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In the era of industrial evolution, satellites are being viewed as swarm intelligence that does not rely on a single system but multiple constellations that collaborate autonomously. This has enhanced the potential of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) to contribute to improving position, navigation, and timing (PNT) services. However, multipath (MP) and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) receptions remain the prominent vulnerability for the GNSS in harsh environments. The aim of this research is to investigate the impact of MP and NLOS receptions on GNSS performance and then propose a Received Signal Quality Monitoring (RSQM) algorithm. The RSQM algorithm works in two ways. Initially, it performs a signal quality test based on a fuzzy inference system. The input parameters are carrier-to-noise ratio (CNR), Normalized Range Residuals (NRR), and Code–Carrier Divergence (CCD), and it computes the membership functions based on the Mamdani method and classifies the signal quality as LOS, NLOS, weak NLOS, and strong NLOS. Secondly, it performs an adaptive navigation strategy to exclude/mask the affected range measurements while considering the satellite geometry constraints (i.e., D O P ≤ 2 ). For this purpose, comprehensive research to quantify the multi-constellation GNSS receiver with four constellation configurations (GPS, BeiDou, GLONASS, and Galileo) has been carried out in various operating environments. This RSQM-based GNSS receiver has the capability to identify signal quality and perform adaptive navigation accordingly to improve navigation performance. The results suggest that GNSS performance in terms of position error is improved from 5.4 m to 2.3 m on average in the complex urban environment. Combining the RSQM algorithm with the GNSS has great potential for the future industrial revolution (Industry 5.0), making things automatic and sustainable like autonomous vehicle operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DC power systems have emerged as a cost-effective solution for electric power generation and transmission, challenging the dominance of AC distribution systems. However, a comprehensive efficiency comparison between DC and AC microgrids remains understudied. This study seeks to explore and conduct a thorough survey on development and designing of DC microgrids to address this gap. Firstly, a comprehensive literature review comparing the efficiencies of AC and DC microgrids has been presented. The analysis highlights the superior efficiency of DC distribution systems over AC systems, supported by detailed advantages. Secondly, hardware implementation has been performed to directly compare the efficiency of DC versus AC systems. Research validity and application are further improved by the hardware prototype's scalability, which in simulation allows for a thorough assessment of system stability over a range of scenarios from four to six terminals. Test results from the built hardware prototype demonstrate an astounding 15% increase in efficiency using the DC system compared to the AC system, demonstrating its potential for improved performance in real-world scenarios. In simulation results, the designed DC microgrid demonstrates stable voltages of 500V under steady state operation and rapid recovery within 80 ms under both symmetrical and asymmetrical faults has been observed. The research being investigated utilizes hardware implementation and simulation to provide useful insights into the efficiency and stability of DC microgrids in comparison to AC systems. These results are important for developing robust power distribution networks in modern energy environments, promoting sustainability and dependability in infrastructure growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents an advanced Model Predictive Control (MPC) technique designed to mitigate Circulating Current (CC) in HVDC systems equipped with Modular Multilevel Converters (MMC). This MPC strategy eliminates the need for traditional PI regulators and pulse width modulation, improving system dynamics and control accuracy. It excels in managing output currents and mitigating voltage fluctuations in sub-module capacitors. Moreover, the paper introduces a novel communication-free Fault Ride-Through (FRT) method that makes a DC chopper redundant, enabling rapid recovery from disturbances. To reduce the computational burden of standard MPC algorithms, an aggregated MMC model is proposed, significantly decreasing the computational complexity. Simulation studies validate the new MPC algorithm's capability in regulating AC side current, reducing CC, and ensuring capacitor voltage stability under varying conditions. The findings indicate that the proposed MPC controller outperforms traditional PI and PR-based methods, offering enhanced dynamic response, decreased steady-state error, and lowered converter losses, which contribute to smoother DC link voltages. Future research will focus on system scalability, renewable energy integration, and empirical validation through hardware-in-the-loop testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the proliferation of ubiquitous internet and smart gadgets, the culture of book reading has been on the decline; lack of this important quality is clearly reflected in the social awareness, creativity, and critical thinking skills of university students. This paper examines the impact of gadgets, online education, and entertainment on academic and recreational book reading. This article presents a brief account of extracurricular intervention aimed at promoting voluntary readership among university students. Qualitative data was collected through pre and post intervention surveys and via observation. A preliminary survey provided profound insight into the leisure reading habits of the students and extent of reliance on digital gadgets and online resources as a primary source for gathering information. The efficacy of proposed intervention was evaluated through the program mentor and exit survey feedback. According to the survey results the proposed intervention achieved fruitful results; According to authors there is no quick fix to this problem; coherent and consorted efforts are needed to impede the adverse effects of digital technology on university students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel model predictive control (MPC) approach for suppressing circulating currents in MMC-based HVDC systems. The proposed MPC eliminates the need for PI-regulators and pulse width modulators, resulting in improved dynamic response and controllability. The methodology demonstrates exceptional efficacy in controlling output current and addressing voltage ripple concerns associated with sub module (SM) capacitors. An innovative, communication-free fault ride-through (FRT) method is also introduced, eliminating the need for a DC chopper and ensuring rapid recovery following faults. To overcome the computational challenges associated with the traditional MPC algorithm, an aggregate model of the MMC is proposed, significantly reducing predicted states, hardware requirements, and calculations. Simulations validate the robustness of the proposed MPC control algorithm in tracking AC side current, suppressing circulating current, and regulating capacitor voltages under various scenarios. Future research will explore system expansion, integration with renewable energy sources, and hardware-in-loop setup testing for further validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the efficacy of a low-cost heating pack device used for thermotherapy in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis., Methods: The study was conducted at the Department of Dermatology, Civil Hospital Sukkur, Pakistan, from April 20, 2012, to January 3, 2013. Thermotherapy with Hand-Held Exothermic Crystallisation Therapy for cutaneous leishmaniasis was performed on each lesion of the participating subjects at an average initial temperature of 51.6°C for 3 minutes daily for 7 days. Patients were followed regularly for 6 months after the therapy. SPSS 20 was used for statistical analysis., Results: Even though all 27 patients completed 1 week of thermotherapy, only 23(85.2%) patients could be evaluated for full treatment response since 4(14.8%) were lost to complete follow-up. By the final 180-day evaluation, 19 (83%) patients had been cured. Applications were well tolerated with no side effects., Conclusion: The devise was a convenient, safe, non-toxic and effective treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis at a fraction of the cost of standard antimonial treatment. Further studies are needed to certify its safety and efficacy as monotherapy for the condition.