Design Flaws Research Articles

Abstract IA004: Overcoming traditional design limitations with AI-based discovery

The properties of a new drug are set at the point of design, including any potential design flaws. Many small molecules that make it to human trials fail to progress beyond Phase 1 due to these flaws, which manifest as unacceptable side effects (either alone or in combination), meaning the drug (and therefore the pathway it is modulating) can never be adequately evaluated. This presentation will highlight how, through the thoughtful generation of a precise target candidate profile (TCP) and the subsequent use of GenAI, clinical candidates can now be precision designed to more exacting standards. Such molecules have the potential to have improved therapeutic indices, even against protein targets that are usually associated with mechanism-based adverse events. Citation Format: David J. Hallett. Overcoming traditional design limitations with AI-based discovery. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Optimizing Therapeutic Efficacy and Tolerability through Cancer Chemistry; 2024 Dec 9-11; Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2024;23(12_Suppl):Abstract nr IA004

Perceptions of clinicians and research ethics boards regarding ethical issues in investigator-initiated trials: a multicenter qualitative study in China

PurposeThis multicenter qualitative study aimed to explore the perceptions of clinicians and research ethics boards (REBs) regarding ethical issues in Investigator Initiated Trials (IITs).MethodsBetween February and April 2024, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 participants from 15 tertiary hospitals, including clinical doctors and members of REBs. Responses were grouped and analyzed using a descriptive phenomenological approach.ResultsClinicians expressed challenges in navigating the formal review process due to limited access to information and unclear guidelines. Academic review highlighted a deficiency in research literacy among clinical investigators, leading to flawed study design. Ethical review revealed concerns about inadequate ethical awareness among clinicians, resulting in failed ethical approvals. Moreover, delays in review processes and resource shortages were noted, hindering the efficient conduct of IITs.ConclusionThe findings underscore the need for comprehensive training programs to enhance clinicians’ research literacy and ethical awareness. Establishing a comprehensive system to support IITs, including enhanced guidance and support from REBs, is essential to ensure the quality and integrity of IITs in China.

A Development and Prototyping of a Two-Wheeled Self- Balancing Robot

Mobile robotics is a branch of robotics and within the branch the category of selfbalancingrobots is of particular interest as these robots show the promise of navigating difficultterrain in a manner like humans and can be used to platform for investigating autonomouscontrol systems. This paper aims to summarize the development of a two-wheeled self-balancingrobot as a case study to demonstrate the application of computer control systems in physicalsystems. A complementary filter is used with a triple-axis gyroscope and accelerometer toaccurately gauge the rotation of the two-wheeled robot and provide the data to a Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) program which controls the power to the motors accordingly to controlits tilt and achieve self-balancing. In short, the robot manages to achieve self-balancing within asmall tilt angle range, however, design flaws such as the sensor falling off at larger tilt anglescause instability at larger tilt angles. In future work, more complex control algorithms can beemployed, and the effect of different robot builds can be thoroughly explored

O IMPACTO DE MANIFESTAÇÕES PATOLÓGICAS DO CONCRETO NA DURABILIDADE E SEGURANÇA DAS ESTRUTURAS

This study analyzes the impact of pathological manifestations in reinforced concrete, emphasizing their effects on the durability and safety of structures. Common issues such as cracks, reinforcement corrosion, and spalling were investigated, along with their main causes, including design flaws, improper execution, poor maintenance, and adverse environmental conditions. Through a theoretical approach based on an extensive literature review, this research aimed to understand the origins and consequences of these pathologies and propose solutions to mitigate them. The findings reveal that pathological manifestations not only compromise structural integrity but also increase repair and maintenance costs throughout the service life of buildings. Aggressive environments, such as coastal zones or regions with significant temperature variations, were identified as aggravating factors, accelerating concrete deterioration and raising the risk of structural failures. Preventive measures, such as the use of high-quality materials, regular inspections, and protective coatings, proved essential to minimize the impacts of these pathologies. Furthermore, adopting proper practices during the design and execution stages significantly contributes to extending the service life of structures and ensuring user safety. In conclusion, pathological manifestations in concrete represent a critical challenge for civil engineering, requiring special attention from the initial construction phases to periodic maintenance. This study highlights the importance of combining technical knowledge with the implementation of best practices to preserve the functionality, safety, and aesthetic value of structures. It also underscores the need for future practical studies to further evaluate the effectiveness of various prevention and repair techniques, fostering sustainable development in the construction industry.

Additive Manufacturing Oriented Parametric Design Automation of Adaptive Joint System for an Irregular Form Gridshell Structure

In architectural engineering, triangular tessellation using polygon mesh topology is one of the commonly used computational geometric approaches to simplify a free curved building façade into flat triangular facets and their subsequent straight edges. In such a façade system, exterior panels are supported by a network of profiles that correspond to their edges hidden behind the panels at an offset distance. A group of profiles, derived from the edges common to a node point of tessellated panels (i.e., the outermost panels enveloping the building), may dislocate from each other when offset from their original locations due to non-coplanar alignment and unique offset directions and distances. This dislocation problem gives rise to geometric complications in nodal connector design in addition to varying in the connected profile count and orientations. Design considerations regarding the effects of ’offset vertex dislocation’ (i.e., the dislocation of the edges when it offsets from the original topology due to incoherent normal direction) should incorporate proper variables in the correct sequence based on a fundamental understanding that causes the dislocation problem. However, it is very often these topological problems pertaining to offset that are neglected, leading to subsequent design flaws. Such oversights diminish the inherent strengths of DfMA (design for manufacture and assembly) and design automation. This study develops a computational mathematical approach aimed at addressing the geometric complexities in nodal connector design. It focuses on two main areas: the precise positioning of substructure profiles essential for the design and a design automation approach that minimizes the length of the nodal connector arms to enhance 3D printing productivity. A life-scale proof-of-concept structure based on an automated parametric design process that implements the research findings demonstrates the application, incorporating 3D-printed PA12 (Polyamide-12) nodal connectors.

Utilizing a Transparent Model of a Semi-Direct Acting Water Solenoid Valve to Visualize Diaphragm Displacement and Apply Resulting Data for CFD Analysis

This article introduces a comprehensive methodology that combines physical prototyping and computational modeling to analyze the hydrodynamics and design of a semi-direct acting solenoid valve for water applications. A transparent, injection-molded valve model was used to experimentally measure diaphragm displacement, which exhibited linear behavior at flow rates up to 10.1 L/min. Beyond this threshold, the diaphragm reached maximum displacement, constraining flow control accuracy. These experimental results informed the creation of a computational domain for detailed CFD analysis, demonstrating strong validation against experimental pressure drop data. The CFD simulations identified critical inefficiencies, such as uneven pressure distribution on the diaphragm due to inlet flow, flow imbalances, and vortex formation within the chamber and outlet channel. These issues were traced to specific design limitations. To address these design flaws, this study suggests optimizing the inlet geometry, implementing a symmetric chamber design, and modifying the outlet channel with smoother transitions to enhance flow control and improve operational efficiency.

Seven Years of GST: Time to Move Beyond the Exuberance

The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in the country in July 2017 marked a watershed in the history of indirect tax reforms in the country. The dual structure of GST in India, with all its infirmities, has had significant positive outcomes. It has reduced multiplicity of taxes, cascading of tax, created uniform tax structure on a common base, a uniform GST architecture, rules and processes, and seamless flow of credit across different tax jurisdictions, across the country. But like any other major tax reform, GST in India initially had its fair share of glitches, some of them still continue, although to a much lesser degree and intensity. Due to constraints imposed by the federal nature of our polity, the centre and the states opted for an ‘imperfect GST’ in place of ‘flawless GST’, with the hope that the design flaws would be corrected once the GST stabilizes. While we celebrate the success of GST in the country, we need to usher in the second-generation GST reforms that will broadly encompass; first, the rationalization of tax slabs, and second, expansion of the tax base by pruning exemptions and bringing petroleum products, electricity, alcohol and real estate under GST. The feasibility of inclusion of excluded items, which constitute around 43% of the state’s own tax revenues, in GST, remains bleak at this stage as it will greatly impact the fiscal autonomy of the states. A beginning can, however, be made to rationalize the rate structure which will remedy many of the complexities and problems being faced at present. But, to even address the issue of rate rationalization, the trust deficit between the centre and the states that has suffered a huge dent during the intervening years has to be bridged. JEL Classification: H21, H77

Understanding of income and race disparities in hurricane evacuation is contingent upon study case and design

As hurricanes become more frequent and destructive, understanding evacuation decision-making is crucial to refining disaster response strategies. Several studies have explored how socioeconomic characteristics such as income and race impact evacuation behavior. Most of these studies focus on a single hurricane event with the geographic extent limited to one or two states, each using a distinct study design, making them difficult to compare. This raises the question of whether findings from isolated cases can be generalized across different hurricane scenarios and geographical settings under a similar study design and consistent parameter definitions. To address this gap, in this study, we conduct a comparative analysis to understand income and racial disparity across multiple hurricane events. The results indicate that, even with a consistent study design, disparities in evacuation among different socioeconomic groups vary on a case-by-case basis. Furthermore, we show that the study design significantly impacts the observed trends within a single case. This highlights the importance of avoiding generalized conclusions based on limited case studies. It further emphasizes how flawed study designs may fail to capture the complexities of real-world behaviors, thereby leading to suboptimal or ineffective policy recommendations or designs.

Comprehensive study of rapid capacity fade in prismatic Li-ion cells with flexible packaging

Prismatic lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are considered promising electric energy sources in electromobility applications due to their efficient space utilization. However, their sensitivity to external and internal influences and reduced durability lead to inflation risk and potential explosions throughout their lifecycle. These critical processes are strongly influenced by the inner construction of the cell, especially concerning the coating and mechanical fixation. This study subjects a commercially available prismatic LIB cell to comprehensive, correlative analysis employing various imaging techniques. The inner structure of the entire cell is visualized non-destructively by X-ray computed tomography (CT), enabling the identification of critical design flaws prior to electrochemical cycling. Electrochemical cycling simulates the battery lifecycle, and the cell is subsequently disassembled in the fully charged state. The usage of the inert-gas transfer system allowed the preparation of Broad Ion Beam (BIB) electrodes cross-sections in a fully native state and for the first time to observe the tearing of graphite particles due to over-lithiation. Established region labeling system allowed to use CT and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) correlatively to identify critical regions. After 100 cycles, a 40% capacity loss was observed and event diagram describing deagradation mechanisms, related both to the cell design and to the processes occurring at high load, was created.

Unraveling the Dynamics of e-Government Digitization, Penetration and User Experience: A Case Study of Greek Municipalities

This study examines the user experience (UX) of Greek municipal websites, the first in-depth look at local e-Government services in Greece. Using Lighthouse for technical performance and an Adapted UX Audit, it explores factors beyond digital skills affecting citizen adoption of these platforms. Findings reveal widespread deficiencies, with no municipality scoring above 55%, highlighting significant challenges in usability, functionality, and user satisfaction. Critical issues in Technical Performance and Missing Features, both scoring below 50%, suggest that inherent design flaws hinder user acceptance. The study emphasizes the need for improvements in feedback mechanisms, multilingual support, and accessible help sections to better serve diverse populations. Addressing these gaps could enhance e-democracy by fostering more inclusive, user-friendly services. The results advocate for a strategic overhaul of municipal websites to increase engagement, improve e-Government effectiveness, and strengthen democratic participation. Limitations and recommendations for future research and policy-making are also provided.

Countering flaws in algorithm design and applications: a Delphi study

Countering flaws in algorithm design and applications: a Delphi study

Violent sustainability: Blitzscale and counteraccounting in an Indian agtech start‐up

AbstractIn recent years, there has been rapid digitalization in agriculture, with India seeing a significant rise in agricultural technology (agtech) start‐ups. Many of these start‐ups promise to address the climate crisis by promoting the economic and ecological sustainability of agriculture through market‐driven business models. Using institutional ethnography and counteraccounting at an Indian agtech start‐up, this article illuminates social, economic, and ecological relationships that are obscured by one firm's accounting practices. It shows how, despite tech‐entrepreneurs intending to help farmers, violence remains built into the design and effects of rapidly scaled‐up (“blitzscaled”) sustainability programs. The article proposes violent sustainability as a concept to highlight the unintended harm caused to potential beneficiaries due to structural violence underlying tech‐entrepreneurialism and inherent design flaws in blitzscaled sustainability programs. In doing so, it challenges the normalization and monetization of recurrent failures prevalent in tech‐entrepreneurial ventures.

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.

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.

Investigating the failure mechanism of an aircraft longeron fitting and devising the mitigation techniques

This study focuses on determining the root cause of crack development in a longeron fitting of a cargo aircraft followed by devising of appropriate mitigation strategy to prevent such failure. This objective is realized through a combination of experimental and computational analyses. The experimental thrust involves compositional, microstructural, and fractographic analyses to determine if there is a variation in composition and microstructure and to observe the failure signs and crack morphology. No deviation from the constituent material (i.e., Aluminum 7075-T6 alloy) in terms of composition and microstructure was noticed. Further fractographic analysis revealed fatigue striation marks and corrosion products near the crack initiation point. The experimental results were validated through computational analysis by calculating stresses and fatigue life of longeron fitting to confirm the cause of failure. The analysis helped in ruling out the design flaw or fatigue loads as the primary causes of crack development. Consequently, the failure is attributed to the corrosion pitting on the open side of the fitting due to exposure to the marine atmosphere which weakened the structure and the subsequent failure occurred due to the fatigue phenomenon. Subsequently, a mitigation technique was developed to prevent corrosion-assisted crack growth by coating the specimens with two distinct coatings, Sulphuric Acid Anodizing (SAA) and Chromic Acid Anodizing (CAA). These specimens were then subjected to salt spray tests and exposed to the environment. SAA coating proved to have better corrosion-resistant properties than the original (uncoated) and CAA-coated samples, confirming it to be a viable mitigation approach. The study will be beneficial in preventing failure in aircraft structures that are exposed to marine environments.

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.

STYLISTIC FEATURES OF THE DESIGN OF POSTERS OF THE XI'AN FILM STUDIO

Purpose of the study is to clarify the artistic features, style characteristics, and existing flaws in the poster design of different genre films produced by Xi'an Film Studio at different stages of its development, through the analysis of a large number of historical posters from Xi'an Film Studio; the use and development of graphics, colors, and symbols in the poster design; the exploration of the influence of the aesthetics of Western cinema. Methodology is based on the system-analytical, comparative, figurative-stylistic, compositional-constructive, comprehensive-historical and semiotic methods. This made it possible to comprehensively investigate the specified problem, made generalization and reach reasonable conclusions. Results. The main features of Xi'an Film Studio's movie poster design are revealed. The main characteristics of the design, existing flaws, and the application of the poster design of Xi'an Film Studio are summarized. According to the results of the research, the use and development of graphics, colors, and symbols in the poster design of Western cinema are summarized and applied. Scientific novelty. The characteristics and the application of Xi'an Film Studio's movie poster design are analyzed, the regional symbols that are applicated in the design are revealed, and some practical results and solution of Xi'an Film Studio's movie poster design are summarized. Moreover, an perspective that integrates media convergence and interdisciplinary approaches, combining theories from semiotics and communication studies to analyze various dimensions of poster design at the Xi'an Film Studio are be developed. A substantial amount of primary visual and textual materials has been gathered to facilitate a comprehensive analysis. Practical significance. The results of the study can be used to analyze and develop the application of design principles in the poster designs, brand designs, digital media and interactive design, provide practical experience for incorporating cultural elements into design, and offer a pathway for designing local cultural products in Shaanxi.

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.