Advanced Control Technologies Research Articles

Biofuel blends and nano-additives: a sustainable approach to diesel engine performance and emissions improvement

Abstract The utilization of compression ignition (CI) diesel engines has seen a substantial increase in recent years owing to their numerous advantages. However, the widespread adoption of these engines has also significantly contributed to environmental pollution issues, with diesel engines being recognized as major global contributors to exhaust emissions-related pollution. To address this issue, comprehensive research has been carried out on both emissions from diesel exhaust pollutants and advanced after-treatment technologies for emission control. This study aims to evaluate the efficiency and emissions of diesel fuel mixed with various ratios of biofuel derived from Karanja seeds (B10, B15, and B20). Among the different blends examined, B20 demonstrated superior performance in terms of brake thermal efficiency (BTE) and brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC), along with lower levels of hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions compared to pure diesel. Further, the impact of nanoadditives, specifically titanium dioxide (TiO2), at different concentrations (80 ppm, 100 ppm, and 120 ppm), on B20 blends was evaluated. The findings indicated that B20 blended with 100 ppm of TiO2 exhibited superior performance in terms of BTE, BSFC, and lower emissions of HC, CO2, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and carbon monoxide (CO). From the results, the BTE increases from 1% to 33%, illustrating enhanced thermal efficiency under similar conditions. The average BSFC across all loads and speeds in the table is approximately 0.89 kg/kWh, while the average BTE stands at approximately 23.1%.

Feasibility and design of nonlinear negative‐stiffness isolating approach for solid‐rocket‐motor‐type structures

AbstractSolid rocket motor (SRM)‐type structures are popular due to their reliability, considering that service safety during transportation can be improved by applying advanced vibration control technologies. In this study, a negative‐stiffness‐enhanced isolation system (NSeIS) with appropriately designed linear and nonlinear properties was developed to vertically isolate SRMs subjected to transportation‐ and deployment‐induced vibrations. The NSeIS design, based on the combination of a negative‐stiffness device and vertical isolator, involved a clear mechanical model, physical realization, and mechanical properties. Parametric analyses were performed on a typical SRM controlled with a linear and nonlinear NSeIS and a conventional isolation system. Subsequently, a feasible parameter domain and design recommendations were deduced. Finally, design cases for the SRM for time‐domain verification were considered. The results revealed that the NSeIS offers a flexible and enhanced isolating effect through the parallel arrangement of the negative‐stiffness device and conventional isolators. For the motor‐type structure, NSeIS ensures marked enhancements in performance and multiple levels of mitigation effects. Thus, compared with a conventional isolator with the same damping, NSeIS achieves a more substantial negative‐stiffness effect for a large displacement response range owing to its nonlinear property. NSeIS can isolate more vibration‐induced energy, thereby suppressing the interface Mises stress, which is essential for SRM‐type structures.

Online characterization of primary and secondary emissions of particulate matter and acidic molecules from a modern fleet of city buses

Abstract. The potential impact of transitioning from conventional fossil fuel to a non-fossil-fuel vehicle fleet was investigated by measuring primary emissions via extractive sampling of bus plumes and assessing secondary mass formation using the Gothenburg Potential Aerosol Mass (Go:PAM) reactor from 76 in-use transit buses. Online chemical characterization of gaseous and particulate emissions from these buses was conducted using chemical ionization mass spectrometry (CIMS) with acetate as the reagent ion, coupled with the Filter Inlet for Gases and AEROsols (FIGAERO). Acetate reagent ion chemistry selectively ionizes acidic compounds, including organic and inorganic acids, as well as nitrated and sulfated organics. A significant reduction (48 %–98 %) in fresh particle emissions was observed in buses utilizing compressed natural gas (CNG), biodiesels like rapeseed methyl ester (RME) and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), and hybrid-electric HVO (HVOHEV) compared to diesel (DSL). However, secondary particle formation from photooxidation of emissions was substantial across all the fuel types. The median ratio of particle mass emission factors of aged to fresh emissions increased in the following order: DSL buses at 4.0, HVO buses at 6.7, HVOHEV buses at 10.5, RME buses at 10.8, and CNG buses at 84. Of the compounds that can be identified by CIMS, fresh gaseous emissions from all Euro V/EEV (Enhanced Environmentally friendly Vehicle) buses, regardless of fuel type, were dominated by nitrogen-containing compounds such as nitrous acid (HONO), nitric acid (HNO3), and isocyanic acid (HNCO), alongside small monoacids (C1−C3). Notably, the emission of nitrogen-containing compounds was lower in Euro VI buses equipped with more advanced emission control technologies. Secondary gaseous organic acids correlated strongly with gaseous HNO3 signals (R2=0.85–0.99) in Go:PAM, but their moderate to weak correlations with post-photooxidation secondary particle mass suggest that they are not reliable tracers of secondary organic aerosol formation from bus exhaust. Our study highlights that non-regulated compounds and secondary pollutant formation, not currently addressed in legislation, are crucial considerations in the evaluation of environmental impacts of future fuel and engine technology shifts.

B-195 Accelerating Molecular Diagnostics: Development of a novel Rapid, Integrated PCR System for Acute Respiratory Infections Detection

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic and acute respiratory infections have underscored the necessity for high-throughput and timely molecular diagnostics. Existing molecular diagnostic methods are labor-intensive, a challenge particularly evident in large-scale testing. This study aims to streamline the nucleic acid testing process by integrating extraction and detection in PCR testing, thereby optimizing efficiency. Methods We developed 'EXP-160R', an integrated PCR system capable of rapid thermal cycling. This innovation employs advanced temperature control technology to markedly reduce heating, cooling, and annealing-extension times. The PCR reagent-kit (Zybio Inc.) was optimized to complement the instrument's capabilities, aiming for pathogen nucleic acid detection in acute respiratory infections within 25 minutes. The precision of in-tube temperature during rapid amplification was validated by using temperature-sensitive molecular probes in system development stage. Performance evaluation used the WHO International Standard for SARS-CoV-2 RNA to assess sensitivity and detection limits. We also analyzed 500 clinical samples from multiple Chinese hospitals, including 295 COVID-19 positives and 205 negatives, comparing the EXP-160R system's performance with an NMPA-approved PCR kit. Results The innovative system significantly improved PCR cycle times, enabling detection of 16 samples in 22 minutes and a throughput of 2400 tests per day, without compromising sensitivity or specificity. Validation confirmed a detection limit of 200 copies/mL, and the system achieved a 100% detection rate for medium and high viral load samples, with a coefficient of variation (CV) for Ct values ≤ 5%. Clinical trial comparisons with clinical standard diagnostics revealed a sensitivity of 98.05%, specificity of 100%, accuracy of 99.2%, and a Kappa coefficient of 0.984. When compared to the established PCR kit, our system showed comparable efficacy, with a sensitivity of 98.50%, specificity of 98.67%, accuracy of 98.6%, and a Kappa of 0.971. Conclusions The rapid PCR system represents a significant advancement in molecular diagnostics, offering rapid, high-throughput, and accurate detection of SARS-CoV-2. This system is particularly beneficial in urgent testing scenarios, such as airports and fever clinics. It addresses current pandemic needs and sets a new benchmark for future respiratory and infectious disease diagnostics, enhancing both efficiency and user experience.

Multidisciplinary Optimization of Aircraft Aerodynamics for Distributed Propulsion Configurations

The combination of different aerodynamic configurations and propulsion systems, namely, aero-propulsion, affects flight performance differently. These effects are closely related to multidisciplinary collaborative aspects (aerodynamic configuration, propulsion, energy, control systems, etc.) and determine the overall energy consumption of an aircraft. The potential benefits of distributed propulsion (DP) involve propulsive efficiency, energy-saving, and emissions reduction. In particular, wake filling is maximized when the trailing edge of a blended wing body (BWB) is fully covered by propulsion systems that employ boundary layer ingestion (BLI). Nonetheless, the thrust–drag imbalance that frequently arises at the trailing edge, excessive energy consumption, and flow distortions during propulsion remain unsolved challenges. These after-effects imply the complexity of DP systems in multidisciplinary optimization (MDO). To coordinate the different functions of the aero-propulsive configuration, the application of MDO is essential for intellectualized modulate layout, thrust manipulation, and energy efficiency. This paper presents the research challenges of ultra-high-dimensional optimization objectives and design variables in the current literature in aerodynamic configuration integrated DP. The benefits and defects of various coupled conditions and feasible proposals have been listed. Contemporary advanced energy systems, propulsion control, and influential technologies that are energy-saving are discussed. Based on the proposed technical benchmarks and the algorithm of MDO, the propulsive configuration that might affect energy efficiency is summarized. Moreover, suggestions are drawn for forthcoming exploitation and studies.

A Review of Model Predictive Control for the Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Process

Municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) is essential for tackling urban environmental challenges and facilitating renewable energy recycling. The MSWI process has characteristics of multiple variables, strong coupling, and complex nonlinearity, requiring advanced process control (APC) technology. Although there have been several reviews on the modeling and control of the MSWI process, there is a lack of focus on model predictive control (MPC), a widely used APC technology. This article aims to comprehensively review MPC strategies in the MSWI process. First, it describes MSWI process technology in detail, examining control issues and objectives to highlight the complexity and challenges in controller design while providing an overview of MPC methods and their benefits. Second, it reviews incinerator modeling for control, including traditional modeling techniques and machine learning technologies such as fuzzy neural networks. Third, it reviews the controllers used for MSWI process, emphasizing the advantages of MPC over existing control methods. Fourth, it discusses the current status of MPC design and online updates, covering the need for an accurate dynamic predictive model and objective function and the online updates components such as predictive modeling, rolling optimization, and feedback correction. Finally, the study concludes with a summary of the findings.

CRISPR/Cas9-Based Genome Editing of Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda): Progress and Prospects.

The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) poses a substantial threat to many important crops worldwide, emphasizing the need to develop and implement advanced technologies for effective pest control. CRISPR/Cas9, derived from the bacterial adaptive immune system, is a prominent tool used for genome editing in living organisms. Due to its high specificity and adaptability, the CRISPR/Cas9 system has been used in various functional gene studies through gene knockout and applied in research to engineer phenotypes that may cause economical losses. The practical application of CRISPR/Cas9 in diverse insect orders has also provided opportunities for developing strategies for genetic pest control, such as gene drive and the precision-guided sterile insect technique (pgSIT). In this review, a comprehensive overview of the recent progress in the application of the CRISPR/Cas9 system for functional gene studies in S. frugiperda is presented. We outline the fundamental principles of applying CRISPR/Cas9 in S. frugiperda through embryonic microinjection and highlight the application of CRISPR/Cas9 in the study of genes associated with diverse biological aspects, including body color, insecticide resistance, olfactory behavior, sex determination, development, and RNAi. The ability of CRISPR/Cas9 technology to induce sterility, disrupt developmental stages, and influence mating behaviors illustrates its comprehensive roles in pest management strategies. Furthermore, this review addresses the limitations of the CRISPR/Cas9 system in studying gene function in S. frugiperda and explores its future potential as a promising tool for controlling this insect pest.

Preface: 6th International Conference on Automatic Control and Mechatronic Engineering (ACME 2024)

2024 6th International Conference on Automatic Control and Mechatronic Engineering (ACME 2024) is to facilitate an exchange of information on best practices for advanced automation, control technology, vehicle engineering, electronic engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and mechatronic engineering, addressing the problems and opportunities of a sustainable future. This conference provides a forum for engineers and scientists in academia, industry, and government to address the most innovative research and development including technical challenges and economic issues, and to present and discuss their ideas, results, work in progress and experience in these aspects. ACME 2024 was held during July 13-14, 2024, in Sapporo, Japan. The development of science occurs by utilizing collaboration with other branches of science such as technology, mechanical engineering, and mathematics. The distinctive feature of collaboration that has become an important value. We thank all participants for ACME 2024 who have contributed their research. I hope, with this kind of collaboration, we can jointly improve the development quality in this era. Organizing Committees of ACME Sapporo, Japan

Water neutrality: Concept, challenges, policies, and recommendations

Agriculture, urbanisation, and industrial growth have significantly increased water demand, leading to water pollution, necessitating the protection of rivers, wetlands, and ecosystems. Hence, a strategy is needed that is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which includes ensuring safe and affordable drinking water (SDG 6.1), implementing integrated water resources management (SDG 6.5), and protecting and restoring water-related ecosystems (SDG 6.6). This review article introduces the concept of water neutrality (WN), a planning approach for new urban developments aimed at minimising impacts on water security. The peer-reviewed articles and governmental reports published between 2014 and 2024 provide an overview of the current water situation. It also explores the potential benefits of WN, evaluates existing policies and case studies, and offers actionable recommendations. The study reveals that implementing water-related policies often faces challenges, such as political commitment, insufficient funding, and weak monitoring systems, particularly in developing countries. In India, water policies primarily focus on irrigation, drinking water supply, and pollution control. However, these policies struggle due to weak enforcement and conflicting stakeholder interests. The study recommends significant policy reforms and the adoption of new approaches to achieve WN, which promote integrated water resource management, strengthen governance, pricing mechanisms, advanced pollution control technologies, climate-resilient infrastructure, and public awareness, all while aligning with SDG 6. Innovative solutions, such as smart irrigation systems and water recycling programs, offer promising paths to address water scarcity. Additionally, international collaborations can further support these goals. Integrating WN into SDG 6 has the potential to significantly enhance global water security and sustainability.

Comprehensive Study of Load Characteristics of O-type Rotor Car Dumper Based on Measurements

The car dumper, an essential apparatus for unloading bulk materials, is increasingly critical across various sectors such as electricity generation, metallurgy, and operations at port terminals. This significance stems from its continuous operational capacity, which significantly boosts the efficiency of bulk material handling and optimizes the overall processes at industrial sites. This research paper delves into the power quality problems associated with car dumper applications, particularly focusing on the harmonic disturbances caused by inverters used within these systems. Such disturbances can degrade the quality of power within the industrial grid, potentially leading to inefficiencies and safety hazards. To address these issues, the paper proposes the use of parallel active power filters (APF). These filters are renowned for their efficiency in controlling and mitigating harmonic disruptions in electrical systems. The implementation of APFs has shown promising potential to stabilize power quality by filtering unwanted harmonic frequencies and allowing for a smoother power flow. Through detailed measurements conducted on an O-type rotor quad car dumper, the study systematically analyzes the operational characteristics of the dumper, thereby forming a comprehensive database. This database aids in the optimization of electrical control strategies and operational methodologies for car dumpers.The primary objectives of this research are to enhance the operational efficiency of car dumpers, minimize their energy consumption, and improve overall safety measures. By integrating advanced harmonic control technologies such as APF, this study not only addresses the immediate issues of power quality but also contributes to the broader goal of sustainable and efficient industrial practices. The findings are expected to influence future designs and operations of car dumpers, making them more energy-efficient and less prone to electrical disturbances, thereby ensuring a safer working environment in industries dependent on heavy machinery for bulk material handling.

Current Status of Yam Diseases and Advances of Their Control Strategies

Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is an important tuber crop consumed globally. However, stable yam production faces challenges from a variety of diseases caused by fungi, nematodes, viruses, and bacteria. Prominent diseases such as anthracnose, leaf spot, yam wilt, dry rot, and crazy root syndrome, currently pose serious threats to yam yields. These diseases not only result in quality degradation but also cause great economic losses. This review summarizes the damages, symptoms, causal agents, and epidemic factors of major yam diseases. It also outlines a comprehensive disease control strategy that includes the use of resistant varieties, proper crop rotation, sanitation measures, and the application of agrochemicals and biocontrol agents. Additionally, this review addresses future perspectives on risk factors and knowledge gaps, aiming to serve as a reference for in-depth research into advanced disease monitoring and control technologies for yams.

Machine learning & conventional approaches to process control & optimization: Industrial applications & perspectives

Technologies based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) concepts are advancing at a rapid pace. The new paradigms are challenging the status-quo of mature automation and control technologies in industry. Autonomous operation is a frequently stated goal of AI evangelists and technology providers. This white paper gives an overview of the current state of art of advanced process control and optimization technologies. It also provides a brief summary of the AI and ML-based approaches that address the closed-loop control and optimization space. Some results from industrial implementations are shared for both conventional and AI/ML-based approaches. Experience from four industrial applications is shared, covering rigorous model-based, machine learning and hybrid approaches to real-time optimization and control problems. The applications range from unit-based control & optimization to refinery & network wide optimization. A set of high-level requirements that need to be satisfied regardless of the underlying technology for closed-loop autonomous operations is reviewed. The article concludes with some future directions and perspectives highlighting areas where the emerging technologies may have significant impact in industry.

Recent Trends in the Pre-Drying, Drying, and Post-Drying Processes for Cassava Tuber: A Review.

Cassava tuber is an essential staple crop in tropical regions with versatile applications in the food, feed, and industrial sectors. However, its high moisture content and perishable nature necessitate efficient preservation methods to extend its shelf life and enhance its value. Pre-drying, drying, and post-drying processes play pivotal roles in maintaining the quality and usability of cassava products. This review comprehensively examines the current status and future directions in the pre-drying, drying, and post-drying processes of cassava tuber. Various pre-drying or pretreatment methods and drying techniques are evaluated for their impacts on drying kinetics and product quality. Additionally, challenges and limitations in achieving high-quality processing of cassava flour are identified. Future directions in cassava drying methods emphasize the integration of combined pre-drying and drying techniques to optimize resource utilization and processing efficiency. Furthermore, the adoption of advanced online measurement and control technologies in drying equipment is highlighted for real-time monitoring and optimization of drying parameters. The importance of optimizing existing processes to establish a comprehensive cassava industrial chain and foster the development of the cassava deep-processing industry is emphasized. This review provides valuable insights into the current trends and future prospects in cassava drying technologies, aiming to facilitate sustainable and efficient utilization of cassava resources for various applications.

Research on the energy efficiency and sustainability

Mechatronics systems, by integrating mechanical, electronic, and computer technologies, offer a comprehensive solution to optimize the generation, transmission, storage, and utilization of energy, thus reducing energy waste. This paper begins by introducing the applications of mechatronics systems in renewable energy systems, encompassing the efficient capture and management of resources such as solar and wind energy to meet energy demands. Secondly, this paper discusses the critical role of mechatronics systems in smart grids, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of power systems through advanced monitoring and control technologies. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the value of mechatronics systems in designing and implementing energy-saving devices, including high-efficiency motors, intelligent lighting, and heat recovery technologies, to reduce resource wastage and environmental impact. Finally, by reducing carbon emissions and decreasing reliance on traditional energy sources, mechatronics systems actively contribute to sustainability, promoting the development of sustainable cities and buildings, and simultaneously achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Editorial: Advanced solar utilization and control technologies in buildings

Editorial: Advanced solar utilization and control technologies in buildings

A comprehensive investigation of DG integration with DC microgrid

This comprehensive review critically analyses the complex correlation between DC microgrids and the incorporation of Distributed Generation (DG). It offers a full evaluation of fundamental principles, advanced control strategies, technology advancements, and practical implementations in real-world scenarios. This research examines the ability of Direct Current (DC) microgrids to effectively integrate and optimize various DG sources within the context of a paradigm shift towards decentralized energy solutions. The paper critically examines the obstacles and opportunities associated with renewable energy systems and different DG technologies. It provides essential insights for researchers, engineers, and politicians who are involved in the complex process of integrating distributed energy into existing systems. This review serves as a crucial resource that contributes to the understanding of DG in DC microgrids. It plays a significant role in developing conversations surrounding energy solutions that are both resilient and sustainable. This paper not only discusses the difficulties related to the integration of DG, but also emphasizes practical examples that demonstrate the flexibility and effectiveness of DC microgrid designs. This study serves as a crucial resource for stakeholders who aim to use the potential of DC microgrids, since it encompasses a comprehensive analysis of power electronics, energy storage, and sophisticated control systems. By combining critical evaluation with practical implementation, this review offers valuable insights and guidance in the field. The complete investigation plays a significant role in advancing the integration of DG, which is essential for creating a resilient and sustainable energy environment. It provides basic information that is needed for achieving effective integration. This review paper provides a comprehensive examination of the integration of DG within DC microgrids. From laying the groundwork with fundamental principles to scrutinizing challenges, technological advancements, and practical applications, this review aims to offer a holistic understanding of the dynamic landscape where DC microgrids intersect with distributed energy generation.

Employing advanced control, energy storage, and renewable technologies to enhance power system stability

As the world witnesses a surge in the adoption of renewable energy sources to meet the surging global power demands, the dynamic and intermittent nature of these sources emerges as a significant hurdle. This article extensively explores the potential of advanced control systems, energy storage technologies, and renewable resources to fortify stability within power systems. Advanced control methodologies are strategically amalgamated with energy storage deployment and the utilization of renewable energy, to advance the reliability, predictability, and sustainability of power systems. The stability analysis, with a dedicated focus on Input-to-input-to-state stability (ISS), is conducted meticulously by applying the Lyapunov function and the Reciprocally Convex Approach, resulting in an impressive stability rate of 23.6%. Additionally, Positive Realness is substantiated by extracting Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMI) in the context of Enhancing Grid Stability with Wind Power. The study places particular emphasis on evaluating ISS and Passivity in both delayed and non-delayed systems, with a specific focus on neutral time-delay systems. This evaluation involves the selection of an appropriate Lyapunov-Krasovskii Functional (LKF) and its derivation, coupled with the integration of reciprocally convex methods, descriptive approach, and Jensen inequality. The outcomes of these analyses shed light on the causes of excess energy and its effective storage, along with highlighting the synergistic impact of integrating renewable sources and controlling grid frequency, voltage, and power in real time. The study also accentuates the robustness achieved through Enhanced Stability and the mitigation of Reduced Fluctuations, especially in the context of renewable energy sources.

Understanding the capacity of children with congenital unilateral below-elbow deficiency to actuate their affected muscles

In recent years, commercially available dexterous upper limb prostheses for children have begun to emerge. These devices derive control signals from surface electromyography (measure of affected muscle electrical activity, sEMG) to drive a variety of grasping motions. However, the ability for children with congenital upper limb deficiency to actuate their affected muscles to achieve naturalistic prosthetic control is not well understood, as compared to adults or children with acquired hand loss. To address this gap, we collected sEMG data from 9 congenital one-handed participants ages 8–20 years as they envisioned and attempted to perform 10 different movements with their missing hands. Seven sEMG electrodes were adhered circumferentially around the participant’s affected and unaffected limbs and participants mirrored the attempted missing hand motions with their intact side. To analyze the collected sEMG data, we used time and frequency domain analyses. We found that for the majority of participants, attempted hand movements produced detectable and consistent muscle activity, and the capacity to achieve this was not dissimilar across the affected and unaffected sides. These data suggest that children with congenital hand absence retain a degree of control over their affected muscles, which has important implications for translating and refining advanced prosthetic control technologies for children.

CONTROL OF A HEAT PUMP COMPRESSOR WITH VARIABLE FREQUENCY DEVICE DRIVEN BY PID

Integrating advanced control technologies to enhance energy efficiency and environmental sustainability in heat pump systems is of growing significance. This article offers a comprehensive review on the utilization of Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) control and Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) technology to govern the compressor's operation in a heat pump. The primary objective is to optimize energy consumption and thermal output under varying loads and environmental conditions, thus enhancing the heat pump's performance.
 
 The article delves into the fundamental principles of heat pump operations, emphasizing the compressor's pivotal role in maintaining the delicate balance between energy consumption and desired thermal output across applications, spanning residential HVAC to industrial processes. The PID control algorithm is introduced to adapt the compressor's speed and power consumption dynamically. The VFD is incorporated into the control system, enabling variable speed compressor operation for a responsive reaction to load fluctuations. Combining PID and VFD control is explored to achieve peak system performance and energy efficiency.
 
 Through practical experiments and simulations, the research investigates the influence of PID and VFD control on energy efficiency, stability, and performance. The results underscore substantial energy savings and environmental impact reduction potential, particularly in scenarios with variable thermal loads and fluctuating environmental conditions.
 
 This study advances our understanding of advanced control strategies in heat pump technology and underscores the pivotal role PID and VFD control play in creating energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions. The findings offer practical implications for diverse applications, from residential settings to industrial processes, and provide insights into sustainable heat pump technology use in the context of energy conservation and climate change challenges.

The future of cell-instructive biomaterials for tissue regeneration–a perspective from early career clinician-scientists

Cell-instructive biomaterials are an essential component in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In the past three decades since the term “Tissue Engineering” was coined, researchers have made significant progress towards regenerating disease or damage tissues and organs by combining innovations in biomaterials, signaling molecules and cell therapies. However, challenges persist including limitations in properties of cell-instructive biomaterials, lack of advanced manufacturing technologies for precise spatiotemporal control of key players in tissue engineering, and hurdles in clinical translation and regulatory process. In this perspective article, we briefly review the current state of the field including the evolution in our understanding of the role biomaterial mechanics and scaffolding architecture, development of self-healing and modular biomaterials, and progress in advanced manufacturing technologies such as 3D bioprinting. In addition, we discuss about how innovation in research technologies including multi-omics and spatial biology, and advanced imaging modalities may pave the way for enhancing our understanding about cell-biomaterial interactions. Finally, we present our perspective as early career clinicians and researchers on the key role and potential impact that clinician-scientists can generate in the development, validation, clinical translation and adoption of the next-generation of cell-instructive biomaterials for application in engineering tissues and organs to impact human health.