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PolyU start-up launches innovative spectacle lens to slow down myopia progression; Deploys two PolyU patented technologies to protect children’s vision health

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) today announced that Vision Science and Technology Co. Ltd. (VST), a PolyU supported start-up, has successfully developed the Nano Multi-rings Defocus Incorporated Lens for controlling the progression of myopia (or short-sightedness). VST collaborated with State Key Laboratory of Ultra-precision Machining Technology (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University) (SKL-UPMT) and the School of Optometry of PolyU to create the new solution by integrating DISC technology and Ultra-precision Nano Multi-rings Machining Technology, offering children and adolescents a convenient, non-invasive and effective option to delay myopia progression. PolyU holds the patents for both DISC technology and Ultra-precision Nano Multi-rings Machining Technology. The launch of the Nano Multi-rings Defocus Incorporated Lens is a testament to the University’s long-term commitment to driving research and innovation, and its continuous effort in facilitating knowledge transfer and research commercialisation by supporting cutting-edge technology start-ups. PolyU’s School of Optometry invented the novel DISC technology, which is proven to retard the myopia progression of children by 60%. The method produces a clear image on the retina and a defocused or blurred image in front of the retina simultaneously, enabling children to have clear vision while controlling the development of myopia. Based on this technology, the DISC-SH soft contact lens was introduced in 2018. Developed by SKL-UPMT, the Ultra-precision Nano Multi-rings Machining Technology blends advanced optics design, ultra-precision machining and ultra-precision measurement technologies, and ultra-precision mould-making to apply DISC technology in spectacle lens production. By implementing ultra-precision process, the new spectacle lens provides added comfort for wearers, while offering more stable vision. The non-invasive design also makes it more suitable for children of different ages. Prof. TO Chi-ho, Visiting Chair Professor of the School of Optometry of PolyU and Co-founder of VST, said, “It is important to keep myopia progression under control, especially among children, as high myopia could lead to sight-threatening complications. VST is committed to developing and selling products that help improve people’s vision health through technology transfer and commercialisation for the benefit of society. We are pleased to partner with SKL-UPMT and the School of Optometry to launch the new Nano Multi-rings Defocus Incorporated Lens, resulting in a major breakthrough in DISC technology. This initiative helps address the spiralling myopia problem among children, especially in markets with a relatively high ratio of myopes such as Hong Kong, Singapore and mainland China.” Prof. Benny CHEUNG, Professor of the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering and Director of SKL-UPMT at PolyU, stated, “Ultra-precision machining technology is a multi-disciplinary advanced manufacturing technology, which is the backbone of crucial industries like optometry, semiconductors, advanced optics, aerospace, energy, biomedical and new materials development. At SKL-UPMT, we put our focus on the development and application of forefront technologies and have a proven track record in designing and implementing new methods, process, systems and facilities in ultra-precision machining and ultra-precision measurement. We are delighted to extend the locally developed Ultra-precision Nano Multi-rings Machining Technology to fine-tune and manufacture optometric products and will continue to create new technologies and solutions for diverse industries to benefit the society. By doing so, we will further Hong Kong and mainland China’s competence and strategic advantages in design and advanced manufacturing.” VST will soon roll out the Nano Multi-rings Defocus Incorporated Lens in Hong Kong and mainland China. The company will continue collaborating with PolyU to develop new myopia control products based on DISC technology to protect the vision health of children and adolescents. Founded by PolyU’s professor and alumni, VST has received financial support from the PolyU Micro Fund and the PolyU Tech Launchpad Fund. In 2018, VST secured a licence from PolyU for commercialising DISC technology, which VST manufactures and distributes DISC lenses at its authorised optometric clinics and fitting centres. PolyU strives to create societal impact through research innovation as well as knowledge and technology transfer. Leveraging its comprehensive entrepreneurship support platform, the University nurtures academic- and student-led start-ups by offering a wide array of training and funding support programmes, connecting these start-ups with various resources of the entrepreneurship ecosystem, as well as providing education, incubation and acceleration programmes.   [From PolyU Media Release]   Related News Articles: 理大支持初創企 製鏡片防控近視 可減慢兒童近視加深速度60% 產品月內在香港和內地推出 [文匯報(Wen Wei Po)] 理大緩近視新眼鏡 一副4000 原屬隱形鏡片今用於傳統眼鏡 6至18歲適用 [明報(Ming Pao Daily News)] 兒童防控鏡片近視加深慢60% 理大專利技術研發 本地生產銷售 [信報(Hong Kong Economic Journal)]

“Belt and Road Advanced Professional Development Programme in Power and Energy” attracted record attendance

The Hongkong Electric Company, Limited (HK Electric); State Grid Corporation of China (State Grid); The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Xi'an Jiaotong University (XJTU) have co-organised the “Belt and Road Advanced Professional Development Programme in Power and Energy” (the Programme) for the fifth consecutive year. A total of 319 energy professionals from 26 countries/regions completed the training programme this year, a record high in the number of participants. The theme for this year was “High-quality, Sustainable, Resilient Power Grid for Green and Smart Living”, which urged action on sustainable development to create better living. A total of 10 webinars and talks were held during the 5-day training. More than 300 participants across the power industry, including senior executives from Government agencies, energy companies, academics and researchers from Belt and Road countries joined the programme. Addressing the Closing Ceremony, Mr WAN Chi-tin, Managing Director of HK Electric said, “With the outbreak of the COVID-19, Hong Kong like any other country or region, faced enormous challenges. In 2021, thanks to our extraordinary resilience, we managed to achieve a supply reliability rating in excess of 99.9999% for the second consecutive year. This translates to a power interruption of less than half a minute on average for our customers during the year. This serves as another record for our business and a truly exceptional performance in our industry.” Mr LI Ming, State Grid’s Director of International Cooperation Department said, “During the past five years, under the collaborative efforts of all parties, the programme has become a success with energy and innovation. State Grid is open minded about sharing the practices and benefits in promoting energy transition and building a power system based on new energy. With the success of the programme, we wish that we can continue to work together in tackling the two major challenges of energy security and energy transition, and move towards a brighter and greener future.” Mr LIU Yunhou, President of State Grid’s China Technology College, also remarked, “Not only has the number of participants reached a record high this year, but the theme is popular, covering the current situation and future development of energy industry. We sincerely wish the collaboration among the four parties will continue to flourish in the years to come. Professor H.C. MAN, Dean of Faculty of Engineering of PolyU, said, “PolyU is committed to offering education, research innovation and knowledge transfer to meet societal needs. In line with the strategic development of carbon neutrality and green energy in China and the world, PolyU has been actively conducting and promoting researches in these aspects in recent years. The Belt and Road Development Programme provides an important platform for researchers and senior management talents in the region to have in-depth exchanges and discussions on green energy and energy management issues. Over the past 5 years, we have built up connections with hundreds of professionals in the Belt and Road region. We look forward to fostering further collaborations with them to tackle the energy challenges for the benefit of mankind.” Professor GUAN Xiaohong, Academician of Chinese Academy of Science and Dean of Faculty of Electronic and Information Engineering of XJTU, said, “We are delighted that the programme has continued to attract more participants in the Belt and Road regions. These activities have not only enhanced mutual understanding and technical exchanges, but also further deepened the collaborations amongst electricity supply companies, universities, and research institutions. We sincerely hope this event can continue to flourish, keep offering updated discoveries, experiences, and outcomes, benefitting practitioners in energy and power industry.” Since the programme commenced in 2018, it has attracted nearly 800 professionals, providing more than 10,000 hours of exchanges, both online and offline training, as well as field trips over the past five years. The four parties will continue to organise activities in the coming future with diverse themes to contribute to the development of the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as promoting the experience and knowledge exchanges among senior management executives in power and energy-related fields.   [From PolyU Media Release]   Related News Articles: 港燈「一帶一路電力能源高管人才發展計畫」 逾300專才完成培訓 [頭條日報(Headline Daily)] 港燈「一帶一路電力能源高管人才發展計畫」 319名專才完成培訓創新高 [巴士的報(Bastille Post)] 港燈「一帶一路電力能源高管人才發展計畫」 逾300專才完成培訓 [星島日報(Sing Tao Daily)] 「一帶一路」電力能源高管人才發展計劃圓滿舉行 逾300專才參與創歷年新高 [香港商報網] 319名來自一帶一路能源業界人士完成培訓人數創歷年新高 [華富財經(Quamnet)] 2022“一带一路电力能源高管人才发展计划”在线启动 [西安交通大學新聞網]

PolyU and Wuxi city government to set up pioneering research institute to drive innovation and technology development in Yangtze River Delta

理大與無錫市政府共建科技創新研究院促進長三角官產學研合作 為國家創科發展作出貢獻   香港理工大學（理大）與江蘇省無錫市政府達成合作協議，在無錫當地成立「香港理工大學無錫科技創新研究院」，藉以設立高端創新科研平台、開辦工程學博士學位課程，以及建立產業培育基地，全面發揮「官、產、學、研」的協同效應，為國家未來發展貫注動力。此舉亦標誌著理大開創本地先河，成為首家在無錫設立科研中心、參與推動長江三角洲地區創科發展的香港高等教育院校。 簽約儀式今天（29日）以視像會議形式進行，在理大校董會主席林大輝博士、理大校長滕錦光教授、無錫市委書記杜小剛先生，以及無錫市委副書記兼市長趙建軍先生等理大和無錫市委、市政府高層的見證下，由理大副校長（研究及創新）趙汝恒教授與無錫市新吳區區長章金偉先生代表簽署合作協議。 這次合作響應了國家積極加強「蘇港澳」合作的策略，把無錫市的經濟優勢，結合理大位列全球百強學府的教育與科研實力，相得益彰。協議將於明年一月正式生效，為期五年，由理大工程學院及無錫國家高新技術產業開發區共同執行。在無錫市政府的支持下，「香港理工大學無錫科技創新研究院」將會在無錫空港經濟開發區設立。研究院將分階段建設教研中心、創新研發平台，以及創新創業基地。 理大工程學院院長文効忠教授介紹，研究院肩負三大使命： （一）建立國際一流的高端科研創新平台 研究院將促進共同科研、學術交流、聯合培育及知識轉移；透過匯聚國內、外的創新資源，鍛造全國一流兼具國際水平的高端創科平台。研究院將在無錫開發具自主知識產權的嶄新核心科技，涵蓋航空與航天、生物醫療科技、先進製造、新材料、人工智能、通訊網絡及新能源等範疇。 （二）培育科技創新人才 研究院將開辦為在職人士而設的工程學博士學位課程，以及工程博士後計劃，從而建立紮根無錫的創科團隊。課程以企業科技攻關項目為研究論文主題，輔以科創企業管理學科的訓練，著重科技創新及應用主導，旨在孕育高瞻遠矚，兼具創新願景、國際視野及先進科研經驗的業界領袖。 （三）推動新興產業 研究院將致力促進理大與無錫當地企業及廠商的科研合作，尤其鼓勵由理大培育的新一代人才在無錫創業，將科研成果商品化和實踐嶄新理念。此舉正好配合國家及江蘇省經濟發展需求，帶動新興產業穩健發展；同時推動現代工程技術突破、加強技術開發和整合，以及實現其大規模應用，從而加快技術轉移及科研成果商品化，締造完整的產業鏈。研究院目標在三至五年內，培育出一批在新興產業上獨當一面的企業，帶動創新科技的可持續發展。 在這次合作中，理大與無錫當局將會在不同範疇上貢獻本身強項，互補優勢。無錫市政府未來五年將提供所需場地、相應基礎設施及經費，支持理大創建研究院。雙方每年還會安排無錫以至長三角地區的業界人士來港交流，透過多元化的聯合推廣及國際專業學術活動，吸納更多企業進駐研究院及落戶無錫，開展創業驗證。 理大去年創立了「蘇港澳高校合作聯盟」，並與江蘇省產業技術研究院簽訂基礎科學及技術研究合作備忘錄。無錫市經濟蓬勃，工業體系得到全面發展，人均本地生產總值居全國城市前列，為這次與理大的合作造就了有利條件，更為兩地的「官、產、學、研」合作揭開前所未有的一頁。 林大輝博士表示：「江蘇省是長三角地區重要的省份，無錫市在工業體系全面發展方面享有盛譽。理大一直積極與江蘇省各界開展科研戰略合作，致力在人才培育及創新科技研究作出貢獻。理大非常高興與無錫市政府加強蘇港澳合作的戰略部署，結合理大在教育與科研的實力，創建『香港理工大學無錫科技創新研究院』。理大一定會繼往開來，在教育、科研和創新各方面力臻完美。」 滕錦光教授表示：「理大和無錫市政府對未來都有共同的願景：我們都希望在高端專業人才培養和科技創新方面加強合作，為無錫市、江蘇省乃至國家的經濟發展做出貢獻。理大非常重視基礎研究，也非常重視應用研究及其技術轉移。我們希望通過無錫科技創新研究院這個平台，將理大的科研優勢和無錫市的產業需求相結合，做出有影響力的成果。」 趙建軍市長表示：「香港理工大學無錫科技創新研究院的成功落戶，實現了『太湖明珠』與『東方之珠』的又一次重要牽手，是蘇港澳合作發展的有力推動。雙方將著力打造科技創新『新高地』和產業發展『策源地』，將香港理工大學的教育科研優勢與無錫的經濟產業優勢深度融合。無錫將為雙方合作提供最佳服務保障、最大程度支持，攜手打造長三角—粵港澳校地合作新標杆。」 [From PolyU Media Release]   Related News Articles: 香港理工大學無錫科技創新研究院落地江蘇無錫[香港商報網] 理大與無錫市合作 打造科創研究院 [大公報(Ta Kung Po)] 港理大無錫首設科創研究院 [文匯報(Wen Wei Po)] 理大副校趙汝恒籲加強兩地資金流通 培育團隊加強港科研吸引投資 [am730]

Cathay Pacific and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University sign Cadet Pilot programme agreement; Cultivating the next generation of pilots and building Hong Kong as a hub for aviation training

Cathay Pacific and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) today signed a three-year agreement to collaborate on a new integrated course for Cathay Pacific’s Cadet Pilot training programme that will cultivate local aviation industry talent and develop Hong Kong as a hub for aviation training. Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Officer Augustus TANG and PolyU Council Chairman Dr LAM Tai-fai welcomed Secretary for Transport and Logistics LAM Sai-hung as the guest of honour at the signing ceremony, which took place at Cathay Pacific’s headquarters, Cathay City. Civil Aviation Department (CAD) Assistant Director-General (Flight Standards) Clara WONG was also in attendance. The Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mr Lam Sai-hung said today's signing ceremony was very meaningful as it marked a milestone in Hong Kong's aviation industry. The Cadet Pilot training programme would not only groom more pilots for Hong Kong, but it also marked the first time that aviation theory courses would be taught by a local institution, writing a new chapter in Hong Kong's aviation history and enriching the variety of aviation professional training in the city. Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Officer Mr Augustus Tang said: “We are delighted to be continuing our Cadet Pilot programme. As Hong Kong’s home airline, we are committed to continuing to invest in young local talent and the long-term development of the Hong Kong international aviation hub. We firmly believe that there is huge potential for Hong Kong to become a leading centre for aviation training in the world, and this new integrated course will provide world-class instruction and training for prospective pilots. We would like to thank the CAD and PolyU for their support in getting this new course off the ground. “Since the inception of our Cadet Pilot training programme, Cathay Pacific has trained more than 1,000 cadet pilots from Hong Kong. We look forward to welcoming candidates who will be starting the new cadet courses and becoming part of the Cathay Pacific team upon graduation. As we get ready to meet the rising global demand for travel, we have already started a comprehensive plan to hire 4,000 front-line employees to meet our operational needs over the next 18-24 months. This includes over 700 pilots, of which 400 are cadet graduates joining as Second Officers by the end of 2023. Overall, we aim to train more than 1,000 cadet pilots by 2025.” PolyU Deputy President and Provost Prof. Wing-tak WONG said: “The civil aviation industry has been the backbone of Hong Kong's development. PolyU and Boeing co-founded the first Aviation Services Research Centre (ASRC) in Hong Kong ten years ago and the centre has since become a successful exemplar of research and innovation collaboration between academia and industry. The University later established the Department of Aeronautical and Civil Aviation Engineering to provide undergraduate, master and doctoral degree programmes to nurture talents in the industry and strengthen scientific research in the field of civil aviation and aeronautical engineering.” Prof. Wong continues: “Moving forward, we will continue to actively collaborate with industry partners to develop more professional qualifications and training programmes in support of the National 14th Five-Year Plan, so as to contribute to the healthy and sustainable development of the civil aviation industry in Hong Kong and the Nation.” The new 55-60 week integrated course comprises three stages: theory, simulator training and flight training. Under the newly signed agreement, PolyU will provide a 150-working-day Theoretical Ground Training course that includes a minimum of 750 hours of instruction and examination in areas including principles of flight, meteorology, human performance, general navigation, instrumentation, radio navigation, air law and more. Successful candidates will then commence flight training overseas before returning to Cathay City for multi-crew simulator training. The first batch of 24 candidates have already started the integrated course at PolyU in March and are scheduled to commence flight training in October after they have completed the ground theory portion of the programme. In parallel with the new integrated course, Cathay Pacific is also conducting cadet pilot training courses based upon the original programme module in Adelaide. Conducting the majority of cadet-training activities in Hong Kong will ensure that the training regime is specifically suited to meet the needs of Cathay Pacific. Cadet pilots will be familiarised with aviation facilities and relevant organisations in Hong Kong, such as the CAD, Hong Kong Air Traffic Control, the Hong Kong Airport Fire Contingent, Cathay Pacific maintenance providers such as HAECO, and specifically the expertise of PolyU and the Cathay Pacific Training Centre. Enrolment for the Cathay Pacific Cadet Pilot programme is open, and we greatly encourage aspiring pilots to visit the following link for information on the application criteria and the benefits of a rewarding career: https://careers.cathaypacific.com/jobs/cadet-pilot-program-5519030 [From PolyU Media Release]

Prof. Li Gang, Sir Sze-yuen Chung Endowed Professor in Renewable Energy in the Department of Electronic and Information Engineering awarded RGC Senior Research Fellow 2022/23

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has been awarded three of the ten grants under the Research Grants Council's (RGC) Senior Research Fellow Scheme (SRFS) 2022/23, another testament to PolyU scholars’ accomplishments and research excellence. The successful PolyU scholars are Prof. LI Gang, Sir Sze-yuen Chung Endowed Professor in Renewable Energy in the Department of Electronic and Information Engineering; Prof. SUN Defeng, Chair Professor of Applied Optimization and Operations Research and Head of the Department of Applied Mathematics; and Prof. CHAN Ko-ling Edward, Professor of the Department of Applied Social Sciences. Their research in the areas of applied mathematics, material sciences, and social work and public health has been awarded a total of HKD 23 million SRFS funding. The RGC’s Senior Research Fellow Scheme aims to provide sustained support to exceptionally outstanding researchers at UGC-funded universities in Hong Kong, with a view to facilitating their dedication to research and development and to helping universities attract and retain research talent. The Scheme provides ten grants to scholars from any academic disciplines in each round of the annual exercise. Nominees are assessed based on various criteria that include leadership quality and vision in the chosen area of research, the merit of the research proposal and the support provided by the university. Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, congratulated all awardees and said, “After a rigorous assessment process, our three researchers were recognized for their research capabilities, contributions and the potential impact of their proposed research projects. We are proud of their outstanding research. This achievement also recognizes the efforts of the PolyU research teams in promoting and conducting multifaceted research.” Details of the awardees and their research projects: Prof. Li Gang, Sir Sze-yuen Chung Endowed Professor in Renewable Energy in the Department of Electronic and Information Engineering Research Project: “Printable Organic Solar Cells: Materials and Device Investigations towards Applications” Organic solar cell (OSC) is an emerging photovoltaic (PV) technology with distinct advantages in many areas, such as flexible/portable PV, building integrated PV and transparent power applications. Aiming at accelerating the OSC technology, this project proposed systematic materials and device structure investigation of new photoactive materials, stable transport materials, innovative ternary OSC active layer engineering, a novel approach for transparent OSC and printing technology. The project will significantly push forward OSC technology in terms of high efficiency, operation stability, compatibility with unique applications and being printing friendly. The proposed research represents a new frontier for OSC technology, which integrates chemistry, physics and material science to generate new perspectives in science and come up with solutions to challenging issues in renewable energy. Prof. Sun Defeng, Chair Professor of Applied Optimization and Operations Research, and Head of the Department of Applied Mathematics Research Project: “Nonlinear Conic Programming: Theory, Algorithms and Software” Nonlinear conic programming (NLCOP) lies at the core of optimisation research which involves the design of efficient algorithms to solve mathematical problems of optimisation under constraints. This project will focus on NLCOP problems when the constraint set is C2-cone reducible. Prof. Sun’s team will design non-smooth Newton-type algorithms and augmented Lagrangian methods for solving NLCOP problems. They will also develop an efficient optimisation solver for addressing a class of virtual instances of NLCOP issues. Furthermore, researchers will investigate reinforcement machine learning techniques to solve NLCOP problems faster. The success of this project will contribute to a broad range of important applications including the sixth-generation wireless communication technology (6G), investment portfolio management, financial risk management, supply chain management, production planning and automatic driving. Prof. Chan Ko-ling Edward, Professor of Department of Applied Social Sciences Research Project: “Family Polyvictimization and Social Policy Responses in East Asian Societies” Prof. Edward Chan is the first to examine family poly-victimization (FPV), which refers to the co-occurrence of at least three types of family violence, including intimate partner violence, child abuse and elder abuse. He has developed innovative methodologies and digital assessment tools to measure FPV accurately. This project will be conducted in five East Asian cities, namely Hong Kong, Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Taipei. With cross-culture data from East Asian families, this project will examine the effects of traditional East Asian cultural practices and develop clinical protocols and policies in response to FPV. Findings will shed light on the application of early detection mechanisms for FPV by adopting a family-oriented approach and using the family as the basic unit of service. It will also facilitate the development of integrated prevention and multi-disciplinary collaboration in East Asian contexts. The improvements in social policy and service delivery approach aim to bring very significant social impact and benefits to families victimised by FPV and to East Asian cities as a whole. [From PolyU Media Release]

PolyU U3DP named top university 3D printing labs worldwide

PolyU Research Facility in 3D Printing (U3DP) was named one of the top university 3D printing labs of 2022 in the world by All3DP, a leading magazine for the digital maker. Established in 2017, the U3DP provides all-round support for staff, researchers, and students in applying various types of 3D printing technologies to design, engineering, and medicine. Led by Prof. HC Man, Director of U3DP, Director of Research Institute for Advanced Manufacturing, Director of Studies of Integrated Graduate Development Scheme, Dean of Faculty of Engineering and Cheng Yick-chi Chair Professor of Manufacturing Engineering, the center also boasts interdisciplinary research initiatives and industrial collaborations with companies in aviation, medical implants, medical rehabilitation, architecture, toys & games, fashion, apparel and jewelry. Online coverage: https://bit.ly/3aw0s6W [From RIAM Website]

PolyU and HKIAA sign MoU to cultivate young talents and conduct research for the aviation industry

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and The Hong Kong International Aviation Academy (HKIAA) signed a two-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) with an aim of contributing to the local aviation industry by cultivating talents and conducting aviation-related research projects with joint efforts. Leveraging on HKIAA’s extensive experience in talent nurturing, together with PolyU’s competence in scientific research, the parties will work closely to develop training programmes for the aviation industry, as well as optimise the execution of such programmes and the collaboration in promotion. In addition, one of the highlights of the MoU is to jointly conduct aviation-related research projects. The pair is committed to exchanging professional knowledge and experience of training and research and sharing such resources as training facilities and flight simulators, so as to maximise the synergy to cultivate talents for the industry. Witnessed by Prof. Wing Tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU, and Mr CK NG, CEO of HKIA Services Holdings Ltd., the MoU was signed by Ir Prof. H.C. MAN, Dean of Faculty of Engineering, PolyU, and Ir Simon LI, President of HKIAA, at the signing ceremony held on PolyU campus. The Dean of Faculty of Engineering at PolyU, Ir Professor H.C. Man said, “This is a timely collaboration between PolyU and HKIAA for professional human resources development in order to support the rapid and imminent growth of our aviation industry in Hong Kong. We will work on various professional training programmes as well as research and development projects to groom our young generation in Hong Kong to be the key stakeholders in this pillar industry.” Ir Simon Li, President of HKIAA said, “We can foresee that the completion of the third runway system at Hong Kong International Airport in 2024 will create more opportunities. There is a greater need than ever for talented individuals to join the aviation industry. We look forward to working together with PolyU to attract, develop and nurture young talent to support the sustainable growth of the aviation industry in Hong Kong and throughout the region.” In spite of the challenges faced by the global aviation industry due to the pandemic, it is believed that the new opportunities ahead for the development of the industry are substantial. Through the cooperation with HKIAA, PolyU expects to make contributions to the aviation industry in Hong Kong. [From PolyU Media Release] [Photo Album] <!--   Related News Articles: 理大研智能系統 推動工傷復康 [東方日報(Oriental Daily News)] 智能評估工傷 賠償批假更準 [文匯報(Wen Wei Po)] 理大研智能工傷管理系統 大數據預測病假 [大公報(Ta Kung Po)] 復工之路 理大研智能工傷管理系統 助評估病假及傷殘程度 [am730] 理大AI估算工傷病假復康進程 準過人手 [明報(Ming Pao Daily News)] 理大AI工傷管理系統 助保險理賠 [經濟日報(Hong Kong Economic Times)] -->

PolyU develops portable nucleic acid testing device for COVID-19 to enable fast and accurate results on-site

Over the past two years, the COVID-19 pandemic has imposed a tremendous impact on society as well as on the daily lives of individuals. In the “post-pandemic” era, it is important to strengthen efforts in research and development of drug and vaccine, while also continuing to uphold high standards of personal and environmental hygiene management. Therefore, an accurate and convenient COVID-19 testing method could certainly help ease the stress of post-pandemic life.   In 2020, an interdisciplinary research team from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) was awarded over HK$2.7 million by the Health and Medical Research Fund (HMRF) to commence research on a portable testing device for COVID-19 (the device). After one and a half years of extensive work, the team successfully achieved highly sensitive SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA detection based on the combination of reverse transcription–loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) and gold nanoparticles (as amplification result readout reagent). The clinical sample test results were in full agreement with the reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) standard.   The device accommodates up to six testing samples at one time. Excluding one positive and one negative control sample, up to four samples can be tested at the same time. Once the samples have been collected, tests can be run on-site using the device, without the need to return the samples to the laboratory.   The device provides a constant temperature of 65 degrees Celsius, and the built-in optical system will monitor the precipitation or dispersion of gold nanoparticles (precipitate in positive samples, while remain dispersed in negative samples). Real-time data will be sent to a mobile app via Bluetooth, and the test results will be analysed and displayed on the screen of the phone (image 2). An increase in the optical signal between 10 and 20 minutes indicates a positive sample, and the shorter the onset time, the higher the viral load in the sample. A positive sample can be confirmed in as short as 25 minutes. The entire test can be completed in about 40 minutes, and the test results can be recognised with bare eyes (image 3).   Professor Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, was encouraged by the results of the research. He remarked, "We are grateful to the Food and Health Bureau for their trust in PolyU. With the strong support of the HMRF, PolyU is able to leverage its interdisciplinary strengths to contribute to the Government's anti-pandemic measures, and translate research outcomes into real-life applications, bringing about benefits to the community."   The lead of the research project, Professor YIP Shea-ping, Professor and Head of the Department of Health Technology and Informatics of PolyU, pointed out that “using gold nanoparticles as the amplification result readout reagent is the key to the success of this research. We are pleased to see that our method has attained excellent sensitivity and specificity, which is on par with the current PCR 'gold standard'.”   The portable and rechargeable design of the device enables the entire testing procedures to be performed outside the laboratory, right after on-site sample collection. Dr. LEE Ming-hung Thomas, Associate Professor and Associate Head of the Department of Biomedical Engineering of PolyU, is a key member of the research team. He explained, “Our team has conducted preliminary environmental sample testing using our gold nanoparticle-based RT-LAMP method, even without prior extraction and purification of nucleic acid. The time for running the test is shortened, and no large-sized laboratory equipment is required. Nucleic acid testing can be achieved in a handy device, and the accuracy is not affected even with low viral load. The next important step is to test with human unpurified samples directly.”   Dr. Lee added that both human and environmental samples can be tested in the newly invented device. Besides SARS-CoV-2, other viruses and bacteria can also be detected using this device (primers have to be redesigned). The unit cost of testing is comparatively lower than RT-PCR. Going forward, the team is planning to transfer the research outcomes to society by collaborating with industry players so as to extend the use of such technology to the wider community, in particular places where accurate results are needed within a short period of time (e.g. airports, quarantine facilities, elderly homes, clinics, ports, restaurants, shopping malls, schools, sports and recreational facilities, etc.). The team also hopes that with this invention in place, management of personal and environmental hygiene can be enhanced, and appropriate control measures can be implemented to reduce the risk of community infection.   ***END*** [From PolyU Media Release]   Related News Articles: 齊心抗疫 40分鐘完成 準確度「金標準」理大成功研發便攜式新冠病毒檢測儀  [AM730] 理大研發便攜新冠檢測儀 最快25分鐘知結果 [明報(Ming Pao Daily News)]      

Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU Faculty of Engineering - Result Announcement

PolyU wins six prizes at 2022 Inventions Geneva Evaluation Days

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has once again excelled in this year’s online special edition of the International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva (Geneva Inventions Expo) - Special Edition 2022 Inventions Geneva Evaluation Days – Virtual Event. The Exhibition is regarded as one of the most important annual global events devoted exclusively to inventions. This year, PolyU has garnered a total of six awards, including one Gold Medal with Congratulations of the Jury, one Gold Medal, three Silver Medals and one Bronze Medal. PolyU researchers commit to the motto of the University, " To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind”, by transferring their research into impactful real-life applications that benefit society. Four of the six participating projects are operated by PolyU supported start-ups which has already commercialised its research outputs. As the only university in Hong Kong taking part in the Nation’s space missions, the PolyU team is also actively developing instruments for the national space mission by leveraging its expertise in precision engineering. In addition, PolyU is also striving to leverage its research to improve people’s quality of life. The participating projects this year, which incorporate research in the areas of cooling coatings, eco-friendly building materials, smart fabrics, nutritional supplements and AI music learning platform, are just a few examples of this effort. The awards received by the PolyU teams are testament to their determination and unique capabilities in their areas of expertise, which have earned them international recognition. The teams will continue their good work by developing more innovative solutions that will eventually benefit Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. The six projects are (project details in Appendix and on the website of the Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship Office https://www.polyu.edu.hk/kteo/polyu-innovations/award/geneva2022/):   Project Principal Investigator Awards Camera Pointing System for China’s Lunar Exploration Missions (Chang'e 3 and 4) Prof. Kai-leung YUNG Sir Sze-yuen Chung Professor in Precision Engineering, Director of Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations, Chair Professor of Precision Engineering and Associate Head, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering Gold Medal with Congratulations of the Jury UmiCool: an Eco-friendly Smart Sub-ambient Radiative Cooling (SSRC) Coating Prof. Jianguo DAI Professor and Associate Head, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Founder of Pro-Infra Science & Technology Limited (a PolyU Academic-led start-up) Gold Medal Carbon-negative Climate-smart Biochar Partition Block Prof. Daniel Chiu-Wa TSANG Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Founder of NeutralCrete Limited (a PolyU Academic-led start-up) Silver Medal Omni-Cool-Dry™: Skin-like Fabric for Dynamic Thermal and Moisture Management Dr Dahua SHOU Assistant Professor, Institute of Textiles and Clothing Silver Medal AkkMore™: a Fungus and Plant Based Supplement Against Obesity or Prediabetes Dr. Gail Jinhui CHANG Research Assistant Professor, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Co-founder of Bo InnoHealth Biotechnology Company Limited (a PolyU GBA Start-up PostDoc and PolyU Academic-led startup) Silver Medal Algorithmic Music Composition Software for Popularising AI Education Dr Gong CHEN PhD alumni of the Department of Computing, Founder of RhySoul Technology (Shenzhen) Company Limited (a PolyU GBA Start-up PostDoc) Bronze Medal   The Inventions Geneva Evaluation Days – Virtual Event this year attracted about 800 inventions from 25 countries/regions. For details, please visit the event organiser’s official website: www.inventions-geneva.ch. [From PolyU Media Release]   Related News Articles: 理大探月相機系統揚威國際 [文匯報(Wen Wei Po)] 理大研探月相機指向系統日內瓦發明展奪最高殊榮 [星島日報(Sing Tao Daily)]