Radiofrequency quadrupole (RFQ) linear accelerators with variable aperture cell parameters offer an effective means of accelerating high-intensity ion beams exceeding 100 mA and have been implemented in various RFQ designs. However, in a four-rod RFQ, the use of dielectric perturbation methods to measure the voltage distribution behind the rod electrodes is not applicable when implementing variable aperture geometries, because changes in the rod shape influence the electric field at the location of the perturbation element. Therefore, it was necessary to design the rod profile for each cell such that the electric field distribution behind the rods remains unaffected by changes in the aperture. In this study, we present a method to adjust the voltage distribution by modifying the geometry of the rod electrodes according to each cell's aperture parameters. This design approach enables the integration of variable aperture cells into a four-rod RFQ linac, significantly enhancing the achievable beam current. To ensure uniform capacitance and maintain a constant rod-electrode voltage despite variations in the average aperture radius, we developed a systematic method for shaping the rod electrodes. This method was refined using two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) electromagnetic field simulations to optimize the electrode cross-sectional profiles. The fabricated rod electrodes were then installed in a four-rod RFQ, and the electric field distribution was measured using the perturbation method and tuned by adjusting the base plates. As a result, the measured variation of ±1.1 % confirms that this design methodology can produce a sufficiently uniform voltage distribution for high-current beam acceleration. These results demonstrate the practical feasibility of a variable-aperture four-rod RFQ linac.

This study presents a multi-step approach to design and evaluate the cooling architecture of an actively cooled probe nacelle suitable for high-temperature supersonic flows. First, a 1D heat transfer model was used to determine the coolant pressure required for thermal protection of the nacelle at supersonic conditions. It incorporates conductive-convective heat transfer, effusion cooling, leading-edge effects, and high-speed boundary layer effects. A parametric analysis identified a minimum coolant pressure of 2.4 bar to satisfy the temperature limits of the nacelle at the most severe conditions of M 1 = 6 , T 01 = 1700 K . 3D RANS simulations were utilized to assess the accuracy of the 1D model giving average deviations in adiabatic cooling effectiveness and heat transfer coefficient below 6% and 15% respectively. Finally, the cooling performance of the nacelle was assessed in a transonic open jet. Cooling effectiveness was measured with high-resolution infrared thermography, and heat flux was measured with high-frequency Atomic Layer Thermopiles (ALTP). Uncertainties in cooling effectiveness and heat transfer coefficient were evaluated through Taylor propagation and Monte Carlo simulations, respectively. Oil-flow visualization was conducted to compare the surface flow behavior in the effusion cooled face between simulations and experiments, while Schlieren was used to compare the bow shock location and shape. A comprehensive comparison is conducted involving analytical models, simulations and experiments that validate the proposed methodology. • First unified 1D 3D experimental methodology for supersonic cooled-probe design. • Actively cooled probe enables optical tests from transonic to Mach 6 and 1700 K. • IR, thermopile, schlieren, and oil tests link heat flux, cooling, and flow topology. • 1D and 3D models agree within 15% for HTC and 7% for cooling effectiveness.

Using Human Centered Design to Evaluate the Implementation of a National Trauma Informed Care Curriculum Pilot at an Urban, Level 1 Trauma Center.

A review of perovskite catalysts for automotive exhaust soot conversion: Structure, activity and design strategies

Computational methods for signal peptide prediction: From statistical models to deep learning.

The High Rigidity Spectrometer (HRS) at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) requires superconducting magnets to perform momentum analysis of rare isotopes at high beam energies. A key element of the HRS is the superferric Sector dipole magnet called DS2, specifically designed to bend particle beams by 60° with a peak magnetic field of 2 T, enabling operations at a magnetic rigidity of up to 8 Tm, which is essential to support the scientific program at FRIB. The DS2 utilizes a NbTi superconducting conductor embedded within a copper channel and features a robust passive quench protection scheme incorporating cold diodes. Its mechanical structure consists of a warm iron yoke and a 20° pole-face angle, which enables horizontal beam focusing without supplementary quadrupole magnets. This paper details DS2’s electromagnetic performance, coil mechanical forces, conductor stability analysis, quench protection characteristics, and structural considerations, highlighting the critical design methodologies adopted to ensure reliable operation.

Conventional tuned mass dampers (TMDs) require substantial static displacement when designed for low-frequency vertical vibration control, which poses major challenges in applications where installation space and structural compactness are critical. To address this issue, this study proposes a novel TMD integrated with a negative stiffness mechanism (TMD-NSM). The NSM is realized using a cam-roller-leaf spring assembly, providing effective negative stiffness while maintaining a compact, low-friction configuration. A systematic design methodology is developed, including derivation of the cam surface profile and a step-by-step parameter selection procedure. The governing equation of motion, accounting for viscous damping and friction, is derived to predict the dynamic behavior of the TMD-NSM. Experimental validation using physical models demonstrates that a TMD-NSM tuned to 0.15 Hz limits static displacement to only 1.7 m, which is substantially lower than the over 11 m required by a conventional TMD. Numerical parametric studies further examine the effects of TMD mass, tuning frequency, leaf spring predeflection, and friction between cam and roller on system design and performance, highlighting the TMD-NSM’s robustness and flexibility. The results confirm that the proposed TMD-NSM provides an effective and practical solution for low-frequency vertical vibration control in large-scale civil structures.

Cold-formed steel lightweight concrete (CFS-LWC) composite beams: New design proposal

Seismic design provisions for eccentrically braced frames (EBFs) have undergone significant evolution in recent years, with major building codes continually refining their guidelines. This study presents a comparative analysis of the seismic design provisions in current standards, with a focus on key aspects including overstrength factors, behavior factors, and structural response under seismic loads. Unlike many previous studies that focused on a single design standard, this research highlights the differences between two codes and the implications for seismic resilience. A detailed case study of a multistory office building in Naples, Italy, where EBFs are designed in accordance with the studied guidelines, is presented. The study examines the impact of variations in link beam length, bracing configurations, and material properties (S275 and S355 steel) on seismic performance. Using commercially available software for structural analysis, including response spectrum analysis and second-order (P-Δ) effects, the study reveals significant differences in overstrength distribution, lateral drift limits, and energy-dissipation mechanisms. Notably, one code assigns variable behavior factors based on ductility class, whereas the other uses a fixed response modification factor. These differences influence base shear requirements, overstrength provisions, and material efficiency. The findings offer practical insights for structural engineers in selecting an appropriate design approach based on seismic performance objectives. Future research should focus on parametric studies and full-scale testing to further refine EBF design methodologies and contribute to the harmonization of global seismic design standards.

Emergence as a Contemporary Design Methodology in Furniture Design

This paper presents a groundbreaking contribution to the field of slender fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforced concrete (RC) column design, addressing a critical aspect in the context of ACI 318-19 methodology—the prediction of effective flexural stiffness. Acknowledging the inherent differences in the properties of FRP bars compared to steel bars, this study introduces a novel analytical equation derived from an extensive simulation of 11,520 FRP RC columns. The proposed model meticulously accounts for key parameters influencing column behavior, including the concrete strength, longitudinal reinforcement ratio, modulus of elasticity of FRP bars, eccentricity ratio, and column slenderness ratio. To validate the efficacy of the new formula, a comprehensive verification was conducted on 71 FRP RC columns, combining data from existing literature (63 columns) and experimental results obtained by the authors (eight columns, detailed in a separate publication). Notably, the newly proposed equation demonstrates a conservative approach, predicting lower flexural stiffness while exhibiting no specimens in the failure zone. This conservative yet accurate prediction underscores the proposed model’s potential superiority over existing models, emphasizing the necessity for different equations tailored to the distinct properties of FRP bars. The results of this study contribute significantly to advancing the understanding and design methodologies for slender FRP RC columns, providing engineers with a reliable tool for predicting flexural stiffness in a manner that aligns with the unique characteristics of FRP materials and the latest advancements in structural engineering.

Abstract A design methodology is proposed for architected microstructures that exhibit highly anisotropic and tunable stiffness, achieved solely through geometric configuration without modification of the material composition. Systematic variation of key geometric parameters yields stiffness anisotropy exceeding three orders of magnitude, thereby enabling independent control of axial and shear moduli. Such decoupled stiffness tailoring provides substantial flexibility for optimizing mechanical performance across diverse engineering applications. The dynamic characteristics of the proposed microstructures are comprehensively investigated, revealing pronounced wave anisotropy, directional energy transmission, and frequency-dependent phenomena, including directional bandgaps, single-mode propagation, and wave mode conversion. In particular, mode conversion enables elastic waves to be redirected by 90 degrees, while the adoption of an oblique lattice enhances conversion efficiency and broadens the directional bandgap, thereby improving waveguiding performance. The concept is further extended to an annular metastructure, which exhibits efficient wave trapping and azimuthal energy confinement, in sharp contrast to the omnidirectional propagation observed in isotropic counterparts. These findings establish a rigorous framework for the design of anisotropic architected materials with finely tunable wave control, offering significant potential for applications in vibration isolation, acoustic steering, and energy localization.

Abstract Maximizing the longitudinal fundamental frequency of rod-like structures is a critical objective for broadening the operational bandwidth of high-frequency transmission systems. This paper derives a closed-form analytical solution for the globally optimal cross-sectional profile of a rod subject to prescribed length and area constraints (Amin and Amax). Utilizing a variational formulation based on Rayleigh's principle, the optimal profile is identified as a novel multi-segment configuration comprising an exponential transition bridged by uniform segments at the geometric limits. A pivotal theoretical finding is that the maximum fundamental frequency scales linearly with the logarithm of the area ratio implying that the frequency enhancement is mathematically unbounded given sufficient geometric freedom. The analysis is further extended to complex boundary conditions, revealing the existence of critical tip-mass thresholds that discretely simplify the optimal topology into two-segment or uniform profiles. To validate engineering applicability, this theory is implemented in the design of an electrodynamic shaker's moving coil. Experimental harmonic response tests confirm that the optimized geometry achieves a 42.4% increase in the first natural frequency compared to traditional designs. This work provides a generalized theoretical framework and a rigorous design methodology for maximizing the dynamic performance of variable cross-section components.

Abstract Growing regulatory pressure and societal awareness have made sustainability a strategic necessity for industry. However, despite increasing academic research, significant gaps remain between theoretical approaches and their implementation in industrial decision making, where sustainability assessment often serves certification purposes rather than offering continuous improvement. This study proposes a replicable methodological framework that integrates sustainability into corporate design and decision-making processes. The framework includes three main phases: (i) assessment of the current system through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), (ii) LCA identification of environmental hotspots to define improvement priorities, and (iii) interdisciplinary ideation of circular redesign scenarios using the eco-design approach—a multicriteria, multistage, and multistakeholder systematic process that considers environmental design and development aspects while aiming to reduce adverse environmental impacts throughout a product’s lifecycle. The multifunctional team brings diverse expertise, enriches the holistic framework, and enables innovative and creative design proposals while evaluating competing priorities and facilitating trade-offs between life cycle phases. A game-changer has been challenging the status quo, from a conventional design methodology to an environmentally conscious design perspective with emission reduction as the primary core driver. When applied to an industrial case study at ABB S.p.A. on a medium-voltage circuit breaker, the framework proved effective in identifying design modifications that lower environmental impacts without compromising economic or technical feasibility. The results demonstrate the applicability of the Design for Sustainability initiative in promoting continuous product improvement. This methodology fosters an organizational culture that embeds sustainability into industrial innovation across internal ABB business areas and other manufacturing sectors. Graphical abstract

Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) have emerged as a novel paradigm that enables scientists to model complex relational data in medical applications, offering unique advantages over traditional deep learning (DL) approaches for non-Euclidean domains. This paper provides a comprehensive review of current GNN architectures and their healthcare applications, with a focus on functional connectivity analysis, electrical-based diagnostics, and anatomical structure modeling. We analyze the strengths and limitations of spectral and spatial GNN variants, including Graph Convolutional Networks (GCNs), Graph Attention Networks (GATs), and spatio-temporal extensions. Based on our critical assessment of the state-of-the-art innovations, we propose several key directions for medical researchers actively developing GNN technology: (1) Dynamic graph representation learning to capture evolving physiological processes; (2) Multi-modal fusion techniques to integrate heterogeneous biomedical data streams; (3) Uncertainty-aware GNNs for robust clinical decision support; (4) Explainable GNN architectures to enhance interpretability for healthcare practitioners; and (5) Federated GNN frameworks to enable privacy-preserving collaborative learning across institutions. We also introduce a new Temporal Multi-modal Attention Graph Neural Network (TMA-GNN) architecture designed explicitly for longitudinal patient modeling and clinical trial optimization. Our TMA-GNN incorporates multi-head attention mechanisms, temporal edge construction, and a custom loss function to encourage temporal consistency in predictions. We introduce a conceptual framework for the Temporal Multi-modal Attention Graph Neural Network (TMA-GNN), which is designed to support disease progression modeling and clinical trial optimization in neurological disorders. Although the proposed model architecture is technically detailed, this manuscript focuses on the conceptual and methodological design, rather than presenting experimental results. By addressing these proposed research directions, we envision GNNs will play an increasingly pivotal role in precision medicine, disease progression modeling, and treatment personalization.

Abstract An efficient approach for the design of wideband microwave photonic filter (MWPF) using phase-shifted fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) and the pole-zero placement technique is demonstrated. An infinite impulse response (IIR) filtering framework is employed to significantly reduce the number of filter components. The optimized filter coefficients are constrained to be real and treated as the reflectivities of π-phase-shifted FBGs arranged in a serial feedback configuration. Highpass and bandpass/multi-bandpass MWPF responses are realized over a wide operating frequency range of 0.2-25 GHz. The overall length of the FBG-based filtering link is compact, ranging from 0.4 cm to 8 cm. The cascaded IIR stage has been introduced to improve Q-factor and to achieve single bandpass filter response for wideband application. Theoretical analysis and system-level simulation are in close agreement, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed design methodology. Moreover, the presented microwave photonic filtering scheme is not limited to FBG-based implementations and can be readily extended to integrated waveguide grating platforms for photonic integrated circuit applications.

Multi-phase power systems are increasingly gaining traction in industrial and transportation applications due to their high reliability, fault tolerance, and improved power density compared to conventional three-phase systems. While various transformation methods exist, optimizing the specific winding design is critical for maximizing material efficiency and operational performance. This study presents a comprehensive design methodology for the windings of a 3kVA three-phase to five-phase shell-type transformer. Using a special connection scheme across three separate cores, the design equations were derived and subsequently validated through finite element analysis (FEA) using ANSYS Maxwell 2D. Simulation results for a rated phase load of "69.84∠" 〖"31.79" 〗^"0" demonstrated a high degree of accuracy, with calculated winding currents agreeing with simulated values within a 6% error margin. The system exhibited excellent field performance, maintaining magnetic flux and current densities within specified limits. Furthermore, the transformer achieved a high operational efficiency of 96.07% at the rated load. These results validate the proposed winding design and connection scheme, offering a reliable framework for the future development and optimization of multi-phase transformer systems.

FarmMart (AgriMart) is an innovative digital marketplace designed to empower farmers by enabling direct sales to wholesalers, retailers, and consumers, thereby eliminating intermediaries and enhancing profit margins. Built on the MERN stack (MongoDB, Express.js, React.js, Node.js), the platform provides end-to-end e-commerce functionality including product listing, real-time order tracking, transparent pricing, and secure payment integration via RazorPay. The system addresses long-standing inefficiencies in traditional agricultural supply chains and bridges the gap between rural producers and urban markets. Experimental results indicate a projected 20–25% increase in farmer earnings and a 30% reduction in post-harvest losses. This paper presents the system architecture, key modules, design methodology, experimental outputs, and future enhancement roadmap. Keywords: E-commerce, farmers, direct sales, fair trade, profit enhancement, fresh produce, sustainable agriculture, MERN stack, digital marketplace, post-harvest losses.

Fraud in health insurance claims continues to impose significant financial and operational burdens on healthcare systems, especially as the volume and complexity of claims increase. Conventional rule-based detection mechanisms, although widely used, have limited adaptability to evolving fraud patterns and high-dimensional data environments. This limitation has driven a shift toward data-driven analytical approaches capable of identifying suspicious patterns more effectively. This systematic review synthesizes peer-reviewed, open-access studies published between 2020 and 2025 that applied rule-based, supervised, unsupervised, or hybrid methods for fraud detection in health insurance claims. A comprehensive search across major databases yielded fourteen eligible studies representing diverse systems, datasets, and methodological designs. The findings indicate a clear transition from traditional rule-based systems to machine learning approaches, particularly in addressing challenges such as label scarcity, class imbalance, and complex fraud patterns. Most studies focused on integrated medical claims, where pharmaceutical fraud was embedded rather than analyzed independently, highlighting a gap in service-specific research. Significant heterogeneity was observed in fraud definitions, preprocessing techniques, labeling strategies, and evaluation metrics, limiting cross-study comparability and emphasizing the need for greater methodological transparency. Across the literature, data-driven approaches are consistently positioned as decision-support tools rather than definitive solutions, reinforcing their role in complementing expert judgment and regulatory oversight. Overall, effective implementation requires context-aware design, reliable labeling, and rigorous real-world validation. Future research should prioritize domain-specific analyses, particularly in pharmaceutical fraud, and improve transparency to support scalable and responsible deployment.

Abstract— India is an agrarian economy where a significant portion of the population depends on agriculture for their livelihood. The mechanization of agricultural operations is essential for improving productivity, reducing labor dependency, and minimizing operational costs. Seed sowing is one of the most labor-intensive and time-consuming operations in farming, particularly for small and marginal farmers who cannot afford expensive motorized equipment. This project presents the design, fabrication, and testing of a Solar Powered Seed Sprayer Machine — a portable, low-cost device intended for small-scale farming operations. The machine utilizes a 3 W polycrystalline solar panel to charge a 12 V, 7 Ah rechargeable battery, which in turn powers a 12 V DC motor for wheel-driven locomotion, a 12 V DC fan for generating seed-dispersing airflow, and a micro servo motor for controlling the seed gate opening. Seeds are stored in a hopper container and released through a servo-controlled gate into a 4-inch PVC pipe. A DC fan mounted at the end of the pipe generates an airflow velocity of approximately 10.47 m/s, sufficient to propel seeds uniformly across the field in a broadcast pattern. The machine is wirelessly controlled via a Bluetooth module, allowing the operator to control movement and seeding parameters from a safe distance. The entire system is mounted on a mild steel (MS) square pipe frame measuring 25×25×3 mm, with four 4-inch diameter wheels providing stable ground traversal The system provides approximately 2.5 hours of continuous operation per charge. Design calculations including power consumption, torque requirements, wheel speed, airflow velocity, and frame loading have been performed and validated. The machine is environmentally clean, eliminates dependence on fossil fuels, is simple to operate without skilled labor, and is easily maintainable at the village level. This report presents the complete design methodology, component specifications, fabrication process, performance analysis, and future scope of the proposed system. Index Terms- Solar energy, seed sowing machine, DC motor, airflow dispersion, broadcast seeding, agricultural mechanization,