results showed that, in addition to vehicle exhaust, coal combustion and cooking fumes were also another two important contributors to personal PAH exposure. The diagnostic ratios of PAH compounds agree with the source apportionment results derived from principal component analysis.展开更多
Many language instructors in colleges and universities around the world have teaching assistants to help them with the teaching. Since 1968, the Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant （FLTA） program has aimed...Many language instructors in colleges and universities around the world have teaching assistants to help them with the teaching. Since 1968, the Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant （FLTA） program has aimed to strengthen foreign language instruction at U.S. educational institutions by establishing a native speaker presence. As one of the first group of Fulbright Chinese Language Assistants, the author worked at the College of Wooster in the United States from August, 2005 to May, 2006. At the beginning of the paper, the author gave a brief introduction of Fulbright FLTA program. Then the author described five cultural activities that Fulbright FLTAs could employ in foreign language learners＇ learning process： giving presentations, teaching songs, watching movies, organizing free tea or coffee breaks, and holding free talks. The following section discussed two phenomena that FLTAs should avoid, that is, ethnocentrism and cultural stereotyping. The author pointed out in the conclusion that Fulbright language assistants should make efforts to be qualified cultural ambassadors.展开更多
This article examines the implementation of a virtual health assistant powered by Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and GPT-4, aimed at enhancing clinical support through personalized, real-time interactions with p...This article examines the implementation of a virtual health assistant powered by Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and GPT-4, aimed at enhancing clinical support through personalized, real-time interactions with patients. The system is hypothesized to improve healthcare accessibility, operational efficiency, and patient outcomes by automating routine tasks and delivering accurate health information. The assistant leverages natural language processing and real-time data retrieval models to respond to patient inquiries, schedule appointments, provide medication reminders, assist with symptom triage, and answer insurance-related questions. By integrating RAG-based virtual care, the system reduces the burden on healthcare specialists and helps mitigate healthcare disparities, particularly in rural areas where traditional care is limited. Although the initial scope of testing did not validate all potential benefits, the results demonstrated high patient satisfaction and strong response accuracy, both critical for systems of this nature. These findings underscore the transformative potential of AI-driven virtual health assistants in enhancing patient engagement, streamlining operational workflows, and improving healthcare accessibility, ultimately contributing to better outcomes and more cost-effective care delivery.展开更多
Whether you leave business school to become a corporate manager, a professional high performer or an entrepreneur, you will spend much of your time on tasks unrelated to your expertise. Only the most senior executives...Whether you leave business school to become a corporate manager, a professional high performer or an entrepreneur, you will spend much of your time on tasks unrelated to your expertise. Only the most senior executives now have dedicated personal assistants and so the more mundane work of emails.展开更多
This paper attempts to approach the interface of a robot from the perspective of virtual assistants.Virtual assistants can also be characterized as the mind of a robot,since they manage communication and action with t...This paper attempts to approach the interface of a robot from the perspective of virtual assistants.Virtual assistants can also be characterized as the mind of a robot,since they manage communication and action with the rest of the world they exist in.Therefore,virtual assistants can also be described as the brain of a robot and they include a Natural Language Processing(NLP)module for conducting communication in their human-robot interface.This work is focused on inquiring and enhancing the capabilities of this module.The problem is that nothing much is revealed about the nature of the human-robot interface of commercial virtual assistants.Therefore,any new attempt of developing such a capability has to start from scratch.Accordingly,to include corresponding capabilities to a developing NLP system of a virtual assistant,a method of systemic semantic modelling is proposed and applied.For this purpose,the paper briefly reviews the evolution of virtual assistants from the first assistant,in the form of a game,to the latest assistant that has significantly elevated their standards.Then there is a reference to the evolution of their services and their continued offerings,as well as future expectations.The paper presents their structure and the technologies used,according to the data provided by the development companies to the public,while an attempt is made to classify virtual assistants,based on their characteristics and capabilities.Consequently,a robotic NLP interface is being developed,based on the communicative power of a proposed systemic conceptual model that may enhance the NLP capabilities of virtual assistants,being tested through a small natural language dictionary in Greek.展开更多
The rapid advancement of AI technology has significantly impacted higher education,presenting both opportunities and challenges for teaching and learning.Although students can benefit from AI,many remain unaware of it...The rapid advancement of AI technology has significantly impacted higher education,presenting both opportunities and challenges for teaching and learning.Although students can benefit from AI,many remain unaware of its potential utility.Moreover,concerns regarding the accuracy and reliability of AI complicate its proper use.This study incorporated an AI teaching assistant,called Blueink,into a biochemistry course at a medical university in China.The researchers assessed the alterations in individuals’knowledge,AI use,and critical thinking skills by conducting a review before and after the training.This was done to furnish valuable information for academics and specialists.The findings presented that the participating college students perceived AI as increasingly essential for contemporary learning and excelled at discovering significant facts using AI techniques.However,their confidence in AI responses and their habits and preferences for posing inquiries remained unchanged after the training.The study indicates that AI tools not only enhance students’skill acquisition but require greater clarity and proficiency.Collaborating with diverse specialists can yield superior AI tools for education.展开更多
Ultrasonic-Assisted Grinding(UAG)is a novel manufacturing technology that shows promising promise for use in processing Ceramic Matrix Composites(CMCs).Nevertheless,analyzing the material removal process of CMCs with ...Ultrasonic-Assisted Grinding(UAG)is a novel manufacturing technology that shows promising promise for use in processing Ceramic Matrix Composites(CMCs).Nevertheless,analyzing the material removal process of CMCs with multidirectional structure during UAG is challenging,impeding the progress and improvement of the UAG process.This work examined the impact of ultrasonic vibration on the dynamic mechanical characteristics during processing.Additionally,we experimentally elucidated the material removal mechanism of CMCs during the scratching process under the influence of vertical vibration.The results indicate that the introduction of ultrasonic vibration causes a strain rate effect,resulting in a modification of the material removal mechanism,subsequently impacting the processing quality.Ultrasonic vibration increases the dynamic strength and brittleness of the fibers in CMCs,leading to more cracks at fracture,which changes from the original bending fracture to shear fracture.In addition,ultrasonic vibration can effectively inhibit the impact of scratching depth and anisotropy on the removal mechanism of CMCs,resulting in a more uniform surface of CMCs after processing.展开更多
BACKGROUND:Hemiplegia,a prevalent stroke-related condition,is often studied for motor dysfunction;however,spasticity remains under-researched.Abnormal muscle tone significantly hinders hemiplegic patients’walking rec...BACKGROUND:Hemiplegia,a prevalent stroke-related condition,is often studied for motor dysfunction;however,spasticity remains under-researched.Abnormal muscle tone significantly hinders hemiplegic patients’walking recovery.OBJECTIVE:To determine whether early suspension-protected training with a personal assistant machine for stroke patients enhances walking ability and prevents muscle spasms.METHODS:Thirty-two early-stage stroke patients from Shenzhen University General Hospital and the China Rehabilitation Research Center were randomly assigned to the experimental group(n=16)and the control group(n=16).Both groups underwent 4 weeks of gait training under the suspension protection system for 30 minutes daily,5 days a week.The experimental group used the personal assistant machine during training.Three-dimensional gait analysis(using the Cortex motion capture system),Brunnstrom staging,Fugl-Meyer Assessment for lower limb motor function,Fugl-Meyer balance function,and the modified Ashworth Scale were evaluated within 1 week before the intervention and after 4 weeks of intervention.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:After the 4-week intervention,all outcome measures showed significant changes in each group.The experimental group had a small but significant increase in the modified Ashworth Scale score(P<0.05,d=|0.15|),while the control group had a large significant increase(P<0.05,d=|1.48|).The experimental group demonstrated greater improvements in walking speed(16.5 to 38.44 cm/s,P<0.05,d=|4.01|),step frequency(46.44 to 64.94 steps/min,P<0.05,d=|2.32|),stride length(15.50 to 29.81 cm,P<0.05,d=|3.44|),and peak hip and knee flexion(d=|1.82|to|2.17|).After treatment,the experimental group showed significantly greater improvements than the control group in walking speed(38.44 vs.26.63 cm/s,P<0.05,d=|2.75|),stride length,peak hip and knee flexion(d=|1.31|to|1.45|),step frequency(64.94 vs.59.38 steps/min,P<0.05,d=|0.85|),and a reduced support phase(bilateral:24.31%vs.28.38%,P<0.05,d=|0.88|;non-paretic:66.19%vs.70.13%,P<0.05,d=|0.94|).For early hemiplegia,personal assistant machine-assisted gait training under the suspension protection system helps establish a correct gait pattern,prevents muscle spasms,and improves motor function.展开更多
Hebei Province has incorporated targeted assistance services for people with disabilities into livelihood projects,upgrading the quality and efficiency of support services for disadvantaged groups.THE living and nursi...Hebei Province has incorporated targeted assistance services for people with disabilities into livelihood projects,upgrading the quality and efficiency of support services for disadvantaged groups.THE living and nursing allowances provided by the Chinese government for people with disabilities who are unable to work are not only important components of China’s social security system which provide for the needs of its disabled,but also show China’s ability to guarantee the basic living standard and social fairness and justice for this group of people.展开更多
Objective:To identify predictors of pregnancy and live birth outcomes in assisted reproductive technology(ART)cycles based on patient characteristics,hormonal profile,and embryo transfer variables.Methods:This retrosp...Objective:To identify predictors of pregnancy and live birth outcomes in assisted reproductive technology(ART)cycles based on patient characteristics,hormonal profile,and embryo transfer variables.Methods:This retrospective cohort study included 50 fresh in vitro fertilization(IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI)cycles selected from ART participants at a single tertiary ART center.Controlled ovarian stimulation was performed using recombinant follicle stimulating hormone(rFSH),gonadotropin-releasing hormone(GnRH)antagonist,and menotropins;oocyte retrieval occurred 36 h after trigger and embryo transfer was performed on day 3 or 5.Outcomes(chemical pregnancy,ongoing pregnancy,abortion,live birth)were compared across groups stratified by maternal age,antral follicle count(AFC),anti-Müllerian hormone(AMH),baseline luteinizing hormone(LH),estradiol(E2)at trigger,and endometrial thickness.Multivariate regression was used to identify independent predictors of live birth.Results:A total of 124 ART patients were screened during the study period,of whom 50 participants meeting the eligibility criteria were included in the final analysis.The median age of the participants was 35.8 years[interquartile range(IQR)32.5–39.6].The median AFC was 8(IQR 4–14),AMH level was 1.4 ng/mL(IQR 0.7–2.9),and the median endometrial thickness at embryo transfer was 10.2 mm(IQR 9.0–11.3).Chemical,ongoing,abortion,and live birth rates were 62%,32%,12%,and 16%,respectively.Younger maternal age(<35 years),higher AFC(>12),AMH 1–4 ng/mL,and endometrial thickness≥10 mm were associated with more favorable pregnancy outcomes.In multivariate analysis,higher baseline LH(β=0.089;95%CI 0.017–0.162;P=0.02)and greater endometrial thickness(β=0.145;95%CI 0.011–0.278;P=0.04)independently predicted live birth,whereas age,AFC,AMH,and E2 did not.Conclusions:Maternal age,ovarian reserve markers,LH levels,and endometrial thickness collectively influence ART outcomes.Baseline LH and endometrial receptivity are key independent predictors of live birth and may guide individualized treatment strategies.展开更多
Self-suspended proppants,which enable clear-water fracturing,represent a promising new class of materials for reservoir stimulation.Given the economic limitations associated with their exclusive use,this study investi...Self-suspended proppants,which enable clear-water fracturing,represent a promising new class of materials for reservoir stimulation.Given the economic limitations associated with their exclusive use,this study investigates proppant transport behavior in hybrid systems combining self-suspended proppants with conventional 40/70 mesh quartz sand at various mixing ratios.A dedicated experimental apparatus was developed to replicate field-relevant complex fracture networks,consisting of a main fracture and two branching fractures with different deflection angles.Using this system,sand bank formation and proppant distribution were examined for both conventional quartz sand fracturing and fracturing augmented with self-suspended proppants.The effects of slurry discharge volume,proppant mixing ratio,sand ratio,and injection location of the self-suspended proppant on transport and placement behavior were systematically analyzed.According to the results,the incorporation of self-suspended proppants markedly enhances the proppant-carrying capacity of the slurry and substantially modifies sand bank morphology.Increasing the discharge volume raises the inlet slope angle and promotes greater proppant penetration into branch fractures.The proportion of self-suspended proppant governs slurry viscoelasticity and,consequently,proppant settling behavior.As the fraction of self-suspended proppant decreases,the equilibrium height of the sand bank increases,while the proppant mass fraction within branch fractures exhibits a non-monotonic response,initially decreasing and then increasing.Variations in sand ratio alter both overall proppant concentration and the self-suspended proppant-to-water ratio,thereby modulating slurry rheology and influencing proppant placement.In addition,changes in injection location affect near-wellbore vortex structures,leading to distinct sand bank morphologies.展开更多
Twinning-induced plasticity(TWIP)steel was processed using electrically assisted friction stir welding(EFSW).The microstructure,mechanical properties,and deformation behavior of the welded joints were systematically i...Twinning-induced plasticity(TWIP)steel was processed using electrically assisted friction stir welding(EFSW).The microstructure,mechanical properties,and deformation behavior of the welded joints were systematically investigated.The results show that the average grain size was refined from 3.67μm in the base material(BM)to 1.39μm in the stir zone(SZ),while it increased to 4.19μm in the heat-affected zone(HAZ).The fraction of twin boundaries(TBs)decreased from 20.7%in the BM to 6.9%in the SZ and increased to24.5%in the HAZ.The ultimate tensile strength,yield strength,and elongation of the BM were 1021 MPa,505 MPa,and 65.8%,respectively.In comparison,the EFSW joint exhibited values of 1055 MPa,561 MPa,and 60.8%,corresponding to 103.3%,111.1%,and 92.4%of those of the BM,respectively.During tensile testing,plastic deformation was primarily concentrated in the BM,although both the SZ and HAZ also exhibited notable plastic deformation.Fracture ultimately occurred in the BM.展开更多
Tilted metasurface nanostructures,with excellent physical properties and enormous application potential,pose an urgent need for manufacturing methods.Here,electric-field-driven generative-nanoimprinting technique is p...Tilted metasurface nanostructures,with excellent physical properties and enormous application potential,pose an urgent need for manufacturing methods.Here,electric-field-driven generative-nanoimprinting technique is proposed.The electric field applied between the template and the substrate drives the contact,tilting,filling,and holding processes.By accurately controlling the introduced included angle between the flexible template and the substrate,tilted nanostructures with a controllable angle are imprinted onto the substrate,although they are vertical on the template.By flexibly adjusting the electric field intensity and the included angle,large-area uniform-tilted,gradient-tilted,and high-angle-tilted nanostructures are fabricated.In contrast to traditional replication,the morphology of the nanoimprinting structure is extended to customized control.This work provides a cost-effective,efficient,and versatile technology for the fabrication of various large-area tilted metasurface structures.As an illustration,a tilted nanograting with a high coupling efficiency is fabricated and integrated into augmented reality displays,demonstrating superior imaging quality.展开更多
文摘Background:Work engagement(WE)is critical to quality primary healthcare delivery.However,limited research has explored its levels and determinants among healthcare professionals in low-and middle-income countries.This study assessed the levels and correlates of work engagement among physician assistants(PAs)in Ghana.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted among 439 PAs from October to December 2024.Participants were recruited via emails,social media platforms,and posters featuring study links and scannable questionnaire codes.WE was measured using the validated Utrecht Work Engagement Scale questionnaire.Results:Overall,WE levels were average,with similar trends across the three subdomains.In the bootstrapped multivariate linear regression model,anxiety was negatively associated with WE(β=-0.49,95%confidence interval[CI]:-0.77 to-0.21).Conversely,working in an urban area(β=0.36,95%CI:0.05 to 0.67),holding the rank of PA/Senior PA(β=0.27,95%CI:0.03 to 0.52),reporting good self-rated health(β=0.54,95%CI:0.19 to 0.88),and working at health centers(β=0.86,95%CI:0.22 to 1.50)were positively associated with WElevels.Conclusion:WE levels are average in the study sample,highlighting the need for strategic interventions to improve and sustain the healthcare workforce's motivation and performance.Addressing workplace stressors,enhancing professional development opportunities,and fostering supportive work environments could improve engagement among PAs and healthcare professionals in general.Strengthening WE is essential for ensuring resilient quality primary healthcare systems and achieving the goals of universal health coverage.
文摘Background:This study evaluates the ability of mobile AI voice assistants(AI-VAs)to provide accurate medical advice for early knee osteoarthritis(KOA)and compares their performance with conventional web searches and human clinicians.Methods:From September to October 2024,two AI-VAs(Apple’s Siri and Huawei’s Xiaoyi)were tested on 15 KOA-related questions in Chinese and English.The assessment focused on the accuracy of voice recognition,response capabilities,and medical advice.Siri was further tested in four international regions(USA,UK,Germany,Hong Kong)using localized languages.Results:In Chinese-language tests,Siri and Xiaoyi showed comparable voice recognition(recognition accuracy:95.6%vs.93.3%)and response ability(speech response:88.9%vs.85.7%).However,Siri provided significantly more accurate medical advice(medical advice:95.6%vs.53.3%;Z=2.762,P<0.001).External validation via Global Quality Score further confirmed Siri’s superiority(mean Global Quality Score=4.0 vs.Xiaoai=0.9).Siri outperformed Xiaoyi in English-language tests(53.3%vs.0%).While Siri’s medical advice accuracy(95.6%)surpassed non-specialist clinicians(Z=2.685,P=0.007),it primarily reflects filtered search results(Baidu/Google)rather than clinical synthesis.Claims of equivalence to junior surgeons(98.2%)must be interpreted cautiously,as AI-VAs lack diagnostic reasoning capabilities.This distinction is critical to avoid overstating their role in clinical decision-making.Conclusion:Current AI-VAs offer limited value in providing precise medical advice for KOA,primarily serving as intermediaries for web search results.Their performance varies across languages,regions,and search engines.
文摘This study analyzed how impressions are formed online depending on the type of social media and the implications that may come from the over-disclosure of information. Using a Qualtrics survey, 97 participants viewed the profile of a female teaching assistant on Twitter and Facebook. While there was little difference between the two social media, the use of self-disclosure on Twitter seemed slightly more inappropriate for sharing personal information.
基金supported by the Chinese National Science Funding Council (No. 20807002, 20307006)the National Basic Research Program of China (No. 2011CB503801)
文摘To investigate the levels of exposure to particulate-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon （PAH） and to estimate the risk these levels pose to traffic assistants （TAs） in Tianjin （a rnegacity in North China）, a measurement campaign （33 all-day exposure samples, 25 occupational-exposure samples and 10 indoor samples） was conducted to characterize the TAs＇ exposure to PAHs, assess the cancer risk and identify the potential sources of exposure. The average total exposure concentration of 14 PAHs was approximately 2871 ＋ 928 ng/rn3 （on-duty）, and 1622 ＋ 457 ng/m3 （all-day）. The indoor PAHs level was 1257 ＋ 107 ng/m3. After 8000 Monte Carlo simulations, the cancer risk resulting from exposure to PAHs was found to be approximately 1.05 x 10-4. A multivariate analysis was applied to identify the potential sources, and the results showed that, in addition to vehicle exhaust, coal combustion and cooking fumes were also another two important contributors to personal PAH exposure. The diagnostic ratios of PAH compounds agree with the source apportionment results derived from principal component analysis.
文摘Many language instructors in colleges and universities around the world have teaching assistants to help them with the teaching. Since 1968, the Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant （FLTA） program has aimed to strengthen foreign language instruction at U.S. educational institutions by establishing a native speaker presence. As one of the first group of Fulbright Chinese Language Assistants, the author worked at the College of Wooster in the United States from August, 2005 to May, 2006. At the beginning of the paper, the author gave a brief introduction of Fulbright FLTA program. Then the author described five cultural activities that Fulbright FLTAs could employ in foreign language learners＇ learning process： giving presentations, teaching songs, watching movies, organizing free tea or coffee breaks, and holding free talks. The following section discussed two phenomena that FLTAs should avoid, that is, ethnocentrism and cultural stereotyping. The author pointed out in the conclusion that Fulbright language assistants should make efforts to be qualified cultural ambassadors.
文摘This article examines the implementation of a virtual health assistant powered by Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and GPT-4, aimed at enhancing clinical support through personalized, real-time interactions with patients. The system is hypothesized to improve healthcare accessibility, operational efficiency, and patient outcomes by automating routine tasks and delivering accurate health information. The assistant leverages natural language processing and real-time data retrieval models to respond to patient inquiries, schedule appointments, provide medication reminders, assist with symptom triage, and answer insurance-related questions. By integrating RAG-based virtual care, the system reduces the burden on healthcare specialists and helps mitigate healthcare disparities, particularly in rural areas where traditional care is limited. Although the initial scope of testing did not validate all potential benefits, the results demonstrated high patient satisfaction and strong response accuracy, both critical for systems of this nature. These findings underscore the transformative potential of AI-driven virtual health assistants in enhancing patient engagement, streamlining operational workflows, and improving healthcare accessibility, ultimately contributing to better outcomes and more cost-effective care delivery.
文摘Whether you leave business school to become a corporate manager, a professional high performer or an entrepreneur, you will spend much of your time on tasks unrelated to your expertise. Only the most senior executives now have dedicated personal assistants and so the more mundane work of emails.
文摘This paper attempts to approach the interface of a robot from the perspective of virtual assistants.Virtual assistants can also be characterized as the mind of a robot,since they manage communication and action with the rest of the world they exist in.Therefore,virtual assistants can also be described as the brain of a robot and they include a Natural Language Processing(NLP)module for conducting communication in their human-robot interface.This work is focused on inquiring and enhancing the capabilities of this module.The problem is that nothing much is revealed about the nature of the human-robot interface of commercial virtual assistants.Therefore,any new attempt of developing such a capability has to start from scratch.Accordingly,to include corresponding capabilities to a developing NLP system of a virtual assistant,a method of systemic semantic modelling is proposed and applied.For this purpose,the paper briefly reviews the evolution of virtual assistants from the first assistant,in the form of a game,to the latest assistant that has significantly elevated their standards.Then there is a reference to the evolution of their services and their continued offerings,as well as future expectations.The paper presents their structure and the technologies used,according to the data provided by the development companies to the public,while an attempt is made to classify virtual assistants,based on their characteristics and capabilities.Consequently,a robotic NLP interface is being developed,based on the communicative power of a proposed systemic conceptual model that may enhance the NLP capabilities of virtual assistants,being tested through a small natural language dictionary in Greek.
基金supported by the Wuhan University Center for Digital and Intelligent Education Research and the Major Project on Teaching Reform in Higher Education of Shaanxi Province(Grant No.23BZO90).
文摘The rapid advancement of AI technology has significantly impacted higher education,presenting both opportunities and challenges for teaching and learning.Although students can benefit from AI,many remain unaware of its potential utility.Moreover,concerns regarding the accuracy and reliability of AI complicate its proper use.This study incorporated an AI teaching assistant,called Blueink,into a biochemistry course at a medical university in China.The researchers assessed the alterations in individuals’knowledge,AI use,and critical thinking skills by conducting a review before and after the training.This was done to furnish valuable information for academics and specialists.The findings presented that the participating college students perceived AI as increasingly essential for contemporary learning and excelled at discovering significant facts using AI techniques.However,their confidence in AI responses and their habits and preferences for posing inquiries remained unchanged after the training.The study indicates that AI tools not only enhance students’skill acquisition but require greater clarity and proficiency.Collaborating with diverse specialists can yield superior AI tools for education.
基金supported by the National Science Foundation for Distinguished Young Scholars of China(No.52325506)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.DUT22LAB501)。
文摘Ultrasonic-Assisted Grinding(UAG)is a novel manufacturing technology that shows promising promise for use in processing Ceramic Matrix Composites(CMCs).Nevertheless,analyzing the material removal process of CMCs with multidirectional structure during UAG is challenging,impeding the progress and improvement of the UAG process.This work examined the impact of ultrasonic vibration on the dynamic mechanical characteristics during processing.Additionally,we experimentally elucidated the material removal mechanism of CMCs during the scratching process under the influence of vertical vibration.The results indicate that the introduction of ultrasonic vibration causes a strain rate effect,resulting in a modification of the material removal mechanism,subsequently impacting the processing quality.Ultrasonic vibration increases the dynamic strength and brittleness of the fibers in CMCs,leading to more cracks at fracture,which changes from the original bending fracture to shear fracture.In addition,ultrasonic vibration can effectively inhibit the impact of scratching depth and anisotropy on the removal mechanism of CMCs,resulting in a more uniform surface of CMCs after processing.
文摘BACKGROUND:Hemiplegia,a prevalent stroke-related condition,is often studied for motor dysfunction;however,spasticity remains under-researched.Abnormal muscle tone significantly hinders hemiplegic patients’walking recovery.OBJECTIVE:To determine whether early suspension-protected training with a personal assistant machine for stroke patients enhances walking ability and prevents muscle spasms.METHODS:Thirty-two early-stage stroke patients from Shenzhen University General Hospital and the China Rehabilitation Research Center were randomly assigned to the experimental group(n=16)and the control group(n=16).Both groups underwent 4 weeks of gait training under the suspension protection system for 30 minutes daily,5 days a week.The experimental group used the personal assistant machine during training.Three-dimensional gait analysis(using the Cortex motion capture system),Brunnstrom staging,Fugl-Meyer Assessment for lower limb motor function,Fugl-Meyer balance function,and the modified Ashworth Scale were evaluated within 1 week before the intervention and after 4 weeks of intervention.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:After the 4-week intervention,all outcome measures showed significant changes in each group.The experimental group had a small but significant increase in the modified Ashworth Scale score(P<0.05,d=|0.15|),while the control group had a large significant increase(P<0.05,d=|1.48|).The experimental group demonstrated greater improvements in walking speed(16.5 to 38.44 cm/s,P<0.05,d=|4.01|),step frequency(46.44 to 64.94 steps/min,P<0.05,d=|2.32|),stride length(15.50 to 29.81 cm,P<0.05,d=|3.44|),and peak hip and knee flexion(d=|1.82|to|2.17|).After treatment,the experimental group showed significantly greater improvements than the control group in walking speed(38.44 vs.26.63 cm/s,P<0.05,d=|2.75|),stride length,peak hip and knee flexion(d=|1.31|to|1.45|),step frequency(64.94 vs.59.38 steps/min,P<0.05,d=|0.85|),and a reduced support phase(bilateral:24.31%vs.28.38%,P<0.05,d=|0.88|;non-paretic:66.19%vs.70.13%,P<0.05,d=|0.94|).For early hemiplegia,personal assistant machine-assisted gait training under the suspension protection system helps establish a correct gait pattern,prevents muscle spasms,and improves motor function.
文摘Hebei Province has incorporated targeted assistance services for people with disabilities into livelihood projects,upgrading the quality and efficiency of support services for disadvantaged groups.THE living and nursing allowances provided by the Chinese government for people with disabilities who are unable to work are not only important components of China’s social security system which provide for the needs of its disabled,but also show China’s ability to guarantee the basic living standard and social fairness and justice for this group of people.
文摘Objective:To identify predictors of pregnancy and live birth outcomes in assisted reproductive technology(ART)cycles based on patient characteristics,hormonal profile,and embryo transfer variables.Methods:This retrospective cohort study included 50 fresh in vitro fertilization(IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI)cycles selected from ART participants at a single tertiary ART center.Controlled ovarian stimulation was performed using recombinant follicle stimulating hormone(rFSH),gonadotropin-releasing hormone(GnRH)antagonist,and menotropins;oocyte retrieval occurred 36 h after trigger and embryo transfer was performed on day 3 or 5.Outcomes(chemical pregnancy,ongoing pregnancy,abortion,live birth)were compared across groups stratified by maternal age,antral follicle count(AFC),anti-Müllerian hormone(AMH),baseline luteinizing hormone(LH),estradiol(E2)at trigger,and endometrial thickness.Multivariate regression was used to identify independent predictors of live birth.Results:A total of 124 ART patients were screened during the study period,of whom 50 participants meeting the eligibility criteria were included in the final analysis.The median age of the participants was 35.8 years[interquartile range(IQR)32.5–39.6].The median AFC was 8(IQR 4–14),AMH level was 1.4 ng/mL(IQR 0.7–2.9),and the median endometrial thickness at embryo transfer was 10.2 mm(IQR 9.0–11.3).Chemical,ongoing,abortion,and live birth rates were 62%,32%,12%,and 16%,respectively.Younger maternal age(<35 years),higher AFC(>12),AMH 1–4 ng/mL,and endometrial thickness≥10 mm were associated with more favorable pregnancy outcomes.In multivariate analysis,higher baseline LH(β=0.089;95%CI 0.017–0.162;P=0.02)and greater endometrial thickness(β=0.145;95%CI 0.011–0.278;P=0.04)independently predicted live birth,whereas age,AFC,AMH,and E2 did not.Conclusions:Maternal age,ovarian reserve markers,LH levels,and endometrial thickness collectively influence ART outcomes.Baseline LH and endometrial receptivity are key independent predictors of live birth and may guide individualized treatment strategies.
基金the China National Petroleum Corporation’s Forward-Looking Fundamental Technology Breakthrough Project(2021DJ2305).
文摘Self-suspended proppants,which enable clear-water fracturing,represent a promising new class of materials for reservoir stimulation.Given the economic limitations associated with their exclusive use,this study investigates proppant transport behavior in hybrid systems combining self-suspended proppants with conventional 40/70 mesh quartz sand at various mixing ratios.A dedicated experimental apparatus was developed to replicate field-relevant complex fracture networks,consisting of a main fracture and two branching fractures with different deflection angles.Using this system,sand bank formation and proppant distribution were examined for both conventional quartz sand fracturing and fracturing augmented with self-suspended proppants.The effects of slurry discharge volume,proppant mixing ratio,sand ratio,and injection location of the self-suspended proppant on transport and placement behavior were systematically analyzed.According to the results,the incorporation of self-suspended proppants markedly enhances the proppant-carrying capacity of the slurry and substantially modifies sand bank morphology.Increasing the discharge volume raises the inlet slope angle and promotes greater proppant penetration into branch fractures.The proportion of self-suspended proppant governs slurry viscoelasticity and,consequently,proppant settling behavior.As the fraction of self-suspended proppant decreases,the equilibrium height of the sand bank increases,while the proppant mass fraction within branch fractures exhibits a non-monotonic response,initially decreasing and then increasing.Variations in sand ratio alter both overall proppant concentration and the self-suspended proppant-to-water ratio,thereby modulating slurry rheology and influencing proppant placement.In addition,changes in injection location affect near-wellbore vortex structures,leading to distinct sand bank morphologies.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52034005,52227807,52104383,and 52222410)the Shaanxi Province National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars,China(No.2022JC-24)+1 种基金the Key Research and Development Program of Shaanxi Province,China(No.2022JBGS2-01)the Central Guidance on Local Science and TechnologyDevelopment Fund of Shaanxi Province,China(No.2024ZY-JCYJ-04-09).
文摘Twinning-induced plasticity(TWIP)steel was processed using electrically assisted friction stir welding(EFSW).The microstructure,mechanical properties,and deformation behavior of the welded joints were systematically investigated.The results show that the average grain size was refined from 3.67μm in the base material(BM)to 1.39μm in the stir zone(SZ),while it increased to 4.19μm in the heat-affected zone(HAZ).The fraction of twin boundaries(TBs)decreased from 20.7%in the BM to 6.9%in the SZ and increased to24.5%in the HAZ.The ultimate tensile strength,yield strength,and elongation of the BM were 1021 MPa,505 MPa,and 65.8%,respectively.In comparison,the EFSW joint exhibited values of 1055 MPa,561 MPa,and 60.8%,corresponding to 103.3%,111.1%,and 92.4%of those of the BM,respectively.During tensile testing,plastic deformation was primarily concentrated in the BM,although both the SZ and HAZ also exhibited notable plastic deformation.Fracture ultimately occurred in the BM.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52025055 and 52275571)Basic Research Operation Fund of China(No.xzy012024024).
文摘Tilted metasurface nanostructures,with excellent physical properties and enormous application potential,pose an urgent need for manufacturing methods.Here,electric-field-driven generative-nanoimprinting technique is proposed.The electric field applied between the template and the substrate drives the contact,tilting,filling,and holding processes.By accurately controlling the introduced included angle between the flexible template and the substrate,tilted nanostructures with a controllable angle are imprinted onto the substrate,although they are vertical on the template.By flexibly adjusting the electric field intensity and the included angle,large-area uniform-tilted,gradient-tilted,and high-angle-tilted nanostructures are fabricated.In contrast to traditional replication,the morphology of the nanoimprinting structure is extended to customized control.This work provides a cost-effective,efficient,and versatile technology for the fabrication of various large-area tilted metasurface structures.As an illustration,a tilted nanograting with a high coupling efficiency is fabricated and integrated into augmented reality displays,demonstrating superior imaging quality.
