Design Strategies Research Articles

The Application of Chinese Traditional Talents in International Chinese Education

Chinese traditional talents are integral to China's rich cultural heritage. In the context of contemporary international Chinese education, there are pressing issues in the application of these talents. This paper analyzes the advantages and shortcomings of Chinese traditional talents in international Chinese education, utilizing the "cultural triangle" methodology to propose a streamlined "Chinese Traditional Talent Triangle" comprising talent concepts, activities, and products. Using specific talents such as "tea art" and "Chinese opera" as exemplars, it puts forth design and assessment strategies for the implementation of the Chinese Traditional Talents. Additionally, it offers insights for optimizing the dissemination and application of Chinese traditional talents: Designing Chinese traditional talent courses with a focus on "language skills +vocational proficiency"; enhancing the competence of International Chinese language teachers in Chinese traditional talents; fostering "talent concepts": innovating the "talent activities" platform and "talent products" brand.

Synergistic Bulk and Surface Engineering for Expeditious and Durable Reversible Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cells Air Electrode.

Reversible protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (R-PCECs) offer the potential for high-efficiency power generation and green hydrogen production at intermediate temperatures. However, the commercial viability of R-PCECs is hampered by the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) within conventional air electrodes operating at reduced temperatures. To address this challenge, we introduce a novel approach based on the simultaneous optimization of bulk-phase metal-oxygen bonds and in-situ formation of a metal oxide nano-catalyst surface modification. This strategy is designed to expedite the ORR/OER electrocatalytic activity of air electrodes exhibiting triple (O2-, H+, e-) conductivity. Specifically, our engineered air electrode nanocomposite-Ba(Co0.4Fe0.4Zr0.1Y0.1)0.95Ni0.05F0.1O2.9-δ demonstrates remarkable ORR/OER catalytic activity and exceptional durability in R-PCECs. This is evidenced by significantly improved peak power density from 626mW cm-2 to 996mW cm-2 and highly stable reversibility over a 100-hour cycling period. This research offers a rational design strategy to achieve high-performance R-PCEC air electrodes with superior operational activity and stability for efficient and sustainable energy conversion and storage. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Self-assembly of discrete multi-chromophoric systems.

Self-assembly of chromophoric systems is a prerequisite to create well-ordered, processable nanomaterials with multiple functionalities. In the past two decades, the field of functional organic materials has primarily focused on systems featuring only one type of dye/π-conjugated unit. Consequently, many reports with mechanistic insights on the self-assembly of the dyes featuring different molecular packing have been reported. Subsequently, we have witnessed several attempts to organize the multi-chromophoric systems in solution and solid-state via different approaches using self-assembly as a tool. Incorporation of more than one dye is important in creating materials with tuneable optoelectronic properties. Consequently, self-assembly of more than one chromophoric systems have been investigated to some extent. This review aims to discuss the self-assembled materials derived from discrete π-conjugated systems comprising more than one dye units connected through covalent bonding (multi-chromophoric systems). Molecular design of various multi-chromophoric systems leading to the formation of crystals, liquid crystals and supramolecular polymers have been correlated with corresponding properties. We envisage that classification of self-assembled multi-chromophoric systems, with a note on tuneable optoelectronic properties, can provide a deeper understanding on the molecular design strategies, which is important in the fabrication of functional organic materials with optimum performances.

The impact of maritime decarbonization on ship design: State-of-the-Art Report

The maritime industry faces a critical challenge to decarbonize and meet the ambitious goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. This transition requires innovative ship design strategies to address the increasing complexity and multiplicity of technical solutions amidst dynamic regulatory, geopolitical, and market uncertainties. This paper examines the maritime decarbonization challenge's impact on ship design and decision-making under uncertainty, highlighting the necessity for collaboration between researchers and practitioners to tackle this emerging challenge. To navigate the uncertainty, stakeholders can integrate advanced design methods and decision-making processes considering the full lifecycle and fleet-level implications. This paper promotes taking a holistic approach that incorporates regulatory compliance, technological advancements, and commercial considerations, as well as a blend of methods to manage decision-making under uncertainty. Continued research in specific areas is essential to develop and refine frameworks that optimize design and operation for the industry's sustainable future.

Enhancement of phase transition temperature through hydrogen bond modification in molecular ferroelectrics

Molecular ferroelectrics are attracting great interest due to their light weight, mechanical flexibility, low cost, ease of processing and environmental friendliness. These advantages make molecular ferroelectrics viable alternatives or supplements to inorganic ceramics and polymer ferroelectrics. It is expected that molecular ferroelectrics with good performance can be fabricated, which in turns calls for effective chemical design strategies in crystal engineering. To achieve so, we propose a hydrogen bond modification method by introducing the hydroxyl group, and successfully boost the phase transition temperature (Tc) by at least 336 K. As a result, the molecular ferroelectric 1-hydroxy-3-adamantanammonium tetrafluoroborate [(HaaOH)BF4] can maintain ferroelectricity until 528 K, a Tc value much larger than that of BTO (390 K). Meanwhile, micro-domain patterns, in stable state for 2 years, can be directly written on the film of (HaaOH)BF4. In this respect, hydrogen bond modification is a feasible and effective strategy for designing molecular ferroelectrics with high Tc and stable ferroelectric domains. Such an organic molecule with varied modification sites and the precise crystal engineering can provide an efficient route to enrich high-Tc ferroelectrics with various physical properties.

Passive strategies for climate change mitigation in architectural heritage: the case study of Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica, Rome

ABSTRACT According to the most recent climate projections, urban settings and historic centres will be affected by considerable increases in temperature extremes and heat waves as a result of climate change. For this reason, the issue of energy efficiency and indoor comfort in historic buildings has become a topic of major interest for the significant number of buildings in the national and European territories. The performance redevelopment of architectural heritage, particularly religious buildings, requires accurate design, through a careful assessment of the occupants’ needs and the historic building’s characteristics, to guarantee adequate levels of thermal comfort and ensure an indoor climate suitable for safeguarding the cultural asset. In this regard, the study investigates, through a data-driven approach and building performance analysis, the indoor comfort level of a religious building in the historical centre of Rome that presents phenomena of excessive indoor overheating. The objective is to identify passive cooling strategies, through the optimization of natural ventilation levels and reduction of surface temperatures of the envelope exposed to solar radiation, in order to propose different design scenarios. The results show how a data-driven process in a digital environment can significantly contribute to the identification of optimal and integrated design strategies and solutions.

A Chlorinated Indolium‐Based Nonlinear Optical Crystal Achieving Effective Terahertz‐Wave Generation and Highly Sensitive Detection

AbstractNonlinear optical (NLO) crystals have shown great potential in generating and detecting coherent terahertz waves, which have a wide range of applications. However, designing the microscopic structure of NLO crystals to obtain excellent macroscopic properties has been a challenge. In this work, by the introduction of chloro substitution into the cation part of indolium‐based salt structure, a new acentric OH5CI‐BS crystal, namely, [(C19H19NOCl)+∙(C6H5SO3)−, P1] is synthesized and grown using a feasible evaporation method. The cut‐off edge of the grown OH5CI‐BS crystal reaches 524 nm, corresponding to a bandgap of 2.37 eV. The largest single crystals of OH5CI‐BS with the size of ≈ 9 × 8 × 0.3 mm3 are grown. Remarkably, by use of OH5CI‐BS crystals as both the THz‐wave emitter and detector, a widely tunable (from 2.23 to 33.54 THz) and monochromatic THz system is demonstrated for the first time, and the detection depth of the OH5CI‐BS based up‐conversion at room temperature is >4 orders better than a commercial Golay Cell and even 2 orders better than a 4‐K‐Bolometer. This work indicates that OH5CI‐BS is a promising future NLO material for terahertz technology, and also provides a feasible design strategy for other organic optoelectronic functional materials.

Digital Behavior Change Intervention Designs for Habit Formation: Systematic Review.

With the development of emerging technologies, digital behavior change interventions (DBCIs) help to maintain regular physical activity in daily life. To comprehensively understand the design implementations of habit formation techniques in current DBCIs, a systematic review was conducted to investigate the implementations of behavior change techniques, types of habit formation techniques, and design strategies in current DBCIs. The process of this review followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A total of 4 databases were systematically searched from 2012 to 2022, which included Web of Science, Scopus, ACM Digital Library, and PubMed. The inclusion criteria encompassed studies that used digital tools for physical activity, examined behavior change intervention techniques, and were written in English. A total of 41 identified research articles were included in this review. The results show that the most applied behavior change techniques were the self-monitoring of behavior, goal setting, and prompts and cues. Moreover, habit formation techniques were identified and developed based on intentions, cues, and positive reinforcement. Commonly used methods included automatic monitoring, descriptive feedback, general guidelines, self-set goals, time-based cues, and virtual rewards. A total of 32 commonly design strategies of habit formation techniques were summarized and mapped to the proposed conceptual framework, which was categorized into target-mediated (generalization and personalization) and technology-mediated interactions (explicitness and implicitness). Most of the existing studies use the explicit interaction, aligning with the personalized habit formation techniques in the design strategies of DBCIs. However, implicit interaction design strategies are lacking in the reviewed studies. The proposed conceptual framework and potential solutions can serve as guidelines for designing strategies aimed at habit formation within DBCIs.

Evaluation of Cognition of Rural Public Space Based on Eye Tracking Analysis

Amid the current global trend toward urbanization, there is a growing need for an improved quality of life. While rural public spaces are essential components of community life, their design and planning have traditionally focused on material aspects, neglecting the spiritual well-being of rural residents. This study uses the public spaces of Huixingtou Village in Handan City, Hebei Province, China, as an example to investigate the impact of five key elements within rural public spaces (architecture, streets, greenery, nodes, and landmarks) on individual emotions and perceptions, exploring how these elements contribute to the satisfaction of individuals’ spiritual lives. Initially, we compared the disparities among these elements concerning perceptual dimensions (functionality, technology, and aesthetics) and emotional dimensions (sense of achievement, safety, and well-being). This analysis revealed significant variations in emotional and perceptual dimensions influenced by different rural public space elements. Subsequently, we examined the associations between these elements and objective physiological response data from participants, using eye-tracking technology to delve into the interplay between emotions and perceptions. The results indicate that distinct rural public space elements elicit specific emotional responses, with visual elements and features exerting a pronounced influence on emotional reactions. This in-depth analysis provides comprehensive recommendations for emotional design strategies. Ultimately, this study furnishes emotionally driven design strategies for rural public spaces based on objective data, offering practical guidance for sustainable development and the enhancement of rural public space quality. These findings have significant implications for creating more attractive, inclusive, and sustainable rural spatial environments, addressing the needs of individuals seeking a high and enhanced quality of life.

Design and additive manufacturing of bionic hybrid structure inspired by cuttlebone to achieve superior mechanical properties and shape memory function

Abstract Lightweight porous materials with high load-bearing, damage tolerance and energy absorption as well as intelligence of shape recovery after material deformation are beneficial and critical for many applications, e.g., aerospace, automobiles, electronics, etc. Cuttlebone produced in the cuttlefish has evolved vertical walls with the optimal corrugation gradient, enabling stress homogenization, significant load bearing, and damage tolerance to protect the organism from high external pressures in the deep sea. This work illustrated that the complex hybrid wave shape in cuttlebone walls, becoming more tortuous from bottom to top, creates a lightweight, load-bearing structure with progressive failure. By mimicking the cuttlebone, a novel bionic hybrid structure (BHS) was proposed, and as a comparison, a regular corrugated structure (RCS) and a straight wall structure (SWS) were designed. Three types of designed structures have been successfully manufactured by laser powder bed fusion with NiTi powder. The LPBF-processed BHS exhibited a total porosity of 0.042% and a good dimensional accuracy with a peak deviation of 17.4 μm. Microstructural analysis indicated that the LPBF-processed BHS had a strong (001) crystallographic orientation and an average size of 9.85 μm. Mechanical analysis revealed the LPBF-processed BHS could withstand over 25 000 times its weight without significant deformation and had the highest specific energy absorption value (5.32 J/g) due to the absence of stress concentration and progressive wall failure during compression. Cyclic compression testing showed that LPBF-processed BHS possessed superior viscoelastic and elasticity energy dissipation capacity. Importantly, the uniform reversible phase transition from martensite to austenite in the walls enables the structure to largely recover its pre-deformation shape when heated (over 99% recovery rate). These design strategies can serve as valuable references for the development of intelligent components that possess high mechanical efficiency and shape memory capabilities.

Discovery of 3-((4-Benzylpyridin-2-yl)amino)benzamides as Potent GPR52 G Protein-Biased Agonists.

Orphan GPR52 is emerging as a promising neurotherapeutic target. Optimization of previously reported lead 4a employing an iterative drug design strategy led to the identification of a series of unique GPR52 agonists, such as 10a (PW0677), 15b (PW0729), and 24f (PW0866), with improved potency and efficacy. Intriguingly, compounds 10a and 24f showed greater bias for G protein/cAMP signaling and induced significantly less in vitro desensitization than parent compound 4a, indicating that reducing GPR52 β-arrestin activity with biased agonism results in sustained GPR52 activation. Further exploration of compounds 15b and 24f indicated improved potency and efficacy, and excellent target selectivity, but limited brain exposure warranting further optimization. These balanced and biased GPR52 agonists provide important pharmacological tools to study GPR52 activation, signaling bias, and therapeutic potential for neuropsychiatric and neurological diseases.

Symmetry-Breaking of Nanoparticle Surface Function Via Conformal DNA Design.

Asymmetric surface functionalization of complex nanoparticles to control their directional self-assembly remains a considerable challenge. Here, we demonstrated a conformal DNA design strategy for flexible remodeling of the surface of complex nanoparticles, taking Au nanobipyramids (AuNBPs) as a model. We sheathed one or both tips of AuNBPs into conformal DNA origami with an exceptionally accurate orientation control. Such asymmetrically and symmetrically distributed surface patches possess regioselective, sequence, and site-specific DNA binding capabilities. As a result, we realized a series of prototypical multicomponent "colloidal molecules" made of AuNBPs and Au nanospheres (AuNSs) with defined directionality and number of "bonding valence" as well as 1D and 3D hierarchical assemblies, e.g., inverse core-satellites of AuNBPs and AuNSs, side-by-side and tip-to-tip linear assemblies of AuNBPs, and 3D helical superstructures of AuNBPs with tunable twists. These findings inspire new opportunities for nanoparticle surface engineering and the high-order self-assembly of nanoarchitectures with higher complexity and broadened functionalities.

Building Functional Liquid‐Based Interfaces: From Mechanism to Application

Functional liquid‐based interfaces, with their inhomogeneous regions that emphasize the functionalized liquids, have attracted much interest as a versatile platform for a broad spectrum of applications, from chemical manufacturing to practical uses. These interfaces leverage the physicochemical characteristics of liquids, alongside dynamic behaviors induced by macroscopic wettability and microscopic molecular exchange balance, to allow for tailored properties within their functional structures. In this Minireview, we provide a foundational overview of these functional interfaces, based on the structural investigations and molecular mechanisms of interaction forces that directly modulate functionalities. Then, we discuss design strategies that have been employed in recent applications, and the crucial aspects that require focus. Finally, we highlight the current challenges in functional liquid‐based interfaces and provide a perspective on future research directions.

Domain Switching Characteristics in Ga-Doped HfO2 Ferroelectric Thin Films with Low Coercive Field.

The gallium-doped hafnium oxide (Ga-HfO2) films with different Ga doping concentrations were prepared by adjusting the HfO2/Ga2O3 atomic layer deposition cycle ratio for high-speed and low-voltage operation in HfO2-based ferroelectric memory. The Ga-HfO2 ferroelectric films reveal a finely modulated coercive field (Ec) from 1.1 (HfO2/Ga2O3 = 32:1) to an exceptionally low 0.6 MV/cm (HfO2/Ga2O3 = 11:1). This modulation arises from the competition between domain nucleation and propagation speed during polarization switching, influenced by the intrinsic domain density and phase dispersion in the film with specific Ga doping concentrations. Higher Ec samples exhibit a nucleation-dominant switching mechanism, while lower Ec samples undergo a transition from a nucleation-dominant to a propagation-dominant reversal mechanism as the electric field increases. This work introduces Ga as a viable dopant for low Ec and offers insights into material design strategies for HfO2-based ferroelectric memory applications.

Hydrogels for Lubrication: Synthesis, Properties, Mechanism, and Challenges

Hydrogels have received extensive attention as functional lubricants because of their excellent anti-friction and anti-wear properties, tunable tribological performances, and effectiveness in alleviating lubrication failures caused by the creeping or leakage of conventional liquid lubricants owing to their semi-solid nature. This review summarizes the current research advances in hydrogel lubricants fabricated with various organic and/or inorganic gelators, including organic polymeric or supramolecular hydrogels, inorganic particles-based hydrogels, and organic polymer-inorganic particle hybrid hydrogels. We illustrate not only the design strategies for constructing high-performance hydrogel lubricants but also the tribological behavior and mechanism of different types of hydrogel lubricants and their potential applications in industrial and biomimetic fields. Corresponding outlooks and suggestions for future studies have also been proposed.

Development of scoring-assisted generative exploration (SAGE) and its application to dual inhibitor design for acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase B

De novo molecular design is the process of searching chemical space for drug-like molecules with desired properties, and deep learning has been recognized as a promising solution. In this study, I developed an effective computational method called Scoring-Assisted Generative Exploration (SAGE) to enhance chemical diversity and property optimization through virtual synthesis simulation, the generation of bridged bicyclic rings, and multiple scoring models for drug-likeness. In six protein targets, SAGE generated molecules with high scores within reasonable numbers of steps by optimizing target specificity without a constraint and even with multiple constraints such as synthetic accessibility, solubility, and metabolic stability. Furthermore, I suggested a top-ranked molecule with SAGE as dual inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase B through multiple desired property optimization. Therefore, SAGE can generate molecules with desired properties by optimizing multiple properties simultaneously, indicating the importance of de novo design strategies in the future of drug discovery and development.Scientific contribution The scientific contribution of this study lies in the development of the Scoring-Assisted Generative Exploration (SAGE) method, a novel computational approach that significantly enhances de novo molecular design. SAGE uniquely integrates virtual synthesis simulation, the generation of complex bridged bicyclic rings, and multiple scoring models to optimize drug-like properties comprehensively. By efficiently generating molecules that meet a broad spectrum of pharmacological criteria—including target specificity, synthetic accessibility, solubility, and metabolic stability—within a reasonable number of steps, SAGE represents a substantial advancement over traditional methods. Additionally, the application of SAGE to discover dual inhibitors for acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase B not only demonstrates its potential to streamline and enhance the drug development process but also highlights its capacity to create more effective and precisely targeted therapies. This study emphasizes the critical and evolving role of de novo design strategies in reshaping the future of drug discovery and development, providing promising avenues for innovative therapeutic discoveries.

Finding the gaps in design strategies and technological advancements for net-zero energy buildings development in India

The climate-adaptive net-zero energy building design is an effective trend for achieving a carbon-neutral environment and reducing global energy demand, especially, in India where building energy consumption recorded substantial growth in the past decade. This review article focuses on the development of net-zero energy buildings in tropical climates through the analysis of 44 real case studies. This study investigates the building envelope parameters, advance technologies, and their effectiveness on the building energy models. In the first phase of this study, fourteen net-zero energy buildings or high-performance buildings in the USA, China, and India considering energy-efficient design features and their significant effect on energy consumption have been examined. Moreover, the role of building simulation tools in improving energy efficiency is discussed. The second phase investigates the thirty best practices of net-zero energy buildings in tropical climates worldwide based on envelope choices, heating, cooling, and lighting features. Furthermore, this review discusses the evolving definitions, challenges, and inconsistencies in terminologies of net-zero energy building and illustrates India's initiatives towards net-zero development. The objectives of this review study are to highlight the challenges in building material research, advanced lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technologies, and integration of renewable energy compared to developed nations. Additionally, the gaps that are the barriers to the development of net-zero energy building in India have been identified. The review eventually concludes by providing policy recommendations and suggesting areas for future research to facilitate net-zero energy-building development in India.

NIR-II Light-Driven Genetically Engineered Exosome Nanocatalysts for Efficient Phototherapy against Glioblastoma.

Glioblastoma (GBM) poses a significant therapeutic challenge due to its invasive nature and limited drug penetration through the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In response, here we present an innovative biomimetic approach involving the development of genetically engineered exosome nanocatalysts (Mn@Bi2Se3@RGE-Exos) for efficient GBM therapy via improving the BBB penetration and enzyme-like catalytic activities. Interestingly, a photothermally activatable multiple enzyme-like reactivity is observed in such a nanosystem. Upon NIR-II light irradiation, Mn@Bi2Se3@RGE-Exos are capable of converting hydrogen peroxide into hydroxyl radicals, oxygen, and superoxide radicals, providing a peroxidase (POD), oxidase (OXD), and catalase (CAT)-like nanocatalytic cascade. This consequently leads to strong oxidative stresses to damage GBM cells. In vitro, in vivo, and proteomic analysis further reveal the potential of Mn@Bi2Se3@RGE-Exos for the disruption of cellular homeostasis, enhancement of immunological response, and the induction of cancer cell ferroptosis, showcasing a great promise in anticancer efficacy against GBM with a favorable biosafety profile. Overall, the success of this study provides a feasible strategy for future design and clinical study of stimuli-responsive nanocatalytic medicine, especially in the context of challenging brain cancers like GBM.

Recent Progress in Blue Energy Harvesting Based on Triboelectric Nanogenerators

This paper reviews and summarizes recent progress in blue energy harvesting based on a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). This review covers TENG-based blue energy harvesters (BEHs) with different inertial units in spherical structures, derivative spherical structures, buoy structures, and liquid–solid contact structures. These research works have paved the way for TENG-based BEHs working under low-frequency waves and harvesting wave energy efficiently. The TENG-based BEH unit design and networking strategy are also discussed, along with highlighted research works. The advantages and disadvantages of different TENG structures with other inertial units are explored and discussed. Meanwhile, power management strategies are also mentioned in this paper. Thus, as a promising blue energy harvesting technology, the TENG is expected to significantly contribute to developing low-cost, lightweight, and high-performance BEHs supporting more frequent marine activities.

Plasma electrolytic oxidation based superhydrophobic coatings: fabrication, rudiments, and constraints

AbstractPlasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) has evolved as a versatile technique for depositing low surface energy organic-based materials useful in fabricating superhydrophobic (SHP) coating materials. The application of silane-based polymeric organic materials atop PEO coating is the most common method to prepare coating materials for wetting and corrosion protection. Herein, the latest developments in PEO-based coatings employing polymeric/silane-based organic materials with the inclusion of ceramic oxides are reviewed, with emphasis on the structure, wettability, and corrosion resistance. The relevant and existing fundamental design theories and strategies for fabricating highly efficient SHP PEO coatings are also outlined and discussed. The systemic design of SHP coatings by deposition from organic particle dispersion and their inclusion into PEO-micropore layers, as well as the most important parameters affecting the properties of PEO-assisted SHP-based coatings, are highlighted. Furthermore, the merits and challenges of the PEO-assisted SHP-based coating fabrication are critically evaluated to identify remaining challenges and future research directions.