Sodium-activated Algerian bentonite with improved surface properties and topical barrier performance.

Children in sub-Saharan Africa continue to lag behind adults in viral load (VL) monitoring and suppression. This study assessed pediatric HIV outcomes at a referral Care and Treatment Clinic (CTC) in Tanzania over a 10-year period (2015–2024). We retrospectively analyzed program data, retaining each child’s most recent record. Outcomes included VL testing coverage, result availability, and suppression (<1,000 copies/mL). Group differences were examined by age, sex, and treatment duration. Among 4,159 patients, 127 were under 15 years (median age 10; 53.5% girls). VL testing coverage was 97.6%, with results available for 96.1%, and nearly all were tested within the past year. Suppression was achieved in 96.7% (118 children), with higher rates in girls (97.1%) compared to boys (88.1%). Only 3.1% were overdue for appointments. The CTC achieved near-universal VL coverage and high suppression, though boys and younger children require targeted support to sustain progress.

There has been huge positive changes in smart infrastructure management due to the creation of systems that perform real time environmental tracking, and process cyber-physical data. These changes are apparent due to the combination of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) with Internet of Things (IoT). Large WSN deployments face obstacles in scheduling, due to restricted energy supplies and operational environments being too hostile or inaccessible. Genetic Algorithms like Simulated Annealing and Artificial Bee Colony tends to perform in suboptimal standards as these algorithms fail to adapt well to environments that have energy depletion along with changing topologies. Hence, a new method for WSN scheduling known as RL-HAPSO, that utilizes Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) and the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithms along with the adaptive capability of Q-learning Reinforcement Learning has been addressed in this paper. An energy-efficient node selection by ACO operates during the first phase, followed by PSO optimization, which improves coverage and minimizes redundancy before execution of real-time reinforcement learning algorithm that selects activation schedules based on network states. The model runs multiple simulations, and does performance validation by assessing its execution time and convergence cost along with energy utilization, which is compared to each algorithm independently and the also the hybrid model without RL implementation. Results indicate execution in microseconds interval by each algorithm, yet RL-HAPSO stands out, as it achieves better optimization costs through enhanced fault tolerance, coverage and minimal energy usage. During performance alterations the system automatically adjusts its operations leading to consistent robust behaviour, even in case of node failure and environmental variations. The obtained results indicate that this proposed methodology functions as a viable approach for future-generation IoT applications that support resource-aware and smart WSN scheduling.

The distribution of food safety risks and their associated health impacts constitute a significant societal cause of health inequalities. As a major agricultural and food production base in China, Jilin Province has seen limited research on the fairness of collaborative food safety governance from a health equity perspective, despite its critical necessity. This study integrates the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) with Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation (FCE) to establish an evaluation framework. Following a “structure-process-outcome” analytical approach and the DPSIR model, a multidimensional indicator system was constructed. Comprehensive data from multiple sources—including policy documents, regulatory enforcement records, sampling inspection data, and questionnaire surveys—were synthesized with expert consultation results from 33 specialists to conduct a quantitative assessment of the fairness in Jilin Province’s collaborative food safety governance. Results indicate that the comprehensive score for local collaborative food safety governance is 3.63/5, reflecting an overall upper-middle level. However, significant urban–rural and socio-economic disparities in governance fairness were identified. Key findings include: (1) Distinct urban–rural and regional gradients in governance resource allocation (e.g., regulatory density, testing coverage) and significant differences in public information awareness, participation convenience, and satisfaction. (2) Multi-dimensional performance is uneven—government regulatory capacity scored highest (4.0), corporate responsibility implementation lowest (3.0), while third-party testing and public participation both scored 3.5, indicating insufficient depth of social force involvement. (3) Structural equity and process equity are key determinants of outcome equity, with groups possessing higher socioeconomic capital demonstrating stronger capacity to benefit from the governance system. (4) The overall coordination of the governance system remains inadequate, exhibiting characteristics of “strong government, weak society and enterprises,” with insufficient information sharing and collaboration mechanisms. The study indicates that Jilin Province’s food safety governance exhibits partial inequities in benefit distribution. Based on these findings, this paper proposes corresponding policy implications to serve as a reference for improving food management and alleviating related challenges.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) disproportionately affects incarcerated individuals, and effective interventions are needed to improve HCV care within prisons to achieve global elimination targets. This review aimed to identify and synthesise evidence on interventions to improve HCV testing, linkage to care, and direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment initiation among people in prison and post-release. We systematically searched MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane CENTRAL, and PsycINFO for studies assessing non-pharmaceutical interventions with a comparator or control group. Outcomes were HCV antibody testing, HCV RNA testing, linkage to HCV care, and treatment initiation. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled non-randomised studies were included; data were extracted and risk of bias assessed in duplicate using standard tools (RoB 2 and ROBINS-I). This analysis was restricted to studies of interventions evaluated in prison settings or among people recently released from prison. Searches had no date restriction and were updated November 2024. This review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020178035). Of 20,643 unique records, 22 studies were included (19 non-randomised; three RCTs). Simplified testing modalities had the most evidence of impact on testing and treatment outcomes: dried blood spot (DBS) testing improved antibody testing uptake in three studies (two RCTs and one non-randomised study; OR 2.90, 95 % CI 1.43-5.86) and point-of-care RNA testing improved treatment initiation in three non-randomised studies (OR 9.60, 95 % CI 3.38-27.32). Simplified opt-out screening strategies also increased antibody testing uptake in three studies (OR 20.41, 95 % CI 1.88-221.19). Other interventions simplifying testing (e.g., reflex RNA testing, broadened testing criteria) were effective in individual studies, but pooled analyses for broadened testing criteria were not statistically significant due to high heterogeneity. Single studies also showed improvements in treatment initiation using DBS testing, nurse-led care, and no-cost coverage of HCV medications. Several interventions, particularly those to enhance testing, may be successful in increasing HCV testing and treatment in prisons. However, the heterogeneity of interventions, methodological limitations of included studies, and limited number of studies underscore the need for further robust research, particularly RCTs, to optimise care in this setting.

Integration path coverage testing of the changing driver code guided by knowledge graph

Abstract* Background South Africa has made substantial national progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 HIV targets; however, sub-district and facility level performance varies, with persistent gaps in testing coverage, timely ART initiation, retention, and viral load suppression. Tshwane District (Gauteng), including Sub-district 1, serves urban and peri-urban communities with high mobility and socio-economic vulnerabilities, where programmatic disparities (e.g., incomplete viral load capture and inconsistent follow-up) challenge cascade outcomes. Objective To quantify progress toward the 95-95-95 HIV targets in Tshwane Sub-District 1 (2018-2024) using routine health information systems, and to identify health system and implementation factors (via health care worker surveys) associated with gaps in testing, timely ART initiation, retention, and viral suppression. Methods This protocol outlines a repeated cross-sectional analysis of secondary data (TIER.Net, DHIS2; 2018-2024) across all 23 public sector facilities in Sub-District 1, combined with a cross-sectional survey of health care workers (HCWs) in purposively selected clinics with low testing coverage or high treatment interruption. Primary measures include (1) testing coverage/positivity, (2) timely ART initiation, (3) loss to follow-up (LTFU)/treatment interruption, and (4) viral suppression (&lt;50 copies/mL). Analyses will include descriptive statistics, chi-square or t-tests, logistic regression to identify predictors of non-achievement of 95-95-95 sub-targets, and comparative evaluation of routine performance vs. HCW-reported implementation challenges. Data will be de-identified and managed in accordance with POPIA. Ethical approval has been obtained. Results This is a protocol; no results are presented. Pilot testing of instruments and extraction templates commenced in November 2025; full secondary data extraction and HCW surveys are scheduled from December 2025 to January 2026. Analyses are planned for January 2026-February 2026, with dissemination in mid-2026. Conclusions This protocol describes a pragmatic approach to local monitoring of UNAIDS 95-95-95 performance using routine systems and frontline insights. Findings will inform targeted improvement strategies for testing, ART initiation, retention, and viral suppression in Tshwane and comparable districts.

The evaluation of project performance has become important due to the persistent failure of software projects. Agile metrics provide essential insights for optimizing delivery by guiding teams towards iterative success through adaptive practices and continuous improvement. Metrics such as sprint burndown, velocity, control charts, and cumulative flow diagrams help track progress, identify risks, and maintain predictable delivery cadences. These tools enable teams to forecast workloads, manage scope changes, and ensure consistent throughput. Control charts and cumulative flow diagrams further enhance efficiency by visualizing cycle times and work status across development stages, helping to detect bottlenecks and workflow irregularities. Quality metrics – including defect counts, deferred defects, and automated test coverage – ensure reliability and customer satisfaction by identifying issues early and reducing rework. Additionally, integrating quality metrics ensure teams maintain high standards across all phases of development. Metrics such as defect counts, deferred defects, and automated test coverage are crucial for maintaining product reliability and addressing potential issues before customer release. Effective quality measurement also supports continuous improvement, emphasizing customer satisfaction and reducing the need for rework through timely identification of flaws. By systematically applying Agile metrics, teams can refine workflows, mitigate risks, and adapt to evolving priorities. This fosters a framework of collaboration, innovation, and sustained progress, ultimately enabling delivery of high – value products with greater predictability and efficiency.

Convolutional neural networks have become the foundation of image-inference tasks, with systolic array architectures providing enhanced computational performance and efficiency. However, the numerous processing elements (PEs) involved introduces significant challenges in terms of hardware overhead and reliability, which typically exhibit a trade-off relationship. Enhancing the efficiency and reliability of individual PEs can effectively address these challenges and substantially improve the overall performance of systolic array systems. We propose a module that can be implemented in PEs by integrating local binary patterns and min-max operations to reduce both power consumption and hardware size. This approach reutilizes the optimized architecture for fault detection, thus effectively minimizing the testing overhead. Our method enhances the overall system reliability by implementing a fault-PE bypass mechanism, thereby ensuring a robust operation. Experimental results show that the proposed module reduces the hardware area by 29.03% compared with previous circuits when synthesized with the Nan Gate 45 nm library. Furthermore, its dynamic power consumption is 13.72% lower compared with that of existing circuits when implemented on a field-programmable gate array. The results of a fault-injection experiment show that the proposed module reduces errors by up to 33.57% compared with previous circuits and that its test coverage exceeds 94%, with stuck-at 1 faults on PE input registers.

The utilization of natural ingredients in cosmetic applications is increasing due to public awareness of their safety and minimal side effects. This study aims to evaluate and compare the antioxidant activity of facial serums containing Hibiscus sabdariffa (roselle) and Punica granatum (pomegranate) extracts. Physical quality tests were conducted, including organoleptic, homogeneity, pH, specific gravity, and viscosity evaluations. Organoleptic observations showed both formulations had stable characteristics, including brown color, typical herbal aroma, and thick consistency without changes during storage. Homogeneity testing indicated no phase separation or sedimentation. The specific gravity of both serums was 1.02 g/mL, meeting SNI standards. Viscosity values were 2840 cps for roselle serum and 2540 cps for pomegranate serum, indicating appropriate consistency for topical use. The pH values were 3.75 ± 0.006 and 3.94 ± 0.017, respectively. Antioxidant activity was analyzed using the DPPH method. IC₅₀ values were 6000 ppm for roselle extract and 359.163 ± 0.437 ppm for pomegranate extract, indicating very weak antioxidant activity for anti-aging applications. This low activity may be influenced by extract concentration, degradation during formulation, storage conditions, and environmental exposure. While both serum formulations successfully met the SNI 19-4339-1996 physical quality requirements for topical use, their antioxidant efficacy was insufficient for potent anti-aging applications. This study contributes a critical baseline for natural serum formulation, identifying that physical stability does not guarantee antioxidant potency. These findings provide a necessary foundation for future research to focus on optimizing extract concentrations and stabilizing bioactive compounds against degradation during the formulation process. Keywords: Antioxidant activity, DPPH assay, Facial serum, Pomegranate extract, Roselle extract.

Textiles are essential materials for human clothing, and dyeing plays a crucial role in enhancing their aesthetic value. Textile dyeing generally employs natural and synthetic dyes. In recent years, synthetic dyes have been more widely used due to their availability, efficiency, and applicability to various fabric types. However, certain synthetic dyes are specifically designed for particular fabrics. Iretsu dye, for instance, is commonly used for polyester-based textiles. This study aimed to evaluate the dyeing quality of iretsu synthetic dye on two different fabrics, namely primissima cotton and chiffon, using two dye formulations with the same immersion time. An experimental method was employed by dyeing primissima cotton and chiffon fabrics using two dye concentrations, 12 g and 24 g, with an immersion time of 1 hour. Water glass was applied as a color fixative. The color direction of the dyed fabrics was assessed through an organoleptic test conducted by panelists consisting of 2022 cohort students of the Fashion Education Study Program, Universitas Negeri Semarang, who had completed the Textile Dyeing Techniques course. The results of the organoleptic test indicated that primissima cotton dyed with a 12 g formulation produced a pewter color direction (50%), while chiffon dyed with the same formulation resulted in a flint color direction (50%). Using the 24 g formulation, primissima cotton exhibited a porpoise color direction (55%), whereas chiffon predominantly showed a flint color direction (70%). These findings suggest that variations in dye concentration influence the resulting color direction on different fabric types when dyed with iretsu synthetic dye.

Fecal pollution in water poses significant health risks, especially when contaminated sources are used for drinking and food production. Traditional water quality testing methods are expensive, slow, and require skilled personnel, limiting their accessibility. This work addresses these issues by developing a portable fluorometric assay for the detection of the fecal indicator pigment urobilin (UB). The assay uses silane-functionalized glass fiber strips impregnated with zinc chloride, providing a 'drop-&-detect' approach with enhanced fluorescence response mediated by the unique complexation properties of ZnCl2 and UB. This approach allows for the detection of UB at sub-nanomolar concentrations in less than 1 min using a 3D-printed setup with miniaturized optical components powered by a smartphone with its camera as a detector. The results validated with a benchtop fluorometer show the effectiveness of this method. The successful application of this user-friendly, rapid, and sensitive assay to real water samples from three rivers and the influx and efflux of a wastewater treatment plant advances field-based water quality monitoring, meets the WHO's ASSURED criteria, and supports progress toward the global clean water and sanitation goals.

Background: The integration of HIV and tuberculosis (TB) services is a key strategy to achieve communicable disease elimination targets. At the subnational level, the effectiveness of integration is strongly determined by governance, continuity of care, and interoperability of health information systems. Cirebon District has established a local regulatory framework for TB–HIV collaboration; however, its performance and implementation remain suboptimal. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the performance, barriers, and governance of HIV–TB program synergy in Cirebon District during 2024–August 2025 and to identify directions for strengthening integrated services. Methods: A mixed-methods design was applied, combining descriptive quantitative analysis and qualitative policy analysis. Program performance data were obtained from the HIV/AIDS Information System (SIHA), the Tuberculosis Information System (SITB), and the Public–Private Mix for TB Control (PHTC) dashboard. Policy implementation was assessed through a review of Regent Regulation No. 33/2016 and semi-structured interviews with program managers and service providers. Results: HIV testing coverage was high among populations connected to routine health services but remained low among TB patients and stigmatized groups. The cumulative number of people living with HIV continued to increase, and new HIV cases remained substantial. Cascade analysis revealed major gaps in linkage to antiretroviral therapy and tuberculosis preventive treatment. Fragmentation between SIHA and SITB and weak cross-program coordination undermined continuity of care. Conclusion: HIV–TB program synergy in Cirebon District is constrained primarily by weaknesses in governance and health system integration rather than by a lack of clinical services. Strengthening operational integration, data interoperability, and performance-based supervision is essential to ensure that expanded HIV testing and treatment contribute effectively to HIV–TB epidemic control.

The medical field now uses mRNA therapeutics to deliver fast programmable treatment options through versatile vaccination platforms. The worldwide adoption of mRNA therapeutics faces a major obstacle because these molecules require extreme cold storage and transportation systems. mRNA stability establishes a fundamental scientific and industrial challenge which requires researchers to unite formulation design with process control and material engineering for cold-chain independence. Current knowledge about RNA hydrolysis and lipid oxidation and water-mediated degradation is combined with new methods for solid-state stabilization through lyophilization and spray-freeze-drying and thin-film technologies. Mechanism such as vitrification, water replacement and excipient RNA interactions are assessed to establish the fundamental chemical properties needed for extended product stability. Advanced mRNA development strategies are also examined, including self-amplifying and circular RNA structures and nano-glass and metal–organic frameworks and artificial intelligence-based predictive design for creating stable mRNA formulations at room temperature. This review examines manufacturing and regulatory and logistical obstacles which affect real-world implementation of mRNA therapeutics through assessments of production scale and product quality tests and packaging strength and tropical environment testing. The combination of research findings presents a path to develop mRNA medicines which maintains their effectiveness when stored at 25 °C or above, thus enabling worldwide access to RNA-based treatments. The development of mRNA into a durable therapeutic platform requires scientists to merge molecular research with process development and regulatory standardization.

Implementation of information system quality testing is an important factor in supporting the effectiveness and efficiency of company operations. This study aims to implement an information system and conduct software quality testing based on the ISO/IEC 25010 standard at PT Snapdev Digital Indonesia. Quality testing is carried out by measuring seven main characteristics, namely Performance Efficiency, Compatibility, Usability, Reliability, Security, Maintainability, and Portability. The research methods used include observation, data collection, and analysis of test results based on indicators in each ISO/IEC 25010 characteristic. The measurement results show that the percentage value for each aspect of system quality is in the range of 79%–83%, which indicates that the system has met most of the established quality criteria. The overall average value of 80.97% places the system quality in the very good category. This indicates that the system has efficient performance, adequate levels of security and reliability, good ease of use, and can be maintained and run in various environments. However, there are still opportunities for improvement in several aspects to improve system quality to be more optimal. Overall, the implemented information system is considered suitable for use and complies with international software quality standards.

The testing of System on Chip (SoC) components in Very-Large-Scale Integrated Circuits (VLSI) presents significant challenges due to excessive power dissipation and data volume. The inherent complexity of VLSI circuits, which integrate numerous transistors on a single silicon substrate, increases fault likelihood, leading to large data volumes and longer test times. The conventional scan chain-based testing in Design-for-Testability (DFT), result in high switching activity and power consumption, especially during shift operations. Addressing low power dissipation during testing is essential for chip durability, performance, cost, and reliability. Otherwise, the chip may foresee power surge, voltage drops, hotspots, thermal stress, false timing failures and mismatches due to the reason that test power is always double than the Functional power. Thus, in this paper, a new architecture based on Linear-Feedback Shift-Register (LFSRs) driven architecture that is analogous to that of the traditional scan is proposed, to help diminish transition count in turn decreasing power usage in the testmode. The architecture employs Power gating and Automatic test pattern generation (ATPG) filling methods in the contribution of ensuring the design is in a low power state that provides a high level of test coverage at the lowest switching activity. The experimentation is tested on ISCAS89 benchmarking circuits, and on hyper convoluted industrial designs with Cadence Genus and Modus tools. Scalability between small benchmark circuits and large industrial designs is confirmed by performance analysis of a wide range of circuit complexities. Experimental data demonstrates that LFSR-based method showed a significant 1.34X decrease in the toggling activity, as well as impressive 4-10K decreasing pattern and an overall acceleration of the runtime of approximately 1-1.5 hours over the scan-based designs. Test coverage is enhanced 2.97-3.76 with the case of the static test, 6.03-7.51 with the case of the delay test and 0.41-0.59 with the case of scan tests. Test power recorded a decline of about 40-47 on industrial design exhibiting its substantial findings on intricate designs.

The increasing complexity of embedded systems, especially in critical environments, demands reliable and scalable validation methodologies. This work presents an automated testing framework based on Python to validate embedded systems through acoustic and serial communication. The tool executes protocol-defined commands, logs responses, and generates reports with quantifiable metrics. Through this structured approach, the system enables proactive identification of edge-case failures and aligns with Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) and Technology Readiness Level (TRL) frameworks. Results indicate improved test coverage, reduced post-deployment bugs, and process standardization, even in resource-constrained environments.

This study examines ultrasonic treatment as an approach to reduce tetracycline and oxytetracycline residues in Acacia honey and its effects on physicochemical properties. An experimental laboratory-based study using a completely randomized design. The study was conducted at the Animal Product Quality Testing and Certification Center (BPMSPH) Laboratory, Bogor City, Indonesia, between October and December 2025. Acacia honey samples artificially contaminated with tetracycline and oxytetracycline were subjected to ultrasonic treatment at a frequency of 40 kHz for 0 (control), 10, 20, and 30 minutes. Antibiotic residues were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography. Physicochemical parameters including moisture and ash content, water insoluble solids, acidity, hydroxymethyl furfural (HMF) content, and diastase enzyme activity were analyzed using standard analytical methods. Measurements were repeated three times, and the data were subjected to analysis of variance with a significance threshold of P &lt; .05. Ultrasonic treatment reduced tetracycline residues highly significantly (P&lt; .01) and oxytetracycline residues significantly (.01&lt; P &lt; .05), with an optimum treatment duration of 10 minutes. Moisture content, ash content, HMF content, free acidity, reducing sugars, and sucrose were not significantly affected (P &gt; .05), indicating preservation of the main physicochemical characteristics. Water insoluble solids decreased, and diastase enzyme activity remained within acceptable standard limits. Ultrasonic treatment effectively reduced tetracycline and oxytetracycline residues in Acacia honey while maintaining physicochemical quality. Optimization of treatment duration is required to preserve functional properties.

Abstract Introduction Women who engage in commercial sex (WCS) have a higher prevalence of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa than other women of reproductive age. We aimed to describe the burden of HIV, testing, treatment, and viral load suppression (VLS) coverage among WCS and the correlates of not being engaged in each step of the HIV cascade across six countries between 2015 and 2017. Methods Using pooled data from six Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (PHIA) surveys from Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, socio-demographic, behavioral, and health-related indicators were assessed by commercial sex engagement and steps in the HIV cascade, using prevalence ratios with 95% confidence intervals and statistical significance of p &lt; 0.05. All analyses were weighted, and variance was estimated using Taylor series. Results Among women aged 18 and older, 3.3% reported selling sex ever or in the last 12 months. HIV prevalence among WCS was 18.3%. HIV status awareness was 65.9% and among those aware of their status, only 57.0% were on treatment. Only half (51.9%) were virally suppressed. Women unmarried and with no reported history of pregnancy who engaged in commercial sex were less likely to be engaged in the HIV care cascade. Discussion Overall, women engaged in commercial sex have higher rates of non-engagement at each step in the HIV care cascade and have a higher prevalence of HIV than women in the general population in the countries surveyed. More efforts to engage young, unmarried women engaged in commercial sex who have never had a pregnancy in HIV testing and treatment are needed.

The purpose of this study is to determine and analyze the influence of job satisfaction, work motivation, job placement and work ethic both individually and collectively on the work performance of employees of the Agricultural Service of Empat Lawang Regency. The research method used in this study is a quantitative method using a questionnaire distributed to respondents. Data quality testing using validity tests, reliability tests and normality tests. The analysis used is descriptive analysis and inferential analysis using statistical calculations with multiple regression formulas, partial tests, simultaneous tests and coefficients of determination. The results of the study obtained job satisfaction significantly influence the work performance of employees of the Agricultural Service of Empat Lawang Regency. Work motivation significantly influence the work performance of employees of the Agricultural Service of Empat Lawang Regency. Job placement significantly influence the work performance of employees of the Agricultural Service of Empat Lawang Regency. Work ethic significantly influence the work performance of employees of the Agricultural Service of Empat Lawang Regency. Job satisfaction, work motivation, job placement and work ethic significantly influence the work performance of employees of the Agricultural Service of Empat Lawang Regency.