Summer 2021 Alumni series NWS Holdings Ltd Ir Eric Ma, Executive Director of & CEO Top Aerospace ScientistsTop world university rankings PolyU ranked 66th in latest Realising the Nation’s Space Dreams with

imaging to fight to fight imaging cancer Biomimetic nanosheet enables

synergistic therapy and multi-modal POLYU’S PRIDE POLYU’S

Summer 2021 Contents Summer 2021 47 43

11 President’s Message

In celebrating the centenary of the Communist Party of China, our national aerospace scientists visited Hong Kong in June. A precious sample of lunar soil 29 was also exhibited at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. PolyU was highly acclaimed for its participation in national space missions in these memorable events. We were very honoured to display our space projects at the exhibition, in which people's understanding of our country and their 17 shared sense of national pride were deepened. 03 While our Nation is becoming a global leader in many technological fields, we will continue Cover Story 21 Microbial solution for microplastic pollution 35 Design show 2021 features interdisciplinary to contribute to our country’s success through co-creation 23 Advancing OLED technologies for impactful research. Recently, we achieved high 03 PolyU’s pride – Realising the Nation’s space an energy-efficient future 36 PolyU scholars ranked among world’s top in ratings in the University Grants Committee’s dreams with top aerospace scientists optometry research (UGC) Research Assessment Exercise 2020, 24 Breakthrough in black phosphorus research where 70% of our research was rated as “world- Dialogue paves the way for next generation electronic 37 PolyU members on 2021 Honours List and optoelectronic devices leading” or “internationally excellent”, affirming the quality and impact of our research work. 11 Shaping a bright future for the next 25 Identifying warning signs of dementia PolyU Community generation – A conversation with Honorary Earlier, we also presented our Planning Exercise Chairman of the University Court Knowledge Transfer and Staff Proposal for the 2022/23 – 2024/25 Triennium to the 13 Developing multifaceted future leaders Entrepreneurship 38 Dr Shirley Wong, University Librarian – – A conversation with Vice President Modernising the library to inspire creativity UGC, and we received highly positive comments. (Education) 27 Artificial intelligence-enabled escalator and collaboration Furthermore, I am pleased that our commitment to combs enhance passenger safety 39 Professor George Woo – Father of academic excellence was recognised in the newly- Education 29 The smart ‘backpack’ that boosts optometry blazing a trail in eye care released QS World University Rankings 2022, in 3D mapping efficiency which PolyU ranked 66th. 15 PolyU launches new scheme to nurture 41 Major external appointments and the next generation of innovators 30 PolyU-nurtured technopreneur thriving in awards of staff members Greater Bay Area The new academic year is approaching, and we Senior staff appointments and promotions look forward to resuming normal operations Research and Innovation Spotlights Alumni in teaching, learning and research. Therefore, 16 PolyU receives four Higher Education 43 Ir Eric Ma, Executive Director & CEO of we strongly urge our students and staff to get Outstanding Scientific Research Output 31 Innovation and Technology Bureau visits NWS Holdings Ltd – Engineering a sustainable vaccinated as soon as possible before the new Awards from the Ministry of Education PolyU’s State Key Labs and National future for Hong Kong term starts. I wish everyone a fulfilling campus Engineering Research Centres 17 Biomimetic nanosheet enables synergistic 45 Ms Emily Tang, Co-founder of Studio Doozy life in the new academic year. therapy and multi-modal imaging to fight 33 PolyU achieves high ratings in – Design to improve life cancer UGC Research Assessment Exercise 2020 Jin-Guang Teng Students 34 PolyU ranked 66th in latest world President 19 PolyU scientist conducts genomic sequencing 47 Kudos to our Sports Teams – Three-time university rankings to help limit the spread of COVID-19 grand slam champions 35 PolyU research project named among China’s 20 Tourism demand forecast helps industry 49 Design student shines in global competition prepare for recovery top ten optical breakthroughs Cover Story POLYU’S PRIDE Realising the Nation’s Space Dreams

with Top Aerospace Scientists “The Space Programme Scientists enter campus cum Distinguished Chinese Scientists Public Lecture Series” kick-started at PolyU.

hina’s achievements in space exploration Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison The delegation gave its first public lecture in Hong Kong Officiating at the inauguration of the Exhibition, have caught the world’s attention, Office of the Central People's Government in the at PolyU on 23 June, followed by a series of lectures Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR demonstrating its strength in scientific Hong Kong SAR. and school visits, reaching out to local youth with Government Mrs Carrie Lam said: “Hong Kong and technological innovation, while inspiring talks about the Nation’s people have a particular bringing glory to its people. As the only Led by Professor Zhao Xiaojin, Senior Vice President astronautical programme. attachment to the Ctertiary institution in Hong Kong with international of the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), Chang’e lunar exploration space exploration experience, The Hong Kong the delegation included: PolyU staff and students also programme… PolyU’s Polytechnic University was honoured to welcome • Professor Qi Faren, the first chief designer of the took part in an exclusive dialogue I am proud of local research team collaborated China’s top astronautical scientists who spearheaded Shenzhou spacecraft; with the scientists and their with CAST in the the Nation’s key space programmes from manned • Mr Long Lehao, chief designer of the Long March young Mainland counterparts. tertiary institutions’ development of the ‘Surface missions to the Moon and Mars explorations. series rockets; contributions to Sampling and Packing • Mr Hu Hao, chief designer of the third phase of A highlight of the visit was System’ for the Chang’e-5 The delegation came to Hong Kong for a series of China's lunar exploration project of the China the “Centennial Exhibition on the Nation’s space and -6 missions... I am proud celebratory events on Space Technology, of which National Space Administration; Chinese Scientists and Lunar programmes. of local tertiary institutions’ PolyU was a co-organiser. They were warmly • Mr Xie Jun, chief designer of the third generation Soil Sample”, held at the Hong contributions to the Nation’s welcomed by PolyU Council Chairman Dr Lam BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS-3); Kong Convention and Exhibition space programmes.” Tai-fai and President Professor Jin-Guang Teng, • Mr Sun Zezhou, the Tianwen-1 Mars probe’s chief Centre from 26 June to 9 July Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR together with Mr Alfred Sit Wing-hang, Secretary designer; and 2021. The University was Government Mrs Carrie Lam The events showcased how for Innovation and Technology of the Hong Kong • Ms Zhang He, executive director of the Chang’e-4 thrilled that a lunar soil sample, the city can play a major SAR Government; and Professor Jiang Jianxiang, lunar probe project. collected by the Chang’e-5 role in the Nation’s drive for Director-General of the Department of Educational, spacecraft last year using a space tool designed and scientific and technological innovation, as well as manufactured by PolyU, was unveiled for the first reflecting Hong Kong citizens’ pride in the Nation’s time in Hong Kong. space achievements.

A warm welcome to the National Delegation of Space Technology Experts

The delegation was led by Prof. Zhao Xiaojin (centre), and From left: Mr Wang Yajun, Mr Alfred Sit Wing-hang, representatives included Prof. Qi Faren (left) and Mr Hu Hao (right). Prof. Qi Faren, Prof. Zhao Xiaojin, Dr Lam Tai-fai, Mr Long Lehao, Prof. Jiang Jianxiang and Prof. Jin-Guang Teng

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Distinguished Chinese Scientists Public Lectures at PolyU

PolyU is the only Hong Kong institution involved in China’s astronautical projects. We welcome PolyU’s researchers Dr Lam Tai-fai offered his warmest welcome and gratitude to participate even more, and on behalf of PolyU to the distinguished scientists’ visit, which gave Hong Kong’s youth firsthand understanding of to contribute to the Nation’s the Nation’s astronautical development. endeavours to become a The lectures aimed at inspiring young people to pursue scientific exploration. PolyU staff and students at an space power. exclusive dialogue with the scientists

Prof. Qi Faren, the first chief designer of the Shenzhou spacecraft Centennial Exhibition on Chinese Scientists and Lunar Soil Sample

Prof. Qi Faren delivered the delegation’s first public lecture in Hong Kong on China’s space programme and the spirit embodied by its astronautical researchers.

Chief Executive Mrs Carrie Lam (front, third from left) viewed the “Surface Sampling and Packing System” for collecting lunar soil by Chang’e-5, developed by the PolyU research team, led by Prof. Yung Kai-leung (front, fourth from left), Chair Professor of Precision Engineering and Director of the Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations.

The Chief Executive was accompanied by PolyU’s President Emeritus Prof. Poon Chung-kwong (front, first from left); Dr Lam Tai-fai (front, second from left), Chairman of Council; President Prof. Jin-Guang Teng (back, fourth from right); Prof. Wing-tak Wong (back, third from right), Deputy President and Provost; and Prof. Wu Bo (back, second from right), Associate Head of Department of Land Surveying and Geo-informatics.

The lunar soil sample brought back by the Chang’e-5 mission Ms Zhang He talked about China’s lunar exploration programme. Mr Xie Jun spoke about the development of China’s own with a space tool designed and manufactured by PolyU was navigation satellite system. displayed in Hong Kong for the first time.

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PolyU takes part in the Nation’s first Mars mission

I believe there will be more ‘Hong Kong wisdom’ and ‘Hong Kong solutions’ in the Nation’s drive for innovation.

Dr Tan Tieniu, Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong SAR

Prof. Yung Kai-leung (right) and Prof. Wu Bo The first photo sent from Mars by Tienwen-1 after landing - The PolyU Mars Camera (circled) is seen undamaged.

China landed a spacecraft on Mars for the first topographic mapping and geomorphological time in May 2021 in the Tianwen-1 mission, analysis technologies. becoming the second country in the world to land and operate a rover on the Red Planet. Meanwhile, Professor Yung Kai-leung, Sir Sze- PolyU researchers played a vital role in the yuen Chung Professor in Precision Engineering, mission, in collaboration with the China Academy and Associate Head of the Department of of Space Technology. Industrial and Systems Engineering, led a team to develop a sophisticated space instrument, Professor Wu Bo, from the Department of Land the “Mars Landing Surveillance Camera (Mars Surveying and Geo-Informatics, and his team Camera)” for capturing images of the planet and identified safe landing sites using advanced monitor the status of the Zhurong Mars rover.

(From left) Prof. Wu Bo, Prof. Poon Chung-kwong, Prof. Yung Kai-leung, Dr Lam Tai-fai, and Prof. Jin-Guang Teng

The fact that PolyU was invited to participate in another major national space mission with its scientific research capabilities is a clear demonstration of Hong Kong’s exceptional strength in research and innovation.

The public visiting the exhibition showed great enthusiasm about (From left) Prof. Sophia Chan Siu-chee, Secretary for Food and PolyU’s space research. Health; Mr John Lee Ka-chiu, Chief Secretary for Administration; Mr Alfred Sit, Secretary for and Ms Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah, Secretary for Justice, listened to Innovation and Technology of the Prof. Wu Bo’s introduction on PolyU’s space technologies. HKSAR Government

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2011 2013 2015 PolyU developed the “Soil Preparation PolyU research teams were invited PolyU developed the “microsatellite System” for the Sino-Russian Phobos- by CAST to take part in the Chang’e-3 platform and deployment system” Grunt Mission, to collect soil samples mission. Prof. Yung Kai-leung’s team with Aerospace Dongfanghong from the Martian moon Phoboes. jointly developed the “Camera Pointing Development Ltd, Shenzhen, for Long System” with CAST, while Prof. Wu Bo’s March-6’s “20 satellites in one rocket” team worked on the topographic 3D mission. The instrument was installed mapping model and analysis of the in the “Kaituo-1B” microsatellite. landing site.

Extensive media coverage on PolyU’s participation in China’s space programme, highlighting the collaboration opportunities between Hong Kong and the Mainland in the country’s innovation drive. 2018 2020 2021 The Nation made history with the first soft In collaboration with CAST, PolyU In the Tianwen-1 mission, PolyU landing on the far side of the Moon with the developed and manufactured the developed the “Mars Landing success of the Chang’e-4 mission. PolyU “Surface Sampling and Packing Surveillance Camera” for capturing PolyU’s milestones in space research helped select the landing site through System” for the Nation’s Chang’e-5 images of the Red Planet and topographic and geomorphological mission, the first lunar sample return it identified possible landing PolyU has international space exploration experience, characterisation and analysis; and mission. The system automatically sites using topographic mapping captured images of the Moon using the collected and packed the sample on the and geomorphological analysis backed by more than 30 years of deep space research. “Camera Pointing System”. lunar surface following the soft landing technologies. of the Chang’e-5 probe.

Future Deep Space Exploration

PolyU has been deeply involved in China’s lunar and Mars missions. To conduct in-depth research into different aspects of aerospace technology, PolyU recently established the Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations. The Centre, which is led by Director Professor Yung Kai- leung, brings together experts from different fields, such as geology, 1990s 2003 2006 remote sensing, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and physics, pushing the frontiers of research to achieve high-impact innovation. It will Prof. Yung Kai-leung, from the PolyU developed the “Mars Rock Corer” PolyU signed a collaborative Department of Industrial and Systems for use in the Mars Express Mission. agreement with the Lunar Exploration also provide opportunities for Hong Kong’s young people to participate in the Engineering, together with researchers Programme Centre of China National Nation’s space endeavours. from the Industrial Centre at PolyU, Space Administration to nurture talent, used the concept of dental forceps to foster academic exchange and research President Professor Jin-Guang Teng said: “PolyU will strengthen its support for our science develop the “Space Holinser Forceps collaboration. researchers as they strive to participate in the country’s astronautical and related areas of research and System”, which was used by astronauts for precision soldering at the former development, with the aspiration to contribute to the Nation’s advancement.” MIR space station.

9 10 Dialogue

For example, PolyU’s optical fibre sensing technology is used in railway systems in Hong Kong and Mainland China, the University’s structural health monitoring system is deployed in the 600-metre supertall Concentrate on your work Canton Tower of Guangzhou, and our 3D-printed face shields help to protect medical professionals against and keep innovating. Do COVID-19. We are also honoured to have taken part in your best and embrace the Nation’s recent space projects. I take pride in the fact that PolyU is recognised as a leading university the future. with world-class education and research.

What are the unique features of PolyU graduates? Dr Chung (back row, right) regards his visit to Sichuan in 2013 PolyU graduates are well equipped with practical as his most memorable experience at PolyU. He witnessed PolyU’s efforts in helping to rebuild Sichuan and children’s lives skills and expertise that meet the demands of following the 8-magnitude earthquake there in 2008. industry. In addition to know-how – knowledge of how to get something done, our students possess a sound know-why – understanding why we are doing Shaping a something, and what we are doing. Their skills will Can you share with us any memorable experiences help companies innovate and advance, and add value from your time at PolyU? to industry. I vividly remember a trip to Sichuan in 2013, witnessing how swiftly and whole-heartedly PolyU acted to BRIGHT FUTURE Unlike the labour-intensive nature of work in the last support the post-disaster reconstruction in response to for the century, businesses today compete in innovation the 8-magnitude earthquake there in 2008. and technology. PolyU equips students with an innovative mindset, critical thinking skills and global Shortly after the tragedy, PolyU set up a special task perspective, all of which are sought-after attributes force comprising experienced staff members to train NEXT GENERATION in this rapidly evolving world. Mainland Chinese practitioners in post-disaster care and reconstruction. The teams from different Dr Roy Chung Chi-ping is a distinguished A Conversation with What advice would you offer to young people who disciplines, including nursing, applied social sciences industrialist and a respected leader want to be a successful entrepreneur like you? and rehabilitation sciences, tried their best to offer Honorary Chairman of Young people can realise their entrepreneurial dreams assistance, such as providing intensive courses in who is eager to give back to society. He the University Court more easily than before, as there are plenty of schemes post-disaster care, counselling services, prosthetic co-founded the Techtronic Industries with support from government and academia. For and orthotic care. Our School of Hotel and Tourism Company Limited in 1985, which has Dr Roy Chung example, PolyU provides a wealth of initiatives, Management also helped local people boost the developed into a multinational company including the Micro Fund, Maker Fund, as well as tourism industry. and a market leader in power equipment. You have been supporting PolyU for nearly mentoring, training and incubation resources to support entrepreneurship development among students. Furthermore, PolyU and Sichuan University Dr Chung is also the Founder and 30 years. What changes have you seen at the University during this time? joined hands to establish the Institute for Disaster Chairman of the Bright Future Charitable My strong ties with PolyU began in 1992 when As the use of knowledge and technology are the Management and Reconstruction in 2013. I was happy Foundation, which is dedicated to I started my three-year study of the Integrated main drivers of growth for all industries, young to visit the Institute, and witnessed the rebuilding of nurturing children and young people. Graduate Development Scheme (IGDS), jointly people should equip themselves with specialised homes, schools and people’s lives in Sichuan. A staunch supporter of PolyU, Dr Chung organised by the University of Warwick in the knowledge and technological skills. It is easy to has served as Honorary Court Chairman UK and the then Hong Kong Polytechnic. The start a business but difficult to be successful. Young Do you have a motto that you live by? programme enabled me to complement practical people should have the persistence and capability to Concentrate on your work and keep innovating. since 2017, and had taken on various work experiences with knowledge. execute their plans. Do your best and embrace the future. ( 專注工作， roles over the years, including Deputy 不斷創新，做到最好，迎接未來。) Council Chairman and Court Chairman. In 1994, I was happy to see the Polytechnic gain I also encourage young people to gain more work He has been honoured with numerous university status. Over the years, the University’s experience, know more about the world, and learn How do you relieve stress and survive tough times? accolades, including the Gold Bauhinia achievements in various disciplines, such as hotel how to get along with people and widen their I just take things as they come. I try to be optimistic, and tourism management, design, and engineering, perspectives. Maintaining good social relationships kind and considerate, and be prepared for the Star, Industrialist of the Year Award, have won international recognition. Our inter- is important. To me, success requires support from opportunities and challenges ahead. Tomorrow will and an Honorary Doctorate of Business disciplinary research and impactful innovations many people around you. be a better day. Administration from PolyU. have made a significant contribution to society.

11 12 Dialogue

What is your vision for PolyU’s development in the area of learning and teaching? Developing Multifaceted The University’s vision statement “Be a leading university that advances and transfers knowledge, and provides the best holistic education for the benefit of Hong Kong, the nation and the world” is always in my mind. We strive Always equip yourselves well FUTURE to nurture students to be critical thinkers, effective communicators, innovative for the opportunities and problem solvers and socially responsible competition ahead. Success global citizens. We not only help students acquire professional knowledge but also is where preparation and LEADERS nurture them in a holistic manner. opportunity meet.

A Conversation with For example, we believe research work can Vice President (Education) sharpen students’ higher-order thinking skills, such as logical, creative and critical thinking. We Professor Kwok-yin Wong have launched the Undergraduate Research and Innovation Scheme (URIS) for the 2021/22 academic year to nurture the next generation of researchers and innovators. Under URIS, undergraduate students will receive a scholarship to undertake small- scale research projects under the guidance and Instead, in the first year, they will be exposed to supervision of academic staff who are strong in knowledge across a broader field by taking common research. Students enrolled on URIS will have priority core courses within their own department. This admission to a new residential college and access to approach will help them to make a better informed an enhanced guidance system to help promote holistic decision when they need to decide on a major in their development. Through research work, students can second year of study. It also allows flexibility and be transformed from being merely “consumers” of broadens students’ perspectives. In 2025, we will knowledge to being “creators” of knowledge. even allow first-year students to choose courses from across their own faculty. Can you share with us some initiatives regarding the future development of the University’s Can you share some words of encouragement with education programmes? our students? With a proven track record of academic Can you share with us the features that have To help students move with the times, we will Hong Kong, as an international city, will play an excellence as well as extensive leadership distinguished PolyU over the years? introduce new elements to our curriculum, namely instrumental role in the development of the Greater PolyU has always put a strong emphasis Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, and Bay Area, and there will be more career opportunities and management experience, Professor on addressing societal needs through its Innovation and Entrepreneurship, in September for young people. While there are opportunities, Kwok-yin Wong was appointed Vice education and research. We offer professional 2022. Our departments will incorporate these there is also competition. Always equip yourselves President (Education) in September 2020. education that meets the community's elements into their existing programmes. From well for the opportunities and competition ahead. Professor Wong joined the Department of manpower needs. Our programmes in design, then on, undergraduate students, regardless of Success is where preparation and opportunity meet. Applied Biology and Chemical Technology textiles, hotel and tourism management, their academic discipline, will be able to choose Be open-minded and stay positive. health sciences and many other areas continue one of these areas as a secondary major during of the then Hong Kong Polytechnic in 1990, to be unique and popular in the city. their four-year study. This initiative aims to equip Do you have a motto that you live by? and has witnessed the University’s growth students with interdisciplinary knowledge, to help “Work at something you enjoy and that's worthy during the past three decades. Professor We also remain committed to transforming them embrace new technology and develop the of your time and talent.” (H. Jackson Brown Jr.) Wong is also Patrick S. C. Poon Endowed our research breakthroughs into real-world innovative mindset that is critical in the rapidly To know how to do something well is to enjoy it. Professor in Applied Chemistry, Chair solutions, improving lives in the community evolving world. The more you enjoy it, the better the results you get. for the benefit of the world. The University’s Professor of Chemical Technology, as well pursuit of excellence and impact is recognised Another major initiative is a move towards scheme- How do you spend your free time? as Director of the State Key Laboratory of through its continuous rise in world rankings. based admissions, starting from the 2022/23 I like reading books, especially those about history. By Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery. PolyU is now a leading university with academic year. Students will no longer be required to reading what happened in the past, we can learn from exceptional research in multiple disciplines. choose their major before they enter the University. yesterday, understand today and plan for tomorrow.

13 14 Education Research and Innovation

PolyU receives four Higher Education Outstanding Scientific Research Output Awards from the Ministry of Education

Four PolyU research teams have been honoured with the Higher Education Outstanding Scientific Research Output Awards (Science and Technology) 2020 by the Ministry of Education. The accolades are high-level recognition of the University’s research excellence and technological innovations.

Second-Class Award in Natural Science Coupling smart materials to metal-ion doped phosphors: luminescence tuning, mechanisms and proof-of-concept devices (From left) Professor Hao Jianhua (Principal Investigator), Dr Zhang Yang & Dr Wong Man-chung, Department of Applied Physics The team has developed the groundbreaking concept of ‘smart phosphors’ by coupling smart materials to metal-ion doped phosphors. Their innovation will help to facilitate a more controllable and efficient modulation of luminescence properties in phosphors. The breakthrough has led to the potential development of ‘smart phosphors’ for not only lighting and displays, but also in the fields of biomedicine, information technology and energy.

PolyU launches new scheme The design, fundamental research and biological applications of fluorescent small molecules (From left) Professor Wing-tak Wong, Dr Ga-Lai Law & Dr Jiang Lijun, to nurture the next generation Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology of innovators PolyU researchers, in collaboration with Hong Kong Baptist PolyU has launched a new Undergraduate Research In addition, participating students will be University, designed and constructed a series of smart and Innovation Scheme (URIS) to nurture the next automatically admitted to the virtual College fluorescent molecules, including lanthanide (III) (known as generation of researchers and innovators. The of Undergraduate Researchers and Innovators. rare earth) complexes. The smart fluorescent molecules can Scheme, which advocates inquiry-based learning, They will also have priority admission to the be harnessed for new approaches to in-situ, sensitive and provides the opportunity for full-time undergraduate new Residential College, which has a guidance high-resolution biomedical imaging and cancer therapy. students to conduct research projects under the system in place, including academic tutoring and supervision of the University’s scholars. mentorship support. It will provide an environment New mechanisms for investment decisions of transportation infrastructure to facilitate and encourage interdisciplinary studies Ir Professor William H. K. Lam, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Professor Jin-Guang Teng, PolyU President, said: among the students. “Students can acquire new knowledge through The project explored decision-making issues for transport infrastructure investment, conducting research, and curiosity is the key to In view of the enthusiastic response of the and promoted the interdisciplinary study of transportation science, management science driving research. This is a great opportunity for students, more than 100 undergraduate students and operations research. The research outputs have been adopted for the planning of students to discover what research is about from an (including outstanding students who will be transportation system in China. The project was conducted in collaboration with Huazhong early stage of their studies and develop high-order promoted to their final year of study on an University of Science and Technology. thinking skills, such as logical, creative and critical exceptional basis) have been selected to conduct thinking.” The experience and skills students acquire individual or group research for the first cohort of through their research will help to prepare them the Scheme in the 2021/22 academic year. Second-Class Award in Technological Innovation for their future endeavours, and open up a broader Key technologies for the efficient preparation of nano-selenium and its biomedical applications career horizon for them after graduation. Through the URIS, the University hopes to nurture a Dr Wong Ka-hing, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology significant number of graduates with the interest and The University will provide a range of support for commitment to go on to pursue research, with a view Dr Wong successfully developed key technologies for the efficient preparation of nano- students enrolling on the Scheme, which combines to enhancing technological innovation capabilities for selenium and its biomedical applications. The project was conducted in collaboration with knowledge application and innovative ideas, the advancement of Hong Kong and beyond. Jinan University and Guangdong Jinan Established Selenium Source Nano Technology including training, seminars, lectures by renowned Research Institute Co., Ltd. The new technologies, which have significant scientific and social researchers, as well as scholarships and small value, use nano-selenium to improve tumor targeting. The effectiveness and biocompatibility research grants that last for up to two years. of nano-selenium can also be enhanced, with reduced toxicity and side effects.

15 16 Research and Innovation

Inhibit PD-1 and APP PD-L1 conjugation Activate immune cell

BIOMIMETIC Immunotherapy NANOSHEET enables synergistic therapy and Biomimetic nanosheet multi-modal imaging

FePSe3 Synergistic therapy to fight cancer Convert NIR Photothermal therapy to treat cancer into heat

The synergistic therapy of biomimetic nanosheets PolyU researchers mimic biochemical processes to develop a novel type of nanosheet for the treatment infrared (NIR) laser irradiation into heat to The PolyU team will expand the application of the kill tumour cells. The heat further promotes nanomaterial to other cancer therapies, study its of tumours immunotherapy and, in doing so, effectively inhibits therapeutic effect under prolonged treatment and tumour growth. investigate the metabolism of the nanosheet in research team from PolyU’s the living body, to enable more cancer patients to Department of Applied Biology and Treatment, diagnosis and real-time monitoring benefit from new theranostic methods. Chemical Technology, led by Professor all-in-one Wing-tak Wong, Deputy President As well as enabling synergistic therapy, the and Provost and Chair Professor of nanosheet can also facilitate effective diagnosis, as Delivering the drug to hit the cancer cells As the innate immune system attacks AChemical Technology, has developed a novel type FePSe3 possesses magnetic, optical and thermal of biomimetic nanosheet. The innovation integrates The research team is led by Professor Wing-tak Wong (second properties that allow MRI, PAI and PTI multi-modal foreign objects, the researchers disguised two emerging cancer therapies (immunotherapy from left). Members include (from left) Dr Summy Lo Wai-sum, imaging. These properties make it an ideal basis for the nanosheets by coating them with and photothermal therapy) with three imaging Dr Karen Gu Yanjuan and PhD student Ms Fang Xueyang. developing a theranostic agent. cancer cell membranes. Cancer cells tend modalities (magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to adhere to each other, so using a cancer photoacoustic imaging (PAI) and photothermal This multi-modal imaging also enables real-time cell membrane disguise will enhance the imaging (PTI)) for the first time. monitoring of tumour development and treatment, nanosheet’s targeting property. As soon as the fight back by releasing a protein called PD-L1 such as viewing the localisation progress with nanosheet attaches to a tumour, the cancer cell membrane will adhere to the cancer cells, The novel two-dimensional nanosheet, made with (Programmed cell death–ligand 1) which inactivates MRI, tracking tumour growth with MRI/PAI and peeling away from the nanosheet, revealing iron phosphorus triselenide (FePSe ), enables the immune system by binding to the T cell’s PD-1 monitoring the increase in temperature with PTI. 3 the nanomaterials and releasing the inhibitors doctors to choose the best imaging modality (Programmed cell death 1). The variety of treatment and imaging options for immunotherapy. and treatment for patients. It also facilitates the available, allows physicians to choose the ones development a new generation of cancer theranostic The researchers loaded the nanosheet with a drug best for each patient. (the combination of diagnosis and therapy) agents called anti-PD-1 peptide (APP) inhibitors. When cancer cell membrane which are safe and have a high targeting ability the biomimetic nanosheet is injected into a patient’s As a result, the nanosheet has the potential to targeting tumour and and efficacy. The novel biomimetic nanosheet can blood stream, it finds its way to the cancer cells, become an “all-in-one” theranostic nanoplatform escaping immune attack significantly improve the therapeutic outcome, reduce where the drug is released to block the binding for multimodal diagnosis and synergistic therapy. side effects and increase patients’ survival rates. between PD-1 and PD-L1, reactivating the T cell’s immunity function. Promising application prospects The team’s findings have been published in the Professor Wong started the research with his team

prestigious international journal Advanced Science. The large surface area of the nanomaterials enables in 2018. He said: “Over the years, our biology and anti-PD-1 the drug loading ratio of APP to be optimised. As a chemical experts have been dedicated to new drug peptide (APP) Synergistic therapy – Combining immunotherapy result, the drug dosage can be reduced, lessening development and have achieved some significant immunotherapy

and photothermal therapy side effects and enhancing the therapeutic efficiency. breakthroughs, especially in cancer treatment. The FePSe3 nanomaterial When cancer cells develop in the body, the immune newly developed biomimetic nanosheet is part of multi-modal imaging and photothermal therapy enabling diagnosis and real-time monitoring system releases a type of white blood cell called The nanosheet can also facilitate photothermal PolyU’s endeavours to fight cancer.”

T cells to attack the tumour cells. Cancer cells therapy, as FePSe3 can efficiently convert near The nanosheet is designed to perform multiple functions.

17 18 Research and Innovation

PolyU scientist conducts genomic sequencing Tourism demand forecast helps industry prepare for recovery to help limit the spread of COVID-19 COVID-19 has caused the tourism industry destinations in the Pacific are expected to have the The rapid sequencing of COVID-19 chain and their close contacts, worldwide to plunge to levels last seen 30 years highest recovery rate under all scenarios, as they can cases has played an important preventing the further spread of ago. International tourist arrivals declined by an control the spread of the pandemic more easily, with role in identifying and stopping this variant in the community. unprecedented 74% in 2020, with the loss of more visitors coming mainly from two countries, namely transmission chains in than one billion tourists and US$1.3 trillion of Australia and New Zealand. Hong Kong. The work of Later in June 2021, Dr Siu’s income compared to 2019, according to the World Dr Gilman Siu Kit-hang, research team uncovered Tourism Organization (UNWTO). In 2019, prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Associate Professor of the first local case of the research team applied econometric and time PolyU’s Department of the Delta variant and In Hong Kong, the number of tourist arrivals series models to create the initial forecasts. To adjust Health Technology and showed the case was dropped by more than 90% year-on-year during the for the impact of COVID-19, they then used data for Informatics, and his likely infected by inbound first three months of 2021, severely affecting the the first two quarters of 2020 to rework the forecasts team has helped limit the travellers from Indonesia. city’s economy and the livelihood of many families. for the period from the third quarter of 2020 to the spread of COVID-19 locally, The team reported its fourth quarter of 2023. and provided scientific sequencing analysis to CHP, The situation has caused many people in the support for the Government’s enabling it to identify the industry to ask when and to what extent tourism The three scenarios were developed taking into anti-pandemic measures. PolyU source of infection. will recover. The Pacific Asia Travel Association consideration the ongoing COVID-19 situation and recently named Dr Siu as “Limin (PATA), in collaboration with PolyU’s School of the recovery of various economies. The researchers Endowed Young Scholar in Medical Closing loopholes Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM), released also looked at research on the effect of past

Laboratory Science” for his Dr Siu analysed the genomic epidemiology of In the summer of 2020, Dr Siu the Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2021-2023 earlier pandemics (e.g. SARS and H1N1) on tourism, as contribution to society through the new variants of SARS-CoV-2 in Asia. identified a new SARS-CoV-2 this year, which provided scientific forecasts for well as assessments on the impact of COVID-19 on research excellence. lineage in multiple local cases tourist numbers for 39 destinations in the Asia national economies and tourism by organisations with a viral genome identical to that found in aircrew Pacific region. The study was co-authored by such as Oxford Economics and UNWTO. Identifying transmission chains and sailors, who were exempt from compulsory Professor Song Haiyan, Associate Dean and Chair During the first wave of COVID-19, Dr Siu used whole quarantine. The Government subsequently Professor of SHTM and an expert in tourism demand Presenting the forecasts in a webinar, Professor viral genome sequencing to identify the source patient suspended the practice of allowing unrestricted crew modelling and forecasting, along with academics Song told the audience the figures would be of the Buddha worship hall super-spreader event. His changes in Hong Kong. from the SHTM’s Tourism Forecasting Unit, Zhejiang adjusted as the situation evolved, and the work, which was published in the journal Emerging University, University of Macau, University of effectiveness of vaccines became better known. Infectious Diseases, demonstrated for the first time During Hong Kong’s fourth wave of COVID-19, Dr Siu’s Nottingham in Ningbo, and University of Surrey, UK. that an asymptomatic carrier of SARS-CoV-2 could be research showed that locally acquired cases were SHTM puts knowledge transfer high on its research the source of a community outbreak. It highlighted the phylogenetically more closely related to cases According to this study, total annual visitor arrivals agenda. This is the seventh report it co-produced with importance of testing all close contacts of a COVID-19 imported from Nepal in September and October in Asia Pacific dropped to 121.84 million in 2020, the PATA. Professor Kaye Chon, Dean and Chair Professor case, regardless of whether they had symptoms. 2020. His findings, which were published in equivalent of just 17.3% of 2019’s total. Numbers of SHTM, believes that by accurately predicting tourist Emerging Microbes & Infections, highlighted are expected to recover from this low point to 96.3%, arrivals, the forecasting system will assist Asia Pacific In April 2021, Dr Siu used phylogenomic analysis flaws in hotel quarantine arrangements, under 74.4% or 48.7% of the 2019 level by 2023 under mild, destinations in formulating strategies to prepare for to identify the transmission link between Filipino which travellers could still receive visitors. The medium and severe scenarios respectively. Island the recovery in the coming years. domestic helpers and an Indian businessman who had Government later adopted the policy that inbound travelled from Dubai and tested positive for a variant travellers should be quarantined at designated By 2023, total annual visitor arrivals in Asia Pacific are expected to reach 96.3%, of concern. His work enabled the Centre for Health hotels and not be allowed visitors. 74.4% or 48.7% of the 2019 level under mild, medium and severe scenarios respectively. Protection (CHP), under the Department of Health, HKSAR Government, to trace the entire transmission Investigating hospital outbreaks Total annual visitor arrivals in Asia Pacific (figures as at January 2021) In December 2020, the United Christian Hospital experienced a large outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 703.35 million Mild in a palliative care and medicine ward. Later in 677.03 million (96.3%) January 2021, two healthcare workers from North Medium District Hospital tested positive after taking care of 523.13 million (74.4%) COVID-19 patients. In both cases, Dr Siu conducted Severe genome analysis, enabling the hospitals to trace the 342.84 million (48.7%) transmission chain and prevent further cases. The 121.84 million findings of the two studies were published in Clinical (17.3%) Infectious Diseases and the Journal of Hospital Dr Gilman Siu (front row, middle) and team members conduct 2019 2020 2023 Professor Song Haiyan genomic sequencing to identify COVID-19 transmission link. Infection respectively.

19 20 Research and Innovation

Microbial solution for Do microplastics contaminate Victoria Harbour? Abundant microplastics have been found in surface waters and sediments in Hong Kong, according to previous studies. More than 10,000 pieces per m3 of these tiny particles MICROPLASTIC are discharged into Victoria Harbour through sewage treatment works and stormwater outfalls each day. Edible fish collected from the harbour had a moderate level of microplastics POLLUTION in their bodies. The associated risks to human health have yet to be assessed. PolyU researchers have proved bacteria can be used to remove microplastics from an aquatic environment

lastic is everywhere in our lives. However, Thanks to an innovative approach developed by modified Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium is safe and environmentally friendly, the team is it takes a long time to degrade in the Dr Song-lin Chua and Dr James Fang Kar-hei, known to produce robust biofilms, to help remove working hard to find a natural pro-biofilm-forming environment. A plastic straw takes 200 Assistant Professors at PolyU’s Department of microplastics from water. bacteria and the corresponding biofilm-dispersal years to decompose, and a plastic bottle Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, and their stimulus for the release mechanism. requires 450 years to degrade. In most team, a viable solution has emerged. They have The team grew the bacterium in a bioreactor of cases,P plastic breaks into small pieces and ends up successfully removed microplastics from water in a polluted water in the laboratory, which provided a Dr Fang said: “Our discovery may not be directly used in rivers and oceans, where it is easily swallowed by laboratory setting by engineering a bacterial biofilm controlled environment for the process. They found for industrial applications, as we do not want the marine animals. with a “trap and release” mechanism. Their findings the bacterium could immobilise the microplastics genetically modified bacteria to have the chance of attracted much attention at the Microbiology floating around in the water and trap the particles by entering the environment. Nevertheless, our work Microplastics - harmful to marine life and Society’s Annual Conference Online 2021, and were forming biofilms on them. The amassed microplastics provides the basis for promising developments.” human health published in Chemical Engineering Journal. gradually sank to the bottom of the bioreactor tank. Most microplastics are toxic and they endanger “We then used a biofilm-dispersal gene, which can He added: “The next step is to make the whole aquatic ecosystems. More alarmingly, the pollutants Microorganisms can accomplish big feats be easily activated with a chemical, to release the process scalable so that the method can be eventually make their way into human bodies via the Dr Chua explained: “Bacteria naturally tend to group microplastics. They could then be conveniently replicated in other aquatic environments. We are food chain. A recent study estimated that each year together and stick to surfaces, creating a sticky substance recovered for recycling,” Dr Chua said. confident that our approach can ultimately be a person may consume anywhere from 39,000 to called bacterial biofilm. An example is the dental plaque used in wastewater treatment plants, which play 52,000 microplastic particles. we try to get rid of when brushing our teeth.” Though the approach has passed the proof-of- an important role in blocking microplastics from concept test, adopting it in a real-world setting escaping into the sea.” Unfortunately, scientists worldwide have not yet With the support of the Environment and posts further challenges. To ensure the process found an effective and sustainable way to capture Conservation Fund of Hong Kong and the State The research team comprises Dr Song-lin Chua (left), and remove these tiny particles from the water, and Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Left: A sample of microplastics Dr James Fang Kar-hei (right), PhD student Ms Sylvia Yang Liu doing so remains a formidable challenge. Discovery (PolyU), the team has genetically Right: Bacteria cause the microplastics to accumulate gradually (middle) and MPhil student Mr Matthew Ming-lok Leung (not to form a bulk and sink to the bottom. in picture).

How do microplastics get into the sea? The tiny plastic fragments, each as small as a sesame seed, come from different sources. Thousands of tonnes of microplastics left behind by car tyres and brake pads on roads are blown into the ocean every year. Larger pieces of plastic litter, such as bags and Styrofoam, become weathered and degrade. Microbeads in face scrubs and cosmetics are washed down drains into the sewage system. Washing textiles also breaks plastic off fabrics. However, sewage and wastewater treatment plants do not have the capability to filter out most of these microplastics.

21 22 Research and Innovation

Breakthrough in black phosphorus research paves the way for next generation electronic and optoelectronic devices

Black phosphorus (BP), a rising star in the family of with commercial fabrication methods. The research two-dimensional materials, plays an important role in findings were detailed in the paper “Large-scale improving the performance of information devices. BP growth of few-layer two-dimensional black is a layered semiconductor with controllable bandgap phosphorus”(https://bit.ly/3dZ6Gvk), which was and high carrier mobility. It is an ideal candidate recently published in the world-renowned science for applications ranging from nanoelectronics and journal Nature Materials. nanophotonics to quantum devices and superconductors. However, the inability The breakthrough paves the way for further to produce ultra-thin BP films on developing BP-based centimetre-scale a large-scale has previously devices with potential applications in hindered its development and the information industry. Organic Light-Emitting Devices are an eco-friendly and energy-efficient light source. application prospects. “By using the PLD, we increased the To overcome this long-standing size of the few-layer BP from dozens obstacle, Professor Hao Jianhua, of micrometres to the centimetre Chair Professor of Materials scale,” Professor Hao explained. Advancing OLED technologies for an energy-efficient future Physics and Devices and Associate This opens up enormous application Head of PolyU’s Department of Applied prospects for the material. For Energy is crucial to modern society, making energy products, such as scarcity of efficient and stable Physics, and his research team have example, BP has the potential to generation and saving a significant challenge blue emitter, material instability, low power developed a technique to synthesise ultra-thin BP on replace silicon to make transistors of a much smaller for the world. As illumination consumes large efficiency, short lifetime, performance uncertainty the centimetre scale through pulsed laser deposition size — with the thickness of just a few atoms. “That amounts of electricity, researchers are exploring and insufficient device encapsulation.” (PLD). PLD is a method used to fabricate thin films means we can fit a much larger number of transistors, alternatives to conventional liquid-crystal display through evaporating materials using laser pulses. probably a thousand times of what existing and fluorescent tube lighting for eco-friendly and The new project will tackle these problems by The team experimented with the method for five technology allows, into intelligent electronic devices, energy-saving applications. focusing on both fundamental and applied research years and succeeded in making highly uniform BP like mobile phones and computers, to enable faster with an interdisciplinary approach to the films with an area large enough to be compatible and more powerful functions.” Professor Raymond Wong Wai-yeung, molecular design, material syntheses Dean of Faculty of Applied Science and and characterisation, as well as device Textiles and Clarea Au Professor in fabrication and characterisation Using the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) process to produce large-scale ultra-thin Energy at PolyU, is collaborating of blue and white s-OLEDs. The black phosphorus (BP) films compatible with commercial fabrication methods with Professor Wang Lixiang, from researchers will develop novel the Changchun Institute of Applied classes of solution-processable, Chemistry (CIAC) at the Chinese highly efficient and stable organic Academy of Sciences (CAS), to blue light-emitting materials for Pulsed laser The research team strikes a piece carry out research on developing such applications. of BP crystal with laser pulses environmentally-friendly light inside a vacuum chamber to BP film generate clusters that can settle on sources that consume little power. PolyU and CIAC aim to establish a joint BP crystal a surface to form ultra-thin BP film Their CAS-Croucher Funding laboratory for the large-scale production on the centimetre scale. Scheme for Joint Laboratories project, “Efficient, of organic optoelectronic materials for blue and BP clusters Stable Blue and White Solution-Processed Organic white s-OLEDs, creating advanced materials Light-Emitting Devices (s-OLEDs): Material and and related technologies that can lead to new Device Studies”, recently received funding of commercial products. 1cm 1cm HK$3 million from the Croucher Foundation to develop advanced OLED technologies. “The project serves as a high-level platform for both academic research and technology incubation,” OLEDs are gaining momentum with breakthroughs Professor Wong said. “It will pave the way for more An example of the BP film produced through this technique – in material and device performances. However, commercial s-OLEDs that can meet the world’s a sheet of 1 cm2 BP film that can accommodate 25 transistors BP film with good electrical performance for use in electronic devices. Professor Wong said: “There are still many energy demand with less environmental impact.” problems which hinder commercialisation of the transistors

23 24 Research and Innovation

In the study, Professor Cummings analysed Identifying different neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s disease and progressive supranuclear palsy. She recorded and examined the language of patients with these disorders. She also addressed WARNING SIGNS the epidemiology, aetiology, pathophysiology, prognosis and clinical features, as well as the assessment and treatment of these disorders. of DEMENTIA The research found that people with neurodegeneration have language difficulties in PolyU researchers use their expertise for areas such as pragmatics and discourse. the early detection of cognitive impairment “I encourage clinicians to attach significance to Professor Choi and his research team have developed an subtle impairments in an individual’s conversation assessment system to help healthcare professionals identify and narrative skills which may serve as markers of elderly people at a high risk of developing dementia while at an - cognitive impairment. These impairments are quite asymptomatic stage, with a screening accuracy of nearly 90%. here is a new case of dementia in the world cognitive functioning, including memory, thinking, unlike the structural language deficits – deficits in every three seconds and more than comprehension, learning, language and judgement. phonology (sound system), syntax (grammar) and 50 million people worldwide were living with As a result, the early detection and diagnosis of The dataset included demographic statistics, bio- semantics (meaning)– that are typical of stroke- this condition in 2020. More worryingly, dementia and timely intervention are the only hope measurements, such as body temperature, pulse induced aphasia,” Professor Cummings said. major studies have forecast further for sufferers. However, the majority of people with rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure and waist- Tincreases in dementia cases in the years ahead. early dementia go unnoticed, with approximately hip ratio, as well as health assessment information Professor Cummings’ research contributes to the 75% not diagnosed with the condition, meaning they on mobility, nutrition, depression, happiness and education of students in the field of speech and Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for do not receive any treatment. pain. Based on these data, researchers constructed language therapy. Her book is also directed at other dementia, an illness that affects every aspect of an AI-assisted computation model to analyse the medical and health professionals involved in the Timely detection of dementia based on community risk of dementia in community settings, such as management of clients with dementia, including health data elderly service centres. When healthcare workers clinical psychologists and neuropsychologists, A Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) is input elderly people’s data into the model, it geriatricians, neurologists, and psychiatrists. It is commonly used to screen for cognitive impairment generates a cognition analysis to detect high-risk hoped that her research can help to reduce the burden but repeated use of this method can lead to a cases which require follow-up action. of dementia care through enabling earlier diagnosis of practice effect, reducing its effectiveness. the condition based on language impairments. “We will continue to develop the features and enhance To help overcome these limitations, Professor the automation of the system in collaboration with Thomas Choi Kup-sze at PolyU’s School of Nursing community and business partners,” Professor Choi is leading a research team to develop an assessment said. This promising tool for the early screening and system, that uses artificial intelligence (AI) detection of cognitive impairment among elderly to identify people who are at a high-risk of people could help to reduce underdiagnosis and Professor Cummings’s book, Language in Dementia, contains useful resources, including patients’ language samples and developing dementia while they are still at minimise delays in dementia treatment. exercises to develop language analysis skills, helping clinicians the asymptomatic stage. With a screening identify cognitive impairment markers. accuracy of nearly 90%, this tool flags up to Language breakdown may signal the onset healthcare professionals which patients of dementia may need follow-up investigations or a Among the many symptoms of dementia, the loss of more detailed diagnosis. The project has the ability to communicate is often most devastating secured HK$3 million funding from the for patients, leading to a deterioration in their Innovation and Technology Fund offered quality of life. But the impact on language and through the Government’s Innovation communication are some of the least well understood and Technology Commission. aspects of dementia. Professor Louise Cummings, Associate Dean of PolyU’s Faculty of Humanities In developing the system, the research and Professor of the Department of English, has team collected health data from addressed this lack of understanding by examining more than 2,000 elderly people who language disruption in neurodegenerative disorders. received primary healthcare services She recently revealed her research findings in her in Hong Kong between 2008 to 2018. new book Language in Dementia.

26 Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship

Ir Dr Curtis Ng of PolyU collaborates with EMSD and industry partners to develop a new type of sensing escalator comb (left) that can bounce away foreign objects (middle) and enable real-time escalator monitoring (right).

of such damage. The coverage of the new nylon Low-cost customisation combs was also extended by five millimetres A further benefit of using multi jet fusion 3D ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE-ENABLED to reduce the gap between the comb and the printing technology to manufacture the nylon escalator steps, further reducing the chance of escalator combs is that they can be customised at ESCALATOR COMBS foreign objects getting stuck there. a negligible cost to meet individual requirements. Examples of how the combs can be customised enhance passenger safety Harnessing AI to detect objects include giving them reduced clearance, producing The team’s innovations did not end there, and them in different colours or having different safety optical fibre sensing and artificial intelligence (AI) messages written on them. cloud analysis technologies were also applied to the nylon combs to enable the escalators to Award winning innovation be monitored in real-time. Through monitoring The invention won a Gold Medal at the Special the vibrations of the combs, the device is able to Edition 2021 Inventions Geneva Evaluation Days – scalators provide a convenient way to collaborated with Mr William Au, Senior Engineer/ detect the presence of foreign objects. If a foreign Virtual Event. The innovation demonstrates how move between floors within buildings, General Legislation of EMSD, Avaron Technologies object is detected, a mobile phone alert is sent PolyU, government and industry can collaborate as well as to access public transport Limited and Anlev Elex Elevator Limited, to develop to the management company responsible for the and make good use of technology to create real- and pedestrian flyovers. But they are the Artificial Intelligent Nylon Optical Fibre escalator, so that the object can be removed before world solutions that help enhance people’s vulnerable to damage caused by small Sensing Escalator Combs, replacing the traditional it damages the escalator or causes it to stop. everyday lives. Eobjects, such as screws and coins, getting caught in metal combs. the gaps between the escalator combs and the step The sensing combs can also be used to monitor treads at the top and bottom of escalators. Such The team used 3D scanning and multi jet fusion 3D wear and tear on individual escalator parts, incidents can lead to escalators being damaged. printing technology to create escalator comb plates facilitating preventative maintenance, minimising More seriously, the sudden halts that may occur made out of a new nylon material with greater the possibility of accidents, and reducing the when an object becomes jammed in the escalator flexibility. The nylon combs not only have good time escalators may be out of use for emergency comb, can lead to injuries among passengers using ductility and resilience, but they can also bounce repairs. In addition, the monitoring system can be the escalator. As a result, reducing the occurrence away foreign objects that fall on to them. In fact, in used to analyse pedestrian flow. of these incidents plays an important role in a pilot test, the nylon combs successfully bounced enhancing escalator safety. away all eight screws from an escalator step on to The system has been tested on eight escalators, the platform. including ones located in outdoor covered Reimagining escalator combs walkways, a government complex and large To help overcome this issue, PolyU undertook Another issue with the traditional metal elevator shopping malls. The real-time detection a consultancy project for the Electrical and combs is that the teeth can be easily broken or technology greatly reduced the occurrence of Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) of the popped out of place when a hard foreign object escalator incidents. EMSD plans to promote the HKSAR Government to redesign and re-engineer becomes lodged in them, creating a risk for system for use by the Airport Authority and MTR (From right) Mr Tsang Tsz-fung (EMSD), Ir Dr Curtis Ng (PolyU), Mr William Au (Senior Engineer of EMSD), Dr Cheng Kei-chun the combs used in escalators. Ir Dr Curtis Ng from passengers. By contrast, the higher flexibility of Corporation, while the Vocational Training Council (Avaron Technologies Limited), and Mr Ng Yuk-kin (Anlev Elex PolyU’s Department of Mechanical Engineering the nylon combs has greatly reduced the possibility is planning to use the device for teaching purposes. Elevator Limited)

27 28 Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship

The smart ‘backpack’ that boosts 3D mapping efficiency PolyU-nurtured technopreneur thriving in Greater Bay Area

Construction Industry Council Dr Abraham Lam, completing his studies in when the HKSAR Government enacted the Buildings to use the backpack to obtain 3D information technology and computing from higher Energy Efficiency Ordinance, requiring developers measurements for different road diploma to doctoral degree levels at PolyU, is or owners of newly constructed buildings to comply sections. By identifying narrow among the first young technopreneurs to venture with design standards regarding energy efficiency for roads and obstacles, the mobile into the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay sustainable development. mapping backpack technology Area (GBA) from Hong Kong. When the Framework helps identify optimum routes for Agreement on Deepening Guangdong-Hong Kong- His solution of collecting data from a client’s different transporting oversized objects Macao Cooperation in the Development of the systems and fusing them into a scalable cloud for such as building components. The Greater Bay Area was signed in 2017, his Shenzhen further processing increases the productivity and technology can even help obtain enterprise FUSQAURE Technology had already efficiency of system management and monitoring. detailed indoor 3D models to been running for two years. In recognition of his With its unique offerings, MEGA Automation has support firefighting and provide entrepreneurial spirit and business success, he grown rapidly to win an impressive list of clientele Professor John Shi (middle) and his research team evacuation routes for people received the Greater Bay Area Youth Leader award including Swire Properties, Henderson Land caught in a fire. by Junior Chamber International Harbour Hong Kong Development, and China Light and Power. in 2018. The Otto Poon Charitable signals from the Global Navigation Looking ahead, Professor Shi Abraham expanded his business into the GBA in 2016 Foundation Smart Cities Research Satellite System (GNSS). The aims to provide comprehensive Abraham’s business integrates traditional building when he saw huge opportunities there with a Institute (SCRI) of PolyU has System can be used to build spatial solutions for smart city management systems with advanced information and promising market, low manufacturing costs and developed a portable 3D Mobile data infrastructure capable of development through SCRI, communication technology, leveraging the Internet a large pool of talent. His subsequent business Mapping System to provide supporting smart city applications supporting the initiatives of the of Things and Artificial Intelligence to enhance the success has been continually fueled by PolyU’s accurate 3D maps to support smart in many fields. It is particularly “Hong Kong Smart City Blueprint comfort of tenants and help building owners manage funding support, including the STEFG-PolyU China city applications. suitable for use in high-density 2.0”, bringing benefits to the public energy consumption. Entrepreneurship Fund (RMB200,000) in 2018 and complex urban landscapes. and industry with innovations and and the PolyU Tech Launchpad Fund (HK$750,000) 3D mobile mapping has never new technologies. Building success with PolyU’s support in 2021. been so simple Construction industry During his studies at PolyU, he had the opportunity The System, dubbed the “mobile applications to assist professors in research and projects Honoured as an outstanding alumnus by PolyU’s mapping backpack”, was developed 3D mapping is increasingly being 3D mobile mapping system (or the involving smart building systems and energy Department of Computing in 2019 for his distinguished by Professor John Shi, Director used in construction projects. “mobile mapping backpack”) management. This experience broadened his achievements, Abraham now serves as an external of SCRI and Chair Professor of More than 10,000 residential horizons in transferring research and technologies member of the Department’s Advisory Committee. PolyU’s Department of Land buildings in Hong Kong are at Panoramic camera into real-world solutions. With professional training Abraham urges aspiring technopreneurs to “think Surveying and Geo-Informatics, least 50 years old, according 3D LiDAR in computing at PolyU and a unique insight into the big and start from small”. He believes: “There is no and his team. “Users can simply to 2019 statistics. But most laser scanners market of building automation, Abraham was granted shortest path to success; rather, you should rely on wear this lightweight backpack of these old buildings do not HK$100,000 in funding support by the PolyU Micro your persistence and patience to get things done.” and walk around the area being have 3D indoor modelling data, Fund in 2012 with an outstanding business proposal mapped. The System rapidly which creates challenges for from his PhD study. He then started his first company, collects data to produce 3D maps reconstruction and maintenance. MEGA Automation, in Hong Kong in 2013. with centimetre-level precision,” With the help of PolyU’s mobile Professor Shi explained. mapping backpack, 3D data for At that time, conventional building systems, such these decades-old buildings can as air-conditioning and lighting systems, which had Using a panoramic camera, 3D be easily obtained. The data can huge volumes of diverse data, were not connected.

LiDAR (Light Detection and then be used to create Building Screen Abraham saw a window of opportunity opening Ranging) laser scanners, a screen Information Models, and processing devices, the enabling construction System can switch seamlessly professionals to carry Dr Abraham Lam Hang-yat between indoor and outdoor out design work in a Processing • Doctor of Philosophy in Computing, PolyU (2015) environments without needing virtual environment devices • Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology, PolyU (2009) to be reconfigured. It uses and construction work in the advanced technologies, such as physical world. • Higher Diploma in Information Systems, PolyU (2007) Simultaneous Localisation and • Founder and CEO, MEGA Automation Ltd Mapping (SLAM), which is not Currently, the research team • Founder and CEO, FUSQAURE Technology Ltd, Shenzhen restricted to areas that can receive is also partnering with the

29 30 Spotlights

Innovation and Technology Bureau visits State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery (SKL-CBDD) PolyU’s State Key Labs and National Engineering Research Centres

delegation led by Mr Alfred Sit, Secretary for Innovation and Technology, and Ms Rebecca Pun, Commissioner for Innovation and Technology, visited PolyU in May. They were welcomed by PolyU President Professor Jin-Guang Teng, Executive Vice President Dr Miranda Lou and senior members of the University. The delegation visited the two Hong Kong Branches of the Chinese National Engineering Research Centres and the two State Key Laboratories at PolyU. TheseA facilities were established with the approval of the Ministry of Science and Technology, in recognition of PolyU’s strong research and development capabilities, and its leading position in certain areas of expertise in the Mainland and internationally.

Hong Kong Branch of the Chinese National Rail Transit Electrification and Automation Engineering Technology Research Centre (CNERC-Rail) Furnished with sophisticated equipment, SKL-CBDD Professor Kwok-yin Wong (left photo, left), develops drug candidates, new pharmaceuticals, PolyU Vice President (Education) and Director and novel techniques for drug discovery. Tapping of SKL-CBDD, shared the Laboratory’s research into the opportunities offered by the development achievements. These included its contribution to of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and developing the first four drugs in Hong Kong which Technology Park at the Lok Ma Chau Loop, have obtained Investigational New Drug status from Hong Kong is well-positioned to advance life the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. sciences research, with this Laboratory playing an instrumental role.

State Key Laboratory of Ultra-precision Machining Technology (SKL-UPMT)

CNERC-Rail seeks to become a world-class Ir Professor Ni Yi-qing (right photo, right), research centre in smart rail technologies. It Director of CNERC-Rail, introduced the Centre’s focuses on developing advanced rail technologies projects and the training of young researchers to enhance the safety, reliability and comfort of in the specialised field, contributing to the fast China’s high-speed rail. growth of China’s high-speed rail.

Hong Kong Branch of the Chinese National Engineering Research Centre for Steel Construction (CNERC-Steel)

SKL-UPMT aspires to become a world-class Laboratory’s work in developing capability and scientific research base in the Asia-Pacific region research expertise in ultra-precision machining, for ultra-precision machining and nano-surface advanced optics manufacturing and surface metrology technologies. measurement in Hong Kong and the Mainland. He also introduced the manufacturing technologies Ir Professor Benny C. F. Cheung (left photo, for critical precision and optical components and right), Director of SKL-UPMT, described the their applications in various industries. CNERC-Steel is a platform for engineering Ir Professor Chung Kwok-fai (left photo, right), research as well as exchanges between Hong Director of CNERC-Steel, introduced the Centre’s Kong’s construction industry and the Chinese projects, including its participation in developing steel construction industry. The Centre advances the prefabricated double-arch steel bridge for Mr Sit said, “In addition to the Nation’s space exploration missions, PolyU has also been invited to participate sustainable infrastructure development and the Cross Bay Link in Tseung Kwan O, using S690 in projects in Mainland China such as the high-speed railway system, smart city development and many promotes structural engineering technology in high-strength steel for construction. The Centre others, fully demonstrating the University’s research excellence in various disciplines.” modern steel construction. also sets the standards and provides practical design guidance to use Chinese steel materials in PolyU’s research teams at the facilities are dedicated to collaborating closely with counterparts in Mainland construction projects. China to work on impactful projects that contribute to the development of the Mainland and Hong Kong.

31 32 Spotlights

PolyU achieves high ratings in PolyU ranked 66th in latest world university rankings UGC Research Assessment Exercise 2020 PolyU has achieved strong rankings in a number of recently published league tables. The ranking PolyU has received excellent ratings in many disciplines in the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) 2020. information and other forms of evaluation are helpful references for the University to identify ways for The exercise, conducted by the University Grants Committee (UGC), assessed the research performance further enhancement of its performance. PolyU will build on its recent accomplishments and continue to of the UGC-funded universities based on the research outputs, impact case studies and environment pursue world-class excellence in research and education, with a view to making a positive contribution to submissions within the period between October 2013 and September 2019. Hong Kong, the Nation and the world.

A total of 686 PolyU academic staff submitted 2,611 research outputs, 50 impact case studies and 20 research environment submissions for the RAE 2020. An analysis of the RAE 2020 results shows that, in terms of the th th rd combined percentage of work assessed as "internationally excellent" or above, PolyU achieved around 70% in the overall research quality profile, which is about the same as the sector average.The encouraging results are a good indicator of the University’s research quality and impact. The impact of the research was highly rated 66 12 23 across a wide range of disciplines, reflecting the success of the University in pursuing world-class research QS World University Times Higher Education Times Higher Education excellence for societal impact. Rankings 2022 Young University Rankings 2021 Asia University Rankings 2021

PolyU in RAE 2020 Top 50 worldwide Best among UGC-funded institutions Research impact highly rated • Panel of Physical Sciences (Overall) • In 14 Units of Assessments, 100% of PolyU’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2021 University Ranking by Academic • Panel of Computer Science/Information submissions rated as “world leading” (4-star) or (by ShanghaiRanking) Performance 2020/21 (Field-based) Technology (Overall) “internationally excellent” (3-star) st st • Panel of Creative Arts, Performing Arts and Design 1 Hospitality & Tourism Management 1 Commerce, Management, Tourism (five years in a row) and Services (four years in a row) (Research Impact & Research Environment) Outstanding performance 4th Transportation Science & Technology 3rd Architecture (two years in a row) • Biological Sciences 5th Civil Engineering 3rd Business Highest percentage of • Chemical Engineering 5th Management 4th Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering “world leading” (4-star) and • Civil Engineering (incl. Construction Engineering 25th Mechanical Engineering 5th Civil Engineering “internationally excellent”(3-star) and Management) and Building Technology 29th Instruments Science & Technology 9th Sustainable & Renewable Energy ratings in Units of Assessment • Mathematics and Statistics 36th Remote Sensing 10th Transportation Science & Technology • Computer Studies/Science • Mechanical Engineering, Production Engineering 42nd Computer Science & Engineering 11th Urban Planning • Materials Science and Materials Technology (incl. Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering), 27th Artificial Intelligence Textile Technology and Aerospace Engineering 28th Engineering • Optometry 32nd Information & Computing Sciences 34th Robotics & Intelligent Systems 40th Environmental Engineering 46th Electrical & Electronics Engineering Professor Jin-Guang Teng, PolyU President, said: “We are pleased with the results, which are the outcome of the hard work and determination of our researchers. PolyU will make reference to the RAE assessment results to identify ways to further elevate our capacity for impactful research that benefits Hong Kong, the Nation and the world.”

Professor Wing-tak Wong, PolyU Deputy President and Provost, said: “Our research strengths are enhanced through interdisciplinary exchanges and inter-institutional partnerships. The University will continue to build on its strengths to make further progress in research.”

33 Spotlights

PolyU research project named among China’s top ten optical breakthroughs

A research project led by Professor Jin Wei, Chair Professor of Photonic Instrumentation at PolyU’s Department of Electrical Engineering, was recently named in the “2020 China’s Top Ten Professor Pauline Cho Professor Carly Lam Optical Breakthroughs” list in the applied research category. The selection, which is organised by Professor Jin Wei (front row, second from right) and his research team China Laser Press, is recognised as the most influential accolade Nature Communications, where the ultra-precision gas sensing for Dr Andrew Lam Professor Maurice Yap in the field of optics in China. research results were published. applications such as harmful gas detection in a space station Professor Jin and his team The innovation significantly and high voltage transformer developed a novel method outperforms state-of-the- condition monitoring. Conducted of gas sensing called Mode- art electrochemical and in collaboration with academics phase-difference Photothermal semiconductor gas sensors, and from Beihang University and Professor Marion Edwards Professor To Chi-ho Spectroscopy. It was hailed as enables multi-component gas Beijing University of Technology, “a landmark technique in fibre- detection with a single sensing the research will also have optic gas sensing” by a reviewer in element. It paves the way for applications in the medical field. PolyU scholars ranked among world’s top in optometry research

Six scholars from PolyU’s School of Optometry have excellence in optometric research publications. been listed among the world’s 200 most impactful The system retrieves data from the Scopus abstract PolyU Design Show 2021 features interdisciplinary co-creation optometry researchers, according to the “Global and citation database on a daily basis to keep the optometrist top 200 research ranking”. They are ranking up to date. Ranking factors include the (in alphabetical order): h-index, which analyses the impact of an author’s • Professor Pauline Cho, Professor publications, their number of publications, years • Professor Marion Edwards, former Head of active publications, and the number of citations • Dr Andrew Lam, Associate Head and they receive. Associate Professor

• Professor Carly Lam, Professor According to the system’s hIN-index, which ranks • Professor To Chi-ho, Head and Chair Professor the institutions with which the 200 optometrists of Experimental Optometry, Henry G. Leong are affiliated, PolyU ranked 16th out of 72 eligible

Professor in Elderly Vision Health institutions. Meanwhile, the hCO-index, which ranks • Professor Maurice Yap, Chair Professor of countries and regions in which the top 200 scholars Professor Lee Kun-pyo (middle), Dean of School of Design, kick-started This year’s PolyU Design Show featured Optometry and K. B. Woo Family Professor work, ranked Hong Kong first in Asia and sixth the PolyU Design Show 2021. interdisciplinary capstone projects. in Optometry globally, behind the US, Australia, the UK, Canada and Spain. The PolyU Design Show 2021, transforming quarantine into a and non-profit sectors, by PolyU Professor Pauline Cho and Professor Maurice Yap organised by the School of mentally rewarding experience, design graduates and students. have been ranked among the world’s top 100 In addition to conducting impactful optometric Design, was successfully raising the awareness of food optometry researchers. The results recognise research, PolyU is also Hong Kong’s sole provider completed in July. Newly waste, and strengthening family To enhance visitors’ experience, the important contributions PolyU’s optometry of the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Optometry featured this year were the relationships. the Show introduced a new researchers have made to the field, particularly in Programme and the Doctor of Health Science interdisciplinary capstone audio guide feature. In addition, the areas of myopia control, diabetic retinopathy (Optometry) Programme. The School of Optometry projects, where creative minds Held virtually online and a unique online 3D immersive and cornea biometry. recently launched a Massive Open Online Course from different programmes at the physically on campus, the Show exhibition of the Show was “How We See the World: Visual Function and Eye School jointly designed practical also exhibited about two hundred featured again this year, after The ranking system recognises optometrists Health” on edX to increase the general public’s solutions for the well-being of student projects, as well as those receiving an overwhelmingly who lead the profession in published research, awareness and understanding of human vision and society. These projects included in collaboration with commercial positive response last year. establishing a global standard for individual ocular health.

35 36 Spotlights PolyU Community

PolyU members on 2021 Honours List Modernising the library to inspire creativity and collaboration

Congratulations to the The University Library of PolyU, students’ favourite areas is the following 27 members officially known as Pao Yue-kong i-Space, where they can delve of the PolyU community Library, has provided students into emerging technologies, who have been honoured with millions of books and journals ranging from virtual reality and with awards or appointed for more than 45 years. But in 3D scanning and printing, to Justices of the Peace by the eyes of Dr Shirley Chiu-Wing laser cutting and vinyl cutting. the HKSAR Government Wong, the University Librarian, it PolyU is the first university in recognition of their does much more than that. in Hong Kong equipped with significant contributions to such makerspace in its library. Hong Kong. Dr the Hon. Jonathan Choi Mr Martin Lee Ka-shing, Dr Kelvin Wong Tin-yau, “The library should be a Koon-shum, GBM, GBS, JP GBS, JP SBS, JP learning hub with a wide variety “Not all students can afford of information and facilities, their own tools, so we hope to inspiring our students and give them access to adequate Grand Bauhinia Medal Dr the Hon. Bunny Chan Chung-bun, GBM, GBS, JP Ordinary Member of PolyU Foundation (Organisation member) scholars to acquire, create and equipment to support their Dr Shirley Chiu-Wing Wong Dr the Hon. Jonathan Choi Koon-shum, GBM, GBS, JP Honorary Court Member, University Fellow and Honorary Life Chairman of share knowledge,” she spoke of studies and research,” Dr Wong PolyU Foundation (Individual member) her vision. explained. learning activities. For example, The Hon. Lo Man-tuen, GBM, GBS, JP Senior Member of PolyU Foundation (Individual member) they have created the PolyU Gold Bauhinia Star Introducing student-first The Library has also established Institutional Research Archive, Mr Martin Lee Ka-shing, GBS, JP Court Member and Life Member of PolyU Foundation (Individual member) initiatives the “Outstanding Work by an open access repository Mr Tang Ching-ho, GBS, JP Life Member of PolyU Foundation (Organisation member) During nearly a decade of Students” portal to build up to showcase the University’s Ms Wong Wai-ching, GBS, JP Ordinary Member of PolyU Foundation (Organisation member) leadership, Dr Wong has introduced students’ pride by exhibiting their research outputs to the public. Silver Bauhinia Star a series of initiatives to facilitate a excellent work online. During “We took pride in setting up this Mr Daryl Ng Win-kong, SBS, JP Honorary Life Vice President of PolyU Foundation (Organisation member) better learning experience in the exam periods, Dr Wong sets up a archive, seeing it as a scholarly Mr Tang Yi-hoi, SBS, CDSM Alumnus, School of Professional Education and Executive Development Dr Kelvin Wong Tin-yau, SBS, JP Alumnus, Faculty of Business; Senior Member of PolyU Foundation library for our students. ‘Wall of Wishes’ on the Library’s gateway to help share the work (Individual member) podium floor so that students of our academics and research Hong Kong Police Medal for Distinguished Service The six-storey building now could cheer each other up with students with the world,” she said. Mr Patrick Kwok Pak-chung, PDSM Alumnus, Faculty of Business not only accommodates rich inspiring messages. Hong Kong Fire Services Medal for Distinguished Service learning and teaching resources, An inspiring vision for the Mr Tsang Wing-hung, FSDSM Alumnus, Faculty of Business and Faculty of Construction and Environment but also includes spacious Connecting academics and Library’s development Hong Kong Immigration Service Medal for Distinguished Service quiet zones for studying and students to the world The University Library is currently Mr Gavin Ho Ka-wing, IDSM Alumnus, Department of Computing creative collaboration zones Dr Wong and her team’s work is undergoing an extension and Bronze Bauhinia Star for group work. One of the pivotal to research, teaching and revitalisation project. Scheduled Mr Douglas Woo Chun-kuen, BBS, JP Ordinary Member of PolyU Foundation (Organisation member) for completion by the end of Hong Kong Police Medal for Meritorious Service Mr Peter Tse Ming-yeung, PMSM Alumnus, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering 2023, it includes constructing an PolyU students crafting their works at the i-Space, a digital makerspace for them to 2 Medal of Honour explore emerging technologies additional 2,080 m of floor space, 2 Dr Jason Chan Kai-yue, MH, JP Assistant Dean (Innovation and Entrepreneurship) and Head of Information and revitalising 14,600 m of Technology, College of Professional and Continuing Education existing floor space. It will include Mr Vincent Ho Kui-yip, MH, JP Alumnus, Department of Building and Real Estate new space for collaborative Dr Lewis Luk Tei, MH, JP Adjunct Professor, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering; learning, information technology Life Member of PolyU Foundation (Individual member) workstation areas, and a 24-hour Dr Irene Tang Mo-lin, MH Honorary Life Vice President of PolyU Foundation (Individual member) learning centre, as well as areas Mr Sam Wong Tak-sum, MH Alumnus, Department of Applied Social Sciences Chief Executive’s Commendation for Government/Public Service for presentation forums and Ms Sally Tsui Sheung-yee Alumna, Faculty of Business and Department of Chinese and Bilingual Studies showcasing students’ work. Justice of the Peace Dr Sunny Chai Ngai-chiu, BBS, JP Chairman of PolyU Foundation and University Fellow “Our library will be transformed Ms Chan Hang, MH, JP Alumna, Department of Applied Social Sciences into a modern learning hub. Mr Nicholas Chan Hiu-fung, MH, JP Member of PolyU’s Technology Transfer Management Committee It will not only be a place for Professor Eddie Hui Chi-man, MH, JP Associate Head (Partnership), Department of Building and Real Estate students to gain knowledge, but Miss Cally Kwong Mei-wan, JP University Fellow and Member of PolyU Foundation’s Governing Committee also a stage where they present Mr Sin Yat-kin, SBS, CSDSM, JP Council Member their creations and build up Professor Jin-Guang Teng, JP President confidence,” Dr Wong envisaged.

37 38 PolyU Community

To achieve his goals, he joined the then Hong Kong learn about the responsibilities of professional Polytechnic as the founding Head and Professor of optometrists,” he explained. He added that the the Department of Diagnostic Sciences, a position profession is highly recognised in many countries, FATHER OF OPTOMETRY he held until 1990. At that time, the Department was such as Australia and Canada. a leader in optometric education, offering higher blazing a trail in eye care certificate and professional diploma courses for the To recognise his distinguished accomplishments industry. Professor Woo went on to establish the first in optometry, his alma mater, the University of degree programme in optometry in Hong Kong. Waterloo, presented him with an honorary Doctor of Science degree, in 2019. Professor George Woo Leveraging his experience and connections from • Doctor of Optometry, College of Optometry of Ontario, universities, government and the industry, he Hopes for PolyU and life University of Waterloo, Canada (1964) realised his ambition in around two years. Not only While the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences • MSc and PhD in Physiological Optics, Indiana University, USA (MSc in 1968; PhD in 1970) did the programme successfully launch in 1990, has enjoyed increasing recognition, Professor Woo • Founding Head and Professor of the Department of Diagnostic Sciences, he also secured PolyU’s first medical grant from would like to see PolyU set up a medical school in Hong Kong Polytechnic (1987 – 1990) the Research Grants Council for myopia control the future, building on the Faculty’s expertise in • Chair Professor of Optometry and Dean of the Faculty of Health and research. Such grants have since inspired many optometry, nursing, rehabilitation sciences and Social Sciences, PolyU (1997 – 2004, 2008 – 2011) outstanding scholars at the School of Optometry to biomedical sciences. • Doctor of Science, honoris causa, the University of Waterloo, Canada (2019) advance in the field. • Emeritus Professor and Senior Advisor of the School of Optometry, PolyU Despite retiring 10 years ago, the 80-year-old still “During those two years in Hong Kong, I also wrote continues to give back to the community. Last year, 55 letters to editors of local newspapers to express he received the Hong Kong Humanity Award 2020 for my views on medical development, in a bid to raise his 18 years of voluntary service at The Samaritans. rofessor George Woo, the Emeritus Establishing the first optometry degree awareness about primary eye care,” he said. While volunteering, he considered himself the Professor and Senior Advisor of PolyU’s programme in Hong Kong beneficiary who could “listen to people’s pain and School of Optometry, is an acclaimed Raised in a family that ran an optical business in Hong An advocate for excellence in clinical practice feel the pulse of society”. international scholar in vision science. In a Kong, Professor Woo had a long-standing In the years that followed, Professor Woo took on career spanning more than five decades, enthusiasm for visual science. He travelled to Canada other key positions at PolyU, including becoming Professor Woo swims and plays golf to stay healthy Phe has made a significant contribution to raising the and the US to pursue undergraduate and Chair Professor of Optometry, and Dean of the and energetic. He is also a football fanatic who standards of optometric education and eye care. postgraduate studies in optometry, advancing to hold Faculty of Health and Social Sciences. enjoys watching local matches. a professorship in 1980 at his alma mater, the For more than 40 years, PolyU has been the sole University of Waterloo in Canada. He set out a three-stage vision for healthcare He is proud that his son has followed in his footsteps provider of the BSc (Hons) in Optometry in professional development, starting with education, and is now Director of the School of Optometry and Hong Kong, and has nurtured over 1,000 “After attaining a professorship, I started to think then progressing to research, and finally clinical Vision Science and Associate Dean of the Faculty of professional optometrists who are registered in the about returning to my hometown,” the 80-year-old practice. After establishing well-developed Science at his alma mater in Canada. “Together, we ‘Part 1’ category - the highest level of registration said. He came back to Hong Kong in 1987 while he programmes and leading research at the School, he will help people see,” he said, reflecting the cross- under the Optometrists Board. Professor Woo is was on unpaid leave. “I hoped to further the moved on to advocate for excellence in clinical practice. generational passion for optometry between him and one of the key figures behind this success, and he is development of optometry in Hong Kong from his son. hailed as the father of optometry in Hong Kong for prescriptions for glasses to eye examinations and “Optometry is not only about prescribing glasses, but his contributions to the field. eye health.” also caring for eye health through the early detection of eye diseases,” he said. “Many people in Hong Kong are not aware of the professionalism of optometrists, but the industry can raise their awareness by enhancing service standards.”

He believed that educating students to follow the best practices was crucial to raising this awareness. In addition to teaching ethics, he also set high standards at PolyU’s Optometry Clinic, where students gain clinical experience serving the public.

“The Clinic provides a wide range of eye care In 2017, Professor Woo received recognition as a Distinguished services, such as glaucoma investigation and Alumnus from his son Professor Stan Woo at the University of Professor Woo’s happy family Professor Woo met his wife in Hong Kong. vision rehabilitation services, where our students Waterloo in Canada.

39 40 PolyU Community

Major external appointments and awards of PolyU members Dr Shou Dahua Professor Charles Wong Man-sing Assistant Professor, Institute of Textiles Associate Dean, Faculty of Construction From January to June 2021, the following PolyU members were either and Clothing and Environment appointed significant duties to share their scholarly expertise to benefit Awards Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics the wider community or had their academic efforts duly recognised. • Gold Medal and Excellence in (listed in alphabetical order) Innovation Award, 13th European Award Exhibition of Creativity and Innovation • 2021 Smart 50 Awards, Smart Cities (EUROINVENT) 2021 Connect Conference and Expo • Gold Award and Special Award, 35th World Dr Daniel W. M. Chan Professor Chen Xiaojun Genius Convention & Education Expo 2021 Associate Professor and Chair Professor of Applied Mathematics, Associate Head (Teaching), Department of Applied Mathematics Professor Yu Changyuan Department of Building and Real Estate Director, University Research Facility in Professor, Department of Electronic and Big Data Analytics Awards Information Engineering • International Outstanding Researcher Award Award Award in Building and Real Estate, and • Fellow, Society of Industrial and • First Class Prize, Technological ISSN Golden Research Prize for ISSN Applied Mathematics Invention Award in the Guangdong *Note: Please refer to stories on p.16, 35, 36 and 37 for Awards 2020, International Society for Province Science and Technology further information on the accolades received by other Scientific Network Awards 2020 staff members.

Professor Cheng Li Mr Daniel Elkin Senior staff appointments and promotions Chair Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Assistant Professor, School of Design (between 1 April and 30 June 2021) Department of Mechanical Engineering Award Awards • 2021 Smart 50 Awards, Smart Cities Congratulations to the following PolyU members who have recently • Fellow, Canadian Academy of Engineering Connect Conference and Expo taken up a new capacity at the University. • Distinguished Fellow, International Institute of Acoustics and Vibration Appointments

Professor Cao Jiannong Professor Ding Xiaoli Professor Guo Song Professor Ajay Kumar as Dean of Graduate School and as Director of Research Institute for Associate Head (Research & Development), Professor, Department of Computing Director of Research Institute for Land and Space on 1 May 2021 Department of Computing Appointment Artificial Intelligence of Things on 1 May 2021 Awards • President, IEEE Biometrics Council • Fellow, Canadian Academy of Engineering Award • Fellow, Asia-Pacific Artificial • Fellow, Asia-Pacific Artificial Professor Lu Chao Professor H. C. Man Intelligence Association Intelligence Association as Director of Photonics Research as Director of Research Institute for Institute on 1 May 2021 Advanced Manufacturing on 1 May 2021 Dr Lilly Li Professor Li Ping Associate Professor, Institute of Textiles Chair Professor of Neurolinguistics and and Clothing Bilingual Studies Dean, Faculty of Humanities Professor Tao Xiaoming Professor C. Y. Wen Award Associate Director, University Research as Director of Research Institute for as Head, Department of Aeronautical • Gold Award, The 4th China (Shanghai) Facility in Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience Intelligent Wearable Systems and Aviation Engineering International Exhibition of Invention 2021 on 1 May 2021 on 1 May 2021 Appointment • External Reviewer, NYU-ECNU Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science, NYU Shanghai Dr Wong Ka-hing Professor K. L. Yung as Director of Research Institute for as Director of Research Centre for Professor Shi Wenzhong Dr Shih Yi-teng Future Food on 1 May 2021 Deep Space Explorations Chair Professor of Geographical Information Assistant Professor, School of Design on 1 May 2021 Science and Remote Sensing, Department Awards of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics • Two Bronze A’ Design Awards Director, Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Professor Zheng Yongping Smart Cities Research Institute (Toy, Games and Hobby Products Design Category in 2020-2021) as Director of Research Institute for Award Smart Ageing on 1 May 2021 • 2021 Smart 50 Awards, Smart Cities Connect Conference and Expo

41 42 PolyU Community

ENGINEERING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE for Hong Kong

Ir Eric Ma Siu-cheung • Diploma in Structural Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic (1982) • Higher Diploma in Structural Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic (1984) • Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Civil), The University of Hong Kong (1986) Ir Ma (fourth from left), President of the Outstanding PolyU Alumni Association (OPAA), and a few OPAA Directors meet with President Jin-Guang Teng (centre) and Executive Vice President Dr Miranda Lou (right). • Master of Engineering in Transportation Planning, Monash University, Australia (1994) • Former Secretary for Development, Development Bureau, HKSAR Government the adoption of Modular Integrated Construction technology advancement, knowledge transfer and • Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, NWS Holdings Ltd (MiC) technology in Hong Kong when he was the commercialisation. Secretary for Development. “MiC helps overcome many problems in the construction industry, such as In addition to being a student mentor, Ir Ma is also labour shortage and inefficiency,” Ir Ma explained. an Adjunct Professor at the Department of Civil and “With the use of Building Information Modelling and Environmental Engineering. He advises students to r Eric Ma Siu-cheung, Executive Director and Serving society with expertise MiC, productivity is greatly enhanced.” develop soft skills which are crucial to their career Chief Executive Officer of NWS Holdings Ltd, During the early years of his career, Ir Ma took development. He said: “It is also important that often stared out of the classroom window when on a wide range of large-scale, multidisciplinary Giving back to his alma mater students get to know more about the society they he was studying in secondary school. “I was infrastructure projects in Hong Kong and abroad Ir Ma remembers having many good teachers who live in and seek ways to improve the wellbeing of the fascinated by the construction site next to my including the new town developments in Hong Kong, taught with passion when he was at Hong Kong public with what they learn at university.” Ischool and wanted to know how the skyscraper the Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 2 Polytechnic. “Studying at Hong Kong Polytechnic, a was being built,” he said. This curiosity about Expansion and the High Speed Rail’s Hong Kong place which encouraged self-learning, was a turning Since joining the Governing Committee of the construction gradually developed into a passion West Kowloon Station. point for me,” Ir Ma said. “I came to realise that PolyU Foundation in 2019, Ir Ma has dedicated time that led to a career in engineering. Structural Engineering was the subject I loved and and effort to securing funding resources for the Ir Ma built up leadership skills, as well as expertise my attitude to learning underwent a big change.” He University, as well as offering valuable advice to Ir Ma studied structural and civil engineering, first in town planning, building design, land use and graduated with flying colours. senior management on institutional advancement. at the then Hong Kong Polytechnic and later in transportation. He also gained insights into the universities in Hong Kong and Australia. Starting related government policies, giving rise to an Despite his busy schedule, Ir Ma maintains close his career as an engineer, he went on to become unexpected opportunity to change the direction of ties with PolyU. In 2017, he was honoured with the a senior business executive at multinational his career. Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award in recognition of engineering consulting firms, before serving the his distinguished achievements and contributions Development Bureau of the HKSAR Government. “At a dinner party, I was sitting next to Mr Paul Chan, to society. Since 2018, Ir Ma has worked at NWS Holdings Ltd, the then Secretary for Development,” Ir Ma recalled. a conglomerate with businesses spanning roads, “He asked if I would like to serve Hong Kong with my Over the years, he has actively participated in aviation, construction, insurance, environment, expertise in land development.” Ir Ma took up the PolyU’s alumni activities and taken up important logistics and facilities management. He was challenge without hesitation. From 2014 to 2017, he roles at the University. He became President of the appointed Chief Executive Officer of NWS Holdings served as the Under Secretary for Development of Outstanding PolyU Alumni Association (OPAA) in Ltd in 2019. the HKSAR Government, followed by a stint as the 2018. “Under the OPAA UNITE initiative, we leverage Secretary for Development in 2017. the University’s vibrant alumni community to Looking back over his career, Ir Ma attributes engage more outstanding alumni to support PolyU’s his success to the willingness to step outside his Apart from addressing Hong Kong’s supply-demand development through their expertise, networks and comfort zone. “It is imperative to be open-minded imbalance for land and housing, Ir Ma was also resources.” He added that many alumni serve as Ir Ma (third from right) shares his experience and insights with and always be ready to acquire new knowledge and keen on promoting the use of technology to mentors and share their experience with students, students during a gathering of the Outstanding PolyU Alumni skills, and to embrace challenges,” he said. advance the construction industry. He supported while others participate in projects related to Association Master Class Mentorship Programme.

43 44 PolyU Community

was not user-friendly enough. The users responded Now her studio has expanded from a team of two that the toilet seat was inconvenient to use, and more to eight, including four interns this summer. With DESIGN TO importantly, they felt labelled by using a seat that a stronger team, Emily has also set up a number looked so different from others. of goals. On the one hand, she keeps refining the design of Doozy Violet toilet and aims to put “It was a heartbreaking blow, but I realised that my it into production in future. On the other hand, product could hardly succeed if I cannot empathise she is developing other products – sometimes in IMPROVE LIFE with the users,” the 27-year-old said. collaboration with other organisations – to facilitate healthy living. Learn from the world Ms Emily Tang To gain insights into product development, Emily is Her recent consultancy works include a more • BA (Hons) in Design (Industrial & Product) (2015) always keen to learn from other parts of the world. affordable medical imaging device called “Gense • Recipient of James Dyson Award - International Top 20 & Winner in Hong Kong (2015) During her university years, she joined a summer Imaging”, and the “Go Active” platform that promotes • Recipient of CreateSmart Young Design Talent Special Award (2015) internship in the US, where she helped design a events for the elderly. “My ultimate goal is to launch • Recipient of the fifth Spirit of Hong Kong Awards - Innovating for Good Award (2017) transparent medical mask. In 2015, she won the a series of inclusive products for an ageing-friendly • Co-founder of Studio Doozy CreateSmart Young Design Talent Special Award society,” she revealed. “A smart home in future with her healthcare product designs including should be inclusive in its design, allowing people to Libue. Supported by the government and PolyU’s age with joy and dignity.” School of Design, the Award offered financial sponsorship for her to work overseas for a year. Empathise with the needy till in her 20s, Emily Tang is already Now she is a step closer to her dream, presenting an She then travelled to Barcelona and secured a job Emily is always wearing a smile, constantly spreading the co-founder of her start-up Studio inclusive toilet design called “Doozy Violet”, which has as the first non-local designer at the headquarters joy to her team and even the needy. She volunteers Doozy, which specialises in products drawn attention with its clever blend of functionality of Roca, a Spanish company that produces for a sailing organisation for intellectually disabled and consultancy on healthcare. “Having and modernity. The stylish toilet comprises three advanced bathroom products. children every Saturday, and pays a monthly visit to grown up with my grandparents, I always configurations, including Basic, Handles and Transfer elderly people who live alone. Swant to design something to enhance their living, so Bench, to address the varying needs of people with “The experience was inspiring and eye-opening, I have focused my designs in healthcare products physical impairments and their families. especially since I could work with different Even with a packed schedule from weekdays to since studying at PolyU,” the graduate of the School professionals like engineers throughout the product weekends, she does not see it as a burden but rather of Design said. “The professor of the School once shared that development process, from ideation and prototyping a way to empathise with the needy. This helps her the success of a product does not only rely on an to manufacturing,” she said. to design better products to suit their needs. “The attractive look, but it should also consider users’ voluntary work also enriches my life as I can learn from experience, so that it can ultimately improve their Design for an “ageing-friendly” society different people’s life experience,” she smiled gently. lives,” she explained, adding that it became one of In late 2017, Emily decided to set up Studio Doozy her principles of design. with a partner, aiming to improve people’s lives with their products. “We are glad to have received Success met with failures support from the PolyU Micro Fund. It helped Her first attempt to design an inclusive toilet dates accelerate our prototyping process and provided back to 2015, when she was working on her final us with excellent mentors, who are familiar with year project. Emily’s grandpa was diagnosed the start-up environment and gave us constructive with Parkinson’s disease back then. He was often feedback,” she said. reluctant to receive help in the bathroom despite having difficulty in movement. This was the As a fresh entrepreneur, she had to overcome inspiration for Emily to design an inclusive toilet challenges in promotion and pitching to investors. called “Libue” for her project. She said that the business operation skills learnt from the School of Design were eventually put into Libue featured a saddle-shaped seat, so that practice. “There was a programme called Design patients of Parkinson’s disease can directly sit on the Direct, which helped us to design and realise our seat without turning around. Emily explained it could products. We also pitched our concepts to external help reduce the risk of falling down. parties, created promotional videos and developed product websites. These skills are now very useful,” The design was successful at first, winning awards she laughed.

like the James Dyson Award 2015. But after receiving Emily regularly visits elderly people and travels with them to Emily collects feedback on Doozy Violet toilet from the elderly. feedback from the elderly, Emily discovered that it understand their needs.

45 46 PolyU Community

Kudos to our sports teams

Three-time Achievements of PolyU Men’s teams Achievements of PolyU Women’s teams Positions Categories Positions GRAND SLAM CHAMPIONS Champion Men’s Overall Women’s Overall Champion Champion Handball Basketball Champion ongratulations to PolyU’s Sports Teams, who snatched both the Yearly Men’s and Yearly Women’s Overall Champion Squash Fencing Champion Champion titles in the 2020/21 Inter-Collegiate Competitions organised by the University Sports Federation Champion Table Tennis Handball Champion Champion Woodball Table Tennis Champion of Hong Kong, China (USFHK)! The teams have now won the Grand Slam for the third consecutive time 1st runner-up Athletics Woodball Champion C(namely, in 2017/18, 2018/19 and 2020/21), beating the competition from 12 local tertiary institutions. 1st runner-up Badminton Athletics 1st runner-up 2nd runner-up Fencing Squash 1st runner-up Although competitions were cancelled in 2019/20 due to the 2nd runner-up Rugby Tennis 2nd runner-up COVID-19 pandemic, our more than 400 student-athletes continued 2nd runner-up Soccer Rugby 3rd runner-up to persevere with their training. This year, the teams scooped nine 3rd runner-up Tennis Soccer 3rd runner-up 5th Basketball Badminton 5th championships, four first runners-up and four second runners-up places 1 Gold Medal (Individual) from 22 sports competitions. In addition, nine students were named the 1 Silver Medal (Individual) Taekwondo 1 Silver Medal (Individual) Taekwondo Most Valuable Player (MVP). Bravo! 1 Bronze Medal (Individual) 1 Bronze Medal (Individual) 1 Bronze Medal (Individual) Karatedo MVPs

Handball

Chen Wai-shing Basketball Department of Management and Lui Shuk-yi Marketing School of Hotel and Tourism Management

Squash

Ho Ka-hei Fencing Department of Applied Social Sciences Sophia Wu Department of Management and Marketing Table Tennis

Wong Kin-sing Handball School of Accounting and Finance Lee Man-nga Department of Chinese and Bilingual Studies Woodball Ho Wai-chung Table Tennis Department of Leung Ka-wan Logistics and Department of Applied Maritime Studies Social Sciences

Woodball Leung Ching-yee Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology

47 48 PolyU Community The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Magazine

Steering Board President’s Executive Committee

Editorial Committee Chairman Prof. Kaye Chon Dean, School of Hotel and Tourism Management

Co-Chairman Prof. David Shum Dean, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences Members Prof. Raymond Wong, Dean, Faculty of Applied Science Ms Belinda Chow, Director, Alumni Affairs and and Textiles Development Office Ir Prof. Edwin Cheng, Dean, Faculty of Business Prof. Lu Haitian, Director, Chinese Mainland Affairs Office Prof. Li Xiangdong, Dean, Faculty of Construction Ms Eunice Cheng, Interim Director, Communications and and Environment Public Affairs Office Ir Prof. H. C. Man, Dean, Faculty of Engineering Mrs Ivy Leung, Director, Culture Promotion and Events Office Prof. Li Ping, Dean, Faculty of Humanities Prof. Geoffrey Shen, Director, Global Engagement Office Prof. K. P. Lee, Dean, School of Design Ms Blanche Lo, Director, Human Resources Office Prof. Cao Jiannong, Dean, Graduate School Prof. Larry Chow, Director, Research and Innovation Office Prof. Esmond Mok, Dean of Students Editorial and Communications and Public Affairs Office Design Special thanks to the School of Design for design advice

Thomas Wong Ho-lam is published quarterly to keep the local and international communities informed of PolyU’s activities, people and achievements. For contributions and enquiries, please contact the Communications and Public Affairs Office at [email protected].

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MUSIC CONNECTS Design student shines in global competition in a time of social distancing

Congratulations to Thomas Wong Ho-lam, a final- cover designs for well-known Penguin Classics. A cultural atmosphere has permeated the PolyU community amidst the pandemic. year Communication Design student at PolyU's His objective was to motivate young people to read In celebration of Beethoven's 250th birthday, renowned pianist Dr Cheng Wai School of Design! He was named best graphic books in English. joined Artistic Director & Conductor of the PolyU Orchestra Mr Leung Kin-fung designer and ranked first in the overall category at to perform the composer's Complete Sonatas for Violin and Piano. Mr Leung Kin-fung the Global Student Design Competition 2021. The “I hope this design project demonstrates the The PolyU Orchestra also brought Vivaldi's The Four Seasons and other competition, which received thousands of entries, possibilities for how English books could look Dr Cheng Wai was organised by DesignRush, a B2B platform when they are launched in Chinese-based beautiful classical pieces to the audience. connecting brands with professional agencies. markets,” Thomas said. “Ultimately, it is an attempt Enjoy a feast of enchanting music online now. to address local market needs and glocalise Thomas’s winning project “Conceptual and international books.” Bilingual Penguin Classics” began as a typography assignment supervised by his instructor Mr Roberto The judges commented that Thomas’s designs Vilchis. Thomas observed that young people in Hong were playful and unique. His immersive artwork Kong were losing interest in reading English books. merges traditional with innovative design ideas, His project combined compelling imagery with using illustrations thoughtfully to reflect the Wireless Charging Pad Paper Art Tea Leaves Gift Set English and Chinese texts to create conceptual book books’ contents.

Culture Promotion Committee @ PolyU 49 50 Share our Joy

Once again, PolyU’s Sports Teams achieved a sweeping victory in this year’s Inter-Collegiate Competitions, snatching the Grand Slam for the third time!

More about our Summer 2021 thriving athletes on P.47 – 48