Innovative Design Research Articles

Protecting digital rights of India: planning for succession at Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF)

Learning outcomes The learning objectives of this case study are based on Bloom’s taxonomy. Upon completion of the case study discussion and exercises, successful students will be able to design a leadership transition and succession plan for non-profit organisations; identify and evaluate critical skills and competencies required in leadership positions; and frame expectations and responsibilities for new and departing executives. Case overview/synopsis Apar Gupta co-founded Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF), a digital rights organisation born out of SaveTheInternet – Net Neutrality movement of 2015, credited for urging the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India to uphold net neutrality in India. And ban zero-cost internet services that promoted data discrimination in the country. After working on and winning the net neutrality movement, Gupta identified many areas in technology where democratic rights had not been identified or were yet to be clearly defined (like in the case of net neutrality). There was also a service gap between the existing internet volunteer groups and digital rights organisations, which could IFF fill. This was to provide objective clarity, stakeholder identification, handle policy discussions and, most importantly, arrange resources to support movements over the long term. This prompted him to co-found IFF in 2017, which he later joined as a full-time executive director in 2018. IFF worked at the intersection of technology, democratic rights and government policies and was comparable to some global organisations, such as the Electronic Frontier Foundation in the USA and the Open Rights Group in the UK. Still, none existed in India at the time. After four years as a full-time executive director in 2022, he was convinced that it was finally time for him to act on the pre-defined strategic departure plan and work towards succession for the executive director position. While there were visible gaps in the system, Gupta’s leadership design and plans had helped IFF overcome existential challenges in the past. Also, while digital rights were still at a nascent stage in emerging economies, under Gupta’s leadership, IFF had delivered unmatched value to its beneficiaries in the world’s biggest digital consumer market. However, constant changes in regulations and continuing financial constraints made him nervous about the outcomes of the succession and the overall sustainability of IFF. Gupta wanted to ensure that this phased transition from executive director after two years and then trustee manager after the next four years are carefully communicated to reduce the likelihood of attrition and loss of trust. Being the co-founder and the first and only executive director IFF had seen, the organisation would also require significant skill and competency mapping to identify the new executive leadership. But with no clear internal successor in sight, the non-profit trust would also need a successor who not only was competent but also would share a passion for the type of work done by IFF, its unique delivery mode, and also would openly inherit its position in society. The other alternative strategic routes present were to look for dual leadership or interim leadership, but then there could be concerns about Gupta’s influence overshadowing any such alternative. In the case scenario, IFF is planning for succession while navigating the organisation through financial constraints and constant regulatory changes to ensure long- and short-term sustainability. Complexity academic level The case study has been written to gain insights into departure-defined successive planning in non-profit organisations. The case study can also be used to gain insights into innovative start-ups and innovative non-profit start-ups, as digital rights are still at nascent stages in emerging markets. The case study will be valuable for courses such as human resource management, strategic human resource management, social entrepreneurial leadership, leadership development, start-up environment, innovation and entrepreneurship, public policy, development studies, cyber security and information technology. The case study also allows students and young professionals to take the perspective of an innovative start-up founder and design a departure-defined succession plan. The case study can also be useful for senior students wanting to undertake an entrepreneurial career by starting or joining a non-profit organisation. While the case study is suitable for postgraduate- and executive-level courses, it can also be used for conducting entrepreneurial workshops and skill training. Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.

NF-κB-Signaling-Targeted Immunomodulatory Nanoparticle with Photothermal and Quorum-Sensing Inhibition Effects for Efficient Healing of Biofilm-Infected Wounds.

The development of therapeutics with high antimicrobial activity and immunomodulatory effects is urgently needed for the treatment of infected wounds due to the increasing danger posed by recalcitrant-infected wounds. In this study, we developed light-controlled antibacterial, photothermal, and immunomodulatory biomimetic N/hPDA@M nanoparticles (NPs). This nanoplatform was developed by loading flavonoid naringenin onto hollow mesoporous polydopamine NPs in a π-π-stacked configuration and encasing them with macrophage membranes. First, our N/hPDA@M NPs efficiently neutralized inflammatory factors present within the wound microenvironment by the integration of macrophage membranes. Afterward, the N/hPDA@M NPs effectively dismantled bacterial biofilms through a combination of the photothermal properties of PDA and the quorum sensing inhibitory effects of naringenin. It is worth noting that N/hPDA@M NPs near-infrared-enhanced release of naringenin exhibited specificity toward the NF-κB-signaling pathway, effectively mitigating the inflammatory response. This innovative design not only conferred remarkable antibacterial properties upon the N/hPDA@M NPs but also endowed them with the capacity to modulate inflammatory responses, curbing excessive inflammation and steering macrophage polarization toward the M2 phenotype. As a result, this multifaceted approach significantly contributes to expediting the healing process of infected skin wounds.

Curating future leaders: a literature review on managerial curriculum in learning organizations

Purpose This study aims to analyze the evolution and current state of talent management in learning organizations and the design of managerial curricula, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in the context of a rapidly changing global business environment. Design/methodology/approach A narrative literature review was conducted, tracing the conceptual evolution of learning organizations. Seminal works emphasizing continuous learning and transformation were highlighted, and the progression of managerial education was analyzed, from its early focus on ethics and soft skills to its current emphasis on sustainability, digital literacy and experiential learning. Findings The research reveals challenges in balancing foundational knowledge with emerging competencies in curriculum design. Tensions are evident in maintaining relevance in rapidly changing, globally interconnected environments. Notable limitations include the trade-offs in innovation and the need to cater to diverse student demographics. Originality/value This review uniquely synthesizes developments at the intersection of curriculum innovation, organizational learning and curriculum design, offering valuable insights for institutions aiming to nurture talent for modern learning organizations.

ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF ENGINEERED WOOD PRODUCTS ON SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY WITH CONVENTIONAL CONCRETE BUILDING METHODS

Renewable-sourced EWPs offer enhanced dimensional stability, durability, and mechanical properties, facilitating larger and more complex structural elements, and contributing to faster construction times and better energy performance. The research investigates the feasibility and effectiveness of Engineered Wood Products (EWPs) as sustainable building materials in the construction sector by a comparison of their cost, performance, and environmental impact against conventional concrete. The research emphasises the importance of innovative design, recycling, and waste reduction in fostering sustainable construction methods that satisfy the demands of present and future generations while conserving energy. However, there are negative environmental impacts linked to the production of concrete, such as habitat destruction, atmospheric emissions, and waste generation. The research adopted a web-based survey to gather quantitative data from construction experts. The Relative Importance Index (RII) was adopted to analyze the respondents' perceptions of the benefits of EWP and concrete negative effects. The results of the research reflect respondents' significant preference for EWPs and are consistent with their outstanding environmental qualities. In conclusion, this paper argues that EWPs possess the potential to effectively revolutionise the construction industry by minimising its carbon footprint and encouraging sustainable construction practices that are required for addressing the expectations of both the present and the future.

Single Molecular Nanomedicines Based on Macrocyclic Carrier-Drug Conjugates for Concentration-Independent Encapsulation and Precise Activation of Drugs.

Nanomedicines often rely on noncovalent self-assembly and encapsulation for drug loading and delivery. However, challenges such as reproducibility issues due to the multicomponent nature, off-target activation caused by premature drug release, and complex pharmacokinetics arising from assembly dissociation have hindered their clinical translation. In this study, we introduce an innovative design concept termed single molecular nanomedicine (SMNM) based on macrocyclic carrier-drug conjugates. Through the covalent linkage of two chemotherapy drugs to a hypoxia-cleavable macrocyclic carrier, azocalix[4]arene, we obtained two self-included complexes to serve as SMNMs. The intramolecular inclusion feature of the SMNMs has not only demonstrated comprehensive shielding and protection for the drugs but also effectively prevented off-target drug leakage, thereby significantly reducing their side effects and enhancing their antitumor therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, the attributes of being a single component and molecularly dispersed confer advantages such as ease of preparation and good reproducibility for SMNMs, which is desirable for clinical applications.

Chiral twisted molecular carbons: Synthesis, properties, and applications

AbstractIn recent years, the precisely controlled synthesis of chiral twisted molecular carbons has emerged as a forefront topic in the research of carbon materials. Molecular carbons refer to carbon nanomaterials synthesized with precision at the atomic level. Through rational design, rigid and stable chiral twisted structures can be synthesized. The exploration in the field of chiral twisted molecular carbons is key to fully understanding the various twisted configurations of carbon materials and delving into the relationship between structure design and functionality. This review explores chiral twisted configurations of carbon nanomaterials such as nanographene, carbon nanobelts, carbon nanosheets, graphdiyne, etc. It emphasizes the role of photocyclization, Scholl reaction, and Diels–Alder reactions in achieving precise chiral control and discusses a range of innovative design strategies. These strategies have led to the development of various twisted structures, such as helical, propeller, and Möbius strip configurations. The introduction of chirality, combined with the inherent exceptional optical properties of nanocarbon materials, has facilitated the creation of materials with superior chiroptical performances. This advancement is driving applications in fields such as optoelectronics and chiral optics.

Optimizing Molecular Packing via Steric Hindrance for Reducing Non-Radiative Recombination in Organic Solar Cells.

Innovative molecule design strategy holds promise for the development of next-generation acceptor materials for efficient organic solar cells with low non-radiative energy loss (ΔEnr). In this study, we designed and prepared three novel acceptors, namely BTP-Biso, BTP-Bme and BTP-B, with sterically structured triisopropylbenzene, trimethylbenzene and benzene as side chains inserted into the shoulder of the central core. The progressively enlarged steric hindrance from BTP-B to BTP-Bme and BTP-Biso induces suppressed intramolecular rotation and altered the molecule packing mode in their aggregation states, leading to significant changes in absorption spectra and energy levels. By regulating the intermolecular π-π interactions, BTP-Bme possesses relatively reduced non-radiative recombination rate and extended exciton diffusion lengths. The binary device based on PB2:BTP-Bme exhibits an impressive power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.5% with a low ΔEnr of 0.19 eV. Furthermore, the ternary device comprising PB2:PBDB-TF:BTP-Bme achieves an outstanding PCE of 19.3%. The molecule design strategy in this study proposed new perspectives for developing high-performance acceptors with low ΔEnr in OSCs.

Optimizing Molecular Packing via Steric Hindrance for Reducing Non‐Radiative Recombination in Organic Solar Cells

Innovative molecule design strategy holds promise for the development of next‐generation acceptor materials for efficient organic solar cells with low non‐radiative energy loss (ΔEnr). In this study, we designed and prepared three novel acceptors, namely BTP‐Biso, BTP‐Bme and BTP‐B, with sterically structured triisopropylbenzene, trimethylbenzene and benzene as side chains inserted into the shoulder of the central core. The progressively enlarged steric hindrance from BTP‐B to BTP‐Bme and BTP‐Biso induces suppressed intramolecular rotation and altered the molecule packing mode in their aggregation states, leading to significant changes in absorption spectra and energy levels. By regulating the intermolecular π‐π interactions, BTP‐Bme possesses relatively reduced non‐radiative recombination rate and extended exciton diffusion lengths. The binary device based on PB2:BTP‐Bme exhibits an impressive power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.5% with a low ΔEnr of 0.19 eV. Furthermore, the ternary device comprising PB2:PBDB‐TF:BTP‐Bme achieves an outstanding PCE of 19.3%. The molecule design strategy in this study proposed new perspectives for developing high‐performance acceptors with low ΔEnr in OSCs.

IMMERSIVE ANALYTICS

Immersive Analytics focuses on the benefits and challenges of using immersive environments for data analysis, and developing designs to improve efficiency. Although immersive technologies are widely available, practical solutions have not gained widespread acceptance in real- world applications. Research in this field focuses on abstract 3D visualization, immersive environments, paper sampling and use case evaluation. 03 Related Works • Brooks early review of VR applications found it effective in specific domains like flight simulators, automotive engineering, and astronaut training. • Van Dam et al. highlighted VR applications for SciVis, benefiting archaeology and medical fields. • Laha and Bowman reviewed VR techniques for visualizing volume data, highlighting the need for controlled experiments to explore individual components of immersion. • Reda et al. summarized research for hybrid reality environments like the CAVE2, emphasizing the possibility of collaborative data analysis. • Brath collected evidence that 3D visualizations offer advantages beyond 2D, focusing on immersive displays. 05 Result • Overall, immersive analytics can lead to better data comprehension, better decision-making, more engagement and teamwork, effective big data exploration, creative data visualization methods, non-technical users' empowerment, and applications in a variety of fields. • These results add to the increasing importance of immersive analytics as an efficient tool for decision support and data analysis. Introduction • To facilitate data-driven analytical reasoning, immersive analytics leverages interactive technology like as virtual reality glasses, big flat screen displays, and even the internet of things. • Immersion refers to an experience that creates a genuine sense of presence in a virtual environment. • A person experiences a shift in awareness from their immediate real environment to another reality. • Immersion analytics is still a relatively new field that has mostly been studied in use cases and workshops. • The notion remains extremely difficult, even within the small community of immersive analytics practitioners. Methodology 4.1 Immersive environments • The study focuses on immersive environments leading to a mixed reality experience. • Abstract 3D visualizations must be presented in a mixed or VR environment where hardware and user interact closely. 4.2 Abstract 3D visualizations • Data that lacks a physical representation or intrinsic spatial organization is referred to as abstract data. • In visualization, abstraction is obtained by using colors and shapes that are not directly associated with the object. 4.3 Paper sampling • Paper sampling in immersive analytics refers to the process of selecting and gathering relevant research papers and publications related to immersive analytics. Conclusion and future scope • In conclusion, immersive analytics has the potential to completely transform how we work with data by facilitating deeper understanding, better decision-making, and improved teamwork. • Immersion analytics will develop further and contribute significantly to data analysis and decision support in the future by tackling issues and seizing opportunities in technological innovation, domain-specific applications, ethical issues, and user experience design.

Interface-constrained catalytic hairpin assembly permits highly sensitive SERS signaling of miRNA.

The rapid and precise monitoring of peripheral blood miRNA levels holds paramount importance for disease diagnosis and treatment monitoring. In this study, we propose an innovative research strategy that combines the catalytic hairpin assembly reaction with SERS signal congregation and enhancement. This combination can significantly enhance the stability of SERS detection, enabling stable and efficient detection of miRNA. Specifically, our paper-based SERS detection platform incorporates a streptavidin-modified substrate, biotin-labeled catalytic hairpin assembly reaction probes, 4-ATP, and primer-co-modified gold nanoparticles. In the presence of miRNA, the 4-ATP and primer-co-modified gold nanoparticles can specifically recognize the miRNA and interact with the biotin-labeled CHA probes to initiate an interfacial catalytic hairpin assembly reaction. This enzyme-free high-efficiency catalytic process can accumulate a large amount of biotin on the gold nanoparticles, which then bind to the streptavidin on the substrate with the assistance of the driving liquid, forming red gold nanoparticle stripes. These provide a multitude of hotspots for SERS, enabling enhanced signal detection. This innovative design achieves a low detection limit of 3.47 fM while maintaining excellent stability and repeatability. This conceptually innovative detection platform offers new technological possibilities and solutions for clinical miRNA detection.

Innovative Thermocatalytic H2 Sensor with Double-Sided Pd Nanocluster Films on an Ultrathin Mica Substrate.

Hydrogen (H2) is crucial in the future global energy landscape due to its eco-friendly properties, but its flammability requires precise monitoring. This study introduces an innovative thermocatalytic H2 sensor utilizing ultrathin mica sheets as substrates, coated on both sides with Pd nanocluster (NC) films. The ultrathin mica substrate ensures robustness and flexibility, enabling the sensor to withstand high temperatures and mechanical deformation. Additionally, it simplifies the fabrication process by eliminating the need for complex microelectro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology. Constructed through cluster beam deposition, the sensor exhibits exceptional characteristics, including a wide concentration range (from 500 ppm to 4%), rapid response and recovery times (3.1 and 2.4 s for 1% H2), good selectivity, high stability, and repeatability. The operating temperature can be as low as 40 °C, achieving remarkably low power consumption. The study explores the impact of double-sided versus single-sided catalytic layers, revealing significantly higher sensitivity and response with the double-sided configuration due to the increased catalytic surface area. Additionally, the research investigates the relationship between the deposition amount of Pd NCs and the sensor's sensitivity, identifying an optimal value that maximizes performance without excessive use of Pd. The sensor's innovative design and excellent performance position it as a promising candidate for meeting the demands of a hydrogen-based energy economy.

A Single-Output-Filter Double Dual Ćuk Converter

This study introduces an innovative version of a recently studied converter. A Double Dual Ćuk Converter was recently studied with advantages like the possibility of designing it for achieving a low-input current ripple. The proposed converter, called the Improved Double Dual Ćuk Converter, maintains the advantages of the former one, and it is characterized by requiring one less capacitor and inductor than its predecessor. This allows addressing the challenge of optimizing the topology to reduce component count without compromising the operation; this work proposes an efficient design methodology based on theoretical analysis and experimental validation. Results demonstrate that the improved topology not only retains the advantages of the previous version, including high efficiency and robustness, but also enhances power density by reducing the number of components. These advancements open new possibilities for applications requiring compact and efficient power converters, such as renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and portable power supply systems. This work underscores the importance of continuous innovation in power converter design and lays the groundwork for future research aimed at optimizing converter topologies. A detailed discussion of the operating principles and modeling of the converter is provided. Furthermore, simulation outcomes highlighting differences in steady-state duration, output voltage, input current ripple, and operational efficiency are shared. The results from an experimental test bench are also presented to corroborate the efficacy of the improved converter.

Photoelectrochemical Communication Between Cyanobacteria and Electrospun Cellulose‐Acetate–Graphene‐Based Electrodes for Photosynthetic and Respiratorial Photocurrent and Hydrogen Generations via Sustainable Solar Energy

In this article, the potential of biophotovoltaic devices (BPVs) as a sustainable solution for addressing the global energy crisis and combating climate change is explored. BPVs harness renewable electricity from sunlight and water through the photosynthetic activity of microorganisms, such as cyanobacteria and algae, serving as living photocatalysts. The focus is primarily on enhancing photocurrent outputs by developing efficient anode materials. Carbon‐based electrodes, particularly graphene (Gr), emerge as promising candidates due to their cost‐effectiveness, electrical conductivity, and mechanical strength. Despite reduced graphene oxide being commonly used, unoxidized Gr has not been extensively explored until recent research demonstrating its excellent current harvesting capacities. Additionally, 1D‐structured nanomaterials, such as electrospun nanofibers, show potential in promoting electron transport and enhancing charge collection efficiency. An innovative photoanode design is introduced, utilizing cyanobacteria immobilized on a cellulose acetate/Gr electrospun mat, offering a porous structure conducive to cyanobacterial attachment and efficient electron transfer. A complementary cathode structure, employing aniline‐modified Pt nanoparticles, facilitates the reduction of protons to yield hydrogen gas. Overall, in this study, BPVs’ potential is highlighted as a viable clean energy technology and novel approaches to enhance their efficiency and sustainability are presented.

Strength design of built-up radially battened columns subject to axial compression and arbitrary directional bending moment

Built-up radially battened columns (RBCs), comprising several identical circular steel tubes interconnected by multiple radial-shaped battens, represent an innovative column design that combines aesthetic appeal with exceptional load-bearing capacity. This makes them well-suited for architectural applications in large public buildings such as stations and airports. The axial compressive strength design methods for the built-up RBC have been extensively explored in the authors' prior studies. However, in real-world engineering applications, built-up RBCs may experience simultaneous axial compression and varying directional bending moments, particularly when considering potential eccentric compression or wind and earthquake loads in public buildings. Currently, strength design methods for this loading condition are still lacking. To address this deficiency, this paper primarily delves into the failure mechanism and strength design methods for built-up RBCs experiencing combined axial compression and arbitrary directional bending moments. Initially, the sectional strength of the built-up RBC is investigated by using a shell finite element model (FEM) for the built-up RBC. It is revealed that the compression-bending sectional strength of the built-up RBC exhibits significant differences with varying bending directions and tube numbers. Moreover, in some bending directions, the M-N sectional strength curve of the built-up RBC exhibits convexity. By integrating theoretically derived equations grounded in the principles of materials mechanics with FEM numerical calculations, concise and practical design equations are proposed for accurately predicting the sectional strength of the built-up RBC under combined axial compression and arbitrary directional bending moments. Subsequently, The buckling strength of the built-up RBC is studied using the FEM, considering initial geometrical imperfections consistent with first-order flexural buckling and accounting for geometric nonlinearity. It is noted that the bending direction of the built-up RBC may deviate during loading. Besides, the M-N buckling strength curve of the built-up RBC is not as convex as its M-N sectional strength curve. Based on calculations from numerous examples, practical design equations for predicting the buckling strength for the built-up RBC under axial compression and any directional bending moments are introduced. The key findings of this paper contribute to the compression-bending strength design of RBCs, enriching RBC design theory and promoting the widespread application of built-up RBCs in actual engineering projects.

An ultrasound-activated nanoplatform remodels tumor microenvironment through diverse cell death induction for improved immunotherapy

Although nanomaterial-based nanomedicine provides many powerful tools to treat cancer, most focus on the “immunosilent” apoptosis process. In contrast, ferroptosis and immunogenic cell death, two non-apoptotic forms of programmed cell death (PCD), have been shown to enhance or alter the activity of the immune system. Therefore, there is a need to design and develop nanoplatforms that can induce multiple modes of cell death other than apoptosis to stimulate antitumor immunity and remodel the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment for cancer therapy. In this study, a new type of multifunctional nanocomposite mainly consisting of HMME, Fe3+ and Tannic acid, denoted HFT NPs, was designed and synthesized to induce multiple modes of cell death and prime the tumor microenvironment (TME). The HFT NPs consolidate two functions into one nano-system: HMME as a sonosensitizer for the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) 1O2 upon ultrasound irradiation, and Fe3+ as a GSH scavenger for the induction of ferroptosis and the production of ROS ·OH through inorganic catalytic reactions. The administration of HFT NPs and subsequent ultrasound treatment caused cell death through the consumption of GSH, the generation of ROS, ultimately inducing apoptosis, ferroptosis, and immunogenic cell death (ICD). More importantly, the combination of HFT NPs and ultrasound irradiation could reshape the TME and recruit more T cell infiltration, and its combination with immune checkpoint blockade anti-PD-1 antibody could eradicate tumors with low immunogenicity and a cold TME. This new nano-system integrates sonodynamic and chemodynamic properties to achieve outstanding therapeutic outcomes when combined with immunotherapy. Collectively, this study demonstrates that it is possible to potentiate cancer immunotherapy through the rational and innovative design of relatively simple materials.

A 5K Efficient Low-Light Enhancement Model by Estimating Increment between Dark Image and Transmission Map Based on Local Maximum Color Value Prior

Low-light enhancement (LLE) has seen significant advancements over decades, leading to substantial improvements in image quality that even surpass ground truth. However, these advancements have come with a downside as the models grew in size and complexity, losing their lightweight and real-time capabilities crucial for applications like surveillance, autonomous driving, smartphones, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). To address this challenge, we propose an exceptionally lightweight model with just around 5K parameters, which is capable of delivering high-quality LLE results. Our method focuses on estimating the incremental changes from dark images to transmission maps based on the low maximum color value prior, and we introduce a novel three-channel transmission map to capture more details and information compared to the traditional one-channel transmission map. This innovative design allows for more effective matching of incremental estimation results, enabling distinct transmission adjustments to be applied to the R, G, and B channels of the image. This streamlined approach ensures that our model remains lightweight, making it suitable for deployment on low-performance devices without compromising real-time performance. Our experiments confirm the effectiveness of our model, achieving high-quality LLE comparable to the IAT (local) model. Impressively, our model achieves this level of performance while utilizing only 0.512 GFLOPs and 4.7K parameters, representing just 39.1% of the GFLOPs and 23.5% of the parameters used by the IAT (local) model.

Research on ship propeller noise reduction: Advanced materials and innovative geometric design

The noise reduction technology of ship propellers is currently one of the challenging directions, despite some progress having been made, continuous research and development are still underway. This paper elucidates commonly used noise reduction methods, namely geometric structure optimization and material optimization. Geometric structure optimization involves aspects such as the number of propeller blades, disk loading ratio, skew angle, and blade shape. Material optimization encompasses material selection, surface coating optimization, and propeller duct design. Corresponding optimization methods are provided for both approaches. A novel and innovative research direction is proposed, leveraging machine learning and neural networks to optimize propeller parameters. Additionally, employing a circumferential friction nanogenerator to sense propeller bearings and identify the coupling relationship between electrical signals and factors such as roughness and rotational speed. This optimization aims to reduce noise by optimizing propeller parameters. The paper concludes by offering insights for current research on ship propeller noise reduction technology in China.

Dual-parameter controlled reconfigurable metasurface for enhanced terahertz beamforming via inverse design method

Recently, reconfigurable metasurfaces have emerged as a promising solution for wavefront manipulation in the terahertz (THz) region, providing enhanced beamforming capabilities. However, traditional single-parameter control methods fail to achieve independent phase and amplitude modulation, constraining their modulation capabilities. Meanwhile, forward design methods based on phase matching ignore the structural responses of the non-ideal unit, leading to degraded beamforming performance. Here, we introduce an electrically reconfigurable metasurface composed of bilayer graphene strips based on dual-parameter control. Full-wave simulations demonstrate independent amplitude and phase modulation, achieving the full 360° phase coverage and an adjustable amplitude range from 0 to 0.8 at 2.6 THz. To optimize beamforming performance, particularly for the responses of the non-ideal unit away from the designed frequency, we employed an inverse design method based on a hybrid evolutionary algorithm. This novel approach significantly enhances beam steering, achieving a maximum 60% increase in beam directivity and maintaining over 90% of ideal directivity across a broad frequency range from 1.6 THz to 5 THz. Especially, it achieves a maximum deflection angle of 75°. Meanwhile, the adaptability of the inverse design method is further demonstrated to various optimized objectives. For beam focusing, even with limited phase control (below 210°), this method significantly enhances the focusing quality (up to 150% enhancement) and increases the focusing efficiency from 25% to 40%. Additionally, it effectively mitigates the impact of quantized phase errors on beamforming. This research not only demonstrates potential applications in high-speed THz wireless communication and compact imaging systems but also paves the way for innovative designs in reconfigurable metasurfaces.

Electrospinning carbon-coated hollow aluminum nanobeads fibers for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

Aluminum (Al) anodes remain a significant challenge for industrial applications, especially when incorporated into full cells. In this study, we introduce an innovative design featuring Al hollow nanobeads anchored to carbon fibers (Al HNBs/CF) to address the issue of cracking and pulverization during repeated charge and discharge cycles, thereby enhancing the structural stability of the Al-based anode. The carbon fiber buffer effectively enhances Al utilization and reaction uniformity, resulting in the Al HNBs/CF anode achieving a high specific capacity (∼834 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C) and exceptional electrochemical durability, with only 0.0062 % capacity degradation per cycle over 1000 cycles. Furthermore, when paired with a commercially available LiFePO4 (LFP) cathode, the full cell exhibits a satisfactory energy density surpassing that of most recently reported LFP-based lithium-ion batteries. These results suggest that our design effectively mitigates the challenges associated with Al-based anodes and holds promise for practical applications in portable electronics.

A Microactuator Array Based on Ionic Electroactive Artificial Muscles for Cell Mechanical Stimulation

Mechanical stimulation is prevalent within organisms, and appropriate regulation of such stimulation can significantly enhance cellular functions. Consequently, the in vitro construction and simulation of mechanical stimulation have emerged as a research hotspot in biomechanics. In recent years, a class of artificial muscles named electroactive polymers (EAPs), especially ionic EAPs, have shown promising applications in biomechanics. While several techniques utilizing ionic EAPs for cell mechanical stimulation have been reported, further research is needed to advance and enhance their practical applications. Here, we prepared a microactuator array based on ionic EAP artificial muscles for cell mechanical stimulation. As a preliminary effort, we created a 5 × 5 microactuator array on a supporting membrane by employing laser cutting. We evaluated the electro-actuation performance of the microactuators through experimental testing and numerical simulations, affirming the potential use of the microactuator array for cell mechanical stimulation. The devised approach could inspire innovative design concepts in the development of miniaturized intelligent electronic devices, not only in biomechanics and biomimetics but also in other related fields.