Strategic Design Research Articles

Evaluation of the Hydrodynamic Impacts of Tidal Turbine Arrays in Jiaozhou Bay

In this paper, a hydrodynamic model of Jiaozhou Bay was developed using the Regional Ocean Modeling System and validated against observed tidal levels and current data. The model accurately characterizes the tidal and current features of the region. Based on this model, the spatial and temporal distributions of flow fields and tidal energy resources were analyzed. A 100-turbine tidal power plant was simulated utilizing a momentum-based approach that accounts for resource distribution, bathymetry, topography, and turbine parameters. The resulting hydrodynamic changes, including velocity variations peaking at 0.5 m/s within the turbine deployment zone and tidal level shifts confined to the bay (maximum change in ~10 cm), emphasize the importance of localized environmental assessments. However, the findings also highlight broader considerations for the sustainable development of tidal energy in semi-enclosed bays worldwide, where strategic siting and design can mitigate larger ecological disturbances. These findings may provide a scientific foundation for balancing clean energy extraction with minimal environmental impact, thus contributing to global efforts to develop more resilient and sustainable coastal energy systems.

Efficient amine-assisted CO2 hydrogenation to methanol co-catalyzed by metallic and oxidized sites within ruthenium clusters

Amine-assisted two-step CO2 hydrogenation is an efficient route for methanol production. To maximize the overall catalytic performance, both the N-formylation of amine with CO2 (i.e., first step) and the subsequent amide hydrogenation (i.e., second step) are required to be optimized. Herein, a class of Al2O3-supported Ru catalysts, featuring multiple activated Ru species (i.e., metallic and oxidized Ru), are rationally fabricated. Density functional theory calculations suggest that metallic Ru forms are preferred for N-formylation step, whereas oxidized Ru species demonstrate enhanced amide hydrogenation activity. Thus, the optimal catalyst, containing unique Ru clusters with coexisting metallic and oxidized Ru species, efficiently synergize the conversion of CO2 into methanol with exceptional selectivity (>95%) in a one-pot two-step process. This work not only presents an advanced catalyst for CO2-based methanol production but also highlights the strategic design of catalysts with multiple active species for optimizing the catalytic performances of multistep reactions in the future.

Strategic Design, Synthesis, and Computational Characterization of Hole Transport Materials for Lead-Free Perovskite Solar Cells

Strategic Design, Synthesis, and Computational Characterization of Hole Transport Materials for Lead-Free Perovskite Solar Cells

Transition Metal-Mediated Preparation of Nitrogen-Doped Porous Carbon for Advanced Zinc-Ion Hybrid Capacitors

Carbon is predominantly used in zinc-ion hybrid capacitors (ZIHCs) as an electrode material. Nitrogen doping and strategic design can enhance its electrochemical properties. Melamine formaldehyde resin, serving as a hard carbon precursor, synthesizes nitrogen-doped porous carbon after annealing. Incorporating transition metal catalysts like Ni, Co, and Fe alters the morphology, pore structure, graphitization degree, and nitrogen doping types/proportions. Electrochemical tests reveal a superior capacitance of 159.5 F g−1 at a scan rate of 1 mV s−1 and rate performance in Fe-catalyzed N-doped porous carbon (Fe-NDPC). Advanced analysis shows Fe-NDPC’s high graphitic nitrogen content and graphitization degree, boosting its electric double-layer capacitance (EDLC) and pseudocapacitance. Its abundant micro- and mesopores increase the surface area fourfold compared to non-catalyzed samples, favoring EDLC and fast electrolyte transport. This study guides catalyst application in carbon materials for supercapacitors, illuminating how catalysts influence nitrogen-doped porous carbon structure and performance.

Assessment of dose uniformity and optimal CT number for virtual bolus in breast VMAT planning

Background: ICRU Report No. 83 proposes using the Flash Region in the strategic design of breast cancer treatment. However, concerns persist regarding the delivery of the designated radiation dose to breast cancer patients undergoing Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) with virtual bolus in the irradiation plan. Objective: This study aimed to assess dose uniformity in breast VMAT treatment with a virtual bolus, validate the planning dose by comparing it with nanoDotTM measurements on a Rando phantom, and determine the optimal CT number for the virtual bolus in breast VMAT planning. Materials and Materials and methods: To assess dose uniformity in the breast VMAT plan, nine nanoDot™ dosimeters were placed on the breast of Rando phantom, followed by CT simulation and VMAT treatment planning. The clinical target volume (CTV) and organs at risk were contoured, and the planning target volume (PTV) boundaries were expanded by 5 mm and 10 mm for virtual bolus thicknesses of 10 mm and 15 mm, respectively. The CT number of the virtual bolus varied from 0 to -700 HU. The planning doses at 9 points were determined, and the coefficient of variation (%CV) was calculated. Additionally, measurements at these 9 points were performed using nanoDot™ dosimeters. The calculated and measured doses were then compared. Finally, VMAT treatment plans with a virtual bolus were implemented in 10 breast cancer patients, using the virtual bolus with varying CT numbers as in the phantom study to evaluate the optimal CT number of the bolus. Results: The doses among the 9 points for each plan were uniform, with a %CV of less than 4. For calculated dose validation, the percentage differences between the measured and calculated dose for all treatment plans, with variations in the CT number and the bolus thickness, were within ±5%. To determine the optimal CT number for the virtual bolus, the breast cancer treatment plan that met the dose criteria for tumors and organs at risk was the plan with a CT number of 0 HU for both virtual bolus thicknesses of 10 and 15 mm. Conclusion: Virtual bolus provides uniform dose distribution for breast VMAT planning, which measurements from nanoDotTM can validate. The appropriate CT number for the virtual bolus is 0 HU for both bolus thicknesses. In future studies, measurements should be conducted on actual patients.

Advancing Therapeutic Strategies with Polymeric Drug Conjugates for Nucleic Acid Delivery and Treatment.

The effective clinical translation of messenger RNA (mRNA), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and microRNA (miRNA) for therapeutic purposes hinges on the development of efficient delivery systems. Key challenges include their susceptibility to degradation, limited cellular uptake, and inefficient intracellular release. Polymeric drug conjugates (PDCs) offer a promising solution, combining the benefits of polymeric carriers and therapeutic agents for targeted delivery and treatment. This comprehensive review explores the clinical translation of nucleic acid therapeutics, focusing on polymeric drug conjugates. It investigates how these conjugates address delivery obstacles, enhance systemic circulation, reduce immunogenicity, and provide controlled release, improving safety profiles. The review delves into the conjugation strategies, preparation methods, and various classes of PDCs, as well as strategic design, highlighting their role in nucleic acid delivery. Applications of PDCs in treating diseases such as cancer, immune disorders, and fibrosis are also discussed. Despite significant advancements, challenges in clinical adoption persist. The review concludes with insights into future directions for this transformative technology, underscoring the potential of PDCs to advance nucleic acid-based therapies and combat infectious diseases significantly.

Strategic design of emerging (K,Na)NbO3-based perovskites for high-performance piezocatalysis and photo-piezocatalysis.

As a leading Pb-free perovskite material (ABO3-type), potassium sodium niobate (K,Na)NbO3 (KNN)-based ferroelectrics/piezoelectrics have been widely used in electronics, energy conversion, and storage due to their exceptional ability to interconvert mechanical and electrical energies. Beyond traditional applications, the piezoelectric potential generated by mechanical strain or stress modifies their energy band structures and facilitates charge carrier separation and transport, drawing increasing attention in emerging fields such as piezocatalysis and photo-piezocatalysis. With excellent piezoelectric properties, chemical/thermal stability, and strain-tuning capability, KNN-based materials show great promise for high-performance piezocatalytic applications. Coupling KNN with semiconductors exhibiting strong optical absorption to form heterojunctions further boosts performance by suppressing electron-hole recombination and promoting directed charge transfer, which is crucial for photo-piezocatalysis. The flexibility of KNN's perovskite structures also allows for modifications in chemical composition and crystal structure, enabling diverse design strategies such as defect engineering, phase boundary engineering, morphology control, and heterojunction formation. This review comprehensively explores the recent advancements in KNN-based piezocatalysis and photo-piezocatalysis, starting with an overview of their crystal structures and intrinsic properties. It then explores the role of piezoelectric potential in charge carrier dynamics and catalytic activity, followed by strategic design approaches to optimize efficiency in environmental remediation and energy conversion. Finally, the review addresses current challenges and future research directions aimed at advancing sustainable solutions using KNN-based materials in these applications.

A benzo[b]thiophene-derived inhibitor of virus particle assembly via targeting capsid protein residue Arg157.

As a biological macromolecule, the coat protein (CP) of potato virus Y (PVY) mediates the virus' primary pathogenic behaviors. It has been gradually realized that certain residues on the CP are crucial for functions such as virus particle movement and assembly. However, there are few reports of potential drugs successfully targeting these key residues with unique mechanisms of action. Here, we disclose the first new phytovirucide that acts on the key site Arg157 (R157) on the PVY CP. In this investigation, we developed a series of benzo[b]thiophene-based compounds, strategically introducing sulfonamide functionalities to enhance their antiviral performance. Through bio-screening, derivative C54 (EC50 = 69.2 μg/mL for inactive activity) emerged as notably more effective against PVY than the established antiviral agent ningnanmycin (EC50 = 79.6 μg/mL). Mechanistic studies revealed that C54 is an inhibitor of viral particle assembly by specifically binding to the CP residue R157, thereby disrupting its interaction with RNA. These results underscore the promise of C54 as a potent antiviral lead and provide a fresh perspective on the strategic design of inhibitors focusing on viral assembly processes.

Recent progresses in the synthesis and strategic designs of sustainable carbon-based fibrous electrodes for flexible batteries

A detailed review on carbon fiber (CF)-based flexible electrodes for application in rechargeable batteries is reported. Various preparation methods for flexible electrodes based on CFs are reviewed, along with their performance evaluations.

Dual-Doped Spinel Nickel-Iron Oxide Nanoflowers for Remarkably Enhanced Oxygen Evolution Reaction

The advancement of efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is essential for boosting electrochemical water splitting. Anionic double doping is a promising strategy to enhance catalytic efficiency through synergistic interactions among dopant elements. In this study, we synthesized a novel N/P anion co-doped NiFe2O4 electrocatalyst (N, P-NiFe2O4), featuring three-dimensional (3D) flower-like nanosheet. This material exhibits significant potential for applications in OER. The N, P-NiFe2O4 demonstrates exceptional performance with current density of 20mAcm-2 and 50mAcm-2 at low overpotential of only 220mV and 255mV, respectively. It has significantly reduced overpotentials of 109 and 162mV compared to undoped NiFe2O4. The superior catalytic activity of N, P-NiFe2O4 is attributed to the synergistic optimization of its electronic structure, surface morphology, and microstructure by anionic co-doping with N and P. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations further reveal that the dual doping with N and P ions effectively lowers the Gibbs free energy barrier associated with the critical *OH to *O transition in the OER process, thus accelerating the reaction kinetics and bolstering the intrinsic electrocatalytic activity. This study provides critical insights into the strategic design of high-efficiency, cost-effective OER electrocatalysts through targeted doping techniques, paving the way for the development of advanced materials for sustainable energy applications.

Intrinsic immunomodulatory hydrogels for chronic inflammation.

The immune system plays a pivotal role in maintaining physiological homeostasis and influencing disease processes. Dysregulated immune responses drive chronic inflammation, which in turn results in a range of diseases that are among the leading causes of death globally. Traditional immune interventions, which aim to regulate either insufficient or excessive inflammation, frequently entail lifelong comorbidities and the risk of severe side effects. In this context, intrinsic immunomodulatory hydrogels, designed to precisely control the local immune microenvironment, have recently attracted increasing attention. In particular, these advanced hydrogels not only function as delivery mechanisms but also actively engage in immune modulation, optimizing interactions with the immune system for enhanced tissue repair, thereby providing a sophisticated strategy for managing chronic inflammation. In this tutorial review, we outline key elements of chronic inflammation and subsequently explore the strategic design principles of intrinsic immunomodulatory hydrogels based on these elements. Finally, we examine the challenges and prospects of such immunomodulatory hydrogels, which are expected to inspire further preclinical research and clinical translation in addressing chronic inflammation.

Application of the full digital workflow in immediate removable partial denture: an innovative case report

Background. The fabrication of immediate removable partial dentures (RPDs) is characterized by the integration of digital technologies that enhance precision and efficiency in prosthodontic care. The application of a full digital workflow in this context is increasingly recognized for its potential to address both functional and esthetic needs of patients. The estimated prevalence of immediate RPDs in clinical practice is rising, yet literature exploring their digital fabrication remains limited. To our knowledge, this case report presents one of the first instances of utilizing a comprehensive digital approach for the creation of immediate RPDs, highlighting its benefits in patient outcomes. Case report. A 62-year-old male patient with maxillary anterior incisors mobility opted for immediate RPD treatment due to functional pain and esthetic concerns. Intraoral scanning was employed for impression taking and occlusion registration, generating Standard Tessellation Language files. Cone beam computed tomography provided Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine (DICOM) files, enabling precise virtual extraction of the incisors and ridge smoothening using Exocad software. The denture design, teeth mounting, and surgical guide were digitally planned based on digital smile design outcomes. Digital light processing was utilized for prosthesis manufacturing, and assembly followed a detailed protocol outlined in the present paper. Post-extraction, regular follow-up sessions are essential to assess patient satisfaction. Conclusions. The integration of intraoral scanning and Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing CAD/CAM technology offered a promising solution for the rapid production of immediate RPDs with enhanced accuracy and reproducibility. The successful assembly and long-term durability of 3D printed dentures were achieved through strategic design considerations and meticulous data processing.

Art and design teachers’ personal rules of thumb while designing instruction for studios

AbstractIn higher vocational education, innovations are shifting from teacher-oriented to student-oriented education and hybrid learning environments. Designing these innovative environments is complex. This study aimed to gain insight into art and design teachers’ rules of thumb when designing instruction in studios. The rules of thumb from experienced designers of design education provide insight into the practical knowledge essential for creating effective studio learning environments. These rules of thumb, derived from teachers' practical knowledge, outline teachers’ ideas about characteristics design education should have to achieve specific student learning outcomes. Six teachers participated in this case study, to investigate this phenomenon in a real-world context. During interviews, they designed a studio for their teaching practice while thinking aloud, expressing their thoughts, actions, and reasoning. These teachers had at least four years of experience in designing art and design studios and were still active in their roles. Within and cross-case analysis revealed that learning theories are recognizable in teachers’ rules of thumb when designing studio instruction. Teachers and their rules of thumb span a spectrum from cognitivism to social constructivism, with most teachers oriented towards social constructivism. This aligns with strategic design considerations at studios, which are also based on social constructivism. Typical social-constructivist rules of thumb focus on student ownership of their learning process and fostering collaboration between various actors in an authentic context. The rules of thumb from experienced designers are incorporated into the training of current and future studio designers and may inspire those who create similar innovative learning environments.

Enhanced high-sensitivity multi-layer neutron detector based on LiF:ZnS(Ag) scintillator

This study proposes a novel, highly sensitive neutron detector design utilizing a unique multi-layered configuration. Each layer consists of a LiF: ZnS(Ag) scintillator coupled with a transparent neutron moderator that also functions as a light guide for the Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM) light sensor. This design offers a cost-effective and readily available alternative for existing neutron detectors. The research focused on optimizing a single layer for maximum sensitivity and proper gamma rejection capabilities. This optimized configuration is then replicated to form the multi-layer detector. A primary challenge with the LiF:ZnS(Ag) scintillator is its inherent opacity, limiting its width and consequently, its detection efficiency. Our proposed multi-layer structure addresses this limitation by employing a thin scintillator in each layer. This strategic design minimizes emitted light attenuation while simultaneously enhancing sensitivity through the cumulative effect of multiple layers. Our experiments demonstrate a significant improvement in detection efficiency compared to the single-layer setup. Additionally, our architecture offers an actual improvement in differentiating between gamma and neutron signals. By analyzing count rates across the detector’s layers, we gain valuable operational insights, such as the ability to predict the source direction. Our finding demonstrates an improved sensitivity achieved by minimal loss of neutrons during the moderation of 329% compared to a single layer, aligned with the potential range of improvement while maintaining extremely high gamma rejection. Supported by the presented findings, this design represents a noticeable advancement over existing solutions, offering scalable customization to user requirements. Notably, it outperforms traditional 3He tube-based detection configurations, positioning it as a compelling and advantageous replacement option.

Total Syntheses of Diepoxy-ent-Kaurane Diterpenoids Enabled by a Bridgehead-Enone-Initiated Intramolecular Cycloaddition.

Here, we report the enantioselective total syntheses of four diepoxy-ent-kaurane diterpenoids including (-)-Macrocalin B, (-)-Acetyl-macrocalin B, and (-)-Isoadenolin A and the revised structure of (-)-Phyllostacin I, which hinges on the strategic design of a regioselective and stereospecific trapping of a highly reactive [3.2.1]-bridgehead enone intermediate via a tethered intramolecular Diels-Alder reaction. Combined experimental and computational studies demonstrated that the novel bridgehead-enone-initiated intramolecular cycloaddition could proceed in a stepwise diradical mechanism. Although the key step partially led to unexpected [2 + 2]-cycloaddition outcomes, we ultimately implemented an unprecedented TiIII-catalyzed cyclobutane ring-opening-annulation radical cascade to reassemble a keystone pentacyclic core. Coupled with a sequence of organized oxidation-state manipulations and an efficient late-stage assembly of the C-7,20 hemiketal bridge, our strategy would streamline the synthetic design of diepoxy-ent-kaurane diterpenoids and pave the way for their modular syntheses as well as highlight the powerful utility of [3.2.1]-bridgehead enone intermediates in the construction of structural complexity.

Next-Generation Carbazole-Linked 1,2,4-Triazole-Thione Derivatives: Strategic Design, Synthesis, Molecular Docking, and Evaluation of Antidiabetic Potential

Next-Generation Carbazole-Linked 1,2,4-Triazole-Thione Derivatives: Strategic Design, Synthesis, Molecular Docking, and Evaluation of Antidiabetic Potential

Current State of Operational Risk Management in Higher Education Institutions

Objective: Showing the shortcomings of operational risk management in universities that inhibit the achievement of strategic objectives and organizational goals is the central objective of this research. Method: To this end, a diagnosis of the current state of the associated variables was carried out in accounting and administration faculties in Mexico, Ecuador and Cuba. Results and Discussion: Among the main findings, it is highlighted that the most affected dimension is the Strategic orientation design of the organization for risk management, although in general, none of the dimensions evaluated presents a favorable behavior, which indicates the need to apply risk management tools with a strategic and integrated approach and a greater follow-up of prevention plans to achieve a better correspondence between planning and control. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by providing a systematization of knowledge available in scientific literature on risk management in higher education institutions to subsequently verify the behavior of these variables in higher education institutions that operate in contexts as diverse and different as they belong to countries like Mexico, Ecuador and Cuba that respond to different socio-economic environments.

Effectiveness of Billboards as Political Campaign Media for Elected DPRD Members for the 2024-2029 Period in Kendari City

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of billboards as a political campaign media for Elected DPRD Members for the 2024-2029 Period in Kendari City. The study uses a qualitative research method, with data collected through interviews, observations and document analysis. The informants of this study were elected DPRD members in the 2024 Election from all Electoral Districts of Kendari City, which were determined purposively. Observations were made on a number of billboards installed in each electoral district (DAPIL) of the Elected DPRD members. Document analysis was carried out on secondary data sources as supporting data, which were obtained from the KPU, BAWASLU and Kendari City DPRD institutions. Furthermore, the data was analyzed using an interactive model which includes data collection, reduction, analysis and presentation. The results of the study show that most elected DPRD Members in Kendari City in political campaigns use billboards that are designed by themselves by paying attention to effective billboard elements, both old and new members. Billboards generally contain photos, candidate serial numbers, names and titles, party logos, and short messages. Several billboards were found with photos of party leaders and presidential and vice presidential candidates supported by the party. The size of the billboards for elected DPRD members ranges from 2 meters x 3 meters to 4 meters x 6 meters. Meanwhile, the placement of billboards is mainly around DAPIL and main roads. It is hoped that the strategic design and placement of billboards can increase public appeal.

Boosting Photovoltaic Efficiency: The Role of Functional Group Distribution in Perovskite Film Passivation.

The utilization of small organic molecules with appropriate functional groups and geometric configurations for surface passivation is essential for achieving efficient and stable perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this study, two isomers, 4-sulfonamidobenzoic acid (4-SA) and 3-sulfamobenzoic acid (3-SA), both featuring sulfanilamide and carboxyl functional groups arranged in different positions, are evaluated for their effectiveness in passivating defects of the perovskite layer. The calculation and characterization results reveal that 3-SA, with its meta-substitution, offered superior passivation compared to the para-substituted 4-SA, leading to enhanced charge carrier dynamics and extraction efficiency. The devices treated with 3-SA demonstrates a notable increase in power conversion efficiency from 21.50% to 23.30%. Moreover, these devices maintain over 90% of their initial efficiency after 2000h in a 30% relative humidity environment, showcasing exceptional long-term stability. This research advances strategic design approaches for small molecule passivation, providing critical insights for the enhancement of perovskite optoelectronic applications.

Recent Advances in Salt-Assisted Synthesis of 2D Materials.

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have been attracting extensive interest due to their remarkable chemical, optical, electrical, and magnetic properties, making them ideal candidates for a broad range of applications. Developing facile synthesis methods that can fabricate high-quality 2D materials in an efficient, scalable, and cost-effective way is essential. Among the emerging techniques, salt-assisted methods to synthesize 2D materials, including molten salt method, salt-assisted chemical vapor deposition, and salt-template method, has demonstrated significant potential in fulfilling these requirements. This review highlights recent advancements in the synthesis of 2D materials through salt-assisted methods, focusing on their preparation processes and wide-ranging applications. It also explores the role of salts, in various forms, in directing the formation of 2D structures, providing insights for strategic synthesis design. Finally, challenges and future directions in salt-assisted synthesis are discussed, emphasizing strategies to enable controllable, high-yield production of 2D materials.