Abstract- This work introduces the design and development of a soft-switching DC-DC converter using silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs for high efficiency, low switching losses, and better thermal management. In traditional hard-switching DC-DC converters, there are large switching losses and electromagnetic interference (EMI), especially at high switching frequencies. To overcome the drawbacks of hard-switching converters, a zero-voltage switching (ZVS) method is used by incorporating an auxiliary resonant circuit, which allows soft-switching of the main switching devices. The proposed DC-DC converter design is discussed, and the design parameters such as resonant component design, switching scheme, and gate drive circuit design are also discussed. Simulation results performed in MATLAB/Simulink environments have validated the soft-switching process and shown a significant reduction in switching losses. A hardware setup is also built to test the system performance. The results have shown improved efficiency, low switching losses, and high reliability compared to traditional hard-switching DC-DC converters. The results have confirmed that soft-switching technology and SiC MOSFETs are a promising combination for high-frequency and high-efficiency power conversion applications. Keywords—Soft-switching, DC–DC converter, Silicon Carbide (SiC) MOSFET, Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS), Zero Current Switching (ZCS), High-frequency switching, Power electronics, Switching losses, High efficiency, Wide bandgap semiconductor devices, Electromagnetic interference (EMI), Thermal performance.

This paper will consider the existing digital trends in the market, how social factors impact consumers, and the preference of consumers in mobile-first markets. We gathered quantitative data as a part of the research and included the measures of internet use and communication through social media, influence of advertisement, desire to buy the product, and use of mobile apps. This data was collected through a structured cross-sectional survey of 300 internet users aged over 18 years, chosen based on age, gender, and the main device. Descriptive and correlational data show that almost all participants have daily access to the internet, that smartphones are more the priority and that there is an overwhelming inclination to trust interpersonal channels over celebrity approval in making purchases. Advertising on social media has the strongest influence on behavior, whereas design of functional websites and free applications have a significant effect on retention and download intention. The results highlights the shifts in consumer trust relations and point out strategic insights on digital marketing optimization in mobile-based ecosystems.

Zone 2 thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) frequently requires left subclavian artery (LSA) preservation to maintain vertebrobasilar and upper-extremity perfusion while obtaining a durable proximal seal. Dedicated single-branch endografts were developed to standardize this step and to facilitate a reproducible fully endovascular strategy. Two main device concepts currently shape this field: integrated unibody branch platforms, represented by Castor and the second-generation Cratos, and modular retrograde-branch systems, represented by the Gore TAG Thoracic Branch Endoprosthesis (TBE). The Castor/Cratos evidence base is broader and older, and is mainly centered on type B aortic dissection, with prospective multicenter and real-world data showing favorable branch patency and aortic remodeling. By contrast, TBE evidence is expanding rapidly and is supported by prospective midterm data in arch aneurysms as well as by increasingly large post-commercial series and comparative analyses across zones 0-2. Beyond outcomes, the two platforms differ substantially in branch directionality, potential contribution to proximal fixation, modularity, branch diameter range, proximal landing requirements, access profile, and regulatory/off-the-shelf availability, all of which have direct consequences for anatomical suitability in dissection, aneurysm disease, and trauma. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence and proposes an anatomy-first, pathology-aware framework for selecting between Castor/Cratos and TBE in totally endovascular zone 2 TEVAR with LSA revascularization.

Portable charging devices for electric vehicle owners are among the key solutions for efficient, safe, continuous, and emergency energy use, enabling electric vehicles to function as both continuous power sources and loads. This paper discusses a four-port converter that performs energy conversion for loads, distributed power sources for EVs, and AC and DC microgrids for household distribution. The converter is designed with a structure aimed at connecting energy between main EV devices and distributed sources in the distribution grid using bidirectional energy conversion principles and voltage step-up/step-down for each independent operating mode. The converter performs with high efficiency of over 96% with a conversion capacity of 5kW and with simple control as described in the laboratory simulation results.

The development of Internet of Things (IoT) technology allows remote control of electrical devices via the internet network. One application is in lighting systems to improve energy efficiency and user comfort. This study aims to design and implement an IoT-based automatic lighting system using the Blynk application as a control and monitoring medium. The method used is an experimental method with an engineering approach, including the system design stage, hardware assembly, programming, integration with the Blynk application, and system testing. The main devices used are NodeMCU/ESP32, relay modules, and AC lamps. The test results show that the system is able to control the lights in real-time via a smartphone with a good response as long as the internet connection is stable. This system has proven effective in providing convenience, flexibility, and has the potential to save electricity usage, making it suitable for application as a simple smart home solution and IoT learning medium.

Our time is being shaken by political, social, economic, and subjective transformations that, although previously signaled, have begun to erupt abruptly like massive and relentless avalanches, awakening sensations of uncertainty, fear, and disorientation. The election of Donald Trump to the government of the United States of America (USA) has been the major trigger. Inaugurated in January 2025, he immediately launched an aggressive policy against other countries and leaders considered dangerous enemies. This article aims to understand the meaning-making strategies used by Trump to justify and legitimize his interventionist actions, particularly in Venezuela, against the government of Nicolás Maduro. To this end, news reports, social media posts, interview statements, and government announcements were collected from major media outlets until January 20, 2026. Additionally, journalistic pieces from columnists of leading communication vehicles were compiled. The collected material was subjected to content analysis and discussed with the aid of authors and theories pertinent to the established analytical categories. It was possible to verify that Trump employs short and vague statements, delivered in an assertive and categorical manner, in a threatening tone and laden with emotional content of aggressive nature to subjugate, convince, and forcefully impose what he deems necessary and beneficial for his country. Rationalizations, denialisms, and displacements that conceal his true intentions are some of the main devices employed. By attacking and weakening the world order, he leverages chaos, intimidation, and fear to exercise absolutist, imperialist power.

This paper analyzes microstructural layout and electrical behavior of silicon nanowire-based Schottky diodes, for use as wide-domain temperature sensors. The employed nanostructured three-dimensional substrates provide larger contact areas and enable higher Schottky barrier heights, ultimately leading to a better operable temperature range. Two metal deposition techniques (Radio Frequency sputtering and Electron-beam evaporation) are used to fabricate experimental Schottky diode samples. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and diffuse reflectance investigations are carried out in order to determine nanowire distribution and the influence of subsequent metal deposition. The analyses evince the formation of a slightly inhomogeneous contact. The findings are validated by a thorough electrical characterization over a wide temperature domain. Inhomogeneity models are used in order to determine the main device parameters and the bias regions where they can be used as precise temperature sensors. The sputtered sample exhibits the best sensitivity, between 1 and 1.4 mV/K, while excellent linearity (R2 > 99.5%) is obtained for Electron-beam evaporated devices. Both types of silicon nanowire-based Schottky diode sensors have 100-500K operable ranges, much larger than planar counterparts.

This paper presents a novel transformerless bidirectional buck–boost (BBB) high-gain DC–DC converter with multi-power-flow capability. The proposed topology integrates an active switched-inductor (ASL) network into the front-end of a conventional SEPIC converter, enabling a wide voltage conversion ratio while significantly reducing the voltage stress across the main power semiconductor devices. The converter supports BBB operation in both directions of power flow with a reduced component count. A key feature of the proposed converter is its multifunctional operation, allowing seamless power transfer in PV-to-DC-grid, battery-to-DC-grid, and DC-grid-to-battery modes. In addition, synchronous rectification is employed in the complementary switches to further enhance conversion efficiency. The converter’s operational principles are analysed with detailed steady-state derivations for continuous conduction mode (CCM) and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM). A dynamic model is developed, and closed-loop controllers are designed for voltage and current regulation. A prototype employing SiC MOSFETs is developed and tested. Experimental results confirm high efficiency, stable operation, and practical feasibility, demonstrating the converter’s potential for energy storage applications in microgrids, electric vehicles (EVs), and industrial power systems.

This paper presents an adaptive integral sliding mode control (SMC) scheme for a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) hybrid energy storage system (HESS) which can be used in electric vehicles. In HESS, the battery acts as the main energy storage device, which is connected with a boost converter, and the supercapacitor acts as the auxiliary energy system, which is connected with a bi-directional DC-DC converter. The two converters share the same DC link for power exchange. Based on the two energy storage devices and connected converters, the global mathematic model of HESS is obtained. In the design process of the proposed control scheme, the adaptive estimation technique considering the unknown parameters of battery/supercapacitor hybrid system model is utilized. Moreover, with the combination of the projection algorithm, the parameters estimation function can be bounded. The Lyapunov based stability analysis of the whole battery/ supercapacitor HESS is given to prove the convergence of the proposed adaptive integral SMC method. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method with a fast transient behavior is verified through the simulation test.

The rapid development of digital technology has led to the widespread use of gadgets across all age groups, including preschool children. Devices such as smartphones and tablets are commonly used for entertainment and learning purposes. However, excessive and unsupervised gadget use may negatively affect children’s motor development, which is a crucial indicator of growth during early childhood. This study aimed to examine the relationship between gadget use and motor development among preschool children at KB PAUD Kiddy Club, North Jakarta. This study employed a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of 62 preschool children aged 3–6 years, selected using a total sampling technique. Data were collected using a gadget usage questionnaire and the Denver Developmental Screening Test (DDST) II to assess fine and gross motor development. Data analysis was performed using the Chi-square (χ²) test with a significance level of 0.05. The results showed that most preschool children had moderate to high levels of gadget use. Approximately 66.1% of children primarily used YouTube applications, and 87.1% used smartphones as their main device. Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between the level of gadget use and motor development (p < 0.05), indicating that children with high gadget use were more likely to exhibit suspected or delayed fine and gross motor development. These findings highlight the importance of parental supervision and appropriate regulation of gadget use to support optimal motor development in preschool children.

The article examines the main techniques and devices used to create comic effects in the poetry of Ivan Svitlychnyi. It emphasizes that laughter becomes a form of resistance to the system, and his prison lyrics lack a pathos of tragedy. Contrast serves as a pervasive device for generating the comic on all levels. Elevated, bookish vocabulary typical of the classical sonnet genre is juxtaposed with prison slang and lowered, coarse colloquial elements. The collision of stylistically diverse units within the closest context gives the poetic text particular expressiveness. The author frequently incorporates colloquial phraseology, whose stylistic markedness enhances the comic tone in its various manifestations; overall, the skillful play on set expressions contributes to the creation of sarcastic and satirical effects. Enantiosemy, antiphrasis, and allusion are techniques used to convey direct authorial evaluations. At the syntactic level, the mechanisms of comic expression are highlighted through antitheses, rhetorical questions and exclamations, gradation, amplification, fragmented syntax, short sentences, and dialogization of the narrative – all of which create emotionality, invectiveness, and polemical nature of the poetic phrase. It is emphasized that the key concept of FREEDOM in I. Svitlychny's poetry has an ambivalent nature, depending on whether it concerns the personal dimension of the lyrical hero's spiritual freedom, even behind bars, or the choice of those who opt for "freedom" in a totalitarian society. The concept of FREEDOM is correlated with the equally ambivalent concept of SILENCE, in terms of its semantic content: оn the one hand, silence is seen as submission to the system (compliance); оn the other hand, silence represents forced silence as a form of resistance against the system. Deep semantic irony also arises from the intertextual interaction with the reader, with references primarily to the poetics of Shevchenko’s socially critical and denunciatory works. Svitlychny masterfully succeeds in deploying the comic spectrum, ranging from irony, self-irony, and humour to scornful sarcasm or trenchant political satire and grotesque.

Acute liver failure (ALF) and acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) represent severely compromised clinical conditions, characterised by high mortality and often candidates for liver transplantation. Recently, non-biological extracorporeal treatments (ECLSD) have gained an increasing role as temporary support through the removal of water-soluble and albumin-bound toxins. This paper provides an overview of the main available devices, including SPAD (single pass Albumin Dialysis), MARS (Molecular Adsorbent Recirculation System), Prometheus (Fractionated Plasma Separation and Adsorption), Cytosorb, CPFA (Coupled Plasma Filtration Adsorption) and DPMAS (Dual Plasma Molecular Adsorption System), illustrating their technical characteristics, efficacy and limitations. Cytosorb, although originally designed for the treatment of systemic inflammatory conditions, has shown surprising efficacy in reducing bilirubin and bile acids, surpassing the results of MARS in some retrospective studies. Special attention is given to our centre's experience with the RAED (Recirculated Albumin Extended Dialysis) and RHENOB (Reemplazo Hepático No Biológico) techniques, based on recirculated albumin circuits, with or without regeneration by DPMAS. In a series of seven patients with ALF or ACLF treated with RHENOB, a significant reduction in bilirubin (25-50%) was observed after only a few sessions, without haemodynamic adverse events. One patient subsequently received a successful liver transplant, completing the biochemical stabilisation course. The RAED and RHENOB techniques appear to be innovative, effective, cost-effective approaches that can be applied even in centres without advanced technology. However, controlled prospective studies are needed to consolidate their use in clinical practice.

The results of practical considerations on the issue of conditioning and storing energy obtained from generally available electromagnetic field sources (e.g., commonly used telecommunication systems and RFID radio frequency identification systems) or other potential areas of energy harvesting have been presented in this paper. Due to the low efficiency of this type of alternative power source for electronic microsystems, it is necessary to properly process the obtained energy in order to achieve parameters suitable for powering subsequent elements of the powered system (supply voltage, internal resistance of the source, limitations resulting from the permissible parameters of the components used, etc.) and its effective storage. This paper analyses the use of increasingly available and technologically advanced supercapacitors as the main energy storage device. These are electronic components that fill the gap between commonly known and widely used capacitors and more complex and expensive battery systems that require complicated systems to support the charging and discharging of such storage devices. However, they require consideration of their dynamic characteristics in terms of the charging and energy storage process. The properties of such components were investigated, the requirements and application limitations as a battery were determined, and the results of tests of selected supercapacitors were analysed. Based on the obtained data, several concepts for energy conditioning systems were presented, enabling the practical use of the advantages of supercapacitors as the main energy storage device, for example, an electromagnetic field energy harvester system from an RFID system.

This preliminary study aims to examine how digital learning can support digital literacy among primary school students in Science and Mathematics in Sarawak. With the increasing integration of technology in education, digital learning has the potential to become an important medium that not only improves digital literacy, but also strengthens understanding of STEM concepts in an English language environment. This descriptive quantitative study involved 40 students from years four to six in a government primary school in Sarawak. The study instrument was a structured questionnaire to obtain data and initial observations on the level of access to digital devices, digital literacy skills, and patterns of technology use by students in the context of learning Science and Mathematics through English. The study findings show that primary school students have a relatively good level of digital access, especially through the use of smartphones, which are their main devices at home. In learning Science and Mathematics, the use of technology was found to be minimal and did not involve in-depth interactive applications. Students relied more on watching videos or searching for instant information, while the use of specialized software such as simulations, digital quizzes or STEM training applications has not yet been widely practiced. This finding illustrates that although students have exposure to technology, the potential of digital devices as learning tools has not yet been optimally utilized. This study suggests that teachers design more structured and authentic digital activities, including the use of virtual simulations, educational games, video assignments, and interactive learning platforms to simultaneously improve language proficiency and understanding of STEM concepts.

Drug abuse (Narcotics, Psychotropics, and other Addictive Substances) is a serious problem that can threaten the younger generation, especially in the Panggung Kidul Village area. The lack of public understanding, especially teenagers, regarding the dangers and negative impacts of drug abuse is one of the factors that influence the high risk of substance abuse. Therefore, innovative and interactive educational media are needed to increase public awareness and understanding regarding the prevention of drug abuse. This study offers a solution by designing and developing educational media based on Augmented Reality (AR) technology as a visual and interactive tool that conveys information in an interesting and easy-to-understand manner. The use of smartphones as the main device in AR applications makes this media more easily accessible to various groups of people. The test results using the System Usability Scale (SUS) method showed a user satisfaction level of 96% which is included in the Acceptable category. Thus, this AR-based educational media is expected to be an effective means of increasing public understanding of the dangers of drug abuse and encouraging early preventive efforts.

ABSTRACT Over the past decade, Neuralink has become a techno-scientific project that embodies a technological, health and ethical revolution. However, there is still little research analysing it as a political project. In this article, we argue that Neuralink is the embodiment of a new political-social regime that we call psychopolitics, borrowing from the work of Han (2014) and Stiegler (2002). This regime is essentially characterised by the imperative to translate psychological processes into data, and by the ultimate goal of optimising our psyche and making it the main arena for political debate. To illustrate this, we first analyse the notion of psychopolitics and the main devices that constitute it. We then present Neuralink as a case study and examine the main results obtained using the content analysis software Atlas.ti (v.23). Finally, we conclude by showing that Neuralink is the prime example of a psychopolitical project at work in our time.

Abstract Introduction The pathophysiological mechanisms associated with the development of lead-related tricuspid regurgitation (TR) aren’t limited to mechanical interference with the tricuspid valve and subvalvular apparatus. The adverse ventricular remodeling induced by electromechanical intraventricular dyssynchrony plays an important role. Our study aimed to assess if the QRS interval post cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) was an independent predictor for the development of lead-related TR. Methods Retrospective cohort study of patients with a de novo device implantation in the past 10 years. Baseline and post implantation electrocardiographic/echocardiographic parameters were obtained. Patients with TR worsening by at least 1 grade after CIED implantation were considered as lead-related TR (Group 1) and compared with a control group. We constructed a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to identify the optimal QRS interval cutoff value to predict the development of lead-related TR. The area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to assess the diagnostic performance. Cardiovascular outcomes were assessed using Kaplan–Meier estimates and Cox proportional-hazards models. Results Our study included 108 pts, 47% female with a mean age 73±12 years. Single and dual-lead conventional pacemakers were the main implantable devices (45%). Regarding ECG data: Median baseline QRS was 123 vs 140ms in Group 1 and 2 respectively. Median QRS after CIED implantation was 158vs133ms Group 1 and 2 respectively. In the group of patients who developed lead related TR at follow-up we observed a statistically significant increase of QRS interval in the first ECG post CIED implantation (28.861ms, p<0.001). We found an optimal QRS cut-off value of 150ms with a sensitivity of 61% and specificity of 75% to predict the development of lead related TR. This value was an independent predictor with the development of severe TR after adjusting for multiple variables: age, TAPSE, ejection fraction, right atrium area, right ventricle dilation, atrial fibrillation, device (HR 3.935 CI 1.239-12.497, p=0.020). There was no statistically significant difference when analyzing the impact of QRS widening in cardiovascular outcomes. Conclusion In our study, we identified that the QRS interval with an optimal cut-off>150ms post-CIED implantation and the subsequent intraventricular dyssynchrony, was an independent risk factor for the development of severe TR.

The article explores communication processes in the enterprise management system as a key factor of organizational flexibility and successful digital transformation. According to recent studies, over 70% of companies worldwide have implemented a hybrid work format, leading to a 45% increase in the use of digital tools. In the context of global changes caused by technological progress and the transition to remote and hybrid work formats, effective interaction becomes a critical prerequisite for maintaining competitiveness and achieving strategic goals. Based on a comprehensive analysis of modern scientific publications and an empirical study conducted on a metallurgical enterprise, it was found that hybrid work formats significantly transform internal interaction, creating new challenges that require rethinking traditional communication models. The study, which included staff surveys and stakeholder analysis, as well as document analysis, made it possible to identify the main types of barriers that hinder effective information exchange, in particular information overload, psychological and organizational obstacles. The conducted analysis made it possible to identify the key digital communication tools (such as Microsoft Teams, Telegram, Jira, and Confluence) used by the enterprise and to assess their impact on work efficiency. The survey showed that informal communications and the active use of digital channels prevail at the enterprise, while the smartphone is the main device for receiving work information. The study also revealed that a significant portion of employees feel their opinions are not valued, and the dependence on informal sources of information carries the risk of data distortion. The analysis of meeting planning and execution confirmed the ineffectiveness of spontaneous meetings, which lead to low attendance and lost productivity. The expediency of introducing chatbots and artificial intelligence tools to automate routine requests has been substantiated, which will reduce information processing time and increase overall productivity. It is expected that the implementation of the proposed measures will increase the enterprise’s organizational flexibility and allow it to effectively adapt to modern challenges. The results of the work have practical significance for improving management efficiency, adapting activities to modern conditions, and strengthening relationships with stakeholders in the context of business development in the conditions of digital transformation.

Inhaled medications are central in managing pediatric respiratory diseases, yet device complexity and nebulizer use often challenge caregivers and affect adherence. This study assessed current usage patterns and parental perceptions of inhaled therapies in Romania, aiming to identify modifiable factors for targeted education. A cross-sectional observational survey was distributed via SVC® (Spitalul Virtual pentru Copii-Virtual Children's Hospital), a widely accessed social media platform for Romanian parents. Data included demographics, inhaled medication use, prescribing sources, adherence, and treatment perceptions. A total of 1825 parents participated, mostly urban residents (87.6%). Chronic respiratory disease, mainly asthma, was reported in 7.3% of children. Inhaled therapy was used in 71.9% of cases, predominantly saline solutions, bronchodilators, and corticosteroids, marking a decline compared with the past decade. Nebulizers (74.1%) were the main devices used. Prescriptions were largely pediatrician-based, though self-medication occurred, particularly with saline solutions, often influenced by non-medical sources (p = 0.003). Parents of children with chronic disease were less likely to self-medicate (p = 0.042), especially with β2-agonists and corticosteroids (p < 0.001). Additionally, 31.3% reported use of complementary remedies, including homeopathy. Overall, 73.5% perceived inhaled therapy as effective, with adverse events reported by only 8.3%. Inhaled therapy remains prevalent in Romanian children, though self-medication and alternative treatments persist, shaped by cultural factors and limited medical education. Parents of children with chronic disease show better adherence and reliance on prescribed therapy. Enhancing parental education via accessible digital platforms may reduce inappropriate practices and improve outcomes in low-resource settings.

Background: Computers are the main devices that support the efficiency and effectiveness of work in modern office environments, including MSMEs in South Sumatra Province. However, long-term use of computers with unergonomic sitting postures can increase the risk of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) in workers. The results of preliminary observations showed that the percentage of variation in WMSD complaints was between 13%-42% of the total work-related diseases related to computers. Aim: This study aims to identify muscle complaints experienced by workers, analyze the risk of working posture using ergonomic methods, and provide suggestions for improvements to minimize the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Methods: This study uses the Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) method to assess the risk of computerized and sitting activity-based work postures. In addition, Nordic Body Map was used to map the location of muscle complaints in respondents. The study was conducted on 20 workers in four MSMEs in South Sumatra Province who worked with high computer intensity. Results: The analysis showed that all four respondents had a high level of occupational posture risk based on the ROSA score. A total of 36 muscle complaints were reported, with the most complaints located in the lower neck, waist, and buttocks. The main factors causing complaints include prolonged static sitting positions and inadequate adjustment of work facilities. Conclusions: The work posture of MSME workers in South Sumatra Province indicates a level of ergonomic risks that requires serious attention. Interventions such as improving work facilities and training in correct work posture are highly recommended. Implementation. These findings affirm the importance of applying ergonomic principles in computer-based work environments to prevent WMSDs, improve work comfort, and support the productivity of government sector workers.