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Source: https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/openData/news/list?module=headnews&mserno=9ce79259-155a-44f8-8feb-06b53f32a4a8&type=json&id=35075 Parent: https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/list?module=headnews&id=35075

[{"subject":"Expedition of the NYCU Mental Guts Service Team: Seeing Beyond Medical Records to See People","dataClassName":null,"pubUnitName":null,"posterDate":"2026-02-11","updateDate":null,"detailContent":"\r\n

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As the New Year’s celebrations fade, the NYCU Mental Guts Service Team sets off for its annual winter journey to Yuli, Hualien, continuing a two-decade commitment to compassionate, student-led mental health service and stigma reduction.

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By NYCU ELITE\ \r\n______

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While the entire city still basked in the lazy afterglow of New Year celebrations, the Medical Building of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), nestled on the slopes of Beitou, was already ablaze with lights beneath the cold winter sun. From the classrooms came not the complex jargon of medicine, but the cheerful melodies of folk songs and the rhythmic laughter of rehearsals. On stage, members dressed as Emperor Qin Shi Huang and cavemen were making their final preparations for the “long-distance expedition” set to depart for Yuli in Hualien the following day.\ \r\n

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\ \r\nPutting their vacations on hold, the NYCU Mental Guts Service Team travels to psychiatric rehabilitation facilities across Taiwan to offer long-term, non-medical companionship and compassionate service, building genuine friendships with residents and working to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness.\ \r\n\ \r\nThis group of young people, who mock themselves as having “a touch of foolishness,” are members of the NYCU Mental Guts Service Team (hereinafter referred to as the “Service Team”). Fresh off their intense final exams, they chose to put their winter vacation plans on hold, packing up and heading straight to Yuli in Hualien, to visit a group that they nicknamed “trainees”—residents living long-term in a mental health rehabilitation facility.\ \r\n\ \r\n“They are our ‘trainees,’ but more than that, they are our friends,” said current team leader Dao-Yi Wang. Each outreach service stems from the Yang Ming Crusaders’ mission legacy. According to statistics from the National Health Insurance Administration, over 2.9 million psychiatric visits were recorded across Taiwan in 2021. Yet despite growing mental health awareness, mental illnesses remain shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding, exacerbated by urban-rural disparities.\ \r\n\ \r\nTherefore, as a leading academic institution in Taiwan’s medical and life sciences, the Yang Ming Crusaders established the NYCU Mental Guts Service Team during the summer vacation in 2004. This team stands as the sole student-led initiative within the Yang Ming Crusaders system, dedicated to long-term, in-depth engagement in psychiatric healthcare settings. For over two decades, the Service Team has chosen to step beyond campus boundaries, delving into psychiatric healthcare institutions such as Yuli Hospital and Jianan Psychiatric Center to provide non-medical compassionate services. In recent years, it has expanded its service base to Kaohsiung Municipal Kai-Syuan Psychiatric Hospital, striving to respond to society’s diverse needs through practical action.\ \r\n\ \r\nFrom Institutions to National Palace Museum: Understanding to Tear Down Labels and Prejudice\ \r\n\ \r\nCurrently, the Service Team comprises approximately 30 students from the School of Medicine, the Department of Physical Therapy and Assistive Technology, and the Department of Biomedical Engineering, etc. During winter and summer vacations, they launch a large-scale outreach service, designing “customized” static and dynamic rehabilitation activities for trainees across various institutions. Current president Min-Jhen Hong explained that trainees’ conditions vary significantly across institutions, necessitating highly customized activity designs. For instance, activities for trainees in chronic care wards and nursing homes, who still require daily assistance, are designed to be relatively simple and safe. Conversely, trainees at rehabilitation centers and community counseling centers, who mostly possess independent living and working abilities comparable to the general population, can engage in more challenging interactive activities.\ \r\n\ \r\nBy designing tailored rehabilitation activities and leading trainees beyond institutional walls to shared cultural experiences, the NYCU Mental Guts Service Team helps dismantle stigma and prejudice surrounding mental illness through genuine connection and understanding.\ \r\n\ \r\nThis year, the Service Team planned static activities like handicrafts alongside dynamic exchanges such as carnivals and barbecues, culminating in a 70-minute large-scale stage production. “We aim to offer not just an event, but an experience that truly stimulates the senses and enriches spiritual life,” said Min-Jhen Hong.\ \r\n\ \r\n“In the portrayal of mass media, mental illness is often linked to aggressive tendencies.” Dao-Yi Wang said frankly, “But after interacting with them, you realize they crave social connections and the outside world just as much as we do.” To break the confines of the ward, the Service Team began taking trainees beyond the institution—visiting the National Palace Museum, art galleries, and tourist factories. “You can clearly sense how their moods transform,” said current advisor Yu-Jie Lee. “These outings aren’t just about new experiences—they additionally show society that these individuals are just like us.”

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\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nCultivating Future Physicians Through Emotional Education with “Classic”

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During service, companionship isn’t always easy. Faced with trainees’ sudden emotional swings, members who engaged in first-time outreach service often felt overwhelmed. Thus, the Service Team developed a secret weapon passed down through generations—The Classic. This internal “notebook,” compiled since 2011, meticulously documents the practical experience of senior members over the years. From the characteristics of schizophrenia to standard operating procedures for interaction, and key considerations for each service location, every word and line embodies the wisdom accumulated through on-site service and helping others.\ \r\n\ \r\nYu-Jie Lee recalled an instance where a trainee broke down in tears at an event due to misunderstanding the reward rules. Drawing on experience and training techniques passed down by senior members, the team members gently redirected the trainee’s attention, successfully guiding them back to calmness. Beyond large-scale institutional services during winter and summer vacations, team members also participate in two regular service sessions each semester, including collaborating with different senior high schools to lead senior high students in serving nearby community organizations, extending the seeds of “de-stigmatization” into senior high school campuses. Yu-Jie Lee also shared, “During interactions, we inevitably encountered situations where senior high school students momentarily didn’t know how to respond, but we intervened and guided them appropriately. I believe this isn’t just a companionship experience for the trainees; it’s an important learning opportunity for both the senior high school students and us. It also helps the public gradually develop a deeper and more compassionate understanding of mental illness.”\ \r\n\ \r\nA Warmth Practice of “Seeing People”\ \r\n\ \r\n“This kind of learning is hard to come by in the classroom,” described Dao-Yi Wang. Through repeated interactions with trainees, these future doctors learned not only clinical skills but more crucial abilities: “emotional resilience” and “boundary awareness.” For them, this was not merely an outreach service but a profound lesson in the human “warmth” of medicine. It prepared them to see the whole person—not just the diagnosis on a medical record—when they don their white coats in the future.\ \r\n\ \r\n“After joining the Service Team, I feel like I’ve become a real ‘tough cookie’!” Dao-Yi Wang joked with a touch of humor. Yet behind the joke lies the resilience and responsibility honed by NYCU medical students as they balance demanding coursework with their passion for service. As a native of Hualien, he particularly appreciates that service isn’t just one-way giving, and it’s a two-way learning process: while accompanying the trainees, he also gained deeper insights into building relationships and “making friends.”\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nThrough hands-on service, NYCU students learn emotional resilience, boundary awareness, and the true warmth of medicine—seeing people as whole individuals rather than diagnoses.\ \r\n\ \r\nYu-Jie Lee also shared emotionally that seeing these trainees, who are often overlooked by society, smile because of the Service Team’s companionship, and even having trainees recognize her at second glance during their second meeting, made her deeply moved by the feeling of being remembered and needed. This experience strengthened her resolve to continue pursuing a career in psychiatry. Min-Jhen Hong also observed: “When facing them (the trainees), what matters most isn’t how much professional knowledge we can demonstrate, but whether we can engage with them with an attitude of equality and respect. Especially when they experience emotional fluctuations, we should treat them like simple, sincere friends.”\ \r\n\ \r\nThis expedition marks the continuation of the Yang Ming Crusaders’ mission spanning over four decades and stands as the most precious record of growth in these medical students’ academic journey. Observing these groups of young students whose eyes still sparkle when discussing their trainees and service missions, even after days without sleep, we may foresee a future where cold diagnoses and medical jargon are transformed into warm conversations and genuine exchanges in clinics. And in the distant future, the prejudices and barriers surrounding mental illness will gradually dissolve through the compassion and understanding of this generation of doctors.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nRooted in NYCU’s core belief, the Mental Guts Service Team carries forward a legacy of warmth—stepping beyond campus to serve, connect, and ensure compassion continues to light the path of medicine and society.

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","liaisonper":null,"liaisontel":null,"liaisonfax":null,"liaisonemail":null,"docs":[],"images":[{"fileurl":"https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1471052770994819072&init=Y","expFile":"cover image"}],"videos":[],"audios":[],"resources":[]},{"subject":"NYCU Self-Healing Functional Fabric to Weave an Eco-Friendly, Sustainable Future","dataClassName":null,"pubUnitName":null,"posterDate":"2026-01-21","updateDate":null,"detailContent":"

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Dean Jiun-Tai Chen of the College of Science at NYCU presents self-healing functional fabrics that extend textile lifespan and offer a sustainable solution to fast fashion waste.

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By NYCU ELITE\ \r\n______\ \r\n

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Recently, “fast fashion”—characterized by rapid production, shortened fashion cycles, and affordable consumption—has significantly reshaped the traditional textile and apparel industry ecosystem. The resulting controversies regarding manufacturing pollution, water resource depletion, and the massive recycling and disposal of waste have prompted global academia and industry to continually rethink how to strike a balance between commercial interests and environmental protection.\ \r\n\ \r\nAs a result, Professor Jiun-Tai Chen, Dean of the College of Science at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), and the research team from the “Optoelectronic Polymer Research Group” chose to leverage their expertise in polymer materials, and successfully developed functional fabrics capable of “self-healing” after damage, aiming to significantly reduce the environmental impact of discarded textiles by extending the lifespan of textiles. This innovative R&D achievement has secured multiple novel invention patents and has been recognized with the “Future Tech Award” and the “National Innovation Award”.\ \r\n\ \r\nJiun-Tai Chen frankly admits that self-healing functional fabrics, which carry relatively high material and R&D costs, are better suited for high-end functional textiles such as ski jackets, mountaineering apparel, wetsuits, and even camping tents. “One no longer has to discard the entire garment just because of a small tear, and that’s the essence of sustainability.”\ \r\n\ \r\nThis seemingly magical “self-healing” process begins by mixing polymer materials with varying degrees of crystallinity with ionic liquids to form ionic gels, then processing them into artificial fibers with approximately one micrometer in diameter. “Molecules can attract each other through hydrogen bonds, electrostatic charges, or dipole interactions. We deliberately enhanced these multiple interaction forces during the material design process. Simply overlapping two broken fiber segments and applying pressure, heat, or even light can reactivate these molecular interaction forces, causing them to mutually attract and firmly bond the damaged area,” Jiun-Tai Chen adds that the ionic gel can also be coated onto conventional fabric surfaces to achieve the same self-healing effect.\ \r\n

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\ \r\nDean Chen outlines the advanced material and structural challenges involved in developing self-healing fabrics for everyday apparel, emphasizing durability, functionality, and sustainability in next-generation textile design.\ \r\n\ \r\nFabric R&D Is as Challenging as Leveling Up in a Game\ \r\n\ \r\nHowever, the technical hurdles for creating an everyday garment far exceeded expectations. First, to balance waterproofing and breathability, the fabric structure must block liquid molecules from penetrating while allowing water vapor to escape freely. Jiun-Tai Chen explains, “To design this nano-level pore structure, commercially available materials often require the addition of fluorine-containing polymers. We must strive to find fluorine-free, eco-friendly alternatives and avoid overly expensive materials that inflate costs, while ensuring that the fabric retains its functionality, including skin-friendliness and comfort, and that the pores do not become blocked after fabric self-healing. It is truly challenging.”\ \r\n\ \r\nSecondly, everyday garments must withstand repeated washing cycles. Repeated pulling and friction during cleaning, or the addition of detergents and bleach, as well as hot-water washing and high-temperature drying, can cause the coating to peel off or the fabric structure to melt and deform, compromising the restoration effect or damaging the fabric structure. Jiun-Tai Chen particularly emphasizes that the activation conditions for healing must be precisely controlled: “The material shouldn’t heal itself upon any heat exposure, but rather activate healing in specific areas under defined temperature, pressure, or light conditions.” Additionally, enhancing the durability of the healed areas, enabling multiple healed areas on the same tear, and reducing healing time are key bottlenecks the research team is actively tackling.\ \r\n\ \r\n“The time required for healing has been reduced from several hours in the early stages to approximately one hour, with the healed strength now reaching about 70% of the original. By adjusting material ratios, we can now achieve at least ten or more cycles of repeated healing. More importantly, we continue to enhance functionalities beyond mere healing.” Jiun-Tai Chen further illustrates that after integrating weak conductivity, self-healing functional fabrics can be made into factory protective clothing. This effectively dissipates static electricity buildup, preventing sparks and significantly enhancing workplace safety. “Antimicrobial function is also a key future trend for garments!” he added. By incorporating materials like nano-gold, nano-silver, or zwitterionic compounds, etc., bacteria find it difficult to adhere and proliferate on the fabric.\ \r\n\ \r\nThe stretchable properties of clothing also inspired Jiun-Tai Chen’s R&D of “anti-counterfeiting” functions. “Common anti-counterfeiting labels only reveal their markings when exposed to polarized light, such as ultraviolet light. What we aim to achieve goes beyond labels that reveal anti-counterfeiting properties only under specific lighting angles. We want the labels to change as the label stretches, which involves extremely challenging material synthesis and structural design.” Faced with this challenge, Jiun-Tai Chen only grows more enthusiastic.\ \r\n\ \r\nDean Chen introduces sensing-enabled self-healing fabrics developed under “3S1A” framework, highlighting their potential applications in smart wearables, medical care, safety protection, and electronic skin technologies.

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\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nIntelligent Sensing, Endless Extended Possibilities for Application\ \r\n\ \r\nThe R&D of self-healing functional fabrics aligns precisely with the “3S1A” research framework of the Optoelectronic Polymer Research Group at NYCU. "3S1A stands for Synthesis, Sustainable, Smart, and Application. We are committed to synthesizing various new materials with sustainability as our goal, integrating smart design concepts, and ultimately applying them to solve real-world problems." Jiun-Tai Chen believes that whether it's the waterproof and breathable nano-scale pore design, the mechanism that heals only specific areas, or shape memory, all are concrete manifestations of smart design.\ \r\n\ \r\n“In the field of self-healing fabrics, we're moving very quickly. In fact, the Group is more focused on developing wearable devices that combine functional fabrics with sensors.” Jiun-Tai Chen explains that the total surface area of all holes in self-healing fabrics is extremely large, making them highly sensitive to environmental changes. If blended with pH-responsive materials to create firefighting suits, the fabric can instantly change color when toxic gases like carbon monoxide are detected at a fire scene, alerting firefighters to evacuate. On battlefields, it can also detect colorless, odorless toxic gases.\ \r\n\ \r\nIn medical settings, gauze can be enhanced with pH-responsive color-changing properties. Should a wound's pH shift due to bacterial infection, the gauze will change color to alert caregivers to replacement. Future functions may include sweat-sensing capabilities in clothing, transmitting physiological data in real-time via Bluetooth for long-term health conditions monitoring of users. Jiun-Tai Chen believes that NYCU already possesses dual R&D strengths in smart electronics and healthcare, and sensing-enabled self-healing fabrics are expected to pioneer new high-value-added applications in sports health and medical care fields.\ \r\n\ \r\nTaking a broader view, Jiun-Tai Chen's R&D aims to integrate functional sensing fabrics with AI and robotics. For instance, by imparting conductive or piezoelectric properties to fibers, self-healing functional fabrics can transform into “electronic skin” capable of instantly sensing pressure, temperature, and touch. “Robotic fingers are typically made of metal, which feels cold and lacks tactile sensation. Covering them with electronic skin enables them to discern the hardness or softness of objects they touch and provide feedback when touched.” Jiun-Tai Chen analyzes that realistic sensing technology not only enhances the safety of human-machine interaction mechanisms but may also help burn patients who have lost their tactile sensation regain their sensory abilities in the future.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nNYCU advances sustainable textile innovation through Dean Chen’s leadership, building a global industry–academia R&D network to accelerate the industrialization of next-generation functional fabrics.\ \r\n\ \r\nIndustry-Academia Collaboration Builds Transnational R&D Network\ \r\n\ \r\nCurrently, Jiun-Tai Chen's research team is actively advancing toward practical applications and mass production through close collaboration with domestic and international research institutions and industry partners. For instance, the Group is working with the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) to transform recycled PET bottle materials into elastic and functional polymer fibers. It is also collaborating with the Taiwan Textile Research Institute (TTRI) on testing and certifying functional fabrics. Furthermore, the team has initiated collaboration with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Limited (TSMC), the leading semiconductor company in Taiwan’s semiconductor industry. Jiun-Tai Chen indicates, “Although the industries and application fields differ, the underlying principles are interconnected. TSMC pursues nanoscale precision in structural design, while our expertise in polymer nanostructures and photoresist material properties aligns perfectly with their requirements.”\ \r\n\ \r\nIn the international connections, Jiun-Tai Chen has established close ties with Germany's premier research team specializing in “responsive smart polymers.” Through student exchange programs, the collaboration focuses on the synthetic design of environmentally friendly polymeric materials. Additionally, the Group maintains robust partnerships with prestigious institutions, including Princeton University in the United States, Tohoku University, and Hokkaido University in Japan, thereby progressively building a transnational materials R&D network.\ \r\n\ \r\nLooking ahead, Jiun-Tai Chen continues to seek collaboration opportunities with textile mills and contract manufacturers while encouraging his students in the Group to leverage the Ministry of Economic Affairs' entrepreneurial resources to establish startups and advance this technology toward industrialization. He outspokenly emphasizes that the key to successful industry-academia collaboration lies in introducing environmentally friendly, low-cost new materials and functionalities without significantly altering existing textile processes. This approach lowers the barrier to industrial transformation, paving the way for true mass production.\ \r\n\ \r\nTaiwan, hailed as the “Kingdom of Textiles,” faces an urgent need for transformation amid industrial relocation and environmental policies, such as the internationally levied carbon tax. The innovative research of Jiun-Tai Chen paves a sustainable path for the textile industry—one centered on materials science, integrated with smart sensing and eco-design, and poised to capture high-value-added blue ocean markets.\ \r\n\ \r\n“Adding functionality will certainly increase costs, but with today's strong public awareness of environmental protection, more and more consumers will recognize the sustainable value of self-healing functional fabrics,” Jiun-Tai Chen stated with confidence.

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","liaisonper":null,"liaisontel":null,"liaisonfax":null,"liaisonemail":null,"docs":[],"images":[{"fileurl":"https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1463437633366528000&init=Y","expFile":"cover image"}],"videos":[],"audios":[],"resources":[]},{"subject":"From the Tribe to the World: NYCU’s Holistic Health Partnership in Nan’ao","dataClassName":null,"pubUnitName":null,"posterDate":"2025-12-29","updateDate":null,"detailContent":"

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At Nan’ao’s Culture and Health Station, NYCU team led by Professor Yiing-Mei Liou observes the elders’ morning routine—an embodiment of the iHEART model that merges Atayal culture with community-centered healthcare.

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By NYCU ELITE\ \r\n______\ \r\n

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In the early morning mist of Nan’ao, the local Culture and Health Station is already alive with energy. One by one, community elders gather, accompanied by a familiar melody—the "Medication Song." Hummed in Atayal, the tune gently reminds them of their daily medical routines. This scene is the fruit of a deep collaboration between Professor Yiing-Mei Liou (Institute of Community Health Care, NYCU) and the Nan’ao community. What began as a health initiative has evolved into an integral part of the elders' daily lives.\ \r\n\ \r\nIn recent years, NYCU has woven Atayal language, culture, smart technology, and community care into a unique healthcare model known as iHEART (Tribal star incubation: Intelligent HEAlth for RemoTe areas). From translating medication instructions into Atayal and integrating them into music therapy to digitizing daily health records, the program helps indigenous communities build a compassionate, culturally grounded approach to wellness. While the project has earned prestigious accolades—including the Gold Award at the TSAA Taiwan Sustainable Action Awards and the Bronze Award at the APSAA Asia-Pacific Sustainable Action Awards (SDG3)—Professor Liou insists the true value lies elsewhere.\ \r\n\ \r\n"We are not here to help the community," Professor Liou emphasizes. "We are here to find solutions together with the community."\ \r\n

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\ \r\nElders use movement and the “Medication Song” to remember their daily medications—a practice now rooted in their morning routine.\ \r\n\ \r\nStarting with Understanding: Bridging the "Greek" Gap\ \r\n\ \r\nThe project began with a simple but critical realization: the need to truly see. Professor Liou recalls that upon arriving in Nan’ao, the team looked beyond statistics like gout prevalence or dialysis rates. Instead, they saw health challenges hidden within cultural nuances and linguistic gaps.\ \r\n\ \r\nFor many elders, medication bags were "all Greek to them"—unreadable and intimidating. Some elders would even pour colorful pills into glass jars for display simply because they looked "beautiful," unaware of their medical function. Moments like these revealed a profound insight: when health information cannot be understood, it cannot be used. Thus began a transformative cross-cultural translation effort. The team and the community worked together to translate medical terms into Atayal, turn shyly whispered reminders into songs, and encode health messages into dance.\ \r\n\ \r\nBeyond education, the NYCU team collaborates with the Culture and Health Station to provide holistic physical and emotional support. From morning mobility exercises to shared community meals, these activities have become cherished "homecoming moments."\ \r\n\ \r\n"Here, health education isn't about handouts; it is woven into daily life so elders can remember through movement," shares Ms. Lu Zifang, a care attendant at the station. She notes that the "Medication Song," which blends melody with simple choreography, aligns with the community’s oral traditions. "When the elders hear the song, they immediately know how to take their medicine for the day."\ \r\n\ \r\nWeaving Fear into Connection and Protection During the Pandemic\ \r\n\ \r\nRecent years have seen NYCU interns identifying deeper emotional needs, leading to the introduction of music-based therapy to help elders find balance through rhythm and breathing. However, the COVID-19 pandemic presented a more urgent challenge: a shortage of masks and a community in fear.\ \r\n\ \r\nNYCU and artisan Ms. Hu Su-Chiu at the Ina Weaving Workshop created culturally rooted “Nan’ao Masks,” blending ancestral motifs with modern public-health needs at the height of the pandemic.\ \r\n

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\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, Nan’ao faced a series of challenges: an influx of young people returning home, elders worried about infection, and a severe shortage of masks. Recognizing the community’s urgent needs, the NYCU team partnered with the Ina Weaving Workshop to develop a solution grounded in local culture. "If there aren’t enough masks, we’ll make them ourselves," said Ms. Hu Su-Chiu, the weaving artisan, with gentle determination.\ \r\n\ \r\nThe resulting "Nan’ao Mask" combined NYCU’s medical expertise with Atayal identity. The woven bands carried deep symbolism: mountain motifs for the forests, plain-weave for the earth, and diamond shapes representing the "eyes of the ancestors." "If it is made by me, then it is part of Atayal tradition," Ms. Hu said with pride.  Here, culture is more than aesthetic expression—it becomes a form of protection. At the height of the crisis, the NYCU team and the Ina Workshop demonstrated the community’s collective resilience, producing and distributing 300 masks to the township office and frontline medical staff, standing together to safeguard the well-being of the tribe.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nThe woven bands carried deep symbolism: mountain motifs for the forests, plain-weave for the earth, and diamond shapes representing the "eyes of the ancestors."\ \r\n\ \r\nThe Nan’ao Model: Innovation Through Mutual Trust and Cooperation\ \r\n\ \r\n"Nan’ao’s emergence as a hub for health innovation is no coincidence," says Professor Liou. Each year, NYCU students spend time stationed in the community, conducting health assessments, supporting older residents, and collaborating with the local health clinic. While their work may appear to be “service,” the students gain far more in return—learning about culture, building relationships, and experiencing the power of trust. Little by little, the community has opened its doors and allowed NYCU to become part of its everyday life.\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Liou shares a touching story of a student driven up the mountain by the Public Health Center director. Noticing the student hadn’t eaten, the director took a steamed bun, divided it by hand, and shared it, saying, "Family must share." For the student, it was a lesson that public health is built on relationships, not just professional guidance. As many interns reflect, "This was the most authentic public health class of my life."\ \r\n\ \r\nFrom Local Spirit to Global Impact: Addressing the Poverty of Dignity\ \r\n\ \r\nWhen asked whether the Nan’ao model could be replicated elsewhere, Professor Liou believes that while the “methods” may be difficult to copy, the “spirit” can be. She emphasizes that what Nan’ao has done right is not about technology, but about an attitude—willingness to listen, to wait, and to sit alongside the community, allowing it to set its own pace.\ \r\n\ \r\nWhat may seem like a local issue of rural health actually embodies the core of the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As Professor Liou explains, "The ultimate aim is to eliminate all forms of poverty." Liou explains. "Language barriers create knowledge poverty, while a lack of cultural understanding creates dignity poverty." By addressing both, NYCU and Nan’ao have built a model that is globally comprehensible yet locally actionable. "Giving is not losing; it is a path toward deeper understanding," Professor Liou concludes. "As long as you are willing, you will find more people willing to walk alongside you."\ \r\n\ \r\nThough Nan’ao is small, NYCU has invested time and humility to cultivate deep understanding—building trust through companionship and insight, and offering the world a model that is globally comprehensible yet locally actionable. “Giving is not losing; it is a path toward deeper understanding. As long as you are willing, you will find more people willing to walk alongside you,” says Professor Ying-Mei Liou. The story of Nan’ao continues, and the seeds sown by NYCU and the community are already taking root and growing, reaching ever farther.

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","liaisonper":null,"liaisontel":null,"liaisonfax":null,"liaisonemail":null,"docs":[],"images":[{"fileurl":"https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1455554086739906560&init=Y","expFile":"cover image"}],"videos":[],"audios":[],"resources":[]},{"subject":"Inside the Hippocampus’ Hidden Conversations: NYCU Discover How Interneurons Form Memory-Making Alliances","dataClassName":null,"pubUnitName":null,"posterDate":"2025-11-20","updateDate":null,"detailContent":"

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Led by Associate Professors Tsai-Wen Chen and Bei-Jung Lin at NYCU, a groundbreaking study using advanced imaging revealed that inhibitory interneurons in the hippocampus form selective “cell assemblies,” reshaping understanding of memory formation and offering new directions for treating neurological diseases.

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\ \r\nBy NYCU ELITE\ \r\n______

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The hippocampus is an important brain structure that affects spatial and directional perception, and closely relates to forming and consolidating memories. Abnormal functioning or damage to it can lead to various diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, depression, and Schizophrenia. Two associate professors, Tsai-Wen Chen and Bei-Jung Lin, from the Institute of Neuroscience of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), recently conducted research that reveals the relatively rare neurons in the hippocampus—the “interneurons”—have a special “cell assembly” behavior, which not only subverts the previous understanding of the mechanism of the hippocampus but also brings a brand-new inspiration for the treatment of related brain disorders. The results of this research have been published in Neuron, a leading international journal, marking a significant milestone in neuroscience.\ \r\n\ \r\nInhibitory interneurons, a few but crucial players\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Lin stated that about 90% of the neurons in the hippocampus are excitatory projection neurons, while the remaining 10% are inhibitory interneurons. When external information enters the hippocampus, these two types of neurons collaborate in processing it, and the excitatory neurons subsequently send the result to the downstream brain areas. Professor Chen explains that the functions of these two types of neurons are like the gas pedal and a car’s brake—if you only step on the gas pedal but not the brake, the car will easily go out of control. Similarly, if the excitement signals in the brain are too strong and there is not enough inhibition to counterbalance them, abnormal discharges like epilepsy may occur, highlighting the importance of the inhibitory neurons.\ \r\n\ \r\nIn addition, inhibitory interneurons play an essential role in producing brain waves, especially “ripple brain waves,” which are highly related to memory formation and consolidation. Professor Lin cited the example of mice performing a maze-like task. If the mice’s ripple brainwaves are damaged, their memory of the maze route is impaired. The neurotransmitters secreted by the inhibitory interneurons are also related to maintaining regular sleep. Some over-the-counter sleeping pills are designed to enhance the release of these neurotransmitters. “Diseases such as Schizophrenia and depression are often linked to the weakening or loss of functions in interneurons. Understanding how interneurons work will help develop better therapeutic drugs,” Professor Lin emphasized. Despite their small size, the functions of the interneurons are extremely important, making them a popular research topic in contemporary neuroscience.\ \r\n \r\n

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Professors Lin and Chen utilized advanced imaging techniques and voltage-sensitive fluorescent proteins, achieving the simultaneous recording of up to 26 PV-positive interneurons and overcoming previous challenges in pinpointing specific cells for study.\ \r\n\ \r\nBreaking the technological bottleneck, no more needle in the haystack\ \r\n\ \r\nNeurons generate electrical signals, known as action potentials, through rapid potential changes inside and outside the cell membrane, which are then transmitted to the next neuron via synapses. The entire neurotransmission process is speedy, typically taking only a few milliseconds. Professor Chen pointed out that in past research, electrical signals were usually recorded by inserting electrodes thinner than a hair into the neurons. However, this approach made it difficult to pinpoint specific cells, and most could only be measured by “blind insertion,” namely, randomly inserting it into a cell. Moreover, there are not only a small number of interneurons but also more than two dozen different types of interneurons, making the likelihood of successfully targeting a specific cell extremely low. Pinpointing a particular kind of interneuron for the study was akin to “searching for a specific small mushroom in the mountains.”\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Lin said that the primary focus of this research is the PV-positive interneuron, which has the fastest and highest discharge frequency among neurons. Due to their scarcity, only sporadic single-cell records were available in the past, and it was impossible to understand the synchronization and communication between cells. To break through this limitation, the research team employed an advanced imaging technique to implant a new generation of “voltage-sensitive fluorescent proteins” into the brains of mice by viral injection. When PV cells produce membrane potential changes, the brightness of the cellular fluorescence will change according to the level of the potential. To record the action potential signals, the research team set up an imaging system that can take more than 2,000 photos per second, achieving the world record of recording up to 26 PV cells simultaneously.

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\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Lin added that the intracellular electrophysiology method allowed only one electrode to be inserted into a mouse at a time. At the end of the experiment, apart from the sacrifice of the mouse, the right target cells might not be found. The new method is to surgically add a transparent experimental window on the mouse’s skull, dramatically increasing the number of PV cells that can be successfully observed and allowing the same mouse to be used for multiple experiments. This technique is a concrete implementation of the 3R principle—Replacement, Reduction, Refinement—in experimental animals.\ \r\n\ \r\nCells also make friends with a variety of making-friend patterns\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Lin pointed out that in the past when scientists studied the phenomenon of “cell assembly,” where neurons work together as a group (e.g., synchronized discharge), they largely believed it occurred only in excitatory projection neurons. However, the research team proved for the first time that the “cell assembly” phenomenon also occurs in intermediate neurons.\ \r\n\ \r\n“We were surprised to learn that it was previously believed all interneurons operated in synchronization within the network. Nonetheless, they are actually divided into groups, with each cell having its own ‘best friend.’ This group of cells will activate and act together, not just randomly pull a cell to work together. Professor Chen further cited ripple brain waves as an example, explaining that each cycle of ripple brain waves lasts only 6 or 7 milliseconds. During this brief period, interneurons connect with different “friends” to activate together with each cycle. This shows the diverse behavior of interneurons in “cell assemblies,” suggesting they may have a more active role in memory formation and consolidation.\ \r\n\ \r\nAs to how interneurons find their “best friends,” the research team suggested that there may be some strong “connection” between these cells, such as relying on the release and connection of neurotransmitters or connecting by “Gap Junction” to form a synchronized discharge network. Professor Chen mentioned that while current imaging techniques cannot directly observe these physical connections made by gap junctions, this area is one of the topics worth studying in the future.\ \r\n\ \r\nAll-optical + two-way communication design to deepen the understanding of the “cell assembly” behavior\ \r\n\ \r\n“Voltage-sensitive fluorescent protein” and “ultrafast photography” have brought breakthroughs in neuroscience research. Looking ahead, the research team aims to apply these two technologies further to study excitatory projection neurons. Professor Lin pointed out that a large number of excitatory projection neurons and their overlapping features may cause the images of these neurons to appear blurred when labeled with fluorescent proteins. The research team is focused on developing a new generation of imaging solutions, and the relevant results will be published in international journals recently. In addition, the research team will further investigate the interaction between excitatory projection neurons and interneurons, especially by examining their roles and functions in brainwave formation.\ \r\n\ \r\nThe team is also actively developing “all-optical electrophysiology” technology incorporating “voltage-sensitive fluorescent proteins.” Their goal is to utilize light as a replacement for electrodes to stimulate neurons and record electrical signals through changes in cellular fluorescence. Professor Chen said that besides unidirectional reading and recording electrical signals from neurons, the team is also very interested in “inputting information” to measure cell connections. In the future, they will conduct the research in the direction of all-optical, two-way communication. The research team expects that by deepening the understanding of the behavior of neuronal grouping, more precise techniques for diagnosing and treating neurological diseases, as well as regulating brain function. This advancement is expected to be developed to move towards a new era of brain science.\ \r\n\ \r\nA groundbreaking study by NYCU’s Prof. Chen and Lin reveals that inhibitory interneurons in the hippocampus exhibit “cell assembly” behavior, challenging previous brain function theories and opening new avenues for treating neurological diseases.

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","liaisonper":null,"liaisontel":null,"liaisonfax":null,"liaisonemail":null,"docs":[],"images":[{"fileurl":"https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1467764697561305088&init=Y","expFile":"cover image"}],"videos":[],"audios":[],"resources":[]},{"subject":"NYCU Wins World Award: Taiwan’s Computer Music Champion Returns","dataClassName":null,"pubUnitName":null,"posterDate":"2025-11-11","updateDate":null,"detailContent":"

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Professor Yu-Chung Tseng at NYCU’s Institute of Music leads Taiwan’s only computer music program, recently earning the “Best Music Award” at the International Computer Music Conference for his groundbreaking composition, Soundscape beyond black and white.

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By NYCU ELITE\ \r\n______

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Although National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) is internationally recognized for its excellence in STEM disciplines such as electronics, electrical engineering, and information science, it has also demonstrated a strong and consistent presence in the humanities and arts, achieving equally remarkable accomplishments in both areas. For instance, as early as 1992, National Chiao Tung University established the Institute of Applied Arts, dedicated to teaching and research in design, communication, and music, among others. Its music program became an independent Institute of Music in 2000, featuring Taiwan’s only computer music major among all music departments in Taiwan. In recent years, the Institute of Music’s computer music program has achieved remarkable international recognition. Professor Yu-Chung Tseng, who leads this program, recently won the prestigious “Best Music Award” with his new composition, “Soundscape beyond black and white,” triumphing over more than 700 submissions from around the globe, at the “International Computer Music Conference (ICMC)”—the world’s premier event in the field this year.\ \r\n\ \r\nBeyond Memory, Exploring the Possibilities of Sound\ \r\n\ \r\n“Creators have always sought to discover entirely new sounds and explore the myriad possibilities of sound,” Professor Tseng indicated. The music produced by playing the black and white keys of a piano is already familiar and deeply ingrained in people’s memories. This composition employs over a dozen small tools—such as brushes and drumsticks—to interact with the piano’s internal strings through striking, rubbing, and sliding. The captured sound materials were then re-encoded, synthesized, and restructured via computer. This creates a contrast aesthetic between the traditional, tangible piano tones and the virtual sounds, constructing a unique sonic landscape that transcends the piano’s black and white keys.

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\ \r\nProfessor Tseng blends brushes, drumsticks, and over a dozen small tools on piano strings with computer synthesis, creating a transcendent soundscape that bridges traditional piano tones and virtual music, establishing NYCU and Taiwan as leaders in the global computer music scene.\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Tseng’s style of artistic creation integrates Western algorithmic composition with Eastern philosophical elements like yin-yang and the interplay of real and virtual, has long established him as a perennial winner in international computer music competitions. For example, his accolades include first prize at Italy’s Pierre Schaeffer International Computer Music Competition, first prize at the Czech Republic’s Musica Nova International Electronic Music Competition, second prize at France’s Klang International Electronic Music Competition, and three wins for Best Music Award in the ICMC Asia-Pacific region. The year 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of ICMC. Outstanding from all global submissions to claim the sole “Best Music Award” across all regions represents not only a significant milestone in Professor Tseng’s musical career but also signifies that NYCU and Taiwan have secured a pivotal position in the global computer music landscape, indicating that their strength is unshakable.\ \r\n

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“My introduction to computer music began when I worked as a research assistant at National Chiao Tung University,” Professor Tseng recalls. In the late 1980s, the university established the Applied Arts Laboratory and invited Professor Phil Winsor from the Department of Music at the University of North Texas to Taiwan to guide the research and promote computer music. The university subsequently hosted multiple national computer music workshops and concerts, solidifying its position as a leading stronghold for computer music development in Taiwan. Freshly graduated from the university’s music department, Professor Tseng served as a research assistant in the laboratory, witnessing this historic moment firsthand. From then on, he plunged headfirst into the world of computer music. After earning his doctorate in music in the United States, he followed in Professor Phil Winsor’s footsteps, joining the National Chiao Tung University’s Institute of Music to engage in teaching, research, and promotion of computer music.\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Tseng, merging Western algorithmic composition with Eastern philosophy, has earned top honors in international computer music competitions, cementing NYCU and Taiwan’s global leadership in the field.\ \r\n\ \r\nCross-Domain Integration Broadens the Path of Music\ \r\n\ \r\n“Majoring in computer music is no easy feat. Students must be able to compose music while also mastering programming—including cutting-edge AI programming and related technological applications. It seems those mastering computer music truly need to be well-rounded in both ‘arts and sciences’!” Through Professor Tseng’s step-by-step, “hands-on” teaching approach, students often quickly overcome technical obstacles in computing and programming. His advisees frequently receive recognition at international computer music major events. For instance, in 2024, three students had their works selected for performance in the ICMC concert; four students won awards in the Electronic Music Competition held in four countries—France, Taiwan, Canada, and Japan. In 2025, eight students had their works selected for the New York Electronic Music Festival. “When learning computer music, an international perspective is crucial—it’s not just about working in isolation. As an advisor, it’s vital to ensure students truly grasp global development trends and composition tendencies. This is why our students consistently gain international shortlisted and awards,” Professor Tseng added.\ \r\n\ \r\nCompared to art universities, Professor Tseng believes that NYCU is particularly suited for developing computer music due to its departments in computer science, electrical engineering, and other STEM fields. Following the merger with National Yang Ming University, it has also collaborated with its medical departments to explore brainwave-controlled music and music synthesis. Professor Tseng pointed out that computer music represents a cross-disciplinary integration of music and technology. Students in both the Musicology and Performance programs at the Graduate Institute of Music at NYCU have expanded opportunities to take interdisciplinary elective courses in computer music or contemporary music, enabling them to cultivate cross-disciplinary expertise such as computer music composition, digital editing, and design etc.

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Because of this, the career paths of graduates from the Institute of Music at NYCU are broader and more diverse than those of students from traditional music departments. “While some of our graduates teach at arts universities, several work as sound engineers and multichannel designers at CLAB_Taiwan Sound Lab, a subsidiary of the Ministry of Culture. Others have formed teams to create multichannel and immersive multimedia designs for events like lantern festivals and expositions. There are even graduates working as engineers on sound chips and sound synthesis for computer companies. Through computer music education, we cultivate cross-disciplinary talents who understand music, programming, and technology. I am honored that my expertise can contribute to Taiwan,” Professor Tseng humbly remarked.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Tseng’s hands-on teaching equips NYCU students with both musical and technological expertise, enabling them to excel internationally in computer music and pursue diverse careers in composition, sound design, and immersive multimedia.\ \r\n\ \r\nFalling in Love with Creation and Exploding Appreciation\ \r\n\ \r\nHowever, Professor Tseng also frankly said that classical music can guide listeners through its notes, tonality, phrasing, and structural design; in contrast, computer music relies on sound, synthesized timbres, and novel concepts of tonal structure, making its acceptance and appreciation threshold higher for the general public. “Strictly speaking, even appreciating Beethoven or Mozart’s sonatas requires a process of learning, training, and understanding before one develops the ability to appreciate classical music. The same concept applies to computer music. However, I personally believe the best way to understand and appreciate any kind of music is to engage in ‘composition’ yourself—to experience the process of building music.”\ \r\n

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Professor Tseng recalled leading students on a computer music tour in France, where a local elementary school arranged for first and second graders to attend the performance. They even let the children operate the mixer to perform live multi-channel computer music playback. To everyone’s surprise, the children had a wonderful time. “That feeling was truly wonderful! The French example provided us with great inspiration and a fine model. I hope Taiwan’s music education can incorporate a bit more creativity, integrating computer music composition courses from elementary school through junior high and senior high school.” “In fact, computers are so advanced now that they’ve significantly lowered the barrier for creation. You don’t even need sheet music to compose. This allows interested teenagers to quickly dive into the world of computer music.” Additionally, Professor Tseng believes that sounds from many everyday objects can serve as musical materials. Therefore, he suggests that students of computer music courses start by recording the sounds of daily life, then use computer music composition to express their emotions and ideas. Professor Tseng optimistically anticipates that Taiwan’s computer music development and its adoption will accelerate in the coming years because of the increasing number of domestic computer music performances, the annual grand scale of the “C-LAB Sound Festival,” and the growing number of graduates from the Institute of Music at NYCU entering the industry and taking up teaching positions at various educational levels.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Tseng encourages hands-on creation to truly appreciate computer music, inspiring students—and even young children in France—to explore everyday sounds, compose, and experience the joy of building music.\ \r\n\ \r\nAI Co-Creation and the New Future of Computer Music\ \r\n\ \r\nRegarding the explosive growth of AI today, Professor Tseng believes it holds the potential to bring new opportunities for development in computer music. “While ‘generative AI’ in the past could mimic the creation of a piece of modern computer music, it lacked the spirit of creativity and inspiration. In contrast, today’s ‘agent-based AI’ allows musicians to personally participate in the music generation process of AI machines, making the music sound warmer and more humanized. Because ‘agent-based AI’ functions as an additional performer-agent, when the musician plays their instrument, the AI responds and adjusts in real-time based on live musical input, commands, and rules. It interacts closely with the instrumental melody, fully showcasing a novel form of collaborative creation and dialogue between performers and AI. This brings a brand-new landscape to human-computer interaction (HCI) in computer music.”\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Tseng stated that AI music has been designated as the primary focus agenda for ICMC 2025, indicating that the development of AI music is imminent. AI music is undoubtedly the most significant trend worthy of development in the future of computer music art. Therefore, both individual creators or the university can seamlessly align with global trends. Now in his sixties, Professor Tseng remains passionately dedicated to computer music composition. His vision is to extensively collect Hakka soundscapes as creative material over the coming years, launching a computer music creative project that integrates AI technology with Hakka cultural elements to breathe new life into local culture. From the perspective of university development, he not only encourages students to learn AI programming but also hopes that faculty members with expertise in computer science will join the effort. He envisions establishing a university-level AI music research center, enabling NYCU to exert significant and multifaceted influence in the AI era.\ \r\n\ \r\nFinally, Professor Tseng hopes that computer music at NYCU will continue to grow sustainably and relentlessly pursue cutting-edge excellence upon the solid foundation laid by Professor Phil Winsor, leading Taiwan’s computer music development. Meanwhile, it will enrich the global computer music with Taiwan’s unique voice through diverse forms of international exchange.

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","liaisonper":null,"liaisontel":null,"liaisonfax":null,"liaisonemail":null,"docs":[],"images":[{"fileurl":"https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1438015234651459584&init=Y","expFile":"cover image"}],"videos":[],"audios":[],"resources":[]},{"subject":"Innovative Strategies in Response to a Super-Ageda Society: A Diverse and Practical Way of NYCU","dataClassName":null,"pubUnitName":null,"posterDate":"2025-10-16","updateDate":null,"detailContent":"

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Taipei Municipal Gan-Dau Hospital (Operated by Taipei Veterans General Hospital, TVGH) and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) jointly established Gandaulogy Academy Dao Xiang for cognitive board game courses to provide body-mind-spirit care for the elderly.

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By NYCU ELITE\ \r\n______

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According to statistics from the Ministry of the Interior, the older population aged 65 and above in Taiwan reached 19.1% in 2024. As of today, Taiwan, in 2025, has reached the threshold of the “super-aged society” as defined by the World Health Organization at the fastest pace in the world. Consequently, this will need to increase health and social care resources and exert transition pressure on community resilience, family support, and the overall social structure.\ \r\n\ \r\nFacing this unprecedented demographic challenge, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has chosen to address it not only from a medical perspective but also through a multi-pronged approach encompassing education, design, technology, and community practice. NYCU has developed a response tailored to Taiwan’s context yet capable of being shared globally. Rather than merely proposing concepts, NYCU has translated these ideas into observable, replicable, and scalable models.\ \r\n\ \r\nGandaulogy Academy: Evidence-based community health paradigm\ \r\n\ \r\n“Rather than having doctors talk until they’re blue in the face in the clinic, it’s better to find a way to get John Doe next door to ‘casually’ join in the activities, which is the real way to promote healthy aging, to prevent disability, and dementia process in the community,” Liang-Kung Chen, Superintendent of Taipei Municipal Guan-Du Hospital and Director of the Center for Healthy Longevity and Aging Science at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, succinctly identified the key to promote health for older people, which also became the founding principle of the “Gandaulogy Academy.” This “TIGER Project,” jointly promoted by TVGH and NYCU, was published in the prestigious journal Lancet Healthy Longevity in 2021 and has since evolved into a community health model with a strong diffusion capability. Gandaulogy Academy targets citizens aged 50 and above, offering free comprehensive courses including muscle strength training, aerobic exercise, nutrition, and cognitive training. Besides, through medical tracking methods, evidence shows that these programs help prevent dementia and disability, improve chronic disease management, and reduce depressive symptoms.\ \r\n

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\ \r\nThrough aerobic muscle strength exercise courses, one can start his/her journey to health from the details of daily life.\ \r\n\ \r\nTIGER originally stood for the initials of the name of the clinical trial “Taiwan Integrated GERiatric Care Study”. In the community, the five letters “TIGER” convey its philosophy: Training (enhancement), Intelligence (wisdom), Gathering (connection), Enjoyment (happiness), and Rejuvenation (revival)—encouraging healthy behaviors from details of daily life. Unlike traditional lectures or short-term interventions, TIGER transforms health education into daily actions and community interactions within the community, integrating digital tools and corporate resources to achieve deeper behavioral changes. This approach elevates health education to a lifestyle philosophy known as “Gandaulogy.”\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nFrom Strongholds to Community Building: Model Diffusion and International Influence\ \r\n\ \r\nAs the model is getting matured, the strongholds of TIGER expanded beyond Taiwan to multiple locations. Starting in 2024, the TSMC Charity Foundation facilitated the localization and promotion of Gandaulogy in Kumamoto. With 20% of the local population requiring long-term care, the challenges faced there are similar to those in Taiwan. Professor Kazuya Yamagata at Kumamoto University stated frankly, “We need community models like TIGER to help people shorten their unhealthy life expectancy.”\ \r\n\ \r\nKyushu University plans to apply the Gandau experience to the “University Social Responsibility” project in Itoshima City, combining medicine, engineering, and urban planning to create a vision for the super-aged. At the end of the same year, NYCU and institutes such as National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology in Japan and National University of Singapore, etc. jointly launched the “Western Pacific Rim Consortium of Healthy Longevity,” bringing together regions with similar cultures and aging challenges to develop solutions and transform Taiwan’s experience into an international asset.\ \r\n\ \r\nLiang-Kung Chen said, “The healthy cities of the future will not merely be extensions of hospitals, but rather communities where healthy living is the norm.” This is also the key value of “Gandaulogy,” which starts from the community and influences policy and social design.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nLiang-Kung Chen stated that through the TIGER program, a health promotion model of evidence-based community will be developed and gradually expanded to Taiwan and Japan, becoming an important reference for international healthy city development.\ \r\n\ \r\nBuilding the World’s First Knowledge-based Learning Environment for Seniors\ \r\n\ \r\nIn 2024, NYCU, in collaboration with TSMC and Academia-Industry Consortium for Science Parks in Central Taiwan, launched the “Gong Academy”—the world’s first knowledge-based learning environment for seniors. Unlike typical senior courses that focus on leisure activities, Gong Academy targets “adults who don’t want to retire”—senior populations who were once professionals, corporate executives, or academic leaders.\ \r\n\ \r\nThe name of “Gong Academy” is derived from the “Gong Examination” in the imperial examination system of the Ming Dynasty, symbolizing the spirit of learning and self-improvement. Unlike typical senior courses that focus on leisure and entertainment, the students of Gong Academy are mostly dissatisfied with the traditional pursuit of a “luxury cruise vacation” in retirement; instead, they aspire to pursue knowledge exploration and self-realization in their second life.

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\r\nGong Academy provides an environment for seniors to explore knowledge and achieve self-realization.\ \r\n\ \r\nIntergenerational Learning: Cross-Generational Challenge on Interdisciplinary Innovation\ \r\n\ \r\nKuei-Ann Wen, the Executive Director of NYCU Social Responsibility Development Office, observed: “This group of students is inquisitive about new technologies, such as AI and other technology, and they are also very concerned about healthcare.” This proactive learning attitude is the key driving force behind Gong Academy to offer intensive, in-depth learning courses. Therefore, the course design centers on “intergenerational learning” and “flexible adjustments curriculum design,” combining the two strengths of National Chiao Tung University and National Yang Ming University—technology and healthcare—to enable younger and senior generations to engage in dialogue and exchange ideas in the same classroom. The course content is diverse and practical. “Senior” students can not only take elective courses such as applied technology, sensor technology, healthcare, language, and financial planning, but also tackle assignments and exams, earning certificates awarded by the Social Responsibility Development Office of NYCU, thereby enhancing their sense of learning achievement and motivation to participate.\ \r\n\ \r\n“These senior students were all top students in their youth, and during the initial planning phase, they were concerned that they might not adapt well to a ‘mixed-age’ environment. However, they were pleasantly surprised to find that both the faculty and students at NYCU were quite open-minded, leading to a diverse and positive learning model.” In the general education course, it is common to see younger students enthusiastically assisting senior students in operating technological devices. In turn, the senior students generously share their workplace experience, professional knowledge, and life wisdom with their “junior” classmates, fostering a cross-generational collaborative learning environment.\ \r\n\ \r\nCreating a Second Life Proving Ground for Senior Learning\ \r\n\ \r\nGong Academy provides theoretical learning and emphasizes practical experience and technological applications. For example, VR devices simulate the perspective of dementia patients, helping students develop empathy and understanding. Some courses also collaborate with the College of Nursing, Department of Pharmacy, and Department of Physical Therapy and Assistive Technology to introduce smart sensors, wearable devices, and health assessment technologies, enabling students to understand their health status and prevent physical deterioration and disability. For instance, the motion analysis tools introduced can detect gait length, assist in early identification of Parkinson’s and dementia risks, and delay deterioration through simple training and health recommendations.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nSpecial thanks to NVR team instructor, Assistant Professor Shih-Sin Wei from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at NYCU, and all the crew members who participated in the video shoot.\ \r\n\ \r\nAlthough Gong Although Gong Academy is currently still in its experimental phase, admitting only 20 students per semester through a recommendation-based admission system, it does not rule out the possibility of developing into a national model for elderly education in the future, with further plans to expand to locations such as the Taipei Nangang Science Park and Kaohsiung campus etc., assisting more industrial clusters in establishing elderly-friendly learning spaces. However, Kuei-Ann Wen also acknowledged that the costs associated with space, human resources, and course development are significant, and the program will still rely on corporate partnerships and resource integration to sustain its long-term development.\ \r\n\ \r\nGuided by the sustainable development principles of the SDGs, Gong Academy is not merely practicing elderly education but embodying a spirit of “all ages learning” that holds profound era significance. NYCU also plans to integrate the “Senior University” and “Senior Fitness Club” in the future, building a senior education ecosystem supported by the three pillars of health, learning, and social interaction. Starting from the university campus, this initiative aims to redefine perceptions of aging and propose a new vision of life where “aging can be a choice and realization.”\ \r\n\ \r\nFrom Seniors to All Ages, Taiwan Demonstrates the Possibilities for the Future\ \r\n\ \r\nIn the face of the global aging trend, NYCU has responded to the challenges of care and education in an aging society not only through the dual-track implementation of the “Gandaulogy Academy” and “Gong Academy” but also through redefining aging: growing old is not necessarily a retreat but can be a choice and realization, transforming people’s perceptions of aging. They demonstrate that aging is not inevitably associated with disability and retreat but can be a process of exploration, connection, and starting over.\ \r\n\ \r\nThis initiative, which extends from healthcare into the community and from the classroom into daily life, is not merely an issue of education or health but also a “social innovation solution” proposed by Taiwan in the context of the global aging society, one that is deeply rooted in cultural heritage and backed by empirical evidence. It is not merely about creating services for the elderly, but about redefining the possibilities for all generations to learn and thrive together.\ \r\n\ \r\nAs Gandaulogy Academy expands internationally and Gong Academy continues to develop with flexible adjustments, Taiwan is gradually proving to the world that aging is not a burden but a generational asset that can be co-created, learned from, and thrived together.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nFrom Gandaulogy Academy to Gong Academy, NYCU has created a platform for seniors and people of all ages to learn and thrive together, realizing a social innovation blueprint that realizes seniors do not retreat but start over instead.

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\r\n","liaisonper":null,"liaisontel":null,"liaisonfax":null,"liaisonemail":null,"docs":[],"images":[{"fileurl":"https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1428197142563917824&init=Y","expFile":"cover image"}],"videos":[],"audios":[],"resources":[]},{"subject":"From Campus Rockets to National Strategy: NYCU Continuously Forges the Critical Key to the Space Industry","dataClassName":null,"pubUnitName":null,"posterDate":"2025-10-07","updateDate":null,"detailContent":"

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This year, the Advanced Rocket Research Center (ARRC) showcased years of dedicated research at the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition, highlighting our relentless pursuit of innovation in aerospace technology. Under the steadfast leadership of Professor Jong-Shinn Wu (left), the Center has laid a strong foundation and ignited our passion for space exploration. (Photo credit: ARRC)

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By NYCU ELITE\ \r\n______

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In the summer of 2025, a dazzling arc streaked across the sky above Xuhai of Pingtung—that was the scene of the first “Rocket Taiwan Cup” finals. Outstanding victory from 15 competing teams was the “What a Nasty Feeling” team, formed by students from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University’s “NYCU UAV Team” and from National United University. Based on mechanical engineering, integrated with flight control and system integration, they leveraged their drone autorecovery system technology to clinch the championship in the college group.\ \r\n

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\ \r\nThe team collaboration between NYCU’s Department of Mechanical Engineering and National United University claimed first place in the university division of the inaugural Taiwan Cup Rocket Competition.\ \r\n\ \r\nThis victory is not merely a triumph in a technical competition; it stands as the best validation of hands-on education. From rocket design and navigation modules to launch simulations and recovery system integration, students had to roll up their sleeves and collaborate interdisciplinarily to accomplish this mission. This process epitomizes the fruits of NYCU’s long-term commitment to cultivating systems engineering education and advancing rocket research and development.\ \r\n\ \r\nFrom the campus to national strategy, the journey of the rocket experiment has been initiated by one of the key figures, Professor Jong-Shinn Wu at the Department of Mechanical Engineering of NYCU, and the current Director of the Taiwan Space Agency. Yet he consistently emphasizes: “Students are the true fuel of rocketry.”\ \r\n\ \r\nAs early as 2012, Jong-Shinn Wu established the Advanced Rocket Research Center (ARRC) at NYCU (formerly National Chiao Tung University). At that time, Taiwan had yet to establish rocket regulations, and resources were scarce. He led students in building rockets from scratch in a near-vacuum environment. Without a dedicated launch site, they secretly transported their self-made launch pad to a coastal vacant lot using a tricycle. Lacking professional equipment, they could only resort to outdated methods to come up with solutions. The explosion in testing, the failure to deploy parachutes, and the shattered glass —all these failure experiences became a valuable lesson, serving as the most direct training in engineering ethics and teamwork.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Tsung-Shin Wu (front) has spent years leading students and research teams on the front lines of rocket development and testing. (Photo credit: ARRC)\ \r\n\ \r\nMore importantly, such programs take students out of the classroom, allowing them to experience firsthand the journey of challenges and breakthroughs, and discover their own potential and passion along the way. For Jong-Shinn Wu, the sparkle in his students’ eyes when a rocket lifts off is the greatest motivation driving his unwavering commitment to space education and research.\ \r\n\ \r\n“Rockets aren’t just a ‘technical’ issue, but an ‘integration’ issue, and even a ‘belief’ issue,” said Jong-Shinn Wu.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nRocket Taiwan Cup: Building a Mission-Driven Educational Arena for Students\ \r\n\ \r\nThe concept for the 2025 Rocket Taiwan Cup originated from the mission-oriented thought of the Taiwan Space Agency (TASA). Jong-Shinn Wu pointed out that while TASA is a legal entity, it also shoulders national responsibilities. One of its key missions is to establish an arena for student practice and innovation by simplifying and modularizing space missions.\ \r\n\ \r\n“We break down real space missions into technical levels that college students can handle. This not only makes technology more accessible but also allows innovation to take root and talent to be cultivated. I believe this is one of the most important values of a university—enabling students to create something tangible.”\ \r\n\ \r\nThis is why the Rocket Taiwan Cup is specifically centered on designing a mission-driven approach. Participating teams must complete the entire process—from design and manufacturing to flight simulation and recovery, etc—creating a miniature replica of a real rocket mission.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nNYCU’s rocketry team participated in the inaugural Rocket Taiwan Cup, organized by the TASA, successfully launching their rocket at the Xuhai Research Rocket Base.\ \r\n\ \r\n

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\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nRockets have thus become the most comprehensive STEM educational environment. From mechanical, electrical engineering, materials, chemical engineering, information technology, mathematics and physics, communications, flight control simulation, to project management, a single rocket mission often requires mobilizing teams of over a dozen, even twenty members. Through division of labor, collaboration, and cross-disciplinary integration, the essence of “systems thinking” is realized. Jong-Shinn Wu emphasizes: “Rockets serve as an excellent scientific tool, offering students a powerful feedback mechanism. They provide immediate confirmation: you got it right, or you got it wrong. It helps students understand how the knowledge they acquire will play a role in future industries.”\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nFrom the Educational Arena to National Strategy: The Rocket’s Pivotal Role\ \r\n\ \r\nJong-Shinn Wu frankly stated that although rockets account for only about 2-3% of the entire space industry, they hold irreplaceable strategic value, as they serve as the gateway to space; they are the “key” to the space industry. Taking Taiwan as an example, it has already developed solid capabilities in satellite research and development, as well as data application. For instance, the meteorological satellite “FORMOSAT-7” receives weather data daily from its orbit at approximately 40 degrees north and south latitude. Within 30 minutes, it transmits this data back to TASA and the Central Weather Administration (CWA), effectively improving weather forecast accuracy by about 6–10%.\ \r\n\ \r\nCurrently, among more than 200 countries worldwide, only nine possess rocket technology, enabling independent access to space. While Taiwan has developed satellite research, development, and application capabilities, it still relies heavily on U.S. rockets for launches. This means the critical launch vehicles are not under our control, posing potential risks to national sovereignty and mission execution. Jong-Shinn Wu further emphasized: “Our satellites are fine, data applications and ground receiving equipment are stable. The only missing piece is the rocket. Without rockets, we cannot freely access space.” If Taiwan can independently design, manufacture, and launch rockets, it would gain the entry ticket into the space technology ecosystem, becoming a space-faring nation.\ \r\n\ \r\n“You have rockets, you have satellites—that’s what makes you a powerful country for space,” Jong-Shinn Wu emphasized. In his view, rockets are not merely practical tools for on-site education; they represent the threshold of national sovereignty and serve as a language for international dialogue.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nFueling Taiwan’s future in space—powered by students, driven by innovation.\ \r\n\ \r\nRockets: The Key to Unlock Academic, Industrial, and Sovereign Advancement\ \r\n\ \r\nFor Jong-Shinn Wu, “rocket education” has never been merely an engineering issue; it is about educating “people”. He frankly said that his own journey through industrial entrepreneurship, failure, and eventual return to academia has made him acutely aware of the innovation drain caused by the disconnect between academia and industry. As a result, he is dedicated to transforming space technology into tangible, achievable missions for students, enabling talents to bridge the gap between their academic years and future industries from the very start.\ \r\n\ \r\n“What we need are not just technically skilled individuals, but people willing to step outside their comfort zones, recognize societal needs, and boldly bridge imagination with practical implementation,” he stated. Under this philosophy, the rocket became a symbol: a key unlocking the connection between academia and industry; a key for training cross-disciplinary talents; and most crucially, a key unlocking Taiwan’s space sovereignty and international vision.\ \r\n\ \r\nThe 2025 Rocket Taiwan Cup is more than just a competition. It is an experiment in collaboration between inside and outside systems, a practical application of educational philosophy, and the starting point for a national strategy. Jong-Shinn Wu believes these seemingly “rocket-playing” initiatives are actually a challenge and response to the education system—giving students opportunities to personally participate in national-level missions, creating intersections between knowledge and practice, and ensuring that technological innovation transcends lab papers to address national needs and global aspirations.\ \r\n\ \r\nThis rocket dream, launched from NYCU, is gradually becoming a reality in Taiwan’s skies.\ \r\nAnd this key──is continuously built and steadily given by NYCU.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nIgnited on campus, soaring for the nation—TASA and NYCU keep forging the key that unlocks our future in space.\ \r\n

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\r\n \r\n","liaisonper":null,"liaisontel":null,"liaisonfax":null,"liaisonemail":null,"docs":[],"images":[{"fileurl":"https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1425657873928556544&init=Y","expFile":"From Campus Rockets to National Strategy"}],"videos":[],"audios":[],"resources":[]},{"subject":"Turning Stone into Gold: NYCU Launches Carbon Reduction Revolution by Converting Carbon Dioxide into Fuel","dataClassName":null,"pubUnitName":null,"posterDate":"2025-07-23","updateDate":null,"detailContent":"

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By NYCU ELITE\ \r\n______

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According to a study report by the United Nations, global greenhouse gas emissions reached 57.1 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) in 2023. This marked a 1.3% increase compared to 2022, reaching an all-time high. According to the Global Carbon Project, only the global CO2 emissions from fossil fuels grew by 0.8% in 2024 compared to 2023 to reach 37.4 billion tons, and the annual carbon emissions were also not promising. These figures have been a wake-up call for the global climate crisis and prompted scientists to look for breakthrough solutions to reduce carbon emissions.\ \r\n \r\n

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Facing record-high carbon emissions, NYCU’s Prof. Sung-Fu Hung and his team pioneered a breakthrough method to turn CO₂ into methane, offering a powerful new path to carbon reduction. (Photo credit: ZDunemployed Studio)\ \r\n\ \r\nSung-Fu Hung, the Assistant Professor at the Department of Applied Chemistry of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, has collaborated with Ying Wang, the Assistant Professor at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Ziyun Wang, the Senior Lecturer at the University of Auckland, to comprise an international research team. In the electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction, the innovative use of “triazole organic small molecules” as catalysts has successfully and highly efficiently converted CO2 into methane, an essential component of natural gas that can be directly used as a fuel in daily life.\ \r\n\ \r\nThis world-leading revolutionary technology perfectly realizes the sustainability goal of the carbon cycle and also brings new hope for global carbon reduction. The related research results were published in the leading journal Nature Energy under the title “Electroreduction of CO2 to methane with triazole molecular catalysts”, attracting significant attention from academia and industry.\ \r\n\ \r\nTurning the Impossible into Possible\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Hung, who specializes in heterogenous catalysts, reactor design, and in-situ observation technologies, has focused to exploring the application of zero-carbon and negative-carbon technologies in recent years. Professor Hung said that zero-carbon technology focuses on reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Currently, the mainstream approach is to use hydrogen to replace conventional fuels, which can reduce CO2 emissions. However, it just prevents the emission of additional CO2, rather than actively reducing the existing atmospheric CO2 concentration needed to effectively mitigate the greenhouse effect and address climate change in a timely manner. In contrast, negative carbon technology, which converts carbon dioxide into small molecules (e.g., methane, ethanol, etc.) that can be utilized to consume CO2 to ameliorate environmental hazards directly, is a key area of exploration for industry and academia at present.\ \r\n\ \r\nThe catalytic reduction of carbon dioxide is mainly divided into three mainstream technologies: thermal catalysis, photocatalysis, and electrocatalysis. Because thermal catalysis is energy-consuming and produces relatively low-end products, and photocatalysis yields low production with low yields, Professor Hung’s team focuses on and is devoted to electrocatalytic technology, which has a high conversion rate and a wide range of products. Currently, most electrocatalysts adopt relatively expensive metals such as copper and silver as catalysts. In contrast, the organic small molecule catalysts, which were not favored, unexpectedly attracted the research team’s attention at this time.\ \r\n\ \r\nThe research team found in the literature that nitrogen-containing small molecules have certain catalytic activity (i.e., the ability to promote the reaction) for the CO2 reduction reaction and theoretically confirmed that triazole molecules containing three nitrogen atoms have excellent catalytic performance. In particular, the amine group next to the triazole molecule is a nitrogen-containing basic functional group capable of efficiently adsorbing weakly acidic CO2. This functionality not only plays a critical role in initiating the entire conversion reaction, but also contributes to enhanced catalytic efficiency by promoting effective CO₂ activation and facilitating subsequent reaction steps. The team finally succeeded in reducing CO2 to methane after introducing water vapor (which provides hydrogen molecules).\ \r\n\ \r\nProf. Sung-Fu Hung leads a pioneering effort to convert CO₂ into methane using organic triazole molecules—marking the world’s first efficient, scalable negative-carbon technology with the potential to replace fossil fuels. (Photo credit: ZDunemployed Studio)\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Hung explained that methane, as a higher-end product of CO2 reduction, is more difficult to generate than primary products such as carbon monoxide, and methane is the main component of natural gas. Therefore, this is the first artificial technology worldwide to realize a highly efficient CO2 electrocatalytic reduction reaction with triazole organic small molecules and recycle CO2 to generate methane, which is of landmark significance in replacing fossil fuels. Professor Hung proudly said, “This is the first research that has the potential for industrialization, making the ‘impossible possible.’”

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Realizing Sustainable Carbon Cycle\ \r\n\ \r\nIn addition to the breakthrough in the catalyst, the research team also made significant progress in designing the electrocatalytic reactor. The conventional electrocatalytic reaction is carried out in an electrolysis cell, where CO2, an electrolyte, and an electrode are configured to facilitate the desired electrochemical processes. However, the solubility of CO2 in aqueous solution is only 5%, severely limiting the catalytic activity. Therefore, the team adopted two new types of reactors, a Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) and a flow reaction cell for improvement.\ \r\n\ \r\nThe research process involves directly feeding CO2 gas into one side of MEA and adding electrolytes to the other side, which solves the problem of low CO2 solubility on the one hand and increases the catalytic activity by 100 to 1000 times on the other hand. The research results show that the triazole organic small molecule catalyst can be stably operated in the MEA for 10 hours at a current of 10 amperes. The methane production rate reaches 23.0 millimoles (mmol) per hour, with a conversion rate (Faraday efficiency) of 52 ± 4%, relatively close to the industrialized mass production standard of 60%. In addition, by regulating the fed water vapor to carbon dioxide ratio, the plant can directly generate coal gas for human consumption, realizing a sustainable carbon cycle from CO2 to fuel.\ \r\n\ \r\nIt is worth mentioning that the area of MEA used by the research team has been expanded from 1 square centimeter, which is commonly used in general laboratories, to 80 square centimeters. In the future, if 10 MEAs are connected in series to form a stack module, the total output is expected to increase by 9 to 10 times, showing that this technology has the potential for industrialized application.\ \r\n\ \r\nThe success of this research is mostly due to the close collaboration of the international team. Professor Hung, Ying Wang and Ziyun Wang worked together at the University of Toronto in Canada. In this research, Professor Hung and Ying Wang were responsible for the catalysts, reactor planning and design, and in-situ observation of the catalytic reaction, while Ziyun Wang focused on the theoretical calculations and analysis of the reaction mechanism.\ \r\n\ \r\n“In addition to demonstrating the activity of small molecules, exploring the reaction mechanism is also important. The team used in-situ observation and isotope analysis to successfully record the key data of the interaction between CO2 and the catalyst. Then, the data was submitted to researchers in New Zealand for computation, leading to a thorough analysis of the whole catalytic reaction mechanism. This research process of linking the experimental end and theoretical end is more time-consuming than expected,” Professor Hung added.\ \r\n\ \r\n

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\r\nBy redesigning the reactor with Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) technology, Prof. Hung’s team boosted CO₂-to-methane conversion efficiency by up to 1000 times—paving the way for a scalable, sustainable carbon cycle and industrial application. (Photo credit: ZDunemployed Studio)\ \r\n\ \r\nAccelerating Carbon Footprint Elimination\ \r\n\ \r\nAs the time schedule of net-zero emissions by 2050 is approaching, issues such as carbon tax and carbon footprint are getting more and more attention from all walks of life, especially the chemical industry, which often emits a lot of CO2 in its processes, is under pressure of high carbon tax. Even the semiconductor industry, which is praised as “Taiwan’s silicon Shield,” uses a lot of electricity, keeping the carbon footprint high. The novel carbon-negative technology led and developed by NYCU will substantially assist in solving the carbon footprint problem.\ \r\n\ \r\nProfessor Hung pointed out that the chemical raw materials generated by the new technology, such as methane, ethanol, or acetic acid, can be directly utilized or sold at a profit by enterprises, and the carbon cycle formed by converting carbon dioxide into methane can also reduce carbon footprint and carbon tax payments. However, at this stage, Professor Hung believes that there are still many challenges to be overcome before the new carbon-negative technology can be formally applied on an industrial scale, including how to deal with the various impurities in the gases emitted by different industries so as to avoid affecting the performance of the reactors and catalysts, as well as how to interface the reactors with the existing plant systems.\ \r\n\ \r\nIn the future, the research team will focus on improving the conversion rate and conversion capacity, aiming to increase the catalytic activity to more than 1000 times the current level, attracting more industries’ interest and accelerating the technology implementation. At the same time, the team will continue to optimize the reactor design to solve the problems of flow balance between raw materials and products so as to avoid device design problems affecting the catalyst activity. The research team also plans to explore the hybrid design of organic molecules and metal catalysts to achieve a higher conversion rate and product diversity in the future.\ \r\n\ \r\n“Our ultimate vision is to bring CO2 emissions back to pre-industrial levels, so it is even more important to accelerate the development of carbon-negative technologies when global carbon emissions cannot be effectively reduced. This is the assistance that scientists can and must provide along the road to net-zero emissions and industrial transformation,” Professor Hung emphasized.\ \r\n\ \r\nApparently, a carbon reduction revolution that “turns stones into gold” is ready to be launched!

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","liaisonper":null,"liaisontel":null,"liaisonfax":null,"liaisonemail":null,"docs":[],"images":[{"fileurl":"https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1397397610360213504&init=Y","expFile":"cover image"}],"videos":[],"audios":[],"resources":[]},{"subject":"NYCU Vulpes Racing Team Goes at Full Throttle for First Race in Japan","dataClassName":null,"pubUnitName":null,"posterDate":"2025-06-05","updateDate":null,"detailContent":"

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NYCU’s NVR Vulpes Racing Team, Taiwan’s longest-running FSAE team, will debut its latest electric race car at FSAE Japan 2025, showcasing cross-disciplinary innovation, teamwork, and student-driven passion. (Photo credit: ZDunemployed Studio)

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By NYCU ELITE\ \r\n______

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In the 1980s, the Formula Society of Automotive Engineers (FSAE), which originated in the United States, gradually expanded to Europe, Australia, South America, Asia, and other regions and has now set up races in 18 countries, attracting more than 500 universities and over 800 teams to participate in the race every year. Winning an award in the FSAE will allow you to be recruited by a car manufacturer or a fleet to work in the industry; hence, renowned universities worldwide are actively organizing fleets to participate in the event.\ \r\n\ \r\nAmong the universities in Taiwan, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) first established the ‘NVR Vulpes Racing team’ (NVR team) in 2008, which has the most extended history among others. From then on, top universities such as National Taiwan University (NTU), National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST), National Taipei University of Technology (NTUT), National Tsing Hua University (NTHU), and National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) all organized their fleets one by one, leading to a growing trend among the students to build their cars.

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\ \r\nAs the longest-running FSAE team in Taiwan, NYCU’s NVR Vulpes Racing Team unveils its latest electric race car, the VR7.5, which is set to compete at FSAE Japan in September 2025​.\ \r\n\ \r\nAfter completing the first three generations of racing cars, the NVR team stagnated due to technical and financial problems. Only in 2019 would the new generation of team members relaunch the NVR Vulpes Racing team operation while actively designing and building the latest generation of racing cars and winning the first “Formula Student Taiwan (FST)” championship in 2021. In September 2025, the NVR Vulpes Racing team plans to participate in the FSAE Japan with its newly completed electric car VR7.5, hoping to outshine the formidable rivals worldwide and steal the show. \ \r\n\ \r\nHowever, FASE is not only a competition for car speed but also a trial of the fleet’s comprehensive management strength. Chu Wei Yang, the NVR Captain, said the organizer asked the participating universities to treat the fleet as a “company,” which not only demonstrates the vehicle design, performance, and the team’s ability to solve the technical problems in the field but also has to demonstrate to the judges the administrative skills of marketing and promoting, cost control and business planning, etc.\ \r\n\ \r\nNVR Team Captain Chu Wei Yang explains that FSAE is more than just a test of speed—it challenges teams to operate like a real company, evaluating not only vehicle performance but also marketing, cost control, and business planning.\ \r\n\ \r\nThink out of the box and move toward sustainable management\ \r\n\ \r\nFrom the design of the competition items, it is not difficult to understand the expectations and imagination of the automotive industry for the ability of potential professionals. To enable the team members to deeply understand and adapt to the culture of the automotive industry and to connect with the industry as soon as possible, “cross-disciplinary learning” has become the core spirit emphasized most by the fleet, and the team members are also encouraged to think out from the box of their disciplines and to venture into their areas of interest. Po-Chun Kuo, the team’s Chief Engineer (CE), shared, “My focus was on the technical aspects; however, I later realized that administrative affairs, such as fundraising, public relations, product producing, and sponsor reaching, are all related to the technology. Therefore, I need to acquire knowledge in this administrative area as well.”\ \r\n\ \r\n“In the workshop, there are students from the Department of Management Science working with hammers, also students from the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences learning to weld and draw design drawings, and students from the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Department of Electrical Engineering in charge of administration and clerical duties,” said by Yang. The scene described by him shows that “cross-disciplinary learning” is not a slogan but a daily routine in the NVR team. Even the drivers in charge of driving must also perform technical or administrative duties for the fleet. “Drivers must not just want to drive; they must know how their cars are made!” Yang emphasized.\ \r\n\ \r\nAlthough the fleet is actively implementing cross-disciplinary learning and encouraging team members to participate in administrative affairs, it is admittedly true that the “technical team,” which includes suspension, aerodynamics, transmission, software, vehicle frame, and electrical systems, is still the mainstay for fleet operation. To avoid the overall car building process overly relies on a small number of technicians, leading to delays in progress and even affecting administrative efficiency, under the leadership of the Team Manager, Yi Chin Hsieh, who is a student at the College of Management, the fleet tried to set up a “project manager” in each of the six technical groups to assist in progress control, cost control, and cross-group communication and coordination internally and to reach with sponsors externally, thus becoming the most considerable support for the technical groups.

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\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nYang pointed out that adding project managers for each technical group under the Captain, Chief Engineer, and Manager is a rare pioneering idea for domestic students’ formula fleets. After all, even in private companies, project managers are not a very popular position, but their function as “checks and balances” is extremely important. Besides, Yang and Kuo said in unison, “A project manager must not just press or ask questions; he or she has to understand the technology to come up with a solution.” This not only highlights once again that the core spirit of “cross-disciplinary learning” is indeed a practical necessity but also demonstrates the fleet’s mobility and determination to reform from an administrative perspective and move towards sustainable management after the team went through the crisis of stagnation.\ \r\n\ \r\nBurning passion and watering dreams with sweat\ \r\n\ \r\nNYCU is often jokingly called a “homework university,” implying the overwhelming pressure of NYCU’s schoolwork. In addition, the NVR team is a student club, so it is unavoidable for team members to change frequently due to graduation, schoolwork, and other factors. Therefore, “passion” is an indispensable “fuel” to support the fleet’s progress.\ \r\n\ \r\n“When I was at the club exhibition, new students would often ask, ‘Will the loading be heavy?’ and I always say, ‘Whether the loading is heavy depends on whether you have enough passion.’ If you are interested and passionate about racing cars, you will proactively learn welding and management, and you won’t think it is loading. Instead, you will think it is your own responsibility.” Yang believes that building a car is not always “fun”; there will inevitably be some moments of tedium or the need to fix problems back and forth. During the welding processes, he has burned several welding machines at once and has been burned and bled. “But this is my sense of accomplishment. I have burned my passion for this car, and I will always feel that this car is my treasure!”\ \r\n\ \r\nKuo recalled that the night before the launch of the 2025 VR7.5, nearly 20 team members stayed up late until 4 or 5 in the morning. to make sure that the new car could be successfully unveiled, and that some team members stayed up all night to edit the video. “Everyone drank several cans of refreshing beverages.” When the presentation was successfully completed on the showcase, a sense of accomplishment instantly replaced all the exhaustion, but he laughed and said, “Although tears were about to fall from my eyes, I wanted to sleep more than anything else!”\ \r\n\ \r\nBut it is not just passion that a student fleet burns; it is probably also the money. Participating in the upcoming FSAE race in Aichi-ken Japan will cost more than $1.2 million, just for the transportation fee of vehicles and equipment and registration fee, not including the nearly $4 million cost of building the cars. The team members have decided to pay for their own transportation and accommodation costs of about 35 thousand in advance to ensure and target a successful trip. After deducting the sponsorship amount from NYCU and sponsors, there is still a funding gap of more than a million dollars, and the team plans to raise money through fundraising platforms. “We are responsible for the race we want!” Yang said firmly.\ \r\n\ \r\n

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\r\nDriven by passion, the NVR Team works through sleepless nights and financial challenges to bring their dream car to life for FSAE Japan 2025.\ \r\n\ \r\nComrades in arms support each other to increase awareness of car building\ \r\n\ \r\nThe NVR team showed enthusiasm and tenacity, not only to win honors for themselves or their universities but also with the vision of promoting the car-building trend among Taiwanese students. Kuo said frankly that compared to NTUST and NTUT with automobile-related departments, or NTU and NTHU with strong backups from departments, professional faculty, and even funding, it has not been easy for the NVR team to make it all the way to this point with the self-reliant spirit of the team members. However, instead of saying that the fleets from other universities are rivals, they are more like “comrades in arms” who support each other.\ \r\n\ \r\n“When it comes to maintenance or tuning problems, other fleets are also willing to help, and they are also willing to observe during the car-building process.” Yang shared, “Last time, I burnt out my welding machine and had to go to NTHU to have it welded. Even when I went to an international competition field, everyone was willing to lend me a wrench or a screw. That is the best thing about student racing!” At present, all the student fleets in Taiwan have also formed a contact group called “Taiwan Grand Fleet” to share technical problems and the latest information with each other, which has had a considerable degree of influence on increasing the overall awareness of student car building in Taiwan in recent years.\ \r\n\ \r\nThe NVR team will push their hand-built race cars into the international competition field this September. Despite the significant funding gap, the busy schoolwork as usual, and the ever-present technical difficulties, every team member is convinced that no matter the final result, every drop of sweat and tear as the car races on the racetrack will have been worth it.\ \r\n\ \r\nSpecial thanks to NVR team instructor, Assistant Professor Shih-Sin Wei from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at NYCU, and all the crew members who participated in the video shoot.

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\r\n","liaisonper":null,"liaisontel":null,"liaisonfax":null,"liaisonemail":null,"docs":[],"images":[{"fileurl":"https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1380011797427261440&init=Y","expFile":"cover image"}],"videos":[],"audios":[],"resources":[]},{"subject":"NYCU's Cross-Disciplinary Course “Things We Learned from Animals” Explores the Bond Between Humans and Animals","dataClassName":null,"pubUnitName":null,"posterDate":"2025-04-04","updateDate":null,"detailContent":"

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Exploring Animal Healing: In the 'Things We Learned from Animals' course, students engage with therapy dogs, gaining insights into animal-assisted therapy and reflecting on the value of life.

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By Hsiu-Cheng Faina Chang\ \r\n______

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According to the "Humane Care of Laboratory Animals Annual Report 2022" released by the Ministry of Agriculture, the total number of laboratory animals used in Taiwan in 2022 exceeded 4.4 million. In our pursuit of excellence in research, have we ever considered the experiences of these laboratory animals when we make incisions? As humanity continually pushes the boundaries of knowledge, are we also losing touch with the essence of life? Reflecting on the significance of animals' existence and reevaluating the value of life could be an important topic within university education.\ \r\n\ \r\nIn the cross-disciplinary GE course ‘Things We Learned from Animals,’ offered jointly by National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), Taipei National University of the Arts (TNUA), and National Chengchi University (NCCU), animals are considered as a medium to enhance our understanding of life and establish connections across various fields of study. Animals are not only human companions and subjects of student learning but also invaluable guides in self-discovery. This course connects various fields with animals, allowing students to experience the healing power of animals firsthand. This leads them to view the impact of animals on humanity from different perspectives and deeply reflect on the value of life. \ \r\n\ \r\nThe Shared Vision of Three Universities: Animals from a Cross-Disciplinary Perspective\ \r\n\ \r\nThe course ‘Things We Learned from Animals’ originated from nearly two decades of academic collaboration among three universities. Reflecting on the initial design of the course, Professor Yi-Hsuan Lee from the Department of Physiology at NYCU, who was the Director of Academic Affairs at the time, remarked, "How to design a general education course that spans across three universities and caters to the interests of students from all three? Eventually, we found that 'animals' was the most resonant topic. The Directors of Academic Affairs at Taipei National University of the Arts (TNUA) and National Chengchi University (NCCU) fully supported the idea and even expressed a desire to attend the classes themselves." NYCU's professional background in medical and life sciences, TNUA's focus on arts education, and NCCU's strong foundation in the humanities and social sciences provide a unique interdisciplinary perspective to the course. Since its launch in 2022, the course has covered fields including life sciences, physiological medicine, cognitive psychology, philosophy, and performing arts, all with a humble and open attitude to understanding animals.

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\ \r\nThe 'Things We Learned from Animals' course brings together NYCU, TNUA, and NCCU, combining life sciences, arts, and humanities to deepen students’ understanding of the role animals play.\ \r\n\ \r\nFrom Theory to Emotion: The Heartfelt On-Site Experience of Animal Therapy\ \r\n\ \r\nThe icebreaker in the classroom has become one of the most eagerly anticipated parts of the course. When the therapy dogs take a lap around the classroom, randomly picking students to answer questions, this design helps students from different universities feel more at ease and encourages them to establish a connection through the animals. In addition, students can observe how therapy dogs respond to various clients, including those with special educational needs (SEN/SEND) and individuals in psychological counseling, further understanding the practical applications of animal-assisted therapy (AAT).\ \r\n\ \r\nStudents interact with therapy dogs during the icebreaker session, fostering connections across universities and gaining insight into animal-assisted therapy.

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\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nA teaching assistant shared that even the most serious students, during their interactions with the therapy dogs, couldn't help but smile, with some students even exclaiming, "I've never been this happy before!" Tian-Yi Chang, a junior in the Department of Civil Engineering at NYCU, interacted with therapy dogs during class and began to pay closer attention to the psychological needs of pets. She realized that pet behaviors often mirror their owners' emotional states, which led her to significantly change how she treats her pets. Yu-Cheng Lin, a freshman in the electrical engineering department, experienced his first close encounter with animals through this course. Afterward, he not only learned how to interact with animals but also began to reflect on whether he was suited for pet ownership.\ \r\n\ \r\nProf. Lee also shared an interesting experience: "Although the teaching assistant for this course volunteered, he was afraid of dogs. However, using the toy shovel to feed the therapy dog, he eventually gained the courage to pet a Chihuahua!" Grace Liu, the Animal-Assisted Therapist who led the session, recounted her most poignant experience. During one interaction with a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), she observed the child gradually moving closer to the therapy dog. At one point, the child even stepped into the dog's shoes to empathize with it. "The power of animal-assisted therapy may be much greater than we imagine," she smiled.\ \r\n\ \r\n\ \r\nOne teaching assistant overcame their fear through interactions with the therapy dogs, eventually gaining the courage to pet one by using a toy shovel to feed it.\ \r\n\ \r\nThis course emphasizes not only feeling the healing power of animal-assisted therapy but also guides students to reflect deeply on various ethical issues surrounding it. Animal-assisted therapy is a reciprocal relationship built on mutual respect and understanding. Questions such as, "How can we ensure the well-being of therapy dogs?" and "How do we prevent animals from being "objectified"? These questions urge students to consider animals' perspectives and deepen their respect for life. Furthermore, through interactions with animals, students learn how to face the challenges at different stages of life—whether it's interpersonal relationships, emotional management, or even issues of life and death—making this a profound life education.\ \r\n\ \r\nAt the end of the interview, Prof. Lee reflected deeply: "This course not only demonstrates the limitless possibilities of animal-assisted therapy but also highlights the students' growth and transformation through interactions with animals. Animals are not merely beings to be cared for; they are companions for the human soul. In this course, each student, through their communication with animals, plants the seed of respect for life." While animals' language may be difficult to fully understand, this kind of life education should continue to deepen, allowing more people to recognize the value of animals and learn how to coexist with all forms of life. After all, every living being in this world deserves to be treated with gentleness, and animals are the best teachers to help us learn this important lesson.\ \r\n\ \r\n

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\r\nProfessor Lee emphasizes that animals are not merely beings to care for but companions to the soul. Through their interactions, students develop a profound respect for life, deepening their understanding of animals' value and the importance of living in harmony with all forms of life.\ \r\n

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