Project No.: R1006-23
Project Title: Enhancing energy harvesting and typhoon resilience of offshore wind turbines in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area under climate change
Project Coordinator: Prof Qiusheng LI (CityU)
Abstract
Coastal regions such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area (GBA) are facing increasingly severe climate-change-associated impacts and hazards. Deploying offshore wind turbines has become an attractive alternative for energy-system decarbonization and climate change mitigation in the GBA. The proposed project aims to spatiotemporally assess offshore wind resources, optimize wind farm layouts, evaluate typhoon wind hazards, and investigate typhoon-induced structural loads and response of offshore wind turbines in the GBA with consideration of climate change impacts. The deliverables of the projects include a collection of offshore wind resource and typhoon hazard maps that account for climate change, a multi-objective wind farm layout optimization model, and a framework for evaluating structural loads and response of offshore wind turbines. These deliverables will provide important and valuable information for offshore wind energy development, foster the economic performance of offshore wind farms in the GBA, accelerate the transition from fossil fuels to green wind energy, and help reduce carbon emissions and achieve the carbon neutrality goals.
Project No.: R1011-23
Project Title: Development of Bacteria Pseudaminic Acid-based vaccine to combat infections caused by multidrug resistant bacteria
Project Coordinator: Prof Sheng CHEN (PolyU)
Abstract
Pseudaminic acid (Pse) is a nine-membered nonulosonic acid which is widely distributed in numerous bacterial pathogens as component of both lipopolysaccharides and capsular polysaccharide. It is considered to play an important role in bacterial pathogenicity as it is present on bacterial surface, and structurally reminiscent to mammalian sialic acids. In our previous studies, we have chemically synthesized Pse, conjugated it to carrier protein CRM197 and immunized mice as a vaccine candidate. Our data showed that the Pse-CRM197 conjugates could induce high titer of IgG antibody against Pse and protect the vaccinated mice as high as 5XLD50 challenge by the Pse producing Acinetobacter baumannii strain. Pse is therefore considered as a potential target for vaccine development due to its wide presence in bacterial surface and potential pathogenesis and this project aims to develop a Pse based multivalent vaccine candidate that would protect against multidrug-resistant A. baumannii and other clinical bacterial pathogens. In this proposal, we will further evaluate the potentials of CMR-Pse vaccine and Thelper stimulating peptide-Pse vaccine for the efficacy to protect various clinical MDR pathogens as well as its safety and host tolerance. The formulation of the vaccines and the immunization scheme will be optimized to trigger highest immune response. A trivalent vaccine containing Pse-I, Pse-II and Pse-III, which cover all Pse in bacteria, will be developed and accessed. Next, to ensure the cost-effective and large-scale production of Pses, biosynthetic production of Pses will be developed. Finally, the biosynthetic Pse will then be conjugated to carrier protein or Thelper stimulating peptide to produce large scale vaccines for pre-clinical evaluation of efficacy and safety. Upon the completion of this project, an effective Pse-based vaccine to protect infections caused by several important bacteria will be ready for clinical trial. Research proposed in this plan will explore a new way for combating bacterial infection to slow down or halt the arrival of post-antibiotic era.
Project No.: R1015-23
Project Title: Integrating ChatGPT with Search Engine Recommender System and Online Advertising to Enhance User Experience on Online Service Platforms
Project Coordinator: Prof Xiangyu ZHAO (CityU)
Abstract
Our project, "Integrating ChatGPT with Search Engine Recommender System and Online Advertising to Enhance User Experience on Online Service Platforms", led by Professor ZHAO Xiangyu from the City University of Hong Kong, aims to revolutionize the way users interact with online services. By incorporating advanced Large Language Models like ChatGPT into the core functionalities of search engines, recommender systems, and online advertising, we strive to significantly enhance user experience through personalized and interactive engagements. This integration seeks to overcome current limitations in digital services by offering more intuitive, user-centric solutions that understand and anticipate user needs effectively. The outcome of this 42-month project promises to set new benchmarks in digital interaction, benefiting users, businesses, and society at large by transforming online platforms into more engaging, efficient, and understanding environments.
Project No.: R4007-23
Project Title: Development of Liquid Biopsy Assays Based on Exosomal Small Non-coding RNAs for Non-invasive Early Detection of Pancreatic Cancer
Project Coordinator: Prof Xin WANG (CUHK)
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, known as the “King of Cancers”, is highly invasive and has no obvious early symptoms. Most patients are not aware of the disease until its late stage, delaying treatment and affecting survival rates. More than 800 people die from this disease in Hong Kong every year. However, current diagnostic imaging and conventional serological examinations often fail to detect early pancreatic lesions, resulting in false negative results.
Since pancreatic tumour-derived exosomes enter the circulatory system, small non-coding RNAs of exosomes are abundant and stable within it. The research team will work on using those exosomal small non-coding RNAs to develop novel biomarkers for non-invasive, accurate, fast blood detection of early pancreatic cancer, in order to identify patients with the disease as early as possible, allowing them to receive early treatment and increasing survival rates.
Project No.: R4009-23
Project Title: Harmonization of Business and Commercial Laws in the Greater Bay Area: Concepts, Approaches, and Policy Options
Project Coordinator: Prof Chao XI (CUHK)
Abstract
The development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) is high on the list of China’s national priorities. Because of its historical circumstances, the GBA includes three different legal jurisdictions. Guangdong Province (specifically, the nine cities included in the GBA), the Hong Kong SAR and the Macau SAR have each developed an idiosyncratic body of doctrines, principles, institutions, rules, and practices that characterize and frame the ways in which businesses and commerce are conducted. Advocates of the harmonization, within the constitutional framework of ‘one country, two systems’, of laws governing businesses and commercial transactions in the GBA see this approach as offering the economic attractions of lowering transaction actions and facilitating market integration. Key GBA actors and stakeholders have taken initiatives that can be characterized as steps towards business and commercial law harmonization. Some steps are top-down in orientation, often orchestrated by national or regional authorities. Others are bottom-up, typically originated by “frontline” players including GBA businesses and practitioners.
Few studies have hitherto critically examined the very concept of harmonization in the academic and policy discourses on the GBA. Relatively little is known empirically about how the current harmonization approaches and methods mesh with the institutional contexts in which they operate. This project aims to fill these important voids.
The project’s interdisciplinary research team (law, business and economics) intends to shed fresh light on a number of under-studied questions: (1) How is legal harmonization perceived by key state- and non-state actors in the GBA? (2) How effectively have the current approaches and methods of harmonizing business and commercial laws in the GBA achieved their intended or stated goals? (3) What are the primary forces and factors that drive or constrain GBA private law harmonization, and how do they interact? In close collaboration with a strong network of organizational partners specifically assembled for this project, our research team seeks to generate evidence-based, actionable policy options and recommendations on legal harmonization that can help to inform and enrich the GBA policy-making processes. The ultimate goal of the project is to promote and strengthen the rule of law in the GBA.
Project No.: R4024-23
Project Title: Quantitative Phase Imaging Promoting Cell Biology, Biomedicine, New Materials and Beyond
Project Coordinator: Prof Renjie ZHOU (CUHK)
Abstract
Quantitative phase microscopy (QPM) is an emerging optical imaging technique for label-free, high-resolution imaging of living cells and other tiny substances. In QPM, the wavefront or phase delay of a specimen is mapped so that it can be used to infer the specimen’s shape, internal structures, material composition and so on. This novel microscopy technology allows for monitoring of intracellular dynamics and their responses to different treatments without harming the cells. Other advantages of QPM include high-precision, high throughput measurement capabilities that can potentially facilitate quality control during additive manufacturing, especially chip manufacturing at the atomic scale. However, the precision of current QPM systems is limited, and they are difficult to operate and expensive, limiting access to them and their ability to make a profound impact.
The research team is committed to developing novel high-performance QPM systems and demonstrating their broad application. With the aim of commercialising QPM technologies, they will cooperate with industry to add custom functions to their QPM systems, making them easy to use and cost-effective for user-specific applications. The team will also disseminate knowledge to the scientific and industrial communities so the technologies can be more widely applied.
Project No.: R4034-23
Project Title: Magnesium-Based Biodegradable Implants as Innovative Class III Medical Devices: From Implant Design, Biosafety, Efficacy to Clinical Translation
Project Coordinator: Prof Ling QIN (CUHK)
Abstract
Population aging has become a major global issue now, according to The World Social Report 2023 launched by the United Nations, by 2025, the world's aging population over 65 years old will exceed 1.6 billion, and Hong Kong will become one of the oldest areas on the world with 40.6 % of aging population over 65 years old. Population aging is accompanied by a sharp increase in the incidence of musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoporosis, fragility fracture, and osteoarthritis, which seriously affect the quality of life of patients and bring huge economic burdens to families and society. The current mainstream titanium alloy orthopaedic clinical implant devices without any biological activities provide only mechanical support for clinical fracture surgical fixation. In contrast, due to their excellent biodegradable and bioactive properties, magnesium metal and its alloys have been proven to promote the regeneration of blood vessels, nerves, and skeletal muscles to accelerate fracture healing. Thus, magnesium and its alloys have great potential for clinical use in skeletal muscle system diseases related to aging. Previous studies of our group have revealed the main molecular mechanisms of magnesium promoting skeletal muscle regeneration. Magnesium ions released by magnesium degradation in vivo could stimulate the sensory nerve endings of the periosteum and release and upregulate calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) from dorsal root ganglions, thus promoting bone formation. These research results were highlighted by top scientific journals including Science, Nature, and Nature Reviews Endocrinology, highlighting their translational clinical potential. Based on our existing research results, in collaboration with our industrial manufacturers and testing institution partners, we aim to develop Magnesium-based hybrid medical devices that could promote fracture healing as well as provide sufficient internal fixation for bone fracture. We will focus on large animal (Goat experimental model) disease models of bone fracture in this project to obtain preclinical biosafety and effectiveness data to further promote the multi-center clinical trials and Class III biomedical device registration for broadening clinical applications. Our team is committed to developing novel Magnesium-based hybrid medical devices for challenging musculoskeletal disorders and promoting the translation of Magnesium metal from basic research to clinical applications, hence reducing the healthcare and economic burden associated with the aging society.
Project No.: R5006-23
Project Title: Digital twin-enabled intelligent assessment and maintenance of offshore wind turbine structures in a life-cycle context
Project Coordinator: Prof Songye ZHU (PolyU)
Abstract
Wind energy is being actively exploited worldwide to pursue the carbon neutrality goal. Among many countries committed to wind energy development, China has led the world in terms of both annual and cumulative offshore wind energy installation. Compared with onshore wind energy, offshore wind energy is attracting growing interest owing to its inherent merits, such as higher and steadier wind speeds, adequate installation space, and fewer visual and noise impacts. However, offshore wind turbines (OWTs) in harsh sea environments often suffer from corrosion and fatigue issues in steel towers and substructures, impairing their lifespan and serviceability. The early detection of corrosion and fatigue cracks can substantially save maintenance costs. Structural health monitoring (SHM) systems are regarded as a promising strategy for monitoring structural operational conditions of OWTs and assessing their serviceability and safety accordingly. However, how to overcome numerous limitations of traditional stationary SHM systems and how to integrate the monitoring information into maintenance strategies remain challenging and unanswered questions.
In view of these challenges, this proposed project aims to realize intelligent assessment and maintenance of OWT structures in consideration of corrosion and fatigue issues in a life-cycle context by leveraging the emerging digital twin (DT) technology. A variety of defect detection techniques and computational algorithms will be developed in the DT framework through prototype development, numerical investigations, and experimental validation. The DT technologies proposed in this project will offer a novel capability to accurately replicate structural responses and performance deteriorations, which can be subsequently integrated into the maintenance of OWTs.
Project No.: R5011-23
Project Title: An AI-enabled Geospatial Platform for Smart Facility Management and Smart Mobility of People with Disabilities (PwDs)
Project Coordinator: Dr Xintao LIU (PolyU)
Abstract
According to the Census and Statistics Department, approximately 7.1% of the total population are People with Disabilities (PwDs) in Hong Kong. Meanwhile, the aging population (17.8% of the total population in 2018) has been increasing and will increase in the future, which will often face mobility difficulties in many cases. Furthermore, not only PwDs will need barrier-free facilities (BFFs), people who are sick, taking luggage, and women who are pregnant, will all need BFFs. These situations have posed challenges to Hong Kong’s social development and created new demands for travel services, particularly for PwDs and the elderly.
Despite a lot of work has been done to add more BFFs and enhance mobility for PwDs in Hong Kong, the current solution for assisting PwDs and the elderly in navigating routes is still restricted to some extent due to issues such as improper designs of BFFs and lack of real-time traffic information, and insufficient navigation services. As a world-leading smart city, disability should not be a barrier to travel in Hong Kong. It is a right time to use new tech (AI, Big Data, AR/VR, etc.) to empower smart BFFs management and smart mobility for PwDs in Hong Kong, in particular to provide evidence-based BFFs design guidelines using AI & Big Data, and observe the real-time conditions of BFFs using multi-sensing technologies.
Therefore, the goal of this project is to enhance the management of smart BFFs management and improve mobility for PwDs towards a walkable smart city. An integrated and pragmatic strategy will be developed to enhance mobility and safety for PwDs using AI-driven pathfinding algorithms, high-definition maps based on LiDAR scanning, and mixed reality (MR)-enabled autonomous navigation. This solution will directly enhance the travel experience for PwDs and other groups with impaired mobility. The project’s deliverables will be used to enhance the existing mobility application, HKeMobility, representing a significant functional improvement. This initiative aligns with the objectives set by Walk in HK (易行城市計劃) and the Caring for the Elderly mentioned in the Policy Address 2022, and it is expected to provide more targeted and effective solutions to support the travel needs of PwDs and other populations. Ultimately, the project aims to contribute to making Hong Kong one of the most disability-friendly cities worldwide.
Project No.: R5022-23
Project Title: Durable Low-carbon Asphalt Pavement Built with Recycled Waste Polyolefin Plastics through Reactive Extrusion
Project Coordinator: Prof Zhen LENG (PolyU)
Abstract
Pollution by waste plastics, also known as white pollution, is one of the most critical environmental problems worldwide. This problem is even more prominent for high-density cities like Hong Kong, where the space for landfill is very limited. Waste polyolefins (wPOs), including waste polyethylene (wPE) and waste polypropylene (wPP), are among the most popular waste plastics, accounting for more than 50% of the total waste plastics. In this study, a novel physico-chemical recycling approach based on reactive extrusion will be developed to convert wPOs into performance-enhancing modifiers for asphalt pavement. In this recycling approach, the twin-screw extruder is used to melt, homogenize, and pump wPOs through dies for compounding and pelletizing. At the same time, in the continuous extrusion process, the twin-screw extruder provides the necessary heat and shear conditions for the chemical reaction, including degradation and grafting. After the extrusion, the extruded wPO pellets, which have similar densities and superior compatibility with asphalt binder, will be used as an asphalt binder modifier to enhance the durability of asphalt pavement. Upon completing this project, the reaction mechanism between wPOs and selected additives during reactive extrusion and the optimum extrusion condition for producing wPO modifiers (wPOMs) will be identified, and the modification mechanism and effects of wPOMs on asphalt binder and mixture will be revealed. Practically, a novel value-added approach to recycle wPO plastics into asphalt pavement will be developed, which can overcome the shortcomings of the conventional physical recycling approach and produce low-carbon asphalt pavement with enhanced durability, contributing to achieving the carbon-neutrality goal in Hong Kong by 2050.
Project No.: R5039-23
Project Title: Developing a new generation of pressure-controlled wearable soft braces to improve the efficiency and compliance in treating adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Project Coordinator: Prof YIP Yiu-wan Joanne (PolyU)
Abstract
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a common spinal condition in teenagers, causing a lateral curvature of the spine. In Hong Kong, the prevalence of this condition has been increasing, with the number of cases doubling from 2.3% to 4.7% between 1995 and 2000. The standard treatment for AIS is the use of hard braces, which apply pressure to the spine to correct the curvature. However, these braces can be uncomfortable and reduce patient compliance with the treatment.
Researchers have been exploring the use of soft braces, which are more comfortable and flexible, while still being effective in reducing the progression of scoliosis. Prof. Joanne Yip and her team have developed two types of soft braces for different degrees of spinal curvature. However, a key challenge remains in determining the optimal amount of pressure to apply to the spine.
This study aims to address this issue by developing a new generation of pressure-controlled wearable soft braces. The researchers will use MRI technology to visualise the spine in real-time and determine the optimal pressure for straightening the spine. They will also develop an intelligent pneumatic pressure system to replace traditional foam pads for applying pressure. This system will be controlled by a microcontroller that adjusts the pressure in the inflatable air pads based on feedback from pressure sensors.
The goal of this project is to improve the efficacy and compliance of AIS treatment. The researchers will conduct clinical trials to establish a quantitative measure of the force applied in relation to the severity of scoliosis. They will also optimise the materials and structure of the braces to enhance their functionality and comfort. The ultimate aim is to develop a clear guideline on how to fit the intelligent padding system and soft brace design for each individual, ensuring effective correction of the spinal curvature while maintaining comfort.
In the short term, AIS patients will benefit from a more flexible and comfortable treatment that can reduce the progression of their scoliosis. In the medium term, the data from the clinical trials will be used to develop clear guidelines for prescribing braces, leading to improvements in bracing treatments. In the long term, the new generation of intelligent corrective garments will become the preferred treatment option for patients with mild and moderate scoliosis. This will not only improve the quality of life for these patients but also reduce the burden on medical systems due to fewer surgeries and complications from radiative X-ray scans.
Project No.: R6010-23
Project Title: Empowering Hong Kong Finance with A Quantum Algorithm Platform
Project Coordinator: Prof Yingying LI (HKUST)
Abstract
In an era of big data and artificial intelligence, advances in the finance of both research and practice rely heavily on the continuous increase in computational power and efficiency. Recent studies showed that, adopting stronger computational power on tasks including simulation, optimization, and machine learning, can bring economic gains to investors and help firms improve their governance. Because of the computational advantages that quantum computing has shown in these tasks, academia and industry are calling for a platform to explore and leverage enormous and efficient quantum computing power to support finance research and practice with better accessibility.
This project brings researchers and practitioners in finance and technology to leverage their latest domain knowledge and techniques to design a robust and user-friendly platform. Our platform can demonstrate finance-related quantum algorithms and applications with integration of hardware, algorithms, and finance use cases. The use cases include derivative pricing, portfolio optimization, high-frequency trading, personalized wealth management, and fraud detection. By the study of different use cases, our platform can fit into Hong Kong’s dynamic finance sector. Besides, given the leading position of Hong Kong in financial technology, this project aims to position the city as a quantum-ready leader and provide insights and benefits to diverse stakeholders, including regulators, researchers, students, investors, and broader education system.
Project No.: R6011-23
Project Title: Development of Solid State Lithium Batteries for Electric Vehicles
Project Coordinator: Prof Minhua SHAO (HKUST)
Abstract
This collaborative project aims to develop solid-state batteries (SSB) for electric vehicles (EVs) that is safer and more efficient than traditional lithium-ion batteries. SSBs use solid electrolytes, which improve safety and allow for higher energy density. However, the development of SSBs has been challenging due to the lack of reliable solid electrolytes, high-energy cathodes, and stable lithium metal anodes. In this project, researchers will focus on designing an ultrathin, flexible hybrid solid electrolyte that provides mechanical support and improves ionic conductivity. They will also develop a high-energy cathode that matches the advanced solid electrolyte and a stable lithium metal anode. By integrating these components, they aim to achieve an SSB with an energy density exceeding 400 Wh/kg, which is higher than current lithium-ion battery technologies. The outcomes of this project will advance the development of SSB technology and accelerate the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. The researchers will collaborate with industry partners to optimize the cell structure and fabricate full SSB cells. This project brings together experts in electrochemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, and battery manufacturing to address the challenges in SSB development and pave the way for a new era in battery technology.
Project No.: R7018-23
Project Title: Application of neuromuscular organoids for the development of personalized therapy in spinal muscular atrophy
Project Coordinator: Dr CHEUNG, Chi Hang Martin (HKU)
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic neuromuscular disease that leads to motor impairments, muscular atrophy, and death in the most severe cases. SMA is primarily caused by the loss of the Survival Motor Neuron 1 (SMN1) gene and retention of its backup SMN2 gene. The copy number of SMN2 is inversely correlated with the disease severity (type I, type II, and type III), resulting in different degrees of SMN protein insufficiency. The SMN protein is essential for the survival of spinal motor neurons (MNs) and their ability to extend axons to innervate muscle fibers to form the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). Inadequate levels of SMN lead to progressive and selective degeneration of motor axons, leading to disruption of the NMJ integrity. Current FDA-approved therapies (Nusinersen, Zolgensam, and Risdiplam) that increase SMN protein levels have been shown to improve motor skills and survival in most pre-symptomatic infants with SMA, whereas treatments in older children and adults with late-onset SMA showed limited improvements in motor activity. Despite early treatment, long-term follow-up of the treated patients still suffers from varying degrees of disability, requiring high-level care, indicating that SMN-enhancing therapies are not curative. In addition, loss of SMN can also cause defects in other cell types which further contribute to MN degeneration. The impact of SMN deficiency on MN loss and other cell types can differ based on the patient’s genetics, which also alters their response to drug treatments, underlying the importance of understanding disease development and identifying new therapeutic targets to improve treatment efficacy in a patient-specific manner. In our pilot studies, we used SMA patients’ urine cells to generate 3D neuromuscular organoids (NMOs) that can reflect disease severity based on their subtype. This approach provides unprecedented access to the disease at different developmental stages, revealing when defects in MN and muscle integrity begin to occur. In this project, we will expand the number of patient-specific NMOs from each SMA subtype to model disease pathogenesis and examine the degree of neuromuscular defects. We will conduct single-cell RNA-sequencing of patients’ NMOs to unravel the various affected cell types based on gene expression changes unique to each SMA patient. Considering the newborn screening program for SMA has recently been launched in Hong Kong, infants’ NMOs will allow us to reveal defects in the neuromuscular system and other cell types before symptom onset to enhance treatment efficacy through timely treatment. Moreover, patients with late-onset SMA will better understand the disease onset and progression and response to treatments based on the phenotypic, cellular, and molecular changes in their NMOs. Importantly, we will identify new therapeutic targets in individual SMA patients from single-cell analysis of their NMOs. We will then test the therapeutic effects and safety of potential treatments in patient-derived NMOs and the SMA mouse model before proceeding to clinical trials. Overall, our proposed study will pave the way to establish a pipeline for personalized SMA disease modeling, outcome prediction, and therapeutic development, aiming to improve SMA patients’ quality of life from surviving to thriving.