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PolyU research reveals sustained obesity may accelerate brain ageing

With the global prevalence of obesity on the rise, it is crucial to explore the neural mechanisms linked to obesity and its influence on brain and cognitive health. However, the impact of obesity on the brain is complex and multilevel. To address this, Prof. Anqi QIU, Professor of the Department of Health Technology and Informatics at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Global STEM Scholar, has unveiled novel research to advance our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying the relationship between obesity and its implications for cognitive health in adults. Obesity is implicated in brain and cognitive health, but the long-term impact of obesity trajectories on brain and cognitive ageing remains insufficiently understood. Most existing research primarily relies on cross-sectional samples, making it difficult to distinguish between chronic and temporary obesity. It is also unclear whether varying levels of obesity over time affect brain anatomy and function differently. Importantly, Prof. Qiu’s research addresses these gaps by conducting a comprehensive longitudinal analysis of obesity trajectories and their impacts on brain and cognitive health in adults. Drawing on multifaceted obesity measurements from the UK Biobank, the study identifies five distinct obesity trajectories: low-stable, moderate-stable, high-stable, increasing and decreasing. Significantly, the study examines how these obesity patterns influence brain morphology, function and cognition in middle-aged and older adults, offering deeper insights into their long-term neurological effects. Notably, individuals in the decreasing trajectory showed minimal adverse effects on brain structure and cognitive performance compared to those in the low-stable group. In contrast, the increasing, moderate-stable, and high-stable trajectories were associated with progressively greater impairment in brain structure, functional connectivity, and cognitive abilities. Specifically, these adverse effects began in the fronto-mesolimbic regions for the increasing trajectory, extended to parietal and temporal regions in the moderate-stable group, and ultimately led to widespread brain abnormalities in the high-stable group. The research highlights the dynamic relationship between obesity progression and brain-cognitive health, underscoring the clinical importance of long-term monitoring and management of obesity through a multifaceted approach. It reveals a distinct, progressive pattern of brain deterioration linked to obesity, suggesting that sustained obesity may accelerate brain ageing. These findings indicate that persistent obesity could serve as a potential biomarker for assessing brain ageing. Therefore, reducing both the severity and duration of obesity exposure may be crucial for preserving brain health. Prof. Qiu said, “As the ageing population grows, there has been a notable rise in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and others, that currently lack a cure. This research proposes that maintaining long-term weight control can contribute to improved brain health.” Looking ahead, the research team plans to integrate multi-omics approaches to explore the biological pathways that influence both brain and body health. The research, “Long-term obesity impacts brain morphology, functional connectivity and cognition in adults” has been published in Nature Mental Health. The study extracted obesity measure, brain images and cognition from the UK Biobank database, which comprised over 500,000 participants aged 40 years and above with diverse ethnic backgrounds.

PolyU establishes Otto Poon Research Institute for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure with support from Otto Poon Charitable Foundation

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has established the Otto Poon Research Institute for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure (RICRI), a pioneering strategic research institute focused on global climate change, with the staunch support of the Otto Poon Charitable Foundation. The Research Institute aims to be a global leader in the research and development of resilient and sustainable solutions for urban areas and rural communities to mitigate the challenges brought about by global climate change. PolyU held an Opening Ceremony and Forum today at Hotel ICON that drew nearly 300 participants, including faculty members, students and industry experts. RICRI brings together a distinguished collaborative network of renowned experts from Mainland institutions including Tsinghua University, Nanjing University and Beijing Normal University, alongside Hong Kong government departments and industry partners. The Research Institute will serve as an interdisciplinary research platform to build an effective and integrated scientific think-tank, aiming to foster deep integration across government, industry, academia and research for the advancement and application of sustainable development in Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. In his welcoming remarks, Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, said, “The establishment of RICRI represents a landmark milestone in PolyU’s endeavour to address the urgent realities of climate change. This visionary initiative has been made possible through the generous support of the Otto Poon Charitable Foundation, and we are deeply grateful to Dr Otto Poon for his strong support and commitment to advancing research and innovation in climate resilience. Dr Poon is an outstanding alumnus of PolyU, a University Fellow, and has been a long-standing supporter of PolyU’s development, empowering our University to make significant contributions for the betterment of society.” Ir Dr Otto POON, Founder of the Otto Poon Charitable Foundation and PolyU University Fellow, said during the ceremony, “Climate change is becoming an increasingly severe global challenge. All sectors of society must work together to enhance infrastructure resilience through scientific research and innovative technologies. I am pleased to support the establishment of RICRI and hope it will become a world-leading research centre for climate-adaptive resilient infrastructure in both urban and suburban areas, the promotion of innovation, exchange of policy development, and establishment of guidelines, standards and good practices of infrastructures for Hong Kong, the Nation and the global community.” Speaking at the event, Mr TSE Chin-wan, the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, outlined the Government’s strategies and measures to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, along with efforts to enhance climate adaptation and resilience. He also highlighted advancements in green technology and finance. He said, “Building a climate-resilient city is important—not only for protecting our properties but also our lives. As we celebrate the establishment of RICRI, let us work together to build a climate-resilient Hong Kong and a new ecological civilisation for us and our children.” RICRI is led by Prof. Xiang-dong LI, PolyU Dean of the Faculty of Construction and Environment, Chair Professor of Environmental Science and Technology, and Ko Jan Ming Professor in Sustainable Urban Development. The Institute focuses on four key research areas: climate change and extreme weather; urban infrastructure and resilience; rural community and disaster mitigation; climate-resilient policy and implementation. The forum held alongside the inauguration explored a wide range of topics, including: monitoring and prediction of extreme climate events in Hong Kong and surrounding regions; monitoring and adaptation of civil infrastructure towards resilience; urban resilience enhancement for energy-building-transport-water sector synergization toolbox; nature-based solutions for urban infrastructure resilience and water disaster management; resilience of rural infrastructure and communities to climate change; and intelligent platform and toolbox for urban infrastructure resilience. In support of the University’s research endeavours in the areas of smart city and sustainable energy, the Otto Poon Charitable Foundation has in recent years contributed to the establishment of two research institutes at the University — the Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Smart Cities Research Institute (SCRI) and the Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Research Institute for Smart Energy (RISE) — as well as two endowed professorships for related disciplines. The establishment of RICRI further strengthens PolyU’s research capabilities in climate adaptation and infrastructure resilience, advancing the pursuit of sustainable development. RICRI will offer research schemes and funding support in the field of climate-resilient infrastructure, including the Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Distinguished Lecture Series (CRIDLS), the Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Fellowship (CRIF) and the Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Research Scheme (CRIRS). For more information about the Research Institute, please visit: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/ricri/ Ir Dr Otto Poon hopes that RICRI will foster deep integration across government, industry, academia and research for the advancement and application of sustainable development in Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. Mr Tse Chin-wan, the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, outlined the government’s strategies and measures to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, along with efforts to enhance climate adaptation and resilience. Prof. Jin-Guang Teng said the establishment of RICRI represents a landmark milestone in PolyU’s endeavour to address the urgent realities of climate change. Dr ZHOU Jinfeng, Founding President and Secretary-General of China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation, extended congratulations on behalf of Mr Liu Zhenmin, China’s Special Envoy for Climate Change Affairs, on the establishment of RICRI. RICRI is led by Prof. Xiang-dong Li, PolyU Dean of the Faculty of Construction and Environment, Chair Professor of Environmental Science and Technology, and Ko Jan Ming Professor in Sustainable Urban Development. A forum was held alongside the opening ceremony, attracting hundreds of faculty members, students, and industry experts.

Media report: PolyU’s high-strength steel research drives transformation of Hong Kong's construction industry

Hong Kong’s construction industry is facing various challenges, including high costs, aging workforce and labour shortages. To overcome these issues, a swift transition to advanced technologies, such as modular construction and lightweight design, is essential for improving efficiency and safety, ultimately fostering the construction sector’s international competitiveness. Hong Kong's various infrastructure projects, including the Double Arch Steel Bridge of the Cross Bay Link in Tseung Kwan O and the Fanling North New Development Area – Fanling Bypass Eastern Section, have successfully utilised high-strength steel. These projects serve as compelling global cases that demonstrate the practical potential and considerable value of high-strength steel in large-scale engineering applications. Prof. Chung Kwok-fai, Professor of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Director of the Chinese National Engineering Research Centre for Steel Construction (CNERC) (Hong Kong Branch) at PolyU, shared in a media interview how research into steel materials and structural steelwork helps bring the city’s construction industry to the next level. PolyU's CNERC focuses on high-performance steel and composite structures, advocating the use of high-strength steel in construction. Prof. Chung highlighted that the lightweight design of high-strength steel enhances load-bearing capacity while reducing material consumption. Although S690 steel is more expensive, its lightweight design offsets the cost by significantly reducing material consumption, resulting in substantial long-term economic savings. In partnership with local design and construction companies, CNERC is working to acquire expertise in advanced technologies and drive innovation. Prof. Chung aims to expand the application of high-strength steel to a broader range of infrastructure projects and international markets. PolyU is committed to promoting the transformation of construction technology by incorporating nanotechnology to enhance strength and corrosion resistance. Furthermore, this initiative will extend to global markets in marine projects, such as deep-sea drilling platforms, creating new opportunities for Hong Kong's infrastructure ventures.  More PolyU develops innovative welding technology for ultra-high strength S960 steel making its debut in Hong Kong public works project  

PolyU-nurtured biopharmaceutical start-up ABRAM accepted by Roche Accelerator

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) celebrates the acceptance of ABRAM Therapeutics Limited (ABRAM), a start-up co-founded by a PolyU scholar, into the Roche Accelerator. This marks the first time a Hong Kong-based start-up being welcomed by this prestigious innovation hub. Nurtured within the PolyVentures start-up ecosystem, ABRAM focuses on its ground-breaking drug candidate, ABarginase, for treating obesity and related metabolic disorders such as diabetes and fatty liver disease. This milestone will significantly advance the development of the drug, paving the way for its clinical application to benefit patients worldwide. The start-up was co-founded by Prof. Thomas LEUNG Yun-chung, Professor of the PolyU Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Lo Ka Chung Charitable Foundation Professor in Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Director of University Research Facility in Life Sciences, along with Prof. Alisa SHUM Sau-wun, Associate Professor of the School of Biomedical Sciences of the Faculty of Medicine of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) to further develop and commercialise ABarginase, the breakthrough outcome of their joint research project. ABarginase is the result of innovative drug design and advanced protein engineering. Employing a long-acting formulation to provide sustained therapeutic effects, this next-generation recombinant human arginase offers enhanced efficacy with reduced dosing frequency. Preclinical data demonstrates ABarginase’s remarkable potential to promote substantial weight loss, restore healthy body composition, reverse insulin resistance, and alleviate inflammation. These properties address the underlying causes of obesity-related chronic diseases, heralding a transformative approach to the effective treatment of metabolic diseases. ABarginase has been awarded the International Federation of Inventors’ Associations Best Invention Award and a Gold Medal with Congratulations of the Jury at the 48th International Exhibition of Invention Geneva. Roche, one of the world’s largest biotech companies and the global leader in in-vitro diagnostics, pursues scientific excellence to discover and develop transformative and innovative solutions across major disease areas. Roche is a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals with truly differentiated medicines in oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology, neurology and cardiovascular, renal and metabolism. As Roche’s first in-house accelerator globally, the Roche Accelerator provides tailor-made support for member start-ups in pharma, diagnostics, personalised healthcare, and digital and AI-driven healthcare. With “disruptive innovation” as a key selection criterion, Roche Accelerator accepts fewer than 5% of its applicants. By joining Roche Accelerator, ABRAM gains access to Roche’s extensive expertise and resources, which will expedite the clinical development of ABarginase, facilitating the translation of this cutting-edge therapy from laboratory research to clinical application. Prof. Leung said, “Joining this distinguished innovation ecosystem as the first Hong Kong-based start-up is a significant honour for our team and a testament to the collaborative research efforts between PolyU and CUHK. We believe that the strategic collaboration between Roche and ABRAM, along with the resources of a multinational pharmaceutical company and Hong Kong’s strengths in basic scientific research, will accelerate the clinical translation of ABarginase.” Prof. Shum added, “Our mission aligns seamlessly with Roche’s vision of ‘doing now what patients need next’. With the mentorship and resources provided by the Roche Accelerator, we are better positioned to make ABarginase available to millions of patients struggling with obesity.” Prof. Christopher Chao, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation), congratulated ABRAM, stating, “ABRAM’s achievement validates our efforts in empowering researchers and start-ups in translating research discoveries into impactful real-world solutions. It exemplifies how cross-institutional collaborations can lead to the birth of game-changing biopharmaceutical technologies. We look forward to seeing ABarginase make a positive impact on global healthcare and will continue to support PolyU start-ups in their pursuit of innovation, enabling more life-saving and life-enhancing technologies to reach the market and benefit humanity.” PolyU is committed to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, nurturing the next-generation of entrepreneurs eager to tackle societal challenges with innovative solutions. Through PolyVentures, PolyU supports its start-ups at every stage of their entrepreneurial journeys – from education and ideation to incubation, acceleration, and fundraising. To date, it has nurtured over 500 start-ups, including four unicorns.

PolyU interdisciplinary research harnesses mass spectrometry for groundbreaking solutions

An interdisciplinary team led by Prof. Yao Zhongping, Associate Head and Professor of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, specialises in mass spectrometry (MS), analytical chemistry, chemical biology and multi-omics. The team develops and applies MS-based approaches to address fundamental and applied problems across various fields, including chemistry, biology, medicine, food science and information science. Current research encompasses: Molecular Data Storage The team is pioneering the development of amino acid sequences for data storage, offering high density and long storage time compared to conventional and emerging methods. By assigning different amino acids to represent various bit combinations, they can translate bit sequences of digital information into amino acid sequences, which can be synthesised as peptides or expressed as proteins for storage. During data retrieval, the data-bearing peptides/proteins are sequenced, and the acquired amino acid sequences are converted back into digital combinations based on prior assignments, ultimately decoding the original data.  The team has successfully stored text and audio information in peptides and retrieved them via LC-MS/MS sequencing. They are also exploring data storage with proteins, including storage in organisms such as bacteria and plants. The research links data storage with peptide synthesis, protein engineering and proteomics, creating new possibilities for these fields. Conformational Dynamics of Proteins and Protein Interactions Prof. Yao’s team employs techniques such as hydrogen/deuterium exchange MS, native MS, ion mobility MS, and molecular dynamics simulations to study the conformational dynamics of proteins and their interactions, which are challenging to obtain with conventional methods. Their current projects include investigating the conformational dynamics of β-lactamases and their interactions with antibiotics and inhibitors. Additionally, they are studying SARS-CoV-2 proteins and their interactions with ACE-2, antibodies and inhibitors. Molecular Assembly and Recognition MS is rapid, sensitive, and it provides a gas-phase environment free from the interferences of solvents or other species. This makes it an ideal tool for understanding the intrinsic properties of molecular assembly and recognition.  Prof. Yao utilises tandem MS, ion mobility MS, and molecular modeling to investigate how biomolecules assemble, particularly in coordination with metal ions. His study also explores how chiral recognition of fundamental molecules is induced and propagated, as well as the  development of new methods for differentiating isomers, including the chiral recognition of drugs. Mechanistic Study and Biomarker Discovery in Diseases and Biological Processes Prof. Yao’s team applies proteomics, metabolomics and lipidomics approaches to investigate biological and clinical samples, aiming to understand fundamental biological processes and discover disease biomarkers. For example, in collaboration with Prof. Yusong Guo’s research team in cell biology at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, they have utilised MS-based proteomics to systematically reveal how cargo proteins are sorted into vesicles for transport. Food Safety The team develops and applies MS techniques for the authentication of edible oils, wines, and herbal medicines. The ongoing efforts in quality assurance for edible oils include developing a MALDI-MS-based method for rapid analysis and screening of gutter oils, creating a spectral database for classifying edible oils, and establishing methods for the rapid quantitation of blended oils. The team has also collaborated with the HKSAR Government to formulate guidelines for using frying oil in Hong Kong, which have been announced for implementation.  

PolyU mathematics project receives support from the EU– Hong Kong Research Cooperation Co-funding Mechanism by the RGC

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has consistently valued collaboration with international research communities to pursue innovative research projects. A PolyU mathematics project has received support from the European Union (EU) – Hong Kong Research Cooperation Co-funding Mechanism by the RGC for its world-class scientific potential. Led by Prof. LI Buyang, Professor and RGC Research Fellow in the Department of Applied Mathematics at PolyU, the project titled “Geometric Finite Element Methods” has received support from the EU-Hong Kong Research Cooperation Co-funding Mechanism by the RGC. This collaborative effort, involving Dr. HU Kaibo from The University of Edinburgh, has been awarded a grant of HK$431,500 for a duration of 54 months. Tensor-valued partial differential equations on surfaces have significant theoretical value and applications across a wide range of fields, including nonlinear elasticity, general relativity, computer graphics, and differential geometry and topology. This proposal aims to develop stable, efficient, and high-accuracy numerical schemes for tensor-valued partial differential equations on manifolds by developing intrinsic tensor finite elements and advanced numerical analysis techniques for solving tensor-valued PDEs on manifolds, particularly intrinsic geometric flows, such as the Ricci flow, a fundamental tool in differential geometry and topology. Prof. LI said, “This research aims to provide a rigorous theoretical analysis of the numerical approximation, including stability, convergence, and error estimates. The outcomes are expected to advance both the numerical analysis and practical applications of partial differential equations on manifolds.” Prof. LI’s research focuses on the development of efficient computational methods for nonlinear partial differential equations in physical, engineering, and geometric models, with rigorous analysis for the stability and convergence of the numerical approximations. The European Union (EU) – Hong Kong Research Cooperation Co-funding Mechanism by the RGC accepts research project proposals in the areas of food, agriculture, biotechnologies (linked to the agri-food sector), climate change, and biodiversity, as well as exchange (mobility) proposals. It aims to strengthen the collaboration between European and Hong Kong research communities in areas of mutual interest in order to achieve world-class scientific results. Selected research teams will be supported to participate in joint research projects conducted under the framework of Horizon Europe.

PolyU and CITIC Group join forces to establish Interdisciplinary Mathematical Digital AI Joint Laboratory

Chinese version only

Shanghai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics visited PolyU

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) welcomed representatives from the Shanghai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics (SIOM), the Shanghai Municipal Talent Work Bureau and related organisations on 26 March for discussions on research innovation, talent development, and industry collaboration, aiming to enhance Shanghai-Hong Kong cooperation.   The plaque-unveiling ceremony for the establishment of the Hong Kong Branch of the Chinese Laser Press was held at PolyU on the same day. Officiating guests included Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation), Prof. LAI Puxiang, Associate Professor of the PolyU Department of Biomedical Engineering and Director of the Hong Kong Branch of the Chinese Laser Press, Prof. ZHANG Aping, Professor of the PolyU Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Secretary General of the Hong Kong Branch of the Chinese Laser Press, Prof. LENG Yuxin, Deputy Director of SIOM, Dr WANG Xiaofeng, Editor-in-Chief of Chinese Laser Press and Ms ZHANG Yuqing, Director of Editorial Department of Advanced Photonics. This marked a significant milestone in strengthening optics cooperation between Mainland China and Hong Kong.   During the meeting, Prof. CHAO highlighted PolyU's commitment to fostering research innovation and talent development. As the host institution for the Hong Kong Branch of the Chinese Laser Press, PolyU will fully utilise its scientific research and academic strengths to deepen regional synergy and further contribute to the advancement of optics.   Ms XU Hui, Deputy Director of the International Cooperation Department of Shanghai Municipal Talent Work Bureau, emphasised Shanghai's support for collaboration between Shanghai and Hong Kong and expressed anticipation for expanded cooperation in various fields.   Prof. LENG provided a detailed overview of SIOM's research directions and achievements. In addition, PolyU professors shared their institution's remarkable accomplishments in relevant scientific research areas, focusing specifically on cutting-edge fields such as ultra-precision machining, photonics materials and technology, and biophotonics.   The delegation concluded the visit with tours of PolyU’s State Key Laboratory of Ultra-precision Machining Technology and the Photonics Research Institute, where they explored micron-scale processing equipment and cutting-edge photonics research. This event deepened mutual understanding and laid a solid foundation for future PolyU and Shanghai collaborations in research, talent cultivation, and university-enterprise partnerships.

PolyU and Amway (China) establish Joint Laboratory for Phytonutrients and Aging Research

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Amway (China) have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of the Joint Laboratory for Phytonutrients and Ageing Research. Over the next three years, the parties plan to allocate dedicated research funding, jointly nurture postdoctoral researchers, and enhance the development of the health industry in the Greater Bay Area through the creation of a phytonutrient database and development of functional assessment models. Witnessed by Prof. Wing-tak WONG, PolyU Deputy President and Provost; Prof. CHEN Qingyan, Director of the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR); Dr Eric DU, Principal Scientist of the Research and Development Centre of Amway (China); and Dr Clark CHEN, Senior Scientist of the Centre, the MoU was signed by Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation), and Mr Johnson HAN, General Manager of Innovation and Science of Amway (China). Following the signing, representatives from both parties officiated at a plaque unveiling ceremony, marking the establishment of the Joint Laboratory for Phytonutrients and Aging Research. Over 20 experts joined this noteworthy occasion to celebrate the collaboration. Prof. Wing-tak Wong highlighted the significant potential of this partnership, given the growing demand for phytonutrients products. The Laboratory aims to leverage the opportunities for research innovation and commercialisation in the field, developing new solutions that benefit human health, science and technology, and the economy. Mr Johnson Han shared his company’s decades of research and market experience in phytonutrients, which will complement the work of PolyU’s exceptional research team. In the afternoon, Amway (China) representatives engaged in a series of professional exchanges with PolyU faculty members and students, including at the Frontier Forum on Cognitive Enhancement and Health Management hosted by the Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation (RCMI), which attracted over a hundred participants. Dr Clark Chen, Prof. Raymond CHANG, Professor of the School of Biomedical Sciences of The University of Hong Kong, and Dr Fiona CHEN, Senior Lecturer of the College of Professional and Continuing Education of PolyU, delivered keynote speeches on phytochemical mechanisms and interventions for neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, Dr Eric Du conducted a lecture for students from the PolyU Department of Food Science and Nutrition, where he detailed Amway’s experience in building a phytonutrient-centric research and development model for advancing the modern big health industry. Through this partnership, both parties will integrate their strengths and resources to propel research development in phytonutrients, marking a significant step toward achieving a healthy ageing society.

PolyU two products connecting healthcare and technology win iF Design Awards 2025

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is internationally recognised for its innovative achievements in design research. Two exceptional products developed by Prof. Stephen Jia WANG, Professor of the School of Design of PolyU, along with his team of researchers and students, namely an interactive toy for emotional support and a wearable medical device, have been honoured with the globally prestigious iF Design Awards 2025. The ‘EmoFriends,’ created by Prof. WANG and his team at the Research Centre for Future (Caring) Mobility, is a modular toolkit that transforms any plush toys into intelligent companion robots using patented "Emosense" technology. It is the first toy to understand a user’s emotional status through touch, precisely monitoring stress. This novel product has also won the Gold Award at Hong Kong Hechathon+ 2025 under the category of Trusted AI and Data Science.  The ‘Transparent Knee Guard,’ another acclaimed project by Prof. WANG, has also been honoured. This lightweight device for knee osteoarthritis rehabilitation and prevention integrates 3D- stretched liquid metal sensors and a skin-friendly SBS fibre mesh. It can detect knee angle and swelling, support continuous long-term monitoring on a daily basis with real-time and cumulative data, and achieve a 93.42% accuracy in recognising knee behaviours. This innovative design, integrating cutting-edge sensing technology, has also received the prestigious Good Design Award, organised by The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design and Metropolitan Arts Press. The award has recognised excellence in product, communication, and architectural design for over 70 years. Prof. WANG’s research focuses on the exploration of new design methods, technology possibilities, and related curriculum development in the field of innovative design. As an experienced interaction and industrial designer, he has contributed to commercial product development, led major research projects, and exhibited his work across Australia, China, and Japan. In addition, the calendar "Flocks of Type," designed by the marketing team of the School of Design for its 60th anniversary celebration, has won the 2025 iF Design Award for excellence in communication and typography. For more: 'Flocks of type' Shines in the Golden Pin Design Award 2024 Sponsored by the non-profit iF Design Foundation, the iF Design Award is one of the world’s most prestigious design competitions. This year, 131 jurors from 23 countries selected the best and most outstanding designs among almost 11,000 entries from 66 countries, all of which adhered to strict selection criteria. Source: The Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Design (PolyU Design)