Innovative Design Research Articles

Spatial dimension cues derived from fibrous scaffolds trigger mechanical activation to potentiate the paracrine and regenerative functions of MSCs via the FAK-PI3K/AKT axis

Secretomes from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have significant therapeutic potential and could be the basis for future MSCs treatments. Innovative design of the topology of biomaterials, which mechanically regulate cell behavior and function, can tremendously improve the efficacy of stem cell therapy. However, how spatial dimension cues derived from specific topology command cell mechanotransduction to regulate the paracrine function of MSCs remains unknown. In this study, the three-dimensional (3D) fibrous constructs with box-like pores and precise strand spacing from 150 µm down to only 40 µm were manufactured using melt electrowriting (MEW), which were used to systematically investigate the spatial dimension cues-triggered mechanotransduction of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (Ad-MSCs) and their impact on the paracrine and regeneration function of Ad-MSCs. The results demonstrated that spatial instructions from the 3D fibrous constructs could influence the spatial reorganization of the cytoskeleton, resulting in cell elongation and augmented immunomodulatory and angiogenic paracrine effects of Ad-MSCs, which was most pronounced at a minimum strand spacing of 40 µm. Besides, mechanical activation of the FAK-PI3K/AKT axis significantly enhanced the paracrine function of Ad-MSCs. In vivo experiments demonstrated that the Ad-MSCs trained using well-defined 3D fibrous constructs with a strand spacing of 40 µm significantly promoted skin regeneration via paracrine signals. In conclusion, this study provides a new horizon for deciphering space dimension insights into the interactional mechanisms of mechanotransduction in regulating cell function, which has inspired innovations in biomaterials for improving tissue regeneration. Statement of significanceThis study emphasized that designing cell-scale spatial dimension cues to command mechanical activation via the FAK-PI3K/AKT axis could significantly enhance the paracrine and regenerative functions of Ad-MSCs. Paracrine signals of Ad-MSCs triggered by mechanical activation promoted skin repair and regeneration via the immunomodulation and angiogenesis. The proposed mechanobiological signal transduction triggered by spatial dimensional cues, which potentiates the paracrine and regenerative functions of Ad-MSCs, is a promising engineering strategy and is expected to provide new inspirations for the development of biomaterials based on biophysical signals for cellular behavior modulation.

'Ain't I a Nurse', implementing a digital illustration of resistance when challenging anti-Black racism in nursing education.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing reports have highlighted the urgency of addressing anti-Black racism within Canada's healthcare system. The paucity of research within a Canadian context has created growing concerns among Millennials and Generation Zs for healthcare to address growing health disparities and health inequities that are attributed to institutional and structural racism. Recognizing the paradigm shift that has occurred because of the pandemic and the sleuth of racial killings, the nursing classroom has witnessed a change and a need for nursing education to be relevant for the cohort of nursing students who are seeking answers. The scarcity of nursing literature addressing diverse forms of learning demonstrates the need for nursing education to explore new ways of being diverse, inclusive and innovative when teaching intergenerationally. In this paper, the author challenges nurse educators to revisit the student-educator relationship by introducing critical digital pedagogy to dismantle anti-Black racism and promote student-educator engagement for transformative learning to occur. As an educator, the author implements the use of digital illustration as a tool of resistance for students and educators to assess, engage, act and reflect on creating change within nursing education. Using Black feminist thought and culturally responsive learning, the author introduces an arts-based approach through the innovative design of an illustration, titled, 'Ain't I a Nurse. Combining historical stories with contemporary socio-political experiences, the author demonstrates how students and educators can enter a cognitive learning experience where they can connect mentally and emotionally, and in so doing re-envision and recreate a new world that centralizes equity, diversity and inclusivity through critical discourses. Through the illustration anti-Black racism is challenged and anti-Black racism resistance is discovered as an antidote in dismantling anti-Black racism within nursing education.

A high gain microwave and millimeter-wave-based balanced antipodal Vivaldi antenna with a parasitic patch and a half-spherical shaped dielectric lens

This paper presented the design and performance analysis of a high-gain balanced antipodal Vivaldi antenna (BAVA) integrated with a parasitic patch and a half-spherical shaped dielectric lens, specifically designed for microwave and millimeter-wave applications. Constructed with a Teflon substrate (εr = 2.1, tanδ = 0.0002) and energized by a 50-ohm microstrip feedline, the innovative design incorporated a parasitic patch and three different types of dielectric lenses: half-circular, conical, and half-spherical shaped. The half-spherical dielectric lens significantly enhanced performance, achieving a gain of 20.54 dB, side lobe level (SLL) of -18.15 dB, and a maximum beam squint of 1.59 degrees. Additionally, it exhibited a 98% radiation efficiency, a front-to-back ratio of 31.75 dB, and a half-power beamwidth (HPBW) of 6.7 degrees. The incorporation of a parasitic patch and a half-spherical shaped dielectric lens enhanced the antenna's performance. Comparative analysis with existing antennas underscored the superiority of the proposed design, positioning it as a promising solution for microwave and millimeter-wave communication systems, radar, and sensing applications.

Research on a novel method of air distribution to create a uniform indoor environment in a long and narrow building

Because people work a long time in buildings, good indoor thermal environments and air distributions have attracted increased amounts of attention. To improve the indoor thermal environment and air quality, an effective ventilation strategy must be used. In the air conditioning of a building, the air distribution has been identified as a significant factor that affects the indoor thermal environment. A novel method for air distribution was presented to create a uniform indoor environment along the room length direction. In this study, numerical simulations were carried out to analyse the airflow pattern and performance of the sidewall air supply (SAS) and the sidewall air supply with deflector (SASD). Orthogonal experiments were conducted to study the airflow distribution law of the deflector. The ventilation performance of the two air supply modes was evaluated by air velocity distribution, temperature distribution, horizontal temperature difference, age of air, and other evaluation indicators. The results indicate that the horizontal air temperature differences in the SASD at three heights are 46.05%, 16.44%, and 26.51% lower than those in the SAS, which has a better energy-saving effect. Moreover, the indoor air distribution performance was obtained under three influencing factors: the gap width from the deflector to the ceiling, the horizontal position, and the length of the deflector. A better deflector optimization scheme was obtained. Experimental research was carried out to verify the indoor air distribution of the SASD. This research can provide a reference for the innovative design of indoor air supply systems

META-MODULE. Contemporary modularity as generative tool for Smart Architecture.

Abstract The complexity of the contemporary era challenges traditional methods and processes in architecture, exacerbated by diverse specializations, global production, and recent cultural, social, and technological shifts. Consequently, contemporary architecture responds to societal demands through innovative methods and tools. To maintain coherence in design objectives, explicit information on addressing contemporary concerns is essential. Systematizing informational flows becomes the language of Smart Architecture, utilizing informative patterns and design variations to address these challenges effectively. Starting with an analysis of the inherent characteristics of the modular system, considered both as a regulator of complexity and in its evolution within the architectural panorama influenced by significant socio-cultural and ideological transformations, this contribution introduces the concept of the meta-module. In the era of smart architecture, the module tends to evolve into a meta-module, serving as a generative tool for Smart Architecture. The meta-module integrates interconnected information to organize contemporary complexity, employing innovative design components across multiple scales to address various concerns. The originality of this contribution lies in a process of abstraction that transforms the concept of the module into that of a ‘meta-module’, as a multi-level support matrix for design, compatible with cutting-edge computer tools, ensuring coherence between design considerations and corresponding construction choices.

Toolpath and Tool Design Innovations in Deformation Machining for Superior AA-7075 T6 Fins

Abstract A hybrid manufacturing process, deformation machining (DM) combines subtractive manufacturing with incremental forming. Monolithic components with complex profiles are created through the hybridization of manufacturing technologies, which also reduces the wastage of raw materials. The properties of geometry and surface quality of the fin made from the aluminum alloy Al-7075 T6 using the DM process’s bending mode was examined in this research, as were the effects of various approaches, toolpath methods, and tool design. To achieve the desired shape for the machined fin, various combinations of arcuate and slanting fin toolpath techniques were explored utilizing both top-down and bottom-up methods. The bottom-up method and the arcuate toolpath strategy were used to investigate various tool profiles. Using the best combination of toolpath strategy and tool profile, named as the T3 tool profile, which has a 0.6 mm nose radius and a circular sector, bottom-to-top (BTT)technique, and arcuate toolpath method, components with better geometrical features and surface roughness (SR) were produced. The analysis of the forming force in the bending approach of the DM progression was further carried out using this optimal combination.

Vibration of creativity: Exploring the relationship between appraisal shift and creative process in design teams

Appraisals, particularly their positive or negative valences, play a critical regulatory role in design thinking. The shift in appraisals holds significant research potential in the realm of team creativity. This study examines the relationship between appraisal shifts and the creative process within design teams, with a focus on collaborative design in a service design environment.By observing the dynamic changes in appraisals among team members at the micro-process level, we explore how these shifts are associated with team creativity. The study analyzed the interactions of 11 teams engaged in a structured experiment based on the double diamond model, utilizing video recordings and a comprehensive coding system to track the positive-negative shifts in appraisals.The findings indicate that appraisal shifts not only play a crucial role in the design process but also that their dynamic characteristics are somewhat related to the teams' creative performance. The study also compares how design teams perform differently in the problem and solution phases, emphasizing balanced attention to both phases. Additionally, a novel aspect of this study is the use of timeline visualizations to illustrate appraisal shifts, providing deeper insights into the interactions between team members and creative outputs.This research contributes to our understanding of the dynamic creative processes within design teams, offering valuable insights for optimizing team interaction patterns and enhancing the efficiency of design innovation.

Enhancing Maritime Healthcare: Design Innovations and Technical Contributions of Doctor Assistant Software

Enhancing Maritime Healthcare: Design Innovations and Technical Contributions of Doctor Assistant Software

Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Computer Systems, and Interactive Systems: a Holistic Approach to Enhancing Creative Talent in Art Design

With the rapid development and wide application of artificial intelligence, virtual computer systems and interactive systems, they play an important role in improving innovative talents in art and design. The purpose of this paper is to explore the overall approach of using these technologies to improve innovation in the field of art and design as well as to cultivate innovative talents. Firstly, we introduce the current development of artificial intelligence in art and design. Secondly, we explore the application of AI, virtual computer systems and interactive systems in art and design innovation. Artificial intelligence technology can help designers discover new inspirations and ideas by analysing a large number of artworks and design cases; virtual computer systems can provide designers with a virtual creative environment so that they can experiment and create in an infinite space; interactive systems can provide learners with a personalised learning experience, and, through intelligent educational platforms and interactive tools, help them develop their creative thinking and problem-solving skills. By making full use of these technologies, we can cultivate more creative and innovative art and design talents, and promote the sustainable development of the art and design field.

Advancements in Nanoparticle-Based Precision Drug Delivery: A Review of Development and Optimization for Targeted Therapy in Preclinical Models

In recent years, the widespread adoption of nanoparticles has expanded across a broad spectrum of clinical domains. These nanoparticles have been specifically engineered to address the limitations associated with conventional therapeutics and to navigate various biological barriers—ranging from systemic to cellular levels—that manifest heterogeneity across different patient populations and disease states. The advent of precision treatments, wherein interventions are tailored to individual patients, has contributed to mitigating this variability among patients. Nonetheless, the predominant focus in current nanoparticle research remains on enhancing the uniformity of delivery systems. The realization of precision medicine appears imminent as lipid-based, polymeric, and inorganic nanoparticles are increasingly crafted with heightened precision, facilitating more individualized approaches to medication delivery. In this review, we delve into the advanced designs of nanoparticles employed in both precision and generalized applications, offering insights into their potential to advance precision medicine. Our discussion centers on the innovations in nanoparticle design aimed at overcoming various delivery challenges, suggesting that ingenious nanoparticle engineering holds promise for enhancing performance across a broad spectrum of delivery applications and facilitating tailored designs for specific therapeutic targets, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.

Enhancing Time-of-Flight Diffraction (TOFD) Inspection through an Innovative Curved-Sole Probe Design

Time-of-Flight Diffraction (TOFD) is a method of ultrasonic testing (UT) that is widely established as a non-destructive technique (NDT) mainly used for the inspection of welds. In contrast to other established UT techniques, TOFD is capable of identifying discontinuities regardless of their orientation. This paper proposes a redesign of the typical TOFD transducers, featuring an innovative curved sole aimed at enhancing their defect detection capabilities. This design is particularly beneficial for thick-walled samples, as it allows for deeper inspections without compromising the resolution near the surface area. During this research, an evaluation consisting in simulations of the ultrasonic beam distribution and experimental tests on a component with artificially manufactured defects at varying depths has been performed to validate the new design. The results demonstrate a 30 to 50% higher beam distribution area as well as an improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) resulting in a 24% enhancement in the capability of defect detection compared to the traditional approach.

Capturing Autoinhibited PDK1 Reveals the Linker's Regulatory Role, Informing Innovative Inhibitor Design.

PDK1 is crucial for PI3K/AKT/mTOR and Ras/MAPK cancer signaling. It phosphorylates AKT in a PIP3-dependent but S6K, SGK, and RSK kinases in a PIP3-independent manner. Unlike its substrates, its autoinhibited monomeric state has been unclear, likely due to its low population time, and phosphorylation in the absence of PIP3 has been puzzling too. Here, guided by experimental data, we constructed models and performed all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. In the autoinhibited PDK1 conformation that resembles autoinhibited AKT, binding of the linker between the kinase and PH domains to the PIF-binding pocket promotes the formation of the Glu130-Lys111 salt bridge and weakens the association of the kinase domain with the PH domain, shifting the population from the autoinhibited state to states accessible to the membrane and its kinase substrates. The interaction of the substrates' hydrophobic motif and the PDK1 PIF-binding pocket facilitates the release of the autoinhibition even in the absence of PIP3. Phosphorylation of the serine-rich motif within the linker further attenuates the association of the PH domain with the kinase domain. These suggest that while the monomeric autoinhibited state is relatively stable, it can readily shift to its active, catalysis-prone state to phosphorylate its diverse substrates. Our findings reveal the PDK1 activation mechanism and discover the regulatory role of PDK1's linker, which lead to two innovative linker-based inhibitor strategies: (i) locking the autoinhibited PDK1 through optimization of the interactions of AKT inhibitors with the PH domain of PDK1 and (ii) analogs (small molecules or peptidomimetics) that mimic the linker interactions with the PIF-binding pocket.

Territorial Patterns of European Innovation in the Context of Different Innovation Output Proxies: A Spatial MGWR-SAR Approach

AbstractThe paper seeks to explore the drivers of European innovation represented by three innovation outputs (patent, trademark, and design applications), emphasizing spatial autocorrelation and heterogeneity. It includes data from 202 regions from 22 European Union (EU) Member States, along with 18 regions from Switzerland, Norway, and Serbia in 2019, providing a more comprehensive geographic scope. By considering multiple indicators of innovation output, including patents, trademarks, and design applications, the main objective is to examine spatial innovation spillovers and the heterogeneous responses of regional innovation output to innovation inputs in the context of European regions. To achieve this goal, the main instrument of the analysis is a newly proposed methodological framework called Mixed Geographically Weighted Regression-Spatial Autoregressive (MGWR-SAR) models. The analysis suggests that while all innovation inputs (most-cited publications, research and development expenditure in the business sector, human resources in science and technology, and population density) are justified in increasing all innovation outputs, the strength of particular determinants of innovation might vary across regions. Moreover, the analysis reveals valuable insights into how spatial spillovers influence regional innovation. The impact of spatial connections varies across the regions, with patents showing the strongest linkages, affecting about 92.27% of regions. Although trademarks and designs have fewer spatial connections (approximately 50% of regions), they still play a significant role in innovation. Although patents have traditionally dominated discussions of innovation, the findings reveal the importance of incorporating designs and trademarks as complementary indicators. Overall, the study highlights the need for multiple metrics to comprehensively evaluate innovations.

Spiral microchannels with concave cross-section for enhanced cancer cell inertial separation.

Inertial microfluidic technologies have proven effective for particle focusing and separation in many microchannels, typically the channels with the rectangular and trapezoidal shapes. To advance particle focusing in complex channels, we propose a spiral channel combining rectangular and concave cross-sections for high-resolution particle and cell focusing and separation. Numerical simulations were conducted to illustrate the effects of channel geometry on secondary flow distribution and particle focusing positions. The simulation shows the concave cross-section generates two asymmetrical Dean vortices skewing towards the inner and outer channel walls, resulting to stronger flow velocity magnitudes near the walls than the channel center. Consequently, larger particles focus near the inner wall, while smaller particles are trapped closer to the outer wall under the influence of the stronger velocity magnitude near the walls. A microfluidic chip with the proposed channelgeometry, along with a traditional rectangular channel, was fabricated by 3D printing and PDMS casting. Fluorescent microbeads were used to investigate inertial focusing and separation behaviors in the microfluidicchips. Experimental results show that the concave channel facilitates particle focusing or trapping much closer to the walls than the traditional rectangular channel, achieving better separation resolution. Finally, the proposed channel was applied to separate lung cancer A549 cells from human blood, achieving a cancer cell recovery rate of ~ 84.78% (enrichment ratio over 820-fold) and a blood cell rejection rate of ~ 99.88%. This innovative channel design in inertial microfluidics offers new insights for enhanced particle focusing and holds significant promise for cell manipulation with improved separation resolution.

관공서 스마트 오피스 구축에 관한 연구 : 사용자 조사 및 국내·외 사례조사 분석을 중심으로

In recent years, the social trend of emphasizing work-life balance (Work-Life Balance) and the introduction of the 52-hour workweek system have highlighted the need for smart offices focused on work efficiency. Public institutions are also actively pursuing the implementation of smart offices. This paper aims to provide guidelines for establishing smart offices in public institutions, based on field surveys and user studies of a public office currently undergoing relocation planning. Through a spatial usage survey of Public Office A, which is in the process of relocation planning, and user surveys and interviews with staff, this study identifies office space improvement needs and requirements. Furthermore, by analyzing domestic and international case studies of smart office implementations in public institutions, this paper offers practical directions for the establishment of smart offices in public institutions. Based on the surveys and interviews conducted, the study addresses the specific requirements of each department, ensures a clear understanding of and engagement with spatial needs, and incorporates insights from successful international examples. This paper highlights the importance of applying innovative spatial designs that can improve the current organizational culture, facilitating active communication and collaboration.

Advancements in biomedical device implants: A comprehensive review of current technologies

This review paper explores the critical role of biomedical engineers in developing advanced biomedical device implants, emphasizing their involvement in research, design, and clinical implementation. It highlights the interdisciplinary collaboration between engineers, medical professionals, and materials scientists, which is essential for the successful advancement of implant technologies. The paper also examines recent implant materials, design, and functionality innovations, focusing on integrating smart technologies and sustainable materials. Furthermore, it discusses the challenges of ensuring biocompatibility and safety and the ethical and regulatory considerations that guide the development of these devices. The review concludes with an outlook on the future of biomedical implants, identifying emerging trends and potential breakthroughs that could further revolutionize patient care.

Enhancement of heat dissipation efficiency in the CSNS target through the innovative design of a serial cooling water channel

This paper presents a coupling of the Monte Carlo method with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to analyze the flow channel design of an irradiated target through numerical simulations. A novel series flow channel configuration is proposed, which effectively facilitates the removal of heat generated by high-power irradiation from the target without necessitating an increase in the cooling water flow rate. The research assesses the performance of both parallel and serial cooling channels within the target, revealing that, when subjected to equivalent cooling water flow rates, the maximum temperature observed in the target employing the serial channel configuration is lower. This reduction in temperature is ascribed to the accelerated flow of cooling water within the serial channel, which subsequently elevates both the Reynolds number and the Nusselt number, leading to enhanced heat transfer efficiency. Furthermore, the maximum temperature is observed to occur further downstream, thereby circumventing areas of peak heat generation. This phenomenon arises because the cooling water traverses the target plates with the highest internal heat generation at a lower temperature when the flow channels are arranged in series, optimizing the cooling effect on these targets. However, it is crucial to note that the pressure loss associated with the serial structure is two orders of magnitude greater than that of the parallel structure, necessitating increased pump power and imposing stricter requirements on the target container and cooling water pipeline. These findings can serve as a reference for the design of the cooling channels in the target station system, particularly in light of the anticipated increase in beam power during the second phase of the China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS Ⅱ).

Innovative technologies of rail transport used by the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland

Innovation in rail transport has a wide range of applications, which includes customer contact, train moni-toring with modern internet-connected sensors and data analysis, as well as the use of artificial intelli-gence for route optimization, customer service management and vehicle maintenance. The presented is-sues constitute a research niche in the field of the use of innovations in military rail transport, which en-courages research in this area. The article describes innovative technologies of rail transport used by the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland. The subject of the research included in the article are the latest innovations in the field of rail transport technology and the analysis of their benefits and potential use by the Polish Armed Forces. These include: intelligent control systems, infrastructure maintenance, innova-tive designs of trains and wagons. The aim of the article is to identify the advantages of innovative tech-nologies and their potential application in the Polish Armed Forces. In order to achieve the objectives of the article outlined in this way, it is necessary to answer the following research questions: What innovative technologies of rail transport are used by the Polish Armed Forces? What are the prospects for the devel-opment of innovative rail transport technologies for defence purposes in Poland? What innovative solu-tions concerning the railway infrastructure in Poland could improve the safety of movements of troops by rail? The research hypothesis was adopted in the article: Innovative solutions in rail transport used by the Polish Armed Forces will effectively support the implementation of transports in the movement and transport subsystem (M&T). In order to verify the hypothesis, the following research methods were used: theoretical methods (analysis, synthesis, abstraction, inference, generalization) and the method of expert interview with representatives of the movement and transport subsystem. The presented approach allowed to analyse the problem from different perspectives, which makes it possible to conduct detailed research on this important and current issue.

Laser Metal Deposition of Rene 80—Microstructure and Solidification Behavior Modelling

New developments in nickel-based superalloys and production methods, such as the use of additive manufacturing (AM), can result in innovative designs for turbines. It is crucial to understand how the material behaves during the AM process to advance the industrial use of these techniques. An analytical model based on reaction–diffusion formalism is developed to better explain the solidification behavior of the material during laser metal deposition (LMD). The well-known Scheil–Gulliver theory has some drawbacks, such as the assumption of equilibrium at the solid–liquid interface, which is addressed by this method. The solidified fractions under the Scheil model and the pure equilibrium model are calculated using CALPHAD simulations. A differential scanning calorimeter is used to measure the heat flow during the solid–liquid phase transformation, the result of which is further converted to solidified fractions. The analytical model is compared with all the other models for validation.

A transformer-less DC-DC converter for grid-connected PV systems using TSTS-ZSI voltage boost-buck technique

This research introduces an innovative design for a grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system utilizing a transformer-less DC-DC converter. The converter is based on the TSTS-ZSI (Three-Switch Transformer-less Z-Source Inverter) voltage boost-buck technique, which enhances voltage regulation and energy transfer, making it ideal for micro-inverter applications. The primary goal of the study is to improve energy efficiency while ensuring seamless integration with the grid. The proposed system not only boosts voltage but also ensures efficient buck operation, leading to enhanced power injection into the grid under fluctuating conditions. By utilizing advanced control techniques, the converter minimizes power losses, reduces stress on the components, and maintains stability in a wide range of grid scenarios. Simulations performed using MATLAB/Simulink demonstrate that the converter delivers stable and efficient power with minimal energy loss. The results validate its effectiveness in small-scale grid-connected systems, achieving enhanced power management under various operating conditions. The converter's ability to operate efficiently without a transformer reduces magnetic losses and electromagnetic interference, making it a cost-effective and compact solution. The research presents a valuable contribution to the field of renewable energy integration, with its applications extending to both residential and commercial grid-connected PV systems.'