Design Flaws Research Articles

A numerical investigation of the structural behavior of reinforced concrete beams fully or partially encased with UHPC layers in flexure

Weakness in the structural facilities appears due to design faults, poor construction, usage change, maintenance lack, material defects, and environmental conditions. Therefore, strengthening structures becomes necessary for deteriorated concrete and enhancing aging concrete elements to achieve satisfactory performance perfectly. This study numerically investigated the structural behavior of conventional concrete beams reinforced with Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) layers on different sides. The arrangement of UHPC layers, bonding method between traditional concrete and UHPC, layer thickness, and reinforcement ratio were examined using Abaqus software. The interface between the UHPC layer and conventional concrete sustains compressive, tensile, and shear stresses, which cause weak resistance to the stresses at the contact surfaces. Therefore, the simulation of contact face in Abaqus needs a proper numerical model relying on practical methods. However, using the bonding models available in Abaqus is crucial for reaching logical results comparable to the practical ones. The practical bonding approaches are highly consequential, such as roughening surfaces by sandblasting to attain a firm connection between the contact surfaces, which permits using a surface-based tie constraint for simulation. Further, epoxy resin conducts as a thin coating between contact surfaces, making it possible to simulate via a cohesive surface. The results proved that increasing the area encased by the UHPC layer improves load capacity further and reduces the deflection at the maximum load. Surrounding the beam on whole sides with a UHPC raises load capacity by 108 % and reduces deflection by 46 %. Adding a UHPC layer to the beam delays crack initiation and reduces their number and spacing. Increasing the UHPC layer thickness or reinforcement ratio enhances the load capacity of the beam at cracking and the ultimate state.

Functionalization Strategies of Iron Sulfides for High-Performance Supercapacitors

AbstractSupercapacitors have emerged as a promising class of energy storage technologies, renowned for their impressive specific capacities and reliable cycling performance. These attributes are increasingly significant amid the growing environmental challenges stemming from rapid global economic growth and increased fossil fuel consumption. The electrochemical performance of supercapacitors largely depends on the properties of the electrode materials used. Among these, iron-based sulfide (IBS) materials have attracted significant attention for use as anode materials owing to their high specific capacity, eco-friendliness, and cost-effectiveness. Despite these advantages, IBS electrode materials often face challenges such as poor electrical conductivity, compromised chemical stability, and large volume changes during charge–discharge cycles. This review article comprehensively examines recent research efforts aiming at improving the performance of IBS materials, focusing on three main approaches: nanostructure design (including 0D nanoparticles, 1D nanowires, 2D nanosheets, and 3D structures), composite development (including carbonaceous materials, metal compounds, and polymers), and material defect engineering (through doping and vacancy introduction). The article sheds light on novel concepts and methodologies designed to address the inherent limitations of IBS electrode materials in supercapacitors. These conceptual frameworks and strategic interventions are expected to be applied to other nanomaterials, driving advancements in electrochemical energy conversion.

Fault Detection Strategy of Partial Least Squares Based on Temporal Neighborhood Difference

ABSTRACTAiming at the difficulty of detecting time‐lag faults in dynamic processes, a fault detection strategy based on time neighborhood difference (TND) is proposed, and it is introduced into the partial least squares (PLS) method to suggest the PLS‐TND fault detection method. The TND method takes the mean to the multibatch training set to obtain a baseline training set, and it constructs the mean squared Euclidean distance (MSED) statistic by calculating the average distance between the sample's first k‐moments neighborhood samples and samples at the same moment in the baseline training set. The TND method can help the PLS method to effectively detect time‐lag faults and significantly improve the fault detection capability of PLS by measuring the overall positional difference between the temporal neighborhood sample set of the sample and its temporal neighborhood sample set in the baseline training set. The PLS‐TND method is compared with some classical fault detection methods through a numerical simulation process and a Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR) system design fault detection experiment. The PLS‐TND method gives the best performance of fault detection.

Trial Waste in Hyaluronic Acid-Related Randomised Controlled Trials.

A notable obstacle in applying the findings of hyaluronic acid (HA)-related randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to real-world patient treatment is trial waste (TW). To date, the extent of TW in RCTs for HA is not clear. To analyse the extents of TW within HA-RCTs and identify protective factors against TW. In July 2024, we searched the ClinicalTrials database using the 'hyaluronic acid' as keyword. We documented the data available and then explored PubMed and Scopus for the publication status. Reporting adequacy was evaluated using the CONSORT checklist. Design limitations were analysed based on bias risk and whether the article referenced a relevant systematic review. Subsequently, we evaluated extent of TW (unpublished studies, insufficient reporting and design flaws). One hundred and eighty-four RCTs met the inclusion criteria. The analysis of TW excluded 53 RCTs completed after June 2020 that remained unpublished. Among the remaining 131 RCTs, 72 were published, 47 had adequate reporting and 19 had design limitations. Taken together, 96 RCTs (73.3%) exhibited at least one characteristic of TW. Characteristics of these RCTs included early registration (p < 0.001) and the absence of a multi-blind approach (p = 0.007). Registration prior to 2014 (p < 0.001) and the open-label or single-blinding design (p = 0.003) emerged as independent risk factor for TW. We delineated the features of 184 HA-related RCTs. 73.3% of the RCTs included in TW analysis exhibited TW. The diverse traits of the different TW indicators identified could serve as valuable insights for conducting future HA-RCTs more rationally and efficiently.

Piezoelectric nanocomposite electrospun dressings: Tailoring mechanics for scar-free wound recovery

Rational wound management and enhancing healing quality are critical in clinical practice. Electrical stimulation therapy (EST) has emerged as a valuable adjunctive treatment due to its safety and cost-effectiveness. Integrating piezoelectric materials into dressings offers a way to miniaturize and personalize electrotherapy, enhancing convenience. To address the impact of physical factors of dressings on wound healing, a nanocomposite piezoelectric electrospun dressing using poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) and barium titanate (BaTiO3) was developed. We intentionally exaggerated design flaws to mimic the characteristics of scar extracellular matrix (ECM), including the oriented thick fibers and high Young's modulus. Initially, these dressings promoted fibrosis and hindered functional regeneration. However, when the piezoelectric effect was triggered by ultrasound, the fibrotic phenotype was reversed, leading to scar-free healing with well-regenerated functional structures. This study highlights the significant therapeutic potential of piezoelectric dressings in skin wound treatment and underscores the importance of carefully designing the static physical properties of dressings for optimal efficacy.

Highly efficient porous MXene desalination membranes controlled by the thickness of the transition metal carbides

MXene membrane has the vast potential to alleviate the global freshwater crisis. Herein, a new strategy for improving the desalination performance is proposed through tunable the thickness transition metal carbides of the nano-porous MXene membrane. The thickness of porous MXene is investigated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, including the Ti2CF2, Ti3C2F2, and Ti4C3F2. The results show that the porous MXene membrane can reach highly efficient desalination. The water density distribution reveals that more water gathers in the thicker transition metal carbides layer, contributing to the poor water flux; the average charge distribution indicates that the transition metal layer plays an essential role in effectively rejecting Na+/trapping Cl- ions. Multilayered porous membranes are explored to improve the trade-off desalination performance. The number of pores enhances the water permeability, and the multilayers improve the ion rejection. The two-layered Ti3C2F2 membrane with three nanopores achieves nearly doubled water flux and keeps 100% ion rejection. Our work reported that the nano-porous MXene membrane offers a prospective strategy to eliminate the current design defects, which provides an innovative method for the desalination semipermeable membrane industry.

Changing the environment: Removing HFSS items in prominent areas of stores in Nottinghamshire

Abstract This study examines the change in exposure to high-fat, salt, or sugar products (HFSS) after the implementation of a policy restricting the placement of HFSS items in prime locations in England that came into legislation in October 2022. 132 observations were conducted in 2022 and 2023, using a food environment survey. Supermarkets (SM), chain convenience stores (CSS), and independent convenience stores (ICS) were observed in the highest and lowest socioeconomic districts (SED) in Nottinghamshire. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse changes in exposures in prime locations by product category, the policy’s inclusion criteria, the Food Standard Agency’s Nutrient Profile Score (NPS), and the Nova classification. Exposure defined as is the presence of a product at a prime location in stores. A decrease in exposure to restricted products in both SED in SM and CCS was observed. No notable changes were observed in the ICS due to their exemption from the policy. In all SM, the observed exposure to products restricted by the policy was reduced from 39% to 14%. The study found that the policy was successful in reducing exposure to high-sugar products such as biscuits and chocolate. NPS and NOVA showed that exposure rates were notably higher in less healthy and ultra-processed food (UPF) categories compared to the exposure to products restricted due to the policy’s exemption criteria. Exposure to alcohol products increased after the policy’s implementation, with a 20-percentage point increase in alcohol exposure in all SM checkout areas. The study suggests that the policy may have narrowed the differences in environments between the SEDs, highlighted by the findings in the ICS, whereby exposure to less healthy products was higher in the lower SED. The policy also created an opportunity for the alcohol industry to increase its exposure. Shortfalls in the policy’s design were identified through the use of the NPS and Nova classification system. Key messages • Despite the equitable outcomes in socioeconomic districts, loopholes in policy design allow the alcohol industry to exploit prime locations and undermine health objectives. • Policy success is evident in HFSS reduction; however, continued exposure to HFSS items exempt from the policy, and UPF products highlight policy design flaws that undermine health objectives.

Inclusive intervention design for vulnerable road users: Applying co-design and behaviour change model in Bangladesh

In developing countries, it is debatable whether poor design of facilities or violation of traffic rules by road users is the leading cause of pedestrian injuries and deaths. Professionals, pedestrians and drivers tend to blame each other. Shared responsibility for road safety is crucial for protecting vulnerable road users such as commuting students and workers who face higher injury risks while crossing highways. While the Safe System approach emphasises authorities’ responsibility for safe facilities, understanding user needs and promoting behaviour change remain underexplored. This study investigates the current design practices in Bangladesh. It compares the impact of conventional design with co-design on intervention quality and examines the further benefits of integrating a behaviour change model ‘COM-B’.Local road agency professionals applied the design process and suggested interventions at four highway sites. Subsequently, four focus group sessions were conducted with students and workers, followed by four design workshops. In each workshop, participants were randomly assigned to two design groups (without and with the application of the behaviour change model), where they designed interventions facilitated by professionals. Lastly, perception ratings of stakeholders and safety assessments by four experts were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of all interventions.The findings highlight major usability problems in conventional designs, while co-designed interventions demonstrate clear improvements. Notably, integrating a behaviour change model further enhances effectiveness. Stakeholder interviews reveal that co-design fosters shared responsibility and addresses the blame culture. The co-design approach and application of the behaviour change model can address design flaws and promote the proper use of facilities.

An Emerging Solid‐State Electrolyte Reactor to Drive the Future of Electrochemical Synthesis

AbstractElectrochemical reactors, powered by renewable electricity, have garnered widespread attention for chemical synthesis due to their low energy consumption and pollution‐free features. However, the inherent design flaw of traditional electrochemical reactors has persistently hindered the advancement of electrochemical synthesis, as they result in low product concentrations, low purity, and continuous production issues. As a novel electrochemical reactor, the porous solid‐state electrolyte (PSE) reactor is elaborately designed to overcome the limitation by enabling the direct and continuous synthesis of pure products, possessing a modular and scalable structure with high efficiency, safety, and long stability. In this work, first, the distinctive design of the PSE reactor, highlighting its structural features, core components, and variable configurations, is introduced. Furthermore, the configuration‐relevant applications in electrosynthesis, such as formic acid, acetic acid, and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production, are summarized. Integrated applications are also discussed, along with potential domains for improvements and optimization. Finally, the future developmental directions of the PSE devices are thoroughly explored. By addressing its unique design attributes, showcasing its capabilities, and envisioning prospective refinements and diverse applications, the aim is to boost the progression of this transformative technology toward widespread commercialization and industrial adoption, thereby revolutionizing sustainable electrochemical synthesis.

A review on early-age cracking of concrete: Causes and control

The early-age cracking of concrete is one of the most critical parameters affecting the performance of concrete structures. It is attributed to both the internal and external influences such as early age restrained shrinkage, thermal deformation as well as the applied load. In this paper, a detailed review of the causes of early-age cracking is first presented, followed by the factors affecting the concrete cracking including raw materials quality problems, improper construction measures, external environmental influences and structural design flaws. Then the preventive measures for concrete cracking are summarized. The potential for the application and development of structural health monitoring and artificial intelligence techniques for early-age cracking of concrete is also discussed. Through the comprehensive review of the early-age cracking of concrete, the research direction for the subsequent research on early-age cracking of concrete is pointed out. The current problems and concerns of concrete cracking are also prospected.

Pesticide delivery microcapsule based on maleic anhydride‐functionalized cellulose nanocrystals‐stabilized pickering emulsion

AbstractThe efficient use of pesticides is conducive to the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature, and pesticide transport carriers can enhance the utilization value of pesticides. However, design flaws in many pesticide carriers have resulted in numerous environmental and toxicity problems. Therefore, this paper proposed a method for synthesizing pesticide microcapsules using Pickering emulsion templates stabilized by maleic anhydride‐functionalized cellulose nanocrystals‐g‐poly (methyl methacrylate) (MACNCs‐g‐MMA), viz., simple radical polymerization of maleic anhydride‐functionalized cellulose nanocrystals with methyl methacrylate in Pickering emulsion. The structure and morphology of microcapsules were characterized via the FT‐IR, XRD, TG‐DTG, and SEM techniques. The imidacloprid‐loaded MACNCs‐g‐MMA (IMI@MACNCs‐g‐MMA) presented a high encapsulation efficiency (~94.13%) and drug loading efficiency (~24.00%). The release behavior was affected by temperature, viz., higher temperature promoted the release of IMI. Regarding the spread and retention on the leaf surface, the IMI@MACNCs‐g‐MMA demonstrated significant advantages over commercial IMI water‐dispersible granules (CG) (36.9° vs. 104.9° for contact angle, 14.3 vs. 30.0 mg cm−2 for retention). This study provides a promising pesticide formula for sustainable agriculture.

Election administration harms and ballot design: A study of Florida's 2018 United States Senate race

AbstractWe introduce a typology of election administration harms and apply it to empirically study the consequences of ballot design. Our typology distinguishes between individual, electoral, and systemic harms. Together, it clarifies why ballot design can be a particular vulnerability in election administration. Using both ballot‐level and precinct‐level data, we revisit Florida's 2018 United States Senate race, in which Broward County's ballot design flouted federal guidelines and, according to critics, was pivotal to the outcome. We estimate that Broward's ballot design induced roughly 25,000 voters to undervote in a race determined by about 10,000 votes and that these excess undervotes were concentrated among low‐information voters. Broward's ballot did not, however, affect the outcome of the election. Nonetheless, flawed ballot designs are still concerning in an age of voter distrust. Given the risk that flawed ballots can cause systemic harm, we offer a roadmap for procedural reforms to improve ballot design.

The “Cognitive” Architectural Design Process and Its Problem with Recent Artificial Intelligence Applications

The connection between cognitive science and the architectural design process reveals significant gaps that limit the full potential of creating effective built environments. A key issue is the insufficient integration of cognitive principles into design workflows. Architects frequently rely on traditional methods and aesthetic considerations without fully understanding how spatial configurations influence human cognition and behavior. While recent AI applications in architecture, such as Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD), Building Information Modeling (BIM), and interactive web and VR presentations, show promising advancements, AI still struggles with complex architectural functions. AI lacks the creativity and imagination inherent in human cognition. It operates based on fixed programming, producing specific outcomes and requiring human oversight to apply insights from one dataset to another. The primary challenge in using AI for architectural design is ensuring minimal design flaws, as replicating human cognitive abilities with AI and various machine learning techniques remains difficult. This research paper aims to explore the relationship between cognitive science, artificial intelligence, and the architectural design process through four main objectives: First, to investigate the integration of AI with current architectural software applications. Second, to examine potential connections between AI and major architectural design trends. Third, to define two frameworks for the Cognitive Architectural Design Process to guide the development of AI systems in architectural design by analyzing key cognitive design theories. Finally, to create a proposed &amp;quot;Architectural Design Process-Cognitive Pilot Map&amp;quot; from an architectural perspective to aid AI programmers in developing architecture design software applications.

A Numerical Framework of Simulating Flow-Induced Deformation during Liquid Composite Moulding

Fibre deformation (or shearing of yarns) can develop during the liquid moulding of composites due to injection pressures or polymerisation (cross-linking) reactions (e.g., chemical shrinkage). On that premise, this may also induce potential residual stress–strain, warpage, and design defects in the composite part. In this paper, a developed numerical framework is customised to analyse deformations and the residual stress–strain of fibre (at a micro-scale) and yarns (at a meso-scale) during a liquid composite moulding (LCM) process cycle (fill and cure stages). This is achieved by linking flow simulations (coupled filling–curing simulation) to a transient structural model using ANSYS software. This work develops advanced User-Defined Functions (UDFs) and User-Defined Scalers (UDSs) to enhance the commercial CFD code with extra models for chemorheology, cure kinetics, heat generation, and permeability. Such models will be hooked within the conservation equations in the thermo-chemo-flow model and hence reflected by the structural model. In doing so, the knowledge of permeability, polymerisation, rheology, and mechanical response can be digitally obtained for more coherent and optimised manufacturing processes of advanced composites.

Machine Learning for Optimizing Macro-ergonomics in Pharmaceutical Supply Chain

This study endeavors to enhance the macro-ergonomics of pharmaceutical supply chains by introducing an innovative hybrid AI methodology, incorporating fuzzy data envelopment analysis (FDEA). A comprehensive case study is conducted to evaluate the efficiency of the pharmaceutical supply chain, focusing on macro-ergonomic work system assessment. This evaluation aims to identify design flaws contributing to communication delays between physicians and patients. The proposed integrated approach utilizes a hybrid AI framework, specifically FDEA, to accurately measure macro-ergonomic influences on the healthcare supply chain under uncertain conditions. The case study involves a prominent urban outpatient medical facility with 20 clinics, selecting 20 Decision-Making Units for a holistic perspective. Results uncover factors causing delays, emphasizing weak or absent feedback structures as critical elements affecting the healthcare supply chain’s effectiveness. In conclusion, the study recommends modifications to optimize the pharmaceutical supply chain, enhancing overall healthcare efficiency. The findings provide valuable insights for healthcare management, underscoring the crucial role of advanced AI methodologies in addressing complex challenges within healthcare supply chains.

Research on the Design Aesthetic Characteristics of Chinese Digital Virtual Products in the 21st Century

The advancement of digital technologies profoundly impacts design art, particularly in virtual product design, where new expressions and effects, unattainable through traditional methods, emerge. Digitalization supports designers by freeing their creativity and enabling the embodiment of artistic pursuits. This transformation affects all stages of artistic creation, from concepts to expression, facilitated by the integration of digital technologies. The interactivity of digital virtual design promotes personalized, humane aesthetics through user participation.In the context of China's development, the animation industry's growth necessitates a unique cultural approach. Successful films like "Storm Rider Clash of the Evils" integrate Chinese elements and philosophy, reflecting traditional culture and values. This film exemplifies the fusion of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, presenting the idea of fate and the unity of characters in accordance with destiny. Martial arts scenes, rivers, lakes, and dynamic fights showcase innovative audio-visual effects. Despite some design flaws, the film's innovations and desire for innovation mark a significant step in the evolution of Chinese animation art, providing new creative opportunities and inspiring future projects. The film's cultural depth, blending traditional elements with modern trends, appeals to a broad audience, solidifying China's position in the global animation industry and showcasing its potential for innovation and cultural contribution.

Defects in catalyst design boost plastic recycling efficiency

Defects in catalyst design boost plastic recycling efficiency

Hemoglobin-based transfusion strategies for cardiovascular and other diseases: restrictive, liberal, or neither?

AbstractA “restrictive” red blood cell transfusion threshold, a hemoglobin concentration <7 to 8 g/dL, has long been recommended for most hospitalized patients including anemic patients with stable cardiovascular disease (CVD). Although no threshold recommendation is given for acute coronary syndromes (ACSs), recent evidence suggests that “liberal” rather than “restrictive” transfusion strategies are associated with significantly improved safety for hospitalized patients with stable CVD and/or ACS. This finding suggests that previously available data were misinterpreted. Conclusions drawn from earlier transfusion trigger trials have been confounded by unintentional trial design and analysis flaws that have contributed to erroneous recommendations regarding the safety of a restrictive threshold. Subsequently, these conclusions have been incorporated into widely accepted guidelines and clinical practice. Management with a restrictive vs liberal transfusion strategy (<10 g/dL) increases the risk of new-onset ACS in patients with CVD by ∼2%. We estimate that since 2019, using hospital databases and a recent meta-analysis, this practice may have resulted in ∼700 excess ACS events per year in orthopedic surgical patients. Given these findings, transfusion practices in other clinical conditions, particularly those derived from similar transfusion trigger trials, should be questioned. Restrictive and liberal transfusion policies merit a general reconsideration. Rather than a single numerical transfusion trigger, transfusion therapy should be personalized. Consideration of an individual patient’s age, clinical status, and comorbidities is integral to transfusing. To avoid making similar errors, future trials of transfusion therapy should determine common practices before study inception and incorporate them as a usual-care “control” comparator arm into the trial design. Such studies should more reliably improve current transfusion practice.

Digital Design Quality Management: The Theory of Faults

Built environment and infrastructure designs are produced in complex information systems. Managing this complexity poses a significant challenge; data scarcity and bias are substantial obstacles. This paper addresses the gap in data availability by mining building information modeling (BIM) meta-databases. Two case study databases are studied and assessed through various analytical tools, including network modeling, statistics, entropy, fast Fourier transform (fft), and information constraint (IC). Through analytical and empirical investigation, insights into the morphology, characteristics, failures, causes, and trajectories of design information systems are derived, showcasing that complex systems can be retroactively deciphered and predicted to a certain extent. This study acknowledges design errors as social and psychological phenomena and proposes behavioristic and systemic remedies for addressing design faults. Applying design quality-control management tools, risk assessment, and responsibility allocation becomes feasible, enabling proactive and real-time corrective actions. This research contributes a theoretical framework and practical methodologies as well as the application of data analysis tools to design quality control management, addressing both the information gap and the complexity challenge.

Assessing Student-User Experience in Building Design Studios Using Advanced Intelligent Tools: A Pilot Study at the University

Recent advancements in technology have revolutionized various fields, including architecture education. However, studies exploring immersive realities in architectural design studios remain limited. This research addresses this gap by conducting a pilot study at the Architectural Engineering Intermediate Design Studio, which thoroughly explores the use of Virtual Reality (VR) to help architectural students enhance their design skills, detect design flaws and clashes between different systems, and provide valuable insights for the advancement of architectural education and practice. The study will adopt a qualitative methodology that utilizes in-depth interviews conducted with the students while they explore their designs using VR hardware. The research findings revealed the effectiveness of VR in identifying the following: Enhancing the visualization of design challenges, providing a comprehensive building assessment, and holistically detecting design qualities and system integration problems. The pilot study recommends integrating the use of VR into the curriculum of the intermediate design studio level at the University. The research findings will contribute to the current knowledge base and guide future advancements in immersive design technologies.