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**Source**: https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/openData/news/list?module=headnews&mserno=ee9275dc-c7c0-4f8c-a7b3-d221e8d04bc4&type=xml&id=623
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<![CDATA[NYCU Team Develops High-Efficiency Distributed Propulsion VTOL UAV]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2026-03-04<![CDATA[<!-- Twitter Card --><meta name="twitter:card" content="summary\_large\_image"><meta name="twitter:site" content="@NYCU\_official"><meta name="twitter:title" content="NYCU Team Develops High-Efficiency Distributed Propulsion VTOL UAV"><meta name="twitter:description" content="A cross-disciplinary research team led by Professor Jen-Hui Chuang of the Department of Computer Science at NYCU, along with Professors Lua Kim Boon, Teng-Hu Cheng, and Wen-Hsiao Peng, won the 2025 "Future Tech Award" for their "High-Efficiency Distributed Electric Propulsion Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) UAV Technology.""><meta name="twitter:image" content="https://www.nycu.edu.tw/userfiles/nycuen/images/20260304113129830.png"><meta name="twitter:image:alt" content="NYCU Team Develops High-Efficiency Distributed Propulsion VTOL UAV"><!-- Open Graph (for X, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.) --><meta property="og:type" content="article"><meta property="og:title" content="NYCU Team Develops High-Efficiency Distributed Propulsion VTOL UAV"><meta property="og:description" content="A cross-disciplinary research team led by Professor Jen-Hui Chuang of the Department of Computer Science at NYCU, along with Professors Lua Kim Boon, Teng-Hu Cheng, and Wen-Hsiao Peng, won the 2025 "Future Tech Award" for their "High-Efficiency Distributed Electric Propulsion Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) UAV Technology.""><meta property="og:image" content="https://www.nycu.edu.tw/userfiles/nycuen/images/20260304113129830.png"><meta property="og:url" content="https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/view?module=headnews&id=552&serno=668380ff-1c52-430f-b4ce-17f21d35be06">
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="From left: Professors Wen-Hsiao Peng, Teng-Hu Cheng, Lua Kim Boon, and Jen-Hui Chuang." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20260304113129830.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>From left: Professors Wen-Hsiao Peng, Teng-Hu Cheng, Lua Kim Boon, and Jen-Hui Chuang.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>By <u><a href="https://www.cs.nycu.edu.tw/csauto/dashboard-backend/storage/attachments/Q4EPHpVj4XMY4vEKgSJHKBIpzIeXdpEZmVFs38Ox.pdf" title="NYCU CCS MAGAZINE"><span style="color:#3498db;">NYCU CCS MAGAZINE</span></a></u></strong></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">A cross-disciplinary research team led by Professor Jen-Hui Chuang of the Department of Computer Science at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), along with Professors Lua Kim Boon, Teng-Hu Cheng, and Wen-Hsiao Peng, won the 2025 "<strong>Future Tech Award" for their "High-Efficiency Distributed Electric Propulsion Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) UAV Technology</strong>."<br />
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This technology is a core output of the Ministry of Science and Technology's "Resilient Homeland – Smart Safety Environment and Disaster Prevention System Constructed with Smart UAVs" project. It not only enhances the UAV's endurance and stability but also opens up new possibilities for <strong>Urban Air Mobility (UAM)</strong> and disaster response applications.<br />
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<strong>Breaking Traditional Design Frameworks: Innovative Propulsion Technology Enhances Flight Efficiency</strong><br />
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The team broke through the design limitation of traditional Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) UAVs, which require two separate propulsion systems, by proposing a "Distributed Electric Propulsion (DEP)" architecture. The system combines controllable pitch propeller modules with a servo control mechanism, enabling a single platform to perform multi-mode flight, including takeoff, hovering, transition, and high-speed cruising. This significantly reduces structural weight, lowers drag, and improves energy efficiency. This innovation demonstrates Taiwan's independent R&D capabilities in high-level aerodynamic control.<br />
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In wind tunnel experiments and numerical simulations, the wake generated by the distributed propellers guides the airflow to closely adhere to the main wing surface, delaying boundary layer separation and suppressing stall, resulting in a more than three-fold increase in the lift coefficient. The team further optimized propeller size and configuration to improve the lift-to-drag ratio and flow field uniformity. The counter-rotating wingtip design weakens vortices and reduces induced drag, making the overall flight more stable and energy-efficient.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>AI Smart Control: Making UAVs Smarter and Safer</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In addition to structural innovation, the team incorporated an AI sensing and decision-making system, enabling the UAV to possess real-time environmental awareness and autonomous flight capabilities. The system can dynamically adjust the thrust direction and rotational speed distribution based on airflow changes and mission requirements to maintain a stable flight attitude, making it particularly suitable for sudden weather changes or complex terrain. Intelligent control allows the UAV to perform high-risk tasks in disaster sites or low-altitude urban environments, balancing safety and efficiency.<br />
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Modular design is another key feature. Each propulsion module can be independently controlled and quickly maintained, allowing for flexible configuration adjustments based on mission payload, giving it high expandability and cross-platform integration potential. The all-electric drive structure also boasts advantages such as low noise, zero emissions, and simple maintenance, aligning with global net-zero and green aviation development trends.</div>
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<div><strong>Multi-Domain Applications: From Smart Cities to Disaster Relief</strong><br />
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<div>This technology, with its advantages of high endurance, high stability, and multi-mode control, can be widely applied in fields such as Urban Air Mobility, disaster relief, and energy inspection.</div>
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<li>Urban Air Mobility (UAM): It can serve as a core vehicle for short-range shuttle services, air taxis, and low-altitude logistics, offering both low noise and high safety features.</li>
<li>Disaster Response: The system can autonomously identify mission requirements and quickly deploy to areas with disrupted traffic or difficult terrain to perform aerial photography, transportation, and communication tasks.</li>
<li>Inspections and Monitoring: This technology can also support smart agriculture and energy facility inspection, carrying sensors and AI edge computing modules for farmland monitoring, crop analysis, wind farm, and power tower inspection. Furthermore, it can combine GPS and visual navigation for high-efficiency patrol and material transport in remote areas and national defense monitoring missions, showcasing the potential for Taiwan's independent disaster prevention technology applications.</li>
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<div><strong>Patent Innovation Establishes Independent R&D Technical Advantage</strong><br />
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<div>This technology was granted an invention patent (Certificate No.: TWI890115B) by the Intellectual Property Office in July 2025, titled "Fixed-Wing UAV and its Propeller Assembly." The system uses a servo motor to drive a rod mechanism, axially rotating to adjust the propeller direction, automatically changing the thrust vector according to different flight modes. The propeller modules are distributed along the wing's leading edge and can instantaneously fine-tune their angle based on airflow conditions, providing both energy-saving and stability benefits. This innovative structure breaks the limitations of fixed-wing UAVs in VTOL and transition flight, laying the core foundation for the team's "Distributed Electric Propulsion" system<br />
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<div><strong>Cross-Disciplinary Integration: Building a Next-Generation Smart Flight Platform</strong><br />
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This team, integrating expertise from computer science, mechanical design, control systems, and artificial intelligence, showcases NYCU's R&D strength in cross-disciplinary innovation. The team's core philosophy is "to propel a green aviation future with intelligence," hoping to establish a practical technology platform for next-generation air mobility and disaster response applications through innovative distributed propulsion and AI decision-making systems.<br />
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<strong>From Research to Practice: Opening a New Chapter in Green Aviation</strong><br />
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Winning the "Future Tech Award" not only affirms NYCU's R&D achievements in smart aviation and AI applications but also symbolizes the campus's research energy moving towards practical application and international alignment. The technology provides a critical solution for next-generation smart air transport, and is expected to have a far-reaching impact in diverse fields such as urban traffic, disaster relief, energy monitoring, and sustainable development.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1478595875247755264&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU study finds simple abdominal massage eases constipation]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2026-02-05<![CDATA[<!-- Twitter Card -->
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The study confirms that various forms of abdominal massage can help promote bowel movements. (Image: AI-generated)" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20260205124913517.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>The study confirms that various forms of abdominal massage can help promote bowel movements. (Image: AI-generated)</em></span></span></div>
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<strong>Edited by Chance Lai</strong></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">After festive meals and long periods of sitting, many people experience an uncomfortable but common problem:<strong> constipation</strong>. New research from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), now published in the International Journal of Nursing Studies, suggests that a simple daily habit—regular abdominal massage—may be an effective, low-risk way to improve bowel function and reduce bloating.<br />
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<strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 100%;">Constipation as a widespread but overlooked health burden</strong><br />
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<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 100%;">Constipation affects an estimated 15% to 25% of adults in Taiwan. Among people aged 65 and older, roughly 40% live with chronic constipation, a condition that can significantly diminish quality of life.<br />
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A research team led by Li-Yin Chien, Dean of NYCU’s College of Nursing, working with doctoral researcher Shiou-Yun Huang, found that multiple forms of abdominal massage can help relieve symptoms. Whether performed by hand in a clockwise circular motion, through acupressure techniques, or using an electric massager, the interventions were associated with measurable improvement.<br />
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Their findings are based on a systematic review of international studies that compare massage approaches and evaluate outcomes such as bowel frequency, intestinal transit time, and symptom relief. The analysis concluded that abdominal massage can shorten the time food remains in the digestive tract and alleviate discomfort associated with bloating and difficult bowel movements.<br />
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The strongest effects were observed in functional constipation, followed by medication-induced constipation and constipation related to neurological bowel disorders.</span><br />
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<strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 100%;">A low-risk alternative to medication</strong><br />
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<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 100%;">Unlike laxatives or stool softeners, abdominal massage has no known adverse effects and can be safely performed at home. The researchers recommend approximately 15 minutes of daily massage for individuals with persistent constipation. For patients who rely heavily on medication, the technique offers a scientifically supported and accessible complementary option.<br />
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The study provides an evidence base for incorporating abdominal massage into both clinical care and home health routines. Chien said all three massage approaches demonstrated significant benefit, allowing individuals and caregivers to choose the most convenient method. For patients unable to take long-term medication, massage may serve as a safe and effective alternative.</span></div>
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Huang, now a lecturer in nursing at Asia University, added that the research can be translated into educational materials to help healthcare professionals teach patients and families practical self-care strategies. However, the team cautions that people who have undergone abdominal surgery, are pregnant, or are experiencing acute abdominal pain should consult a medical professional before attempting massage.<br />
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<strong>Bringing massage into clinical and home care</strong><br />
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The researchers report that their work supports the integration of abdominal massage into routine patient education and preventive care. Because the technique is simple and inexpensive, it can be adopted in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home settings alike.<br />
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By equipping patients and families with non-drug self-care tools, healthcare systems may reduce dependence on medication while improving daily comfort — an especially meaningful shift for aging populations managing multiple chronic conditions.<br />
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<strong>Aging societies and everyday solutions</strong><br />
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As Taiwan’s population ages and the prevalence of chronic diseases increases, identifying natural and safe approaches to support digestive health is an increasingly important public health priority.<br />
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The researchers report that their findings transform a simple, everyday action into an evidence-based tool for improving comfort and quality of life, illustrating how small, practical interventions can play a powerful role in modern healthcare.<br />
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<img alt="The study was conducted by Li-Yin Chien (right), Dean of the College of Nursing, and Shiou-Yun Huang (left), a doctoral researcher who is now a lecturer in nursing at Asia University." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20260205130045173.jpg" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>The study was conducted by Li-Yin Chien (right), Dean of the College of Nursing, and Shiou-Yun Huang (left), a doctoral researcher who is now a lecturer in nursing at Asia University.</em></span></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1468833945595416576&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU Study Reveals How Cancer Cells Learn Under Pressure to Evade Immunotherapy]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2026-01-13<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The findings show that prolonged targeted therapy in patients with head and neck cancer can heighten tumor alertness, reducing the effectiveness of subsequent immunotherapy. (Image: positron emission tomography scan of a patient with head and neck cancer.)" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20260114000645827.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The findings show that prolonged targeted therapy in patients with head and neck cancer can heighten tumor alertness, reducing the effectiveness of subsequent immunotherapy.<br />
(Image: positron emission tomography scan of a patient with head and neck cancer.)</span></em></span></div>
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<strong>Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Immunotherapy has been hailed as a breakthrough in cancer treatment, earning global recognition with the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. But new research from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) reveals a sobering reality: under sustained treatment pressure, cancer cells do not simply weaken — they adapt, learn, and fight back.<br />
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A research team from the Institute of Clinical Medicine at NYCU has found that cancer cells exposed to long-term targeted therapy can develop heightened “stress resilience,” enabling them to evade subsequent immunotherapy. The findings help explain why many patients with head and neck cancer fail to achieve the expected outcomes when immunotherapy is administered after prolonged targeted treatment. The study, titled “<strong><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12711663/" title="Therapeutic stress triggers tumor STAT1 acetylation to disarm immunotherapy"><span style="color:#3498db;"><u>Therapeutic stress triggers tumor STAT1 acetylation to disarm immunotherapy</u></span></a></strong>,” was published in <em>Cell Reports Medicine</em>.
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Members of the research team (from left): Kuan-Chen Lai, a graduate student at the Institute of Clinical Medicine; Professor Muh-Hwa Yang; and Dr. Po-Hsien Chiu." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20260114001146115.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Members of the research team (from left): Kuan-Chen Lai, a graduate student at the Institute of Clinical Medicine; Professor Muh-Hwa Yang; and Dr. Po-Hsien Chiu.</span></em></span><br />
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<strong>How treatment pressure reshapes the tumor microenvironment</strong><br />
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By closely analyzing tumor behavior under extended targeted therapy, the researchers uncovered a critical mechanism behind immunotherapy resistance. Rather than remaining vulnerable, cancer cells respond to prolonged drug pressure by rapidly remodeling the tumor microenvironment. In some cases, they actively shut down signaling pathways that would normally activate immune cells, effectively rendering immunotherapy ineffective.<br />
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At the core of this adaptive response is the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). When targeted drugs chronically suppress tumors, they begin to secrete large amounts of TNF-α, which interferes with STAT1 — a key regulator that activates interferon-driven anti-tumor genes. This disruption leads to a phenomenon known as “interferon-gamma fatigue,” in which immune cells gradually lose their ability to recognize and attack cancer cells.<br />
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<strong>A second escape route: silencing immune cells directly</strong><br />
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In a separate but complementary study published in Advanced Science, the NYCU team collaborated with Academia Sinica Academician Mien-Chie Hung to uncover another immune-evasion strategy used by cancer cells. The researchers identified RNase1, an enzyme secreted by tumors, that directly suppresses the activity of T cells and other immune cells.</div>
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This mechanism was observed across multiple cancer types — including breast cancer, liver cancer, and head and neck cancer — suggesting that RNase1 is a cross-cancer immune escape factor with broad clinical significance.<br />
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<strong>Cancer cells that adapt, not surrender</strong><br />
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Taken together, the two studies paint a clear picture of cancer as a highly adaptive system. Under therapeutic pressure, cancer cells do not merely passively resist treatment. Instead, they actively reprogram immune signaling pathways, secrete proteins that weaken immune attacks, and learn how to survive in increasingly hostile environments.<br />
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“Cancer cells grow under pressure,” the researchers noted, demonstrating an evolutionary resilience that challenges current treatment strategies.<br />
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<strong>Turning resistance into clinical insight</strong><br />
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Despite the sobering findings, the research also offers a path forward. Understanding how tumors adapt under treatment pressure provides clinicians with valuable guidance for optimizing treatment sequencing, combination therapies, and biomarker-driven decision-making.<br />
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“Immunotherapy represents a major milestone in cancer treatment, but overcoming resistance remains one of the greatest clinical challenges,” said Professor Muh-Hwa Yang of NYCU, a senior author of the studies. “By understanding how tumors adapt under therapeutic stress, we may be able to use biomarkers to guide treatment order and combination strategies — ultimately improving the success rate of immunotherapy.”<br />
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The findings underscore the importance of viewing cancer treatment not as a single intervention, but as a dynamic process — one in which timing, sequencing, and biological context may determine success or failure.<br />
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<img alt="STAT1 plays a critical role in immunotherapy efficacy, and its acetylation status may serve as an important biomarker for predicting immunotherapy response." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20260114000911387.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>STAT1 plays a critical role in immunotherapy efficacy, and its acetylation status may serve as an important biomarker for predicting immunotherapy response.</em></span></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1460667992076455936&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU Study Reveals Real-Name Users May Be More Likely to Commit Online Exclusion]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-12-19<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU Study Reveals Real-Name Users May Be More Likely to Commit Online Exclusion" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251219100813375.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Photo credit: Getty Images</em></span></span></div>
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<strong>Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Is anonymous trolling really the main culprit of online bullying? New research from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) suggests the answer is more complicated. A research team at NYCU’s Institute of Education has found that <strong>exclusionary cyberbullying does not only occur in anonymous settings</strong>. In fact, individuals using their real names may be even more likely to exclude others in online interactions, overturning long-held public assumptions that anonymity is what “makes people cruel.”<br />
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<strong>Real Names Don’t Stop Cyberbullying</strong><br />
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Led by Professor Yih-Lan Liu, the research team observed common exclusion-based forms of online aggression — such as removing members from group chats, blocking users, or deliberately ignoring others. These behaviors were especially prevalent among individuals exhibiting high levels of “Dark Triad” personality traits, which in psychology are associated with narcissism, manipulative tendencies, impulsivity, and low empathy.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Yih-Lan Liu of the Institute of Education presents research showing that online bullying can occur even without anonymity." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251219101020105.png" /><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Yih-Lan Liu of the Institute of Education presents research showing that online bullying can occur even without anonymity.</span></span></em><br />
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The study recruited 115 adult participants to join LINE discussion groups as part of a social interaction simulation. By introducing controlled conflicts into the discussions, the research team observed which participants were most likely to engage in exclusionary behavior during online interactions.<br />
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Strikingly, the study revealed that individuals high in Dark Triad traits tended to avoid open verbal arguments and instead opted for “direct exclusion”—such as calling for votes to remove a member from the chat simply because of disagreement. Even more unexpected: these exclusion behaviors appeared more frequently under real-name conditions, demonstrating that online aggression does not require anonymity.</div>
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<img alt="Dr. Cheng-Yan Wang presents findings on the developmental trajectories and psychological factors related to bullying and aggressive behaviors." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251219101239989.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Dr. Cheng-Yan Wang presents findings on the developmental trajectories and psychological factors related to bullying and aggressive behaviors.</em></span></span><br />
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<strong>Beyond Identity Checks: Designing Safer Online Platforms</strong><br />
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The research team notes that some individuals continue to behave as if they are “unseen” online even when identified by real names, suggesting that the sense of anonymity can function as a psychological driver rather than being imposed solely by platform settings.<br />
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The findings demonstrate that online exclusion arises from an interaction between personality traits and situational factors, rather than anonymity alone. Professor Liu emphasized that real-name policies alone are insufficient to suppress cyberbullying, urging platforms to strengthen behavior-detection systems, establish transparent group-management rules, and promote user education to enhance online safety.<br />
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“This research reminds us that ensuring respectful online interaction requires more than authentic identity verification,” Liu said. “Understanding individual differences — and designing systems that anticipate them — is key to building healthier digital communities.”<br />
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<img alt="Group photo of the research team." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251219102636100.png" /></div>
<div><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Group photo of the research team.</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1451397194388082688&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU and TVGH Announce New Asian Guidelines Lowering Sarcopenia Screening Age to 50]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-12-04<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU and Taipei Veterans General Hospital co-hosted a press conference to announce updated Asian diagnostic guidelines—from “sarcopenia” to “muscle health”—that lower the recommended screening age to 50." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251204111853175.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">NYCU and Taipei Veterans General Hospital co-hosted a press conference to announce updated Asian diagnostic guidelines—from “sarcopenia” to “muscle health”—that lower the recommended screening age to 50.</span></span></em></div>
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<strong>By Taipei Veterans General Hospital<br />
Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Nearly 40% of older adults in Asia face compromised quality of life due to sarcopenia, a progressive loss of muscle strength and mass. Now, a landmark multi-nation study has revealed that muscle deterioration in Asian populations begins far earlier than previously believed—prompting experts to recommend moving routine screening from age 65 to 50. The new consensus, led by Professor Liang-Kung Chen, Superintendent of Taipei City Guandu Hospital and Director of the Center for Healthy Longevity and Aging Sciences at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), was published this year in the prestigious journal <em>Nature Aging</em>.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="A clinician conducts a handgrip strength test, one of the key indicators used to assess muscle function in the updated Asian sarcopenia guidelines." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251204111728160.png" /><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">A clinician conducts a handgrip strength test, one of the key indicators used to assess muscle function in the updated Asian sarcopenia guidelines.</span></span></em><br />
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At a press briefing, Director Chen explained that the findings are based on eight large-scale cohort studies across Japan, Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and other regions, tracking nearly 35,000 individuals over many years. The Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia integrated these datasets to build a region-specific evidence base that reflects the unique body composition and aging patterns of Asian populations.<br />
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<strong>Earlier, Faster, and Different: What the Data Shows</strong><br />
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Skeletal muscle loss has long been known as a hallmark of aging. Past global studies estimated that adults lose up to 40% of muscle mass between ages 20 and 70, with an annual decline of 1.4–2.5% after age 60. But the new Asia-focused analysis reveals significant differences:</div>
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<li class="ed\_pic\_full">Muscle strength declines sharply beginning at age 45, with a second major dip around age 70.</li>
<li class="ed\_pic\_full">Muscle mass begins to decline significantly at age 55, about a decade earlier than Western-based assumptions suggest.</li>
<li class="ed\_pic\_full">Men experience a more pronounced midlife decline compared with men of African or European descent; women begin with lower muscle mass but experience a slower rate of decline.</li>
<li class="ed\_pic\_full">Stronger midlife muscle performance can delay deterioration by up to 10 years—for instance, men with handgrip strength of 55 kg or above at age 50 show substantially slower decline.</li>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full">These patterns confirm that Western diagnostic thresholds are poorly suited for Asian populations and that early detection is essential.</div>
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<strong>A New Consensus for Asia—and a Call to Act Earlier</strong><br />
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Director Chen emphasized that waiting for both muscle strength and mass to “fall off a cliff” before intervening leads to limited gains, greater frustration, and poorer patient outcomes. The updated Asian diagnostic consensus introduces several significant changes:</div>
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<li>Recommended screening age lowered from 65 to 50.</li>
<li>Diagnosis now requires both low muscle mass and low muscle strength, replacing older criteria that relied heavily on physical performance tests.</li>
<li>Simplified assessment procedures, reducing the need for walking-speed or repeated chair-stand tests.</li>
<li>Integration with the WHO’s <strong>Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE)</strong> framework, aligning Asia with global healthy-aging strategies.</li>
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<strong>From Muscle Health to Whole-Body Health</strong><br />
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Recent scientific advances have shown that skeletal muscle functions as the body’s largest endocrine organ, influencing cardiovascular metabolism, brain function, bone health, adipose regulation, and immune responses. With these broader systemic links in mind, the new consensus emphasizes “muscle health enhancement” beginning in midlife—not only to prevent disability and frailty in later years but also to promote long-term healthy longevity.<br />
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<img alt="Director Liang-Kung Chen emphasized that “this is not just about preventing falls in old age,” noting that muscle health in one’s 40s and 50s shapes metabolic well-being, cognitive function, and overall resilience for decades to come." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251204112141876.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Director Liang-Kung Chen emphasized that “this is not just about preventing falls in old age,” noting that muscle health in one’s 40s and 50s shapes metabolic well-being, cognitive function, and overall resilience for decades to come.</em></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:#000000;">As Asia rapidly transitions into a super-aged society, the updated guidelines offer a unified scientific roadmap to help governments, hospitals, and communities strengthen early intervention, develop preventive programs, and support healthy aging from midlife onward.</span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Wei-Cheng Lo (center) meets in person for the first time with 2013 Nobel Chemistry Laureate Professor Arieh Warshel (left) to discuss their collaboration." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251125140656562.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Wei-Cheng Lo (center) meets in person for the first time with 2013 Nobel Chemistry Laureate Professor Arieh Warshel (left) to discuss their collaboration.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Accurately predicting and comparing protein structures is one of the most critical challenges in modern biotechnology, shaping how scientists understand drug–target interactions and develop new therapeutics. Now, researchers at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) have achieved a breakthrough—one that addresses the exploding volume of global protein data and could transform next-generation drug discovery.<br />
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Associate Professor Wei-Cheng Lo from NYCU’s Department of Biological Science and Technology, in collaboration with <strong>Nobel Laureate in Chemistry Arieh Warshel</strong>, has developed <strong>SARST2</strong>, a high-performance algorithm capable of rapidly searching and comparing protein structures across databases containing hundreds of millions of entries. The study, titled “<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-63757-9" title="SARST2: High-throughput and resource-efficient protein structure alignment against massive databases"><span style="color:#3498db;"><u><em>SARST2: High-throughput and resource-efficient protein structure alignment against massive databases</em></u></span></a>,” was recently published in <em>Nature Communications</em>.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Associate Professor Wei-Cheng Lo discusses SARST2 performance results with his students." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251125140855083.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Associate Professor Wei-Cheng</em></span></span><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em> Lo discusses SARST2 performance results with his students.</em></span></span><br />
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<strong>A New Solution to the AlphaFold Data Explosion</strong><br />
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“The function of a protein is governed by its three-dimensional structure,” Lo explained. “Accurately predicting and comparing these structures has long been a central question in biological science.”<br />
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When Google DeepMind’s AlphaFold2 revolutionized structure prediction in 2020, researchers finally had a powerful tool for estimating protein shapes from amino-acid sequences. But the breakthrough created an unexpected problem:<br />
AlphaFold’s large-scale predictions triggered a thousandfold surge in the availability of protein structures, placing unprecedented computational pressure on global bioinformatics research.<br />
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The scientific community urgently needed a next-generation algorithm—one capable of ultra-fast, large-scale structure comparison.<br />
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SARST2 answers those needs.<br />
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Lo’s team combined artificial intelligence with structural computing techniques to build an algorithm that can scan and compare vast structural datasets hundreds to tens of thousands of times faster than previous tools, while using significantly less memory and disk space. Despite its efficiency, SARST2 performs on par with the latest international algorithms.</div>
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<strong>A Unique Collaboration with a Nobel Laureate</strong><br />
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Nobel Chemistry Prize winner Arieh Warshel, a pioneer of computational enzymology and mentor to NYCU’s former College of Engineering and Biotechnology dean, Professor Cheng-Gang Huang, played a direct role in the project.<br />
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Lo, who was introduced to computational biology through Huang, still refers to Warshel with respect as his academic “grand-mentor.” After sharing the early algorithm concept with Warshel in 2022, Lo received strong encouragement—and soon, the NYCU team began holding monthly online meetings with the Nobel Laureate.<br />
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The collaboration not only strengthened the research, Lo said, but also fulfilled a personal mission:<br />
“I have always hoped to train students who can become future leaders. Allowing them to learn directly from a Nobel Prize master dramatically widens their global perspective and academic sensitivity.”<br />
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<strong>World-Class Output Built with Limited Resources</strong><br />
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Despite the global scale of the problem, Lo emphasized that his team worked under extremely modest conditions.<br />
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“We’re like a group of people wearing straw sandals,” he joked. “We compete with international teams that have massive servers and high-end data centers—yet we do it using home-assembled desktop PCs and a local-brand cooling fan with a broken casing.”<br />
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Even so, the team produced results strong enough for Nature Communications—a testament to Taiwan’s resilience and computational biology talent.<br />
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The achievement also caught the attention of industry partners. Altos Computing Inc., a subsidiary of Acer Group, stepped forward to provide high-performance Altos AI servers, helping the team establish a stable and efficient remote computing environment for future development.<br />
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NYCU and Altos hope to accelerate collaborative innovation in quantum bioinformatics, biomedical big-data analytics, and protein-based drug discovery—strengthening Taiwan’s global competitiveness in information science, biotechnology, and medicine.<br />
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<img alt="Group photo of the Engineering and Computational Biology Laboratory team." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251125141346275.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Group photo of the Engineering and Computational Biology Laboratory team.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="TTBK2 and CEP164 form liquid-like condensates to promote cilia growth (schematic illustration)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251106110554270.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em>TTBK2 and CEP164 form liquid-like condensates to promote cilia growth (schematic illustration).</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) researchers have unveiled how cells build their microscopic “antenna” — a slender, hair-like structure known as the primary cilium, which plays a crucial role in sensing the environment. The study reveals that two key proteins responsible for cilia formation can fuse, much like liquid droplets, through a process called liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS), offering new insights into cellular communication and potential treatments for ciliopathies. The study, titled “<a href="https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(25)00581-9?uuid=uuid%3A0b142c9a-c917-4493-89fa-f532dc3a0098" title="Phase separation of TTBK2 and CEP164 is necessary for ciliogenesis"><span style="color:#3498db;"><u><em>Phase separation of TTBK2 and CEP164 is necessary for ciliogenesis</em></u></span></a>,” was published in <em>Cell Reports</em>.<br />
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<strong>A Microscopic Antenna That Senses the World</strong><br />
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The primary cilium, hundreds of times thinner than a human hair, acts as a cell’s radar. When damaged, cells lose their ability to perceive external signals, leading to developmental disorders such as microcephaly and other genetic diseases. While scientists have long known that specific cellular structures and proteins are required for cilia assembly, the mechanism by which certain proteins interact to trigger the process has remained a mystery — until now.<br />
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Led by Professor Won-Jing Wang and Jie-rong Huang from NYCU’s Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the research team used human retinal pigment epithelial cells to investigate how two cilia-associated proteins, TTBK2 and CEP164, interact. They discovered that these proteins do not bind like puzzle pieces or “lock and key” models, which are typical of structured proteins. Instead, they join through LLPS — a biochemical phenomenon where proteins with intrinsically disordered regions attract each other via electrostatic forces to form liquid-like condensates.<br />
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<strong>LLPS: A Paradigm Shift in Molecular Biology</strong><br />
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“Liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) has only recently gained widespread attention,” said Prof. Huang. “Scientists used to believe that only structured regions of proteins could interact. We now know that even disordered regions can combine through this liquid droplet behavior, redefining how we understand protein organization in cells.”</div>
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Prof. Wang added, “Cilia are fascinating organelles. Some types, like the primary cilium, act as sensory antennas — such as those found on retinal cells — while others, like motile cilia, help move cells or fluids, as seen in sperm tails and respiratory tracts. Our discovery provides the first molecular evidence that protein phase separation drives cilia formation.”<br />
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<strong>Implications for Neurological and Genetic Disorders</strong><br />
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Mutations in the TTBK2 gene are known to cause neurodegenerative conditions such as spinocerebellar ataxia, a form of cerebellar degeneration. The NYCU team’s discovery sheds light on how abnormal phase separation may disrupt cilia assembly, opening a potential pathway toward developing therapeutic strategies for ciliopathies and related diseases.<br />
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This groundbreaking finding not only deepens our understanding of how cells construct their sensory machinery but also highlights the intricate beauty of biological self-organization — where even shapeless molecules can come together to build life’s most delicate structures.<br />
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<img alt="Professors Jie-rong Huang (right) and Won-Jing Wang from the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at NYCU." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251106110936518.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professors Jie-rong Huang (right) and Won-Jing Wang from the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at NYCU.</em></span></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1435828710996447232&init=Ycover imagehttps://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1435832171389521920&init=YComparative imaging of CEP164 localization at the centriole. The left panel shows abundant CEP164 accumulation at the distal end of the centriole, promoting cilia formation.<![CDATA[NYCU-Led Interdisciplinary Study Identifies Hesperetin as a Cardioprotective Agent That Preserves Doxorubicin’s Anti-Tumor Effect]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-10-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Group photo of the research team. Front row: Prof. Shu-Ling Fu (left) from the Institute of Traditional Medicine and Prof. Ting-Fen Tsai (right) from the DLSIGS." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251027154352529.jpg" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Group photo of the research team. Front row: Prof. Shu-Ling Fu (left) from the Institute of Traditional Medicine and Prof. Ting-Fen Tsai (right) from the DLSIGS.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">An estimated 300,000 to 1.2 million cancer survivors worldwide who were treated with the chemotherapy drug Doxorubicin—nicknamed “Red Berry” for its deep red hue—experience varying degrees of chronic heart failure after overcoming cancer. In a groundbreaking interdisciplinary study, researchers from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), the National Health Research Institutes (NHRI), and Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital have identified a promising solution: <strong>hesperetin</strong>, a natural flavonoid extracted from citrus peel.<br />
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Their findings, published in the August 2025 issue of <em>Redox Biology</em> under the title “<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40876442/" title="Activation of CISD2 as a Protective Strategy Against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity,"><span style="color:#3498db;"><u><em>Activation of CISD2 as a Protective Strategy Against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity,</em></u></span></a>” suggest that hesperetin may counteract Doxorubicin’s cardiotoxic effects without compromising its anti-tumor potency.<br />
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<strong>Doxorubicin</strong> has been a cornerstone in the treatment of breast cancer, lymphoma, leukemia, and ovarian cancer for over five decades. However, its well-known cardiotoxicity presents a long-standing clinical dilemma. While one FDA-approved cardioprotective drug exists, it also reduces Doxorubicin’s cancer-killing efficacy, increasing the risk of recurrence.<br />
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The NYCU-led team discovered that Doxorubicin suppresses the expression of the longevity-associated gene <strong>CISD2</strong> in cardiac cells. This suppression disrupts mitochondrial balance and calcium regulation, impairing heart rhythm and contraction. In contrast, <strong>hesperetin reactivates CISD2</strong>, protecting cardiac cells from damage.<br />
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<strong>From Serendipity to Breakthrough: A Dual Benefit for the Heart and Tumor Control</strong><br />
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Remarkably, in animal models, hesperetin not only improved heart function in tumor-bearing mice treated with Doxorubicin but also reduced tumor size—highlighting that it does not blunt Doxorubicin’s anticancer efficacy. The cardioprotective effects of hesperetin were further validated using human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cardiomyocytes provided by Stanford University, reinforcing its potential for clinical application.<br />
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The idea for this study was sparked by a casual conversation between Prof. Shu-Ling Fu of NYCU’s Institute of Traditional Medicine and Distinguished Prof. Ting-Fen Tsai of the Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences (DLSIGS).<br />
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Prof. Fu, who had been searching for natural agents to mitigate chemotherapy-induced side effects, learned that Doxorubicin suppresses CISD2. Prof. Tsai’s team had already identified hesperetin as a CISD2 activator, leading to an interdisciplinary collaboration.<br />
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Prof. Tsai noted that CISD2 levels decline with age, and her earlier research had confirmed its vital role in maintaining heart function. She emphasized that hesperetin is not the same as hesperidin, a related compound found in citrus peels. Hesperidin has poor bioavailability and must be metabolized by gut probiotics to become hesperetin—the active form that promotes CISD2.</div>
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Simply eating citrus peel, she cautioned, won’t provide sufficient hesperetin. She envisions future applications in which probiotics are used to produce hesperetin as a functional food to counteract chemotherapy-related cardiotoxicity.<br />
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<strong>Solving a Puzzle with Multidisciplinary Pieces</strong><br />
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Co-first authors of the study include Dr. Yi-Ju Chou from NHRI’s Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine and Dr. Chi-Hsiao Yeh, cardiovascular surgeon and vice superintendent of Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital.<br />
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Dr. Yeh explained that Doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity is one of the most challenging clinical side effects. Approximately 5–9% of patients develop significant heart failure or cardiomyopathy after treatment. Long-term follow-ups show that 4–10% of patients experience chronic heart failure within a decade of cancer remission.<br />
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“While these survivors have conquered cancer,” said Dr. Yeh, “they may face progressive cardiac decline years later. If hesperetin can protect the heart without impairing Doxorubicin’s anti-cancer action, it could revolutionize how we approach chemotherapy—making it life-saving without being heartbreaking.”<br />
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<strong>Research Collaborators</strong><br />
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In addition to NYCU, NHRI, and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, this research involved contributions from:</div>
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<li class="ed\_pic\_full">Chang Gung University</li>
<li class="ed\_pic\_full">National Cheng Kung University</li>
<li class="ed\_pic\_full">Academia Sinica’s Institute of Biomedical Sciences</li>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Left: Cardiac cells of a mouse treated with Doxorubicin, showing dark canyon-like damage areas. Right: After hesperetin treatment, the damaged regions begin to recover." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251027153915952.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Left: Cardiac cells of a mouse treated with Doxorubicin, showing dark canyon-like damage areas. Right: After hesperetin treatment, the damaged regions begin to recover.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The research team, from left to right: Yue-Ru Li, Prof. Jin-Wu Tsai, Prof. Won-Jing Wang, Yu-Wen Cheng, and I-Hsuan Lin." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251014144018270.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>The research team, from left to right: Yue-Ru Li, Prof. Jin-Wu Tsai, Prof. Won-Jing Wang, Yu-Wen Cheng, and I-Hsuan Lin.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: justify; color: var(--bs-body-color); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">In a breakthrough that could change the future of pediatric brain cancer therapy, researchers at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) have identified a critical molecular mechanism that drives the development of medulloblastoma—the most common malignant brain tumor in children.<br />
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The findings, published in <em>Cell Death & Differentiation</em>, pave the way for new precision therapies that may spare young patients from the severe side effects of current treatments.</span><br />
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<strong>Understanding the Roots of Brain Tumors</strong><br />
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Medulloblastoma originates in the cerebellum—the brain region that coordinates movement and balance—and is closely linked to developmental errors. A key player in this process is a population of cells called granule neuron progenitors (GNPs), which must proliferate and differentiate with high precision during early brain development. These cells rely on tiny, antenna-like structures on their surface—primary cilia—to receive growth signals from their environment.<br />
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<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:#000000;">A research team led by Prof. Won-Jing Wang (Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology) and Prof. Jin-Wu Tsai (Institute of Neuroscience) at NYCU has now uncovered how two key genes—TTBK2 and HUWE1—work together to regulate this ciliary signaling process. Using both mouse and zebrafish models, the study is the first to establish their central role in both normal cerebellar development and tumor formation.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>The Antenna Keepers: TTBK2 and HUWE1</strong><br />
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The team found that TTBK2 acts as a “ciliary guardian”, maintaining the structure and function of primary cilia in GNPs to ensure they continue receiving signals that promote proliferation. Once these cells complete their growth phase, HUWE1 acts as a molecular switch, degrading TTBK2 and dismantling the cilia—thereby prompting the cells to differentiate into mature neurons.</span></span></div>
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This dynamic balance between TTBK2 and HUWE1 is essential for healthy brain development. But in medulloblastoma, the system breaks down. TTBK2 fails to degrade, leading to persistent cilia, unchecked GNP proliferation, and ultimately tumor formation.<br />
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<strong>A Promising Therapeutic Target</strong><br />
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Crucially, the researchers demonstrated that suppressing TTBK2 not only eliminates the cilia on tumor cells—reducing their ability to receive growth signals—but also significantly curbs tumor growth. These results identify TTBK2 as a promising new therapeutic target for medulloblastoma.<br />
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“Brain cancer remains one of the most challenging diseases in medicine,” said Prof. Jin-Wu Tsai. “While current therapies such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy can prolong survival, they often come with serious long-term consequences like cognitive impairments or secondary cancers. Our study shows that precise disruption of tumor growth mechanisms could lead to safer, more effective treatments.”<br />
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Prof. Won-Jing Wang added, “Scientists once considered primary cilia to be evolutionary remnants without real function. But it turns out they act like true antennas—critical for how cells interpret their environment. Our findings highlight not only the importance of cilia in brain development, but also their potential role in cancer and drug resistance. This opens up an entirely new direction for brain tumor precision medicine.”<br />
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<img alt="The research team discovered that SHH signaling protects a protein called TTBK2, allowing it to remain on the cell’s primary cilium and promote neuronal growth. However, in brain tumors, this mechanism is hijacked to accelerate tumor progression. The study suggests that inhibiting TTBK2 could lead to new therapeutic strategies for SHH-subtype medulloblastoma." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251014144400474.jpg" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The research team discovered that SHH signaling protects a protein called TTBK2, allowing it to remain on the cell’s primary cilium and promote neuronal growth. However, in brain tumors, this mechanism is hijacked to accelerate tumor progression. The study suggests that inhibiting TTBK2 could lead to new therapeutic strategies for SHH-subtype medulloblastoma.</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1427548152994467840&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU Neuroscientists Illuminate the Brain’s Hidden “Star Map” of Neural Activity]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-10-08<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Associate Professors Tsai-Wen Chen (right) and Bei-Jung Lin of the Institute of Neuroscience, NYCU" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251009093625265.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Associate Professors Tsai-Wen Chen (right) and Bei-Jung Lin of the Institute of Neuroscience, NYCU</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Researchers at the Institute of Neuroscience, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), have developed a groundbreaking live imaging technology that can capture the electrical activity of neurons with unprecedented precision—an achievement recently published in Nature Methods under the title <em><strong><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41592-025-02692-5" title="“Imaging neuronal voltage beyond the scattering limit."><span style="color:#0033a0;">“Imaging neuronal voltage beyond the scattering limit.</span></a></strong>”</em><br />
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Much like pinpointing individual stars in a vast galaxy, this innovation overcomes one of neuroscience’s most significant observational barriers, marking a key advance in understanding how the brain truly works.<br />
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<strong>Capturing the Brain’s Electrical Universe</strong><br />
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Our sensations, thoughts, and memories arise from lightning-fast electrical signals transmitted between neurons. Yet these signals often occur deep within the brain and vanish in milliseconds, making them nearly impossible to observe directly. Traditional optical imaging techniques struggle with light scattering, resulting in blurry halos rather than clear visualizations of neuronal activity.<br />
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Associate Professors Tsai-Wen Chen and Bei-Jung Lin addressed this challenge by utilizing voltage-sensitive fluorescent molecules to monitor subtle fluctuations in neuronal membrane potential. They discovered that while neural signals may overlap spatially, only a few neurons fire at any given moment. By treating these sparse flashes of electrical activity as positional clues—much like astronomers mapping the flicker of distant stars—the team achieved a new level of imaging clarity.<br />
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<strong>A New Era of “Activity Localization Imaging”</strong><br />
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Their technique, termed Activity Localization Imaging (ALI), enabled the researchers to observe hippocampal neurons in live mice and pinpoint the exact coordinates of each neuronal discharge. By compiling tens of thousands of such events, they constructed a high-resolution “map” of neural activity.<br />
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“It’s like finding each shining star in the vast galaxy of the brain,” said Prof. Chen.<br />
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Last year, the same team utilized an earlier version of this technology to demonstrate that certain inhibitory neurons tend to fire in conjunction with specific groups of cells—a phenomenon reminiscent of social “friend groups” within the brain’s neural network. <a href="https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/view?module=headnews&id=552&serno=3cafb575-8fbd-4789-b152-576e138280de" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="\_blank" title="(Read more)(Open New Windows)"><span style="color:#0033a0;"><strong>(Read more)</strong></span></a><br />
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<strong>Revealing the Microstructure of Memory</strong><br />
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Prof. Lin noted that this breakthrough now allows scientists to distinguish even smaller and more densely packed excitatory neurons, shedding new light on the neural circuits responsible for spatial cognition and memory formation. Although the current method cannot yet detect so-called “silent neurons” that do not actively fire, the researchers believe this represents a pivotal step toward visualizing brain activity at single-cell resolution in living organisms.<br />
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Led entirely by a Taiwan-based interdisciplinary team and involving international collaboration, this study demonstrates the strength and long-term investment of NYCU’s neuroscience research, marking a milestone in the nation’s contribution to global brain science.<br />
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<img alt="The reconstructed neural activity map clearly distinguishes excitatory neurons (yellow) from silent neurons (blue)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20251009093623307.png" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The reconstructed neural activity map clearly distinguishes excitatory neurons (yellow) from silent neurons (blue).</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1425658844167540736&init=YNYCU Neuroscientists Illuminate the Brain’s Hidden “Star Map” of Neural Activity<![CDATA[NYCU and TSMC, ITRI, Stanford Team Achieve Breakthrough in Next-Gen MRAM for AI and Low-Power Applications]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-09-22<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The research team significantly enhanced the phase stability of tungsten through an innovative design of material layers." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250923095113520.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>The research team significantly enhanced the phase stability of tungsten through an innovative design of material layers.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>By National Science and Technology Council<br />
Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: justify; color: var(--bs-body-color); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">In a significant cross-institutional advance, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has joined forces with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), the National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center (NSRRC), Stanford University, and National Chung Hsing University (NCHU) to overcome a critical materials challenge in spin–orbit torque magnetic random-access memory (SOT-MRAM)—a next-generation non-volatile memory technology.<br />
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Led by NYCU Assistant Professor Yen-Lin Huang with support from Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), the team has developed a breakthrough solution to stabilize β-phase tungsten (β-W), a key material in SOT-MRAM, under high-temperature processing conditions—paving the way for ultrafast, energy-efficient, and commercially viable memory chips.</span><br />
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Published in <em>Nature Electronics</em> under the title “<em><u><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41928-025-01434-x" title="A 64-kilobit spin–orbit torque magnetic random-access memory based on back-end-of-line-compatible β-tungsten"><span style="color:#3498db;">A 64-kilobit spin–orbit torque magnetic random-access memory based on back-end-of-line-compatible β-tungsten</span></a></u></em>”, this work highlights Taiwan’s growing innovation leadership in advanced memory systems and semiconductors. It opens the door for transformative applications in large language models (LLMs), artificial intelligence computing, mobile devices (with extended battery life and enhanced data security), as well as automotive electronics and data centers (with improved reliability and reduced energy consumption).<br />
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<strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 100%; background-color: var(--bs-body-bg); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family);">A Decade-Long Puzzle in Memory Design—Finally Cracked</strong><br />
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<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 100%; font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">Modern computing relies on two broad types of memory: fast but volatile (like DRAM and SRAM), and non-volatile but slower (like Flash). For years, scientists around the world have sought a memory solution that combines the best of both worlds—high speed and long-term stability. Various contenders have emerged—PCM, STT-MRAM, FeRAM—but have consistently faced limitations in switching speed, endurance, or power consumption.<br />
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That changed with this latest Taiwan-led advance. The research team introduced a novel material layer design that significantly stabilizes the β-phase of tungsten (W), a key material in SOT-MRAM. This stability was achieved even under high-temperature semiconductor processing, while preserving a strong spin–orbit torque effect.</span></div>
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The breakthrough is the first to demonstrate:</div>
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<li>A 64-kilobit SOT-MRAM array integrated with CMOS control circuitry</li>
<li>Ultrafast switching speeds (as fast as one nanosecond)</li>
<li>Data retention exceeding 10 years</li>
<li>Low power consumption, suitable for energy-critical applications</li>
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<div><strong>From Lab to Market: The Future of Memory Is Within Reach</strong><br />
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This milestone brings SOT-MRAM significantly closer to real-world deployment. As a high-speed, low-power, and non-volatile memory technology, it could become a game-changing enabler across multiple industries:</div>
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<li>Artificial Intelligence & LLMs: Improving data throughput and energy efficiency</li>
<li>Mobile Devices: Enhancing battery life and protecting sensitive data</li>
<li>Automotive Electronics & Data Centers: Delivering better reliability under thermal stress, with reduced energy demands</li>
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<div>The study not only affirms Taiwan’s global leadership in cutting-edge semiconductor R&D but also unlocks new possibilities for memory innovation amid the data explosion of the AI era.<br />
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<img alt="The research team, led by Assistant Professor Yen-Lin Huang (center)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250923095828315.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The research team, led by Assistant Professor Yen-Lin Huang (center).</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The contactless heart monitoring technology developed by NYCU was showcased at CES in the United States." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250918113358777.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>The contactless heart monitoring technology developed by NYCU was showcased at CES in the United States.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: justify; color: var(--bs-body-color); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">What if checking your heart health was as easy as looking into your phone’s camera? A research team led by Professor Bing-Fei Wu at the Institute of Electrical and Control Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), has developed a breakthrough system that can detect <strong>atrial fibrillation (AF)</strong>—a significant risk factor for stroke—using only the camera of a smartphone or laptop.<br />
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This non-contact, lightweight solution enables users to monitor heart rhythms in real-world settings, without the need for traditional ECG devices or physical sensors.</span><br />
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<strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 100%; background-color: var(--bs-body-bg); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family);">Atrial Fibrillation, Reimagined for Everyday Life</strong><br />
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<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 100%; font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">AF is closely associated with stroke risk, yet it often goes undetected until it’s too late. Conventional detection methods rely heavily on contact-based equipment, such as ECGs, which can be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods and are not always accessible outside of clinical settings.<br />
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To address this critical gap, Prof. Wu’s team turned to <strong>remote photoplethysmography (rPPG)</strong>—a technique that captures microvascular color changes on a person’s face via a standard camera. By analyzing these subtle signals, the system accurately estimates heart rate data in real-time.<br />
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<strong>Smart AI, No Cloud Required</strong><br />
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The team also introduced a novel signal processing algorithm that significantly reduces interference caused by head movement and lighting changes—two common challenges in daily environments. Instead of relying on computationally intensive deep-learning models, the system employs a lightweight AI architecture with significantly reduced parameters and minimal latency.<br />
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This means it can deliver high-performance analysis without an internet connection, opening new frontiers in offline, personalized health monitoring.</span><br />
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<strong>Clinically Validated with 450+ Subjects</strong><br />
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To ensure clinical reliability, the team partnered with Dr. Yu Sun from En Chu Kong Hospital to establish a comprehensive video database featuring over 450 volunteers. The dataset includes recordings of individuals with normal heart rhythms, AF, and other arrhythmias, captured under realistic lighting and motion conditions.<br />
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Even in these challenging environments, the system demonstrated high accuracy and stability, earning recognition from both the academic and tech communities.</div>
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<strong>Global Recognition and Real-World Application</strong><br />
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The research results were published in the IEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics, where the study was selected as a Feature Article. The project also won the Excellence Award in Artificial Intelligence at the 2024 TSC Thesis Awards (崇越論文大賞).<br />
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Most notably, the technology was deployed in commercial devices, such as laptops and smartphones, and showcased in the FaceHeart CardioMirror. This intelligent health mirror won a CES 2025 Innovation Award in Digital Health at the world’s largest consumer tech event.<br />
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<strong>A Game-Changer for Telehealth and Preventive Care</strong><br />
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This innovation isn’t just a lab prototype—it’s a real-world solution with the potential to transform telemedicine, community screening, and early diagnosis for high-risk groups. It empowers individuals to detect signs of cardiovascular distress early, giving doctors and patients more time to act before emergencies strike.<br />
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As the world continues to shift toward remote healthcare, NYCU’s contactless AF monitoring system exemplifies the power of human-centered AI to make everyday health smarter, safer, and more accessible.<br />
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<img alt="Prof. Bing-Fei Wu, Institute of Electrical and Control Engineering at NYCU (Photo credit: Far Eastern Y.Z. Hsu Foundation)" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250918114019104.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Prof. Bing-Fei Wu, Institute of Electrical and Control Engineering at NYCU (Photo credit: Far Eastern Y.Z. Hsu Foundation)</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Chia-Shu Lin from the Department of Dentistry conducts a chewing test using commercially available gummy candy." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250915160412648.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Chia-Shu Lin from the Department of Dentistry conducts a chewing test using commercially available gummy candy.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: justify; color: var(--bs-body-color); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">What if every bite of rice or sip of water was more than just a reflex? Researchers from the National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) have discovered that these seemingly mundane actions—chewing and swallowing—are intricately linked to the brain’s complex neural networks.<br />
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In two recently published studies in the <em>Journal of Oral Rehabilitation</em>, NYCU’s Department of Dentistry and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Core Laboratory reveal that these everyday functions are not just mechanical—they reflect and rely on distinct neural pathways in the brain, particularly in relation to aging and cognitive adaptation.</span><br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="In the gummy candy experiment, participants with better chewing ability were able to mix the two-colored gummy more evenly." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250915160513108.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">In the gummy candy experiment, participants with better chewing ability were able to mix the two-colored gummy more evenly.</span></em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Mapping the Brain While Chewing and Swallowing</strong></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:#000000;">Over a span of two years, a research team led by Professor Chia-Shu Lin from the Department of Dentistry tested more than 100 healthy adults across various age groups. While participants performed chewing and swallowing tasks, their brain activity was recorded using MRI scans to identify patterns of neural connectivity.<br />
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Under low-effort chewing conditions, researchers observed functional connections between the cerebellum and the primary sensorimotor cortex—regions responsible for movement control. However, when chewing became more difficult (such as when the subject encountered a hard-to-crush object), those with stronger functional connections in the prefrontal cortex—an area tied to high-level cognition—showed better chewing performance.<br />
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This finding suggests that effective chewing is not merely a matter of dental health or the presence of teeth; it also involves the ability to chew correctly. It also requires active engagement of the brain’s cognitive systems, particularly among older adults who are adapting to new dentures or unfamiliar food textures. In these situations, learning and adaptation—functions controlled by the prefrontal cortex—play a critical role.</span></span></div>
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<strong>Swallowing: A Separate Neural Circuit</strong><br />
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Interestingly, the neural mechanisms for swallowing appear to follow an entirely different route. The team found that successful swallowing performance was associated with enhanced connectivity between the cerebellum and the basal ganglia—areas linked to rhythmic and coordinated movement.<br />
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Contrary to popular belief, strong chewing ability does not necessarily indicate strong swallowing ability. The brain uses distinct circuits to manage these two functions.<br />
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<strong>Brain, Body, and the True Markers of Health</strong><br />
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The study also revealed a striking correlation between neuromuscular health and oral function. Participants who performed well in both chewing and swallowing tasks had noticeably larger upper arm and lower leg circumferences—suggesting better muscle condition. In other words, the ability to both bite and swallow effectively may be a comprehensive indicator of systemic health.<br />
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<strong>Implications for Elderly Care and Interdisciplinary Medicine</strong><br />
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“These findings underscore the critical role of oral function in overall health,” said Professor Lin, who led the research. “They also highlight the need for separate assessments of chewing and swallowing abilities in dental clinics, especially for older adults.”<br />
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Most importantly, the studies show that overcoming chewing challenges isn’t just about dental mechanics—it’s a brain-dependent process. The structure and function of the neural network significantly influence how elderly individuals adapt to eating, especially in cases involving new prostheses or complex textures.<br />
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“These results demonstrate that oral health cannot be treated in isolation,” Prof. Lin emphasized. “It must be integrated with neuroscience and geriatric medicine. Healthy aging depends not only on what we eat, but also on how we chew and swallow it.”<br />
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<img alt="Professor Chia-Shu Lin, Department of Dentistry at NYCU" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250915160700128.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Chia-Shu Lin, Department of Dentistry at NYCU</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="“X-Men” Tech Comes Closer to Reality: NYCU Unveils Millisecond Wireless Brain Stimulation Breakthrough" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250909153355995.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>The black magnetic nanodiscs convert magnetic fields into tiny mechanical forces, while the white piezoelectric nanoparticles transform those forces into electrical signals.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: justify; background-color: var(--bs-body-bg); color: var(--bs-body-color); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">A scene once confined to comic books and Hollywood blockbusters may be edging closer to reality. Researchers at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) have developed a groundbreaking millisecond-scale wireless neural modulation technology that could transform the treatment of brain disorders.<br />
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The study “<u><em><a href="https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/adhm.202500805" title="Magnetic-Driven Torque-Induced Electrical Stimulation for Millisecond-Scale Wireless Neuromodulation">Magnetic-Driven Torque-Induced Electrical Stimulation for Millisecond-Scale Wireless Neuromodulation</a></em></u>”, recently published in the leading journal <em>Advanced Healthcare Materials</em> and featured on its back cover, introduces a technique called Magnetic-Driven Torque-Induced Electrical Stimulation (MagTIES).<br />
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While it does not enable the fantastical mind control depicted in X-Men, it does allow scientists to wirelessly and precisely control brain waves in animals within just milliseconds. The research team has also secured a patent for the innovation.</span><br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The figure illustrates how MagTIES precisely tunes brainwave frequencies in live subjects." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250909153548655.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The figure illustrates how MagTIES precisely tunes brainwave frequencies in live subjects.</span></em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Faster and Safer Than Existing Methods</strong></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:#000000;">Led by Professor Po-Han Chiang of NYCU's Institute of Intelligent Bioelectrical Engineering and Interdisciplinary Master's Program in Neurotechnology, the team tackled a long-standing limitation in brain stimulation technologies. Conventional magnetic stimulation requires high-power magnetic fields and often takes seconds to trigger neural responses—too slow to match the brain's rapid activity.</span></span><br />
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MagTIES combines magnetic nanodiscs with piezoelectric nanoparticles to generate electrical signals through a novel "magnetic torque" mechanism. This enables neuronal activity to be induced under low-frequency, low-intensity magnetic fields—up to 100 to 1,000 times faster than other nanomagnetic technologies.</div>
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<strong>Precision Control of Brain Waves</strong><br />
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In animal trials, the team demonstrated that MagTIES could wirelessly stimulate deep brain regions such as the amygdala. Even more remarkably, they showed the ability to tune brain waves to specific frequencies—such as beta waves, which are associated with emotion and attention—by adjusting the magnetic field. Such precision had never been achieved with previous approaches.<br />
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“MagTIES materials are simple to produce and highly biocompatible,” said Chao-Chun Cheng, the study’s first author and a Ph.D. candidate at NYCU. “This opens enormous potential for treating neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.”<br />
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Professor Chiang emphasized the broader implications: “Wireless deep-brain stimulation can drastically reduce the need for invasive surgery, offering new hope for patients worldwide. The impact on global brain disease treatment could be profound.”<br />
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<strong>Open-Source Tools to Accelerate Adoption</strong><br />
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To broaden access, the NYCU team also introduced an open-source, low-cost magnetic stimulation system, detailed earlier this year in Scientific Reports. The platform features a versatile device and a user-friendly software interface, designed to lower barriers for research labs and accelerate the applications of wireless brain stimulation in both medical and scientific settings.<br />
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<img alt="Professor Po-Han Chiang (left) and first author Ph.D. candidate Chao-Chun Cheng (right) at NYCU." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250909153758089.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Po-Han Chiang (left) and first author Ph.D. candidate Chao-Chun Cheng (right) at NYCU.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Two Centuries After Bifocals: NYCU Builds World’s First Electronically Adjustable Liquid Crystal Eyeglasses" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250902105749754.png" /><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: justify; background-color: var(--bs-body-bg); color: var(--bs-body-color); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">More than two centuries after Benjamin Franklin invented the bifocal lens, a research team at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has redefined how people with myopia and presbyopia see the world.</span></div>
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Led by Professor Yi-Hsin Lin of the Department of Photonics, the group has developed the world’s first battery-powered liquid-crystal eyeglasses with electronically adjustable optical power. This breakthrough promises to transform vision correction and extend to applications in augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and AI machine vision.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU joins forces with international research teams to develop the world’s first electronically adjustable liquid crystal eyeglasses with mass-production potential." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250902105959578.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">NYCU joins forces with international research teams to develop the world’s first electronically adjustable liquid crystal eyeglasses with mass-production potential.</span></em></span><br />
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The findings were published in August 2025 in the journal Physical Review Applied and highlighted in a special feature by the American Physical Society, underscoring international recognition of Taiwan’s growing strength in liquid crystal optics.<br />
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<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>A Major Leap Beyond Franklin’s Bifocals</strong></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:#000000;">Traditional bifocals allow users to switch between near and far vision, but only by tilting their heads or adjusting viewing angles. NYCU’s new design eliminates that limitation. The glasses feature gradient-index liquid crystal (LC) lenses whose refractive power can be finely tuned under an electric field generated by micro-electronics embedded in the frame. A simple touch on the temple arm instantly shifts focus between near and far objects.</span></span></div>
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“This concept has existed since the 1970s, but no one could make it practical for everyday eyewear,” said Professor Lin. “Fresnel-type LC lenses suffered from diffraction, chromatic aberration, and poor imaging quality. Our gradient-index design overcomes those barriers by enabling continuously adjustable focal lengths with minimal distortion.”</div>
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<strong>Global Collaboration and First-of-Its-Kind Results</strong></div>
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The breakthrough was achieved with support from Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council, Innolux Corporation, and Google Gift USA, in partnership with Kyiv University (Ukraine) and the University of Leeds (UK).<br />
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The team is the first to fully map the optical behavior of gradient-index LC lenses under electric fields, analyze switching speed and color distortion at different optical powers, and validate their feasibility for mass production. The result: a lightweight pair of eyeglasses that can electronically adjust prescription strength in real time, powered by a compact battery.</div>
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<strong>From Everyday Use to AR/VR</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full">Beyond correcting myopia and presbyopia, the innovation opens new possibilities for wearable displays and machine vision systems, dramatically improving optical performance in AR/VR devices.<br />
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“This invention doesn’t just improve eyeglasses—it redefines the future of vision technology,” Lin said. “It shows the world what’s possible when physics, engineering, and global collaboration converge.”<br />
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<img alt="Group photo of the research team" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250902110153776.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Group photo of the research team</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In a significant leap forward for spatial computing, researchers from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and the Semiconductor Division of Hon Hai Research Institute (HHRI) have jointly developed the world’s first monolithically integrated metasurface–photonic crystal surface-emitting laser (meta-PCSEL). This breakthrough enables chip-scale depth projection systems, opening new possibilities for ultra-compact, energy-efficient AR, VR, and wearable devices.<br />
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The collaborative team was led by Dr. Hao-Chung Kuo, Chair Professor at NYCU and Director of HHRI’s Semiconductor Division, working alongside Division Manager Yu-Heng Hong, researchers Wen-Cheng Hsu and Wen-Chien Miao, and NYCU Assistant Professor Yao-Wei Huang from the Department of Photonics.<br />
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Their study, <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.nanolett.5c02540" title="Monolithically Integrated Metasurface on a PCSEL for Depth Perception"><span style="color:#3498db;"><u><em>Monolithically Integrated Metasurface on a PCSEL for Depth Perception</em></u></span></a>, has been published in Nano Letters and selected as the cover story for the July 2025 issue.<br />
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<strong>World’s Smallest Projector: 0.025 mm³ Chip-Scale Technology</strong><br />
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This milestone builds on the team’s 2024 achievement, <em><u><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c05002" title="Metasurface- and PCSEL-Based Structured Light for Monocular Depth Perception and Facial Recognition"><span style="color:#3498db;">Metasurface- and PCSEL-Based Structured Light for Monocular Depth Perception and Facial Recognition</span></a></u></em>, pushing the limits of integrated photonics to achieve a chip-scale dot projection system for the first time.<br />
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The new meta-PCSEL technology reduces the projector’s volume to 0.025 mm³—making it the smallest in the world. Compared to dot projectors in commercial smartphones, the device is 2,450 times smaller and consumes 28.7% less power. Single-chip integration significantly lowers system complexity and power requirements, offering a highly competitive solution for industrial adoption.</div>
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This innovation showcases Taiwan’s leadership in nanoscale optics and semiconductor integration. It sets a solid technological foundation for the future of spatial computing, from AR glasses to next-generation mobile and wearable devices.<br />
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The team envisions the technology accelerating the miniaturization and mass adoption of AR, VR, and spatial computing platforms, expanding possibilities for immersive digital experiences across industries.</div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Nano Letters is one of the world’s leading nanoscience and technology journals, with an impact factor consistently above 10. The study was selected as the cover story for its July 2025 issue.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Yu-An Lu’s research reveals that English spelling can interfere with Mandarin speakers’ ability to distinguish aspirated and unaspirated sounds, causing words like [speɪs] to be pronounced as [spʰeɪs] and [ˈhæpi] as [ˈhæpʰi]." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250731133937897.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Yu-An Lu’s research reveals that English spelling can interfere with Mandarin speakers’ ability to distinguish aspirated and unaspirated sounds, causing words like [speɪs] to be pronounced as [spʰeɪs] and [ˈhæpi] as [ˈhæpʰi].</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">While learning a second language, various pronunciation rules often confuse learners. For example, the spelling of English words does not correspond exactly to their actual pronunciation and differs from the popular “natural pronunciation” method in the field. Take the letters “P”, “T”, and “K” as an example; if they are spelled immediately after an S, they are usually not aspirated. Therefore, the pronunciation of “SPACE” is similar to [speɪs] rather than [spʰeɪs]. When “P”, “T”, and ‘K’ appear in weak, unstressed syllables, they are also not pronounced as aspirated sounds. For example, American English pronounces “HAPPY” as [ˈhæpi] instead of [ˈhæpʰi].</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Lu explains that English spelling can interfere with Mandarin speakers’ pronunciation, leading them to apply Chinese pinyin rules and develop a distinct “Taiwanese accent” in English." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250731135004194.jpg" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Lu explains that English spelling can interfere with Mandarin speakers’ pronunciation, leading them to apply Chinese pinyin rules and develop a distinct “Taiwanese accent” in English.</em></span></span><br />
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<strong>Accurate pronunciation relies heavily on listening</strong><br />
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Professor Yu-An Lu of the Department of Foreign Languages and Literature at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) observed that Chinese speakers often rely heavily on visual and orthographic memory when learning English vocabulary and pronunciation. In Taiwan Mandarin, the sounds “ㄆ” [pʰ], “ㄊ”[tʰ], and “ㄎ”[kʰ] are all aspirated. When Chinese pinyin conventions are directly transferred to English, learners of Taiwan Mandarin tend to pronounce English “P”, “T”, and “K” with aspiration as well. Professor Lu's research team recently conducted a phonetic imitation experiment and found that Chinese-speaking participants could more accurately imitate the difference between aspirated and unaspirated sounds when they only listened to English pronunciations. However, when the participants were also shown the English spellings (e.g., on word cards), they often “could not hear” the difference and reverted to applying Chinese pinyin conventions, resulting in English spoken with a “Taiwanese accent”.<br />
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Linguists refer to the awareness of pronunciation, spelling, and grammatical rules as “metalinguistic awareness”. People usually do not explicitly learn these features of their mother tongue, making it difficult to explain their language knowledge because this awareness is internalized. However, when learning a second language, metalinguistic awareness often interacts with that of the first language in complex ways. For example, this study shows that Chinese speakers learning English have their “hearing” influenced and limited by their visual and Chinese spelling habits, which affects their pronunciation performance.<br />
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"When people worldwide learn a second language, they are influenced by their first language and metalinguistic awareness, often incorporating features of their mother tongue. Therefore, ‘Taiwanese English’ is not a pronunciation error or problem, but rather a set of phenomena that arise when two language systems interact—something particularly interesting to us as linguists,” Prof. Lu explained. “For example, Chinese rhymes often end with a vowel and usually cannot add a consonant. When some Taiwanese children learn English, they tend to emphasize the final consonants, such as the “T” in “WHAT” or the “K” in “CAKE.” Rather than calling this mispronunciation, we should recognize it as a systematic reflection of their first language’s characteristics.”<br />
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<img alt="Professor Lu explores how “Taiwanese English” reflects the natural interplay between first-language grammar and second-language learning, revealing that what sounds like mispronunciation is often a systematic effect of first-language influence and learners’ awareness of language differences." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250731135133954.jpg" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Lu explores how “Taiwanese English” reflects the natural interplay between first-language grammar and second-language learning, revealing that what sounds like mispronunciation is often a systematic effect of first-language influence and learners’ awareness of language differences</em></span></span><br />
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<strong>No superior or inferior. All languages are equal.</strong><br />
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"A second language cannot be learned as 'naturally' as the first language, and it is necessary to have guidance to understand the differences between the two.” Prof. Lu shared, reflecting on her own English learning experience in senior high school. She explained that without exposure to native speakers, a teacher’s metalinguistic knowledge could profoundly shape students' awareness of English. For example, the difference between tense and lax vowels (e.g. “sheep” and “ship”) relates to tongue position and mouth shape, but her teacher described them only as long and short sounds, which was imprecise. “Therefore, I think every English teacher should study linguistics to help students systematically and precisely summarize the rules of learning a second language, so that students can open up the “conception and governor vessels” more quickly!” she said wittily.</div>
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During her bachelor's studies in the Department of Foreign Languages and Literature, Prof. Lu encountered many students who spoke English with a fairly “standard” accent. To adjust her own English accent, she first listened carefully to the differences among various accents and then gradually imitated and learned from them. Her linguistic training also heightened her sensitivity to subtle language changes, which helped her learn and fine-tune her second language. However, Prof. Lu emphasizes that, as a linguist, language is language—there are no superior or inferior accents. Whether it is “Taiwanese English” or other accents, they all arise from different language systems. People may perceive an accent as “noble” or “vulgar,” or associate it with social status or education level, but these are meanings and value judgments imposed by the social structure of the time.<br />
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On the other hand, even within English-speaking countries, accents vary widely, and what is considered “vulgar” in one region may be regarded as “elegant” in another. Prof. Lu suggests that instead of trying seeking a single pronunciation standard, language learners should be exposed to a diverse range of accents, languages, and cultures: "Language accents are like a spectrum with many possibilities. If we only accept one accent as ‘correct’, we risk believing it is superior to others, and fail to understand accents and culture. Every language and accent is equal. When we set aside value judgments of good or bad, the more languages and accents we embrace, the more effective our communication becomes."<br />
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<strong><img alt="Professor Lu emphasizes that every accent reflects a unique language system and urges learners to embrace linguistic diversity rather than chase a single “standard” — because understanding more accents leads to better communication." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250731134455270.png" /></strong><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Lu emphasizes that every accent reflects a unique language system and urges learners to embrace linguistic diversity rather than chase a single “standard” — because understanding more accents leads to better communication.</em></span></span><br />
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<strong>Seeing the world anew through language</strong><br />
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Building on her laboratory phonological research on second language acquisition, Prof. Lu has recently focused on the intergenerational tonal changes in Taiwanese Southern Min. She noted that while dialect tones historically took over a century to evolve, contemporary Taiwanese Southern Min dialects are undergoing radical tonal shifts within just one or two generations. This accelerated change marks a unique opportunity to study the languages spoken in Taiwan, especially as the number of speakers of various local languages is rapidly declining.<br />
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For example, Prof. Lu noted that regarding the checked tones of Taiwanese Southern Min, because Mandarin has no words with checked tone ending in “P,” “T,” or “K”, and the younger generation has limited exposure to Taiwanese Southern Min, they are acquiring the language more like a second language or “heritage language.” This shift is changing their perception and production of checked tones. Such cross-generational variation is occurring at an astonishing rate. At the same time, influenced by Taiwan's multilingual environment, Taiwan Mandarin is developing its own characteristics, such as the merger of “厶”[s] and “ㄕ”[ʂ] and confusion between the syllable codas “ㄣ”[n] and “ㄥ”[ŋ].<br />
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Through laboratory phonological research methods, Prof. Lu has paved a research path to uncover the direction and patterns of different languages spoken in Taiwan. In fact, NYCU’s Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures encompasses a wide range of research areas. “For example, Professor Ho-Hsien Pan is studying how acoustic features can improve the understanding of autistic speakers. Professor Tsung-Lun Wan has long researched identity politics and language use among hearing-impaired individuals and other marginalized groups," Prof. Lu added. From a sociolinguistic perspective, Singlish, which was once considered “substandard,” has now become a key symbol of Singaporean national identity. Similarly, "Taiwan Mandarin” or “Taiwanese English” today may also reflect a growing local consciousness. Clearly, linguistic research at NYCU not only introduces innovative scientific perspectives but also encourages the public to rethink the complex relationship between language, culture, and society.<br />
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Lu encourages embracing diverse accents as natural reflections of cultural and linguistic identity rather than errors, reminding us that all accents are equally valid within the rich spectrum of human communication.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;">Professor Po-Tsun Liu (left) and first author Jo-Lin Chen</span></span></em></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Can you imagine a future where autonomous vehicles see road conditions and remember what they saw—just like the human brain? Or hospitals equipped with AI systems that automatically highlight abnormal regions in X-rays and CT scans to assist doctors in their diagnosis?<br />
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A research team led by Distinguished Professor Po-Tsun Liu from the Department of Photonics at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has made a significant leap toward that future. The team has successfully developed a novel all-metal oxide heterojunction photonic synaptic transistor—a device that mimics the memory and learning functions of human neurons. Their findings, titled “<u><em><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/smll.202502271" title="All‐Metal‐Oxide Heterojunction Optoelectronic Synapses with Multilevel Memory for Artificial Visual Perception Applications"><span style="color:#3498db;">All‐Metal‐Oxide Heterojunction Optoelectronic Synapses with Multilevel Memory for Artificial Visual Perception Applications</span></a></em></u>,” were recently published in <em>Small</em>.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Po-Tsun Liu’s research team successfully simulated the learning and memory behavior of synapses in the human brain, achieving multi-synaptic plasticity akin to biological neural systems. (Pictured: the experimental chip developed in the lab)" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250729144348582.png" /><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Po-Tsun Liu’s research team successfully simulated the learning and memory behavior of synapses in the human brain, achieving multi-synaptic plasticity akin to biological neural systems. (Pictured: the experimental chip developed in the lab)</span></span></em><br />
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<strong>A Breakthrough in Neuromorphic Vision and Sensing</strong><br />
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This next-generation transistor, based on a heterojunction formed between tungsten oxide (WO₃) and indium tungsten zinc oxide (InWZnO), demonstrates not only high sensitivity to visible light (at 650, 525, and 460 nanometers) but also the ability to emulate synaptic plasticity—the brain’s mechanism for learning and memory.<br />
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According to Prof. Liu, the device exhibits short-term and long-term memory behaviors through optical pulse stimulation and gate voltage modulation. The result is a highly dynamic, stable, and reproducible synaptic behavior, significantly outperforming similar devices in the literature.</div>
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<strong>Building the Foundation for Visual Memory Chips</strong><br />
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More importantly, the team engineered a 2 × 2 photonic synapse array module based on the device, capable of real-time processing of RGB (red, green, blue) signals. This array mimics the human retina’s layered perception and storage mechanisms for image intensity and color.<br />
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Through simulated cycles of learning and forgetting, the device showed a robust and non-volatile memory capability—retaining data even after removing optical stimuli. This feature lays crucial groundwork for the development of brain-inspired visual memory chips.<br />
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<strong>High Accuracy in Challenging AI Tasks</strong><br />
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The team integrated the device into an artificial neural network (ANN) simulation platform to explore its real-world potential. They tested it on tasks such as handwritten digit recognition and image segmentation. The system maintained high recognition accuracy even under simulated noisy conditions (Gaussian and striped noise).<br />
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When applied to image segmentation using the U-Net architecture, the device-enabled system achieved near-ideal segmentation results, demonstrating outstanding stability, robustness, and learning ability in visual processing applications.<br />
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<strong>Towards Smarter Machines</strong><br />
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This breakthrough technology opens up exciting possibilities for applications in innovative medical diagnostics, autonomous driving vision modules, wearable sensory devices, and biomimetic robotics—paving the way for deeper integration of artificial intelligence and advanced sensing systems.<br />
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Po-Tsun Liu and his research team</em></span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;"><span style="color:#7f8c8d;">Group photo of the research team. From left to right: Dr. Yi-Hsiang Huang (Director, Department of Medical Research, TVGH), Dr. Shu-Chun Wang (Vice Superintendent, TVGH), Dr. Shih-Pin Chen (Director, Division of Translational Research, TVGH), Dr. Ya-Hsuan Chang (Researcher, NHRI), and Prof. Hsuan-Yu Chen (Research Fellow, Academia Sinica). (Photo credit: TVGH)</span></span></em></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Despite affecting over one billion people worldwide, migraines have long been considered an “invisible disease”—difficult to diagnose and often misunderstood. Diagnosis has relied solely on patients ' subjective descriptions with no apparent abnormalities on brain scans and no objective biomarkers.<br />
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In a breakthrough, a Taiwanese research team has identified specific microRNAs in the blood that can objectively detect migraine episodes. Their five-year study, jointly conducted by Taipei Veterans General Hospital (TVGH), National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), Academia Sinica, and the National Health Research Institutes (NHRI), has been published in Brain, one of the leading journals in the field of neuroscience.<br />
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<strong>A High-Impact, Underdiagnosed Disorder</strong><br />
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Migraine is among the most prevalent neurological disorders globally, affecting approximately 15% of the population—three times more common in women than men. According to the Global Burden of Disease Study, migraine is the second leading cause of disability among people aged 15 to 49, significantly impairing work, education, and quality of life.<br />
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Yet despite its widespread impact, migraine remains elusive in clinical settings. Brain imaging typically reveals no anomalies, and its alternating “attack” and “non-attack” phases make real-time blood sampling during episodes extremely challenging—hindering scientific progress and leaving millions undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.<br />
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<strong>Building a Predictive Blood Test for Migraine</strong><br />
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Led by Dr. Shu-Chun Wang (Vice Superintendent of TVGH and Dean of the NYCU College of Medicine), the research team recruited 120 participants—including migraine patients in both attack and non-attack phases, chronic migraine sufferers, and healthy controls. Using next-generation sequencing (NGS) of blood samples, they identified microRNA expression patterns associated with migraine states. The findings were further validated in an independent cohort of 197 individuals.<br />
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Combining microRNA profiles with genetic risk scores, the team developed a composite predictive model capable of identifying both migraine presence and risk, with over 90% accuracy.<br />
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<strong>Capturing the Biological Signature of Migraine</strong><br />
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MicroRNAs are short, non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression like molecular “dimmer switches.” Though small, they are crucial in controlling protein synthesis and are deeply involved in immune response, development, and pain perception processes. Their significance was recently recognized with the 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine awarded to Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun, who discovered microRNAs’ regulatory role in 1993.<br />
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The research team’s study found specific microRNAs—such as miR-183 and miR-1307-5p—significantly different between migraine patients and healthy individuals. Some markers served as indicators of disease status, while others fluctuated only during active migraine attacks, reflecting disease activity. Intriguingly, bioinformatics analysis revealed these microRNAs are linked to hormonal pathways involving estrogen and prolactin, suggesting a possible explanation for the disorder’s higher prevalence in women.<br />
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“This is the first time migraine has been made ‘visible’ through blood biomarkers,” the authors note. “It also opens the door for applying liquid biopsy—a minimally invasive blood-based method—to neurological conditions by detecting brain-related physiological changes through peripheral blood.”<br />
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<strong>Toward Objective and Personalized Migraine Care</strong><br />
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“This study represents a major leap forward in migraine research,” said Dr. Shu-Chun Wang. “It deepens our understanding of the disease’s biological mechanisms and opens new possibilities for clinical application.”<br />
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Dr. Shih-Pin Chen (Director of Translational Research, TVGH; Director of Institute of Clinical Medicine, NYCU) emphasized the clinical significance: “Until now, migraine lacked objective diagnostics. Our study is one of the few worldwide to capture blood samples during active attacks and identify biomarkers. We hope this model can help clinicians detect high-risk individuals, monitor disease progression, and evaluate treatment response—realizing the promise of precision medicine.”<br />
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Dr. Hsuan-Yu Chen (Research Fellow, Academia Sinica) added: “By integrating high-throughput sequencing data with genetic risk profiles, we’ve demonstrated that even complex, highly variable neurological diseases can be predicted with high accuracy when multi-omics data is combined with clinical information.”<br />
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Dr. Ya-Hsuan Chang (Research Associate, NHRI) highlighted the gender-specific findings: “Our identification of microRNAs involved in estrogen and prolactin signaling not only sheds light on why women are more affected, but also provides important molecular insights into sex differences in neurological disease—laying the groundwork for personalized diagnostics and therapy.”<br />
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Dr. Yen-Feng Wang (Director, General Neurology, TVGH) concluded: “Many migraine patients are misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or dismissed. We hope this research provides doctors with more objective diagnostic tools and empowers patients with greater understanding and control over their condition.”<br />
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<strong>Taiwan’s Scientific Strength on the Global Stage</strong><br />
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Beyond the scientific discovery, this research showcases Taiwan’s growing capacity in interdisciplinary, translational medicine—blending neuroscience, genomics, and data science. The team aims to accelerate clinical applications and expand cross-institutional collaboration to transform this innovation into real-world benefits for migraine patients in Taiwan and beyond.<br />
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<img alt="Migraine Blood Prediction Model" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250724135051338.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Migraine Blood Prediction Model</em></span></span><br />
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1397820070654119936&init=YGroup photo of the research team<![CDATA[NYCU and Harvard Uncover Genetic ‘Brake’ That Limits Liver Regeneration]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-07-22<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU and Harvard Uncover Genetic ‘Brake’ That Limits Liver Regeneration" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250722115354893.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Photo credit: Getty Images</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In a groundbreaking study published in the prestigious journal <em>Cell Stem Cell</em>, researchers from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and Harvard University have identified a critical gene that functions as a molecular “brake”—suppressing the liver’s innate ability to regenerate damaged tissue. The discovery may pave the way for innovative treatments in regenerative medicine, particularly for liver diseases with limited therapeutic options.<br />
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<strong style="background-color: var(--bs-body-bg); color: var(--bs-body-color); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size);">Turning Metabolic Cells into Repair Agents</strong><br />
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<span style="background-color: var(--bs-body-bg); color: var(--bs-body-color); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">The human liver is one of the few organs capable of self-repair. Among its regenerative feats is the ability to heal damaged bile ducts by reprogramming liver cells—originally responsible for metabolism—into bile duct epithelial cells. While this transformation is remarkable, the underlying molecular switch that enables or limits this ability has remained poorly understood.<br />
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Scientists have pinpointed a gene called HBO1 that prevents liver cells from making this identity shift. As a genetic brake, HBO1 blocks the reprogramming process, halting the transformation into bile duct cells. According to the research team, targeting HBO1 could unlock new possibilities for enhancing liver cell plasticity, potentially accelerating tissue repair and regeneration.</span>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="HBO1 serves as an epigenetic barrier that restricts liver cell fate conversion." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250722115735732.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">HBO1 serves as an epigenetic barrier that restricts liver cell fate conversion.</span></em></span></div>
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“HBO1 is recruited by the transcriptional co-activator YAP to specific DNA sites, where it epigenetically suppresses the genes required for cellular reprogramming,” explained Dr. Wei-Chien Yuan, Assistant Professor at NYCU’s Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences (DLSIGS). “Inhibiting HBO1 could remove this brake, enabling faster chromatin remodeling and boosting the conversion of liver cells into functional bile duct epithelial cells.”<br />
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<img alt="The research team was led by Dr. Wei-Chien Yuan (front row, center), an assistant professor at NYCU DLSIGS." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250722115824050.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The research team was led by Dr. Wei-Chien Yuan (front row, center), an assistant professor at NYCU DLSIGS.</span></em></span><br />
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The study highlights a new layer of epigenetic regulation in organ regeneration. By modulating this regulatory axis, future therapies could enhance the body’s natural healing capacity—offering hope to patients suffering from bile duct injuries and chronic liver conditions.<br />
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Building on this discovery, the NYCU-Harvard team is now conducting preclinical studies to translate the findings into therapeutic strategies to bring liver regeneration closer to clinical reality.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU and TVGH Discover Gut Hormone’s Unexpected Role in Muscle Loss" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250716222210219.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Photo credit: True Creatives</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Could a common gut hormone be quietly sabotaging muscle regeneration? A groundbreaking study from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and Taipei Veterans General Hospital (TVGH) has uncovered an unexpected culprit behind sarcopenia—a condition traditionally associated with aging and physical decline.<br />
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The study “<u><em><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/jcsm.13524" title="Sarcopenia-related changes in serum GLP-1 level affect myogenic differentiation"><span style="color:#3498db;">Sarcopenia-related changes in serum GLP-1 level affect myogenic differentiation</span></a></em></u>” was recently published in the international journal Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle. It reveals that <strong>GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1)</strong>—a gut hormone widely known for regulating blood sugar and used in diabetes and weight-loss treatments—directly impairs muscle regeneration, marking the first evidence of its negative impact on muscle formation.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The study found that, even in a fasting state, patients with sarcopenia had abnormally elevated levels of the gut hormone GLP-1 compared to non-sarcopenic individuals, suggesting that GLP-1 may play a role in suppressing muscle growth and repair." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250716222400207.png" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>The study found that, even in a fasting state, patients with sarcopenia had abnormally elevated levels of the gut hormone GLP-1 compared to non-sarcopenic individuals, suggesting that GLP-1 may play a role in suppressing muscle growth and repair.</em></span></span><br />
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<strong>A Surprising Link Between GLP-1 and Muscle Degeneration</strong><br />
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GLP-1 is naturally released after eating and helps stimulate insulin secretion. However, the study’s clinical analysis of 145 emergency room patients over the age of 80 revealed a surprising pattern: sarcopenic patients had abnormally high levels of GLP-1 in their bloodstream—even while fasting. Their average concentration was <strong>1021.5 pg/mL</strong>, nearly <strong>three times</strong> that of non-sarcopenic individuals.<br />
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To investigate further, the researchers conducted animal and cell-based experiments, revealing that GLP-1 inhibits key proteins involved in muscle fiber fusion and normal skeletal muscle development. It also disrupts mitochondrial function—the cell’s energy engine—leading to reduced kinesin activity and a breakdown in the body’s ability to regenerate muscle tissue.<br />
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<img alt="Higher levels of GLP-1 were found to disrupt mitochondrial function, leading to a significant decline in kinesin activity." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250716222543323.png" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Higher levels of GLP-1 were found to disrupt mitochondrial function, leading to a significant decline in kinesin activity.</span></em></span></div>
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<strong>Rethinking Sarcopenia: Not Just About Age and Exercise</strong><br />
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“For years, sarcopenia has been viewed as a byproduct of aging, malnutrition, or inactivity,” said Prof. Jean-Cheng Kuo, principal investigator and professor at NYCU’s Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. “But this study challenges that narrative, showing that a hormone we thought of only as a metabolic regulator may interfere with muscle repair and growth.”<br />
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The findings also raise new questions about the long-term use of GLP-1–based drugs, such as those prescribed for type 2 diabetes and obesity. While effective for blood sugar control, could these treatments pose hidden risks to muscle health, particularly in older or already at-risk individuals?<br />
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<strong>A New Frontier for Diagnosis and Prevention</strong><br />
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In addition to offering a novel explanation for the progression of sarcopenia, the study opens the door to potential biomarkers for early detection. If elevated GLP-1 levels prove to be a reliable indicator, clinicians may be able to identify at-risk patients before muscle loss becomes debilitating.<br />
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“This study not only expands our understanding of GLP-1 but also lays the foundation for rethinking how we approach sarcopenia and even diabetes treatment,” added Prof. Kuo. “It’s a reminder that biology is full of surprises—and sometimes the tools we use to heal one part of the body may be silently affecting another.”<br />
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<img alt="Group photo of the research team. Front row, left: Prof. Jean-Cheng Kuo from NYCU’s Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Front row, right: Dr. Hsien-Hao Huang, Director of the Department of Emergency Medicine at TVGH." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250716222716648.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Group photo of the research team. Front row, left: Prof. Jean-Cheng Kuo from NYCU’s Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Front row, right: Dr. Hsien-Hao Huang, Director of the Department of Emergency Medicine at TVGH.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="After a Betrayal, Can Throwing Things Away Help You Forgive? A NYCU–Purdue Study Says Yes" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250716083127192.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Photo credit: Pixelshot</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">When relationships end in betrayal, individuals are often left surrounded by mementos of the past—photographs, shared furniture, love letters—each carrying the emotional weight of what once was. What role do these objects play in our ability to forgive and move on?<br />
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A new study co-authored by Christopher Jude McCarroll, Associate Professor at the Institute of Philosophy of Mind and Cognition at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), in collaboration with Marta Caravà from Purdue University, sheds light on this question. Published in the prestigious international philosophy journal Synthese, the paper proposes a novel framework for understanding forgiveness—not as a purely internal act, but as an extended process involving memory, emotion, and our material surroundings.<br />
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Titled “<a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11229-025-04974-z" title="Forgiving Unbound: Emotion, Memory, and Materiality in Extended Moral Processes"><u><em>Forgiving Unbound: Emotion, Memory, and Materiality in Extended Moral Processes</em></u></a>,” the study challenges traditional views that frame forgiveness solely as a decision of the heart. Instead, it argues that cognition and emotion extend beyond the mind, shaped by our interaction with memory-laden environments.<br />
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“Forgiveness may not always begin in the heart—it can begin with the hands,” the authors write.<br />
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<strong>Objects as Emotional Catalysts</strong><br />
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According to the paper, a key to forgiveness lies in reducing intense negative emotions toward the person who caused harm. This process often requires a selective reshaping of memory—retaining only the general outline of the event while allowing emotionally charged details to fade. Such memory regulation can create emotional distance, making it easier to reflect on the past without being overwhelmed.<br />
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The study argues that physical objects play a decisive role in this process. Certain items strongly evoke memories—both good and bad. By removing objects associated with painful experiences, individuals can reduce unwanted memory triggers, making space for emotional healing. This act of “cue-dependent forgetting” creates a more favorable environment for forgiveness to take root.</div>
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<strong>Forgiveness vs. Letting Go</strong><br />
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The study also draws an important philosophical distinction between forgiveness and letting go. While both can bring emotional relief, their moral implications differ. Forgiveness is a deliberate moral decision to alter one’s attitude toward the wrongdoer, potentially even restoring the relationship. Letting go, on the other hand, focuses more on personal recovery and emotional detachment, often without the intention to reconcile.<br />
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This distinction is crucial in understanding how people navigate complex moral emotions—and how their choices are shaped by thought and the material world around them.<br />
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<strong>A New Perspective on Moral Healing</strong><br />
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From a philosophical standpoint, the study contributes to growing research on embodied and extended cognition, suggesting that moral processes are not confined to mental deliberation alone. The authors encourage individuals and therapists to consider how managing the physical environment—from discarding painful mementos to curating comfort spaces—can meaningfully influence emotional and moral recovery.<br />
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In an age where emotional well-being is increasingly recognized as central to mental health, this research from NYCU reaffirms the profound link between mind, memory, and materiality—and how the simple act of letting go of an object can become a decisive step toward moving forward.<br />
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<img alt="Christopher Jude McCarroll, Associate Professor at the Institute of Philosophy of Mind and Cognition at NYCU" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250716083452306.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Christopher Jude McCarroll, Associate Professor at the Institute of Philosophy of Mind and Cognition at NYCU (Photo credit: Chih-Wei Chao)</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1394839943511019520&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[Untangling the Epigenomic Universe: NYCU Uses AI to Reconstruct the 3D World Inside Our Cells]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-07-09<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="AI-generated illustration of the “yarn-ball universe” of chromatin. EpiVerse blends “Epi” (epigenome) and “Verse” (metaverse) to represent an AI-created virtual epigenomic space." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250709085353332.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">AI-generated illustration of the “yarn-ball universe” of chromatin. EpiVerse blends “Epi” (epigenome) and “Verse” (metaverse) to represent an AI-created virtual epigenomic space.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Imagine cramming two meters of yarn into a space just 5–10 microns wide. That’s the extraordinary feat our DNA accomplishes—folding itself into a dense, dynamic structure inside the nucleus of every cell. Now, researchers from the Department of Computer Science at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) have developed a groundbreaking AI-powered tool to decode this mysterious “yarn-ball universe.”<br />
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Named <strong>EpiVerse</strong>, the new platform offers scientists an entirely new lens to explore how our genome is organized—and how that organization influences health and disease. The study “<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-58481-3" title="Unveiling chromatin dynamics with virtual epigenome"><span style="color:#3498db;"><u><em>Unveiling chromatin dynamics with virtual epigenome</em></u></span></a>” was recently published in the prestigious journal <em>Nature Communications</em>.<br />
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<strong>From Experiment-Heavy to AI-Driven Biology</strong><br />
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“Traditionally, exploring chromatin structure required months of complex and costly experiments,” said Professor Jui-Hung Hung, lead researcher and faculty member in NYCU’s Department of Computer Science. “EpiVerse can simulate 3D chromatin folding in different cell states using only computational models. This saves time and resources and opens new paths for understanding gene regulation.”
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="EpiVerse enables the analysis of the entire human chromatin structure. Shown here is a dendrogram illustrating the hierarchical clustering of 39 different tissue types based on similarities in their Hi-C features, revealing potential functional or developmental relationships." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250709085728726.png" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>EpiVerse enables the analysis of the entire human chromatin structure. Shown here is a dendrogram illustrating the hierarchical clustering of 39 different tissue types based on similarities in their Hi-C features, revealing potential functional or developmental relationships.</em></span></span><br />
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<strong>A New AI Frontier for Life Sciences</strong><br />
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EpiVerse harnesses deep learning and virtual reconstruction to model chromatin dynamics across various tissues and cell types, even in sparse experimental data. At its core, the system combines HiConformer multi-task learning and MIRNet multi-scale image reconstruction, enabling more accurate, high-resolution simulations.</div>
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But EpiVerse goes beyond static models. One of its most powerful features is its ability to conduct in silico perturbation experiments, predicting how chromatin structures might shift in response to environmental stimuli, genetic mutations, drug treatments, or disease states like cancer. This capability allows scientists to map regulatory gene networks and explore potential therapeutic targets with unprecedented speed and scale.<br />
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<strong>Open-Source, Open Science</strong><br />
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“Before EpiVerse, running a single perturbation experiment could take months and cost millions,” Prof. Hung explained. “Now, researchers can test hypotheses rapidly, iterate with flexibility, and design smarter follow-up experiments. This is AI’s true potential in transforming life sciences.”<br />
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The complete EpiVerse codebase is open-sourced and freely available, providing a powerful new toolset for scientists worldwide studying the epigenome and chromatin structure.<br />
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Prof. Hung led this pioneering work jointly developed by two graduate students, Yu-Cheng Lo and Ming-Yu Lin, from the Institute of Data Science and Engineering. The project highlights NYCU’s leadership in training next-generation talent at the intersection of AI, bioinformatics, and biomedical science.<br />
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<img alt="Research team group photo" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250709085948261.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Research team group photo</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1392309647897006080&init=Ycover imagehttps://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1392309648052195328&init=YProf. Jui-Hung Hung, Principal Investigator of the EpiVerse project, Department of Computer Science, NYCU<![CDATA[NYCU and NTUCH Develop Groundbreaking Diagnostic Pipeline to Predict Severity of Rare FOXG1 Syndrome]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-06-30<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Jin-Wu Tsai (left) and Dr. Wang-Tso Lee (center), Director of NTU Children’s Hospital, discuss advancements in rare disease diagnostics." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250630104005375.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Jin-Wu Tsai (right) and Dr. Wang-Tso Lee (center), Director of NTU Children’s Hospital, discuss advancements in rare disease diagnostics.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">At the heart of every expecting parent lies a hope—to detect and address any health challenges their child may face as early as possible. Now, a pioneering collaboration between National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and National Taiwan University Children’s Hospital (NTUCH) has taken a significant step toward that goal, developing an innovative diagnostic workflow to assess the severity of FOXG1 syndrome—a rare and complex neurological disorder. These breakthrough findings were published in the high-impact journal <u><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41380-025-03077-y" title="Molecular Psychiatry"><span style="color:#3498db;"><em>Molecular Psychiatry</em></span></a></u>.<br />
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<strong style="background-color: var(--bs-body-bg); color: var(--bs-body-color); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size);">Decoding a Rare Disease: From Genetic Mutation to Clinical Insight</strong><br />
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<span style="background-color: var(--bs-body-bg); color: var(--bs-body-color); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">FOXG1 syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental condition caused by mutations in the FOXG1 gene, which plays a critical role in early fetal brain development. The condition manifests along a broad clinical spectrum, from severe epilepsy, motor dysfunction, feeding difficulties, and profound intellectual disability to milder forms associated with autism. Most patients are non-verbal and non-ambulatory, and symptoms vary significantly between individuals.<br />
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Previously classified as an atypical form of Rett syndrome, FOXG1 syndrome affects roughly one in every 30,000 newborns, with approximately 1,200 known cases worldwide.<br />
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While next-generation sequencing (NGS) can identify FOXG1 gene mutations, it provides limited insight into how different mutations translate into varying degrees of clinical severity. This diagnostic gap leaves parents overwhelmed and physicians uncertain about potential treatment interventions.<br />
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To address this challenge, Professor Jin-Wu Tsai of NYCU’s Institute of Brain Science and Dr. Wang-Tso Lee, Director of NTU Children’s Hospital (NTUCH), led an international study analyzing clinical and neuroimaging data from 14 FOXG1 patients across Europe, North America, Japan, and Taiwan.<br />
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Based on their findings, the team developed a novel three-tiered experimental approach—combining protein expression profiling, gene regulatory analysis, and mouse embryo neuronal migration assays—to assess the functional consequences of different FOXG1 mutations. The resulting diagnostic pipeline can predict brain abnormalities with over 90% accuracy.</span></div>
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<strong>Predicting Risk, Guiding Care: A Milestone in FOXG1 Diagnosis</strong><br />
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“This approach enables clinicians to do more than simply identify a mutation—it helps them understand its clinical risk,” said Prof. Tsai. “For the first time, we can assess the pathogenicity of specific FOXG1 variants and predict the likely severity of symptoms. This is a crucial advancement for children and families affected by this devastating condition.”<br />
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“Families dealing with rare diseases often feel trapped in a maze of unanswered questions,” said Dr. Lee. “Our goal is to bridge that gap. By integrating NGS with our new predictive tools—ideally during prenatal or neonatal stages—we can better plan early interventions and offer more informed support to affected families.”<br />
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Although these experimental techniques are not yet part of routine clinical testing, the study offers compelling preliminary evidence for the future development of personalized diagnostic tools. The research team emphasized that further validation and creating more scalable testing platforms will be key to clinical adoption.<br />
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As research into rare genetic diseases advances, this collaboration between NYCU and NTUCH underscores the power of interdisciplinary innovation and brings new hope to families worldwide.<br />
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<img alt="Group photo of the NYCU research team" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250630104342611.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Group photo of the NYCU research team</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1389074687539023872&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU and German Team Develop Light-Activated Nanopores for Smart Materials and Security Tech]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-06-24<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Jiun-Tai Chen (left) and his Ph.D. student Yi-Fan Chen." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250624144357847.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Jiun-Tai Chen (left) and his Ph.D. student Yi-Fan Chen.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Imagine flipping a molecular switch using nothing but light. A groundbreaking study led by Professor Jiun-Tai Chen from the Department of Applied Chemistry at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), in collaboration with Professor Patrick Théato from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) in Germany, has unveiled a novel class of “light-responsive nanopores.”<br />
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Titled “<em><u><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsnano.4c08801" title="Illuminating Biomimetic Nanochannels: Unveiling Macroscopic Anticounterfeiting and Photoswitchable Ion Conductivity via Polymer Tailoring"><span style="color:#3498db;">Illuminating Biomimetic Nanochannels: Unveiling Macroscopic Anticounterfeiting and Photoswitchable Ion Conductivity via Polymer Tailoring</span></a></u></em>”, the research was published in the prestigious journal ACS Nano and opens exciting possibilities for future smart materials and anti-counterfeiting applications.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Inspired by green algae, NYCU researchers created light-responsive nanopores that switch between hydrophobic and hydrophilic states, enabling rewritable anti-counterfeiting surfaces and controlled ion transport." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250624144610511.jpeg" /><br />
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Inspired by green algae, NYCU researchers created light-responsive nanopores that switch between hydrophobic and hydrophilic states, enabling rewritable anti-counterfeiting surfaces and controlled ion transport.</em></span></span><br />
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<strong>Nature-Inspired Innovation: Lessons from Algae</strong><br />
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The inspiration came from an unlikely source: algae. In aquatic environments, algae navigate toward light to optimize photosynthesis, guided by light-sensitive ion channels known as channelrhodopsins (ChRs) embedded in their cell membranes. These channels enable algae to regulate ion flow based on light cues, maintaining physiological balance in changing environments.<br />
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Mimicking this natural mechanism, the research team engineered nanoporous structures from anodic aluminum oxide (AAO), then coated the pores with a light-responsive polymer made of spiropyran—a molecule that changes structure when exposed to light. The result: a synthetic nanopore system that can open or close in response to UV light, effectively functioning as a controllable ion gate.</div>
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<strong>A Light Switch at the Nanoscale</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full">“The key lies in spiropyran’s molecular transformation,” explained Professor Chen. “When exposed to ultraviolet light, the molecule shifts from a closed, non-polar form to an open, charged form. This alters the nanopore’s hydrophilicity and drastically impacts ion transport.” Accompanying this transformation is a visible color change from clear to deep violet, hinting at applications in optical anti-counterfeiting labels where authentication could be done with the naked eye.</div>
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<strong>Toward a Sustainable Smart Future</strong><br />
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Beyond security features, this light-gated nanopore technology holds promise for cutting-edge uses in drug delivery, optical data storage, and biomedical engineering. The findings mark a significant step forward in both materials science and biomimetic design.<br />
In the near future, a single beam of light may be all it takes to unlock the full potential of smart materials—one photon at a time.<br />
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Jiun-Tai Chen and his research team.</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1386961283139506176&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[MAFLD Does More Than Harm the Liver: NYCU Study Shows 46% Spike in Heart Attack Risk]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-06-16<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU Study Finds MAFLD Ups Heart Attack Risk by 46%" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250617152138035.png" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Forget what you thought you knew about fatty liver disease. It's not just a concern for your liver; it's intricately tied to your heart health. A groundbreaking study led by Professor Mei-Hsuan Lee of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU)'s Institute of Clinical Medicine has, for the first time, systematically quantified the strong link between fatty liver disease (formally known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, or MASLD) and major cardiovascular events like myocardial infarction (heart attack), ischemic stroke, and heart failure.<br />
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The study, titled “<u><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589555925001570" title="Attributable Burden of Steatotic Liver Disease on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Asia"><span style="color:#3498db;"><em>Attributable Burden of Steatotic Liver Disease on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Asia</em></span></a></u>,” published recently in <em>JHEP Reports</em>, a journal of the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL), is one of its largest and longest follow-up studies. It tracked over 300,000 Taiwanese adults aged 30 and above, filling a crucial gap in evidence regarding the link between MASLD and cardiovascular risk in Asia. The findings offer vital insights for public health policy and clinical practice.
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Abdominal ultrasound simulation, not a real patient. AI-generated illustration by ChatGPT.</em></span></span><br />
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<strong>Unraveling the Hidden Connection Between Heart and Liver</strong><br />
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The results are stark: Individuals with MASLD face nearly a 30% increased risk of developing any cardiovascular disease compared to those without. The risk for myocardial infarction (heart attack) is even more pronounced, soaring by 46%.<br />
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The research team further estimated that effectively preventing and controlling fatty liver disease could reduce heart attack incidence by approximately 12% and cardiovascular disease events by 8%. This underscores that MASLD isn't just a marker for liver problems; it's a significant indicator of cardiovascular risk.</div>
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<strong>A Systemic Threat: More Than Just a MASLD</strong><br />
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"With the successful implementation of hepatitis B vaccination policies and the widespread use of antiviral drugs for chronic hepatitis B and C, viral hepatitis's impact on liver cancer has gradually diminished," explains Professor Lee. "MASLD is now rapidly becoming the primary cause of cirrhosis and liver cancer."<br />
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She emphasizes that the liver acts as the body's metabolic hub, closely linked to cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, insulin resistance, and diabetes. This highlights that MASLD is a systemic condition, reflecting broader metabolic abnormalities.<br />
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<strong>The Silent Epidemic: Time to Take Action</strong><br />
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Currently, the prevalence of MASLD in Taiwanese adults is around 30%, with a noticeable trend affecting younger populations. Many individuals who discover they have MASLD during health check-ups often overlook its potential risks due to a lack of apparent symptoms.<br />
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"MASLD can be detected early and reversed through lifestyle changes," Professor Lee stresses. "Through this research, we hope to raise public awareness about the systemic risks posed by MASLD, fostering a greater understanding of prevention and early screening to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular diseases ultimately."<br />
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<img alt="Professor Mei-Hsuan Lee, Institute of Clinical Medicine, NYCU." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250617152848307.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Mei-Hsuan Lee, Institute of Clinical Medicine, NYCU.</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1384435062929362944&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU Uses Fruit Fly Brain to Uncover Key Pathway That May Halt Parkinson’s Disease Progression]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-06-03<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU Uses Fruit Fly Brain to Uncover Key Pathway That May Halt Parkinson’s Disease Progression" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250603121005539.png" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Following a breakthrough in Alzheimer’s research, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) scientists have now made another leap forward in studying neurodegenerative diseases—this time focusing on Parkinson’s disease.<br />
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A research team led by Dr. Margaret S. Ho, Associate Professor at NYCU’s Institute of Neuroscience, has identified a novel cellular pathway that clears toxic proteins from the brain, preventing the death of dopamine-producing neurons, a hallmark of Parkinson’s disease. The study, titled “<u><em><a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15548627.2024.2442858" title="Drosophila aux orchestrates the phosphorylation-dependent assembly of the lysosomal V-ATPase in glia and contributes to SNCA/α-synuclein degradation"><span style="color:#3498db;">Drosophila aux orchestrates the phosphorylation-dependent assembly of the lysosomal V-ATPase in glia and contributes to SNCA/α-synuclein degradation</span></a></em></u>,” was recently published in the prestigious international journal <em>Autophagy</em>.<br />
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<strong>Toxic Protein Buildup: A Shared Culprit in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s</strong><br />
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Like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of toxic proteins. Dr. Ho’s team discovered that a gene known as GAK (in mice) or aux (in fruit flies) plays a critical role in regulating lysosomal acidification, a process essential for breaking down these proteins, especially alpha-synuclein (α-synuclein), the primary toxic agent in Parkinson’s.<br />
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Their findings show that this gene is predominantly expressed in glial cells, which regulate lysosomal pH and enzyme activity. Without this gene, the lysosomes lose their acidic environment, preventing them from degrading harmful proteins. As a result, these proteins accumulate and severely damage brain cells.<br />
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<strong>Animal Studies Reveal Striking Similarities to Human Parkinson’s</strong><br />
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Experimental models confirmed the mechanism. Fruit flies lacking the aux gene showed impaired motor abilities and shortened lifespans, while mice without the GAK gene exhibited Parkinson’s-like symptoms such as unsteady gait and slowed movement. These findings closely mirror the degenerative symptoms seen in human patients.</div>
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<strong>A Molecular “Valve” for the Brain’s Waste Disposal System</strong><br />
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Dr. Ho emphasized that her team had already flagged the GAK/aux gene as a potential player in Parkinson’s disease as early as 2017. This new study goes a step further, identifying the gene as a molecular valve for lysosomal acidification. By maintaining the proper environment inside lysosomes, this valve controls the brain’s ability to break down and clear toxic proteins, effectively powering the cell’s waste disposal system.<br />
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“When this switch fails,” Dr. Ho explained, “the entire system shuts down.”<br />
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<strong>A New Hope for Parkinson’s Treatment</strong><br />
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“This discovery is significant,” said Dr. Ho. “It tells us that if we can reactivate this molecular switch, glial cells can once again clear toxic proteins. This opens the door to a promising new therapeutic target for Parkinson’s disease.”<br />
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As global populations continue to age, the urgency for innovative treatments for neurodegenerative diseases has never been higher. NYCU’s discovery not only advances our understanding of Parkinson’s but also brings renewed hope for effective therapies shortly.<br />
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<img alt="Dr. Margaret S. Ho (center) and her research team at NYCU’s Institute of Neuroscience. From left to right: Yi-Hua Lee, Yu-Tung Lin, Yu-Ting Tsai, Yu-Hung Wang, and Chia-Ching Lin." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250603121054572.png" /><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Dr. Margaret S. Ho (center) and her research team at NYCU’s Institute of Neuroscience. From left to right: Yi-Hua Lee, Yu-Tung Lin, Yu-Ting Tsai, Yu-Hung Wang, and Chia-Ching Lin.</span></span></em></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1379311441714089984&init=YDr. Margaret S. Ho, Associate Professor at NYCU’s Institute of Neuroscience<![CDATA[Personality Predicts Vaccination Behavior: NYCU Decodes Pandemic-Era Psychology]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-05-29<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Personality Drives Vaccine Action: NYCU Research Breaks New Ground" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250528225146497.png" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Are you the type to proactively seek vaccine updates, or do you wait until someone reminds you to book your shot? A new study from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) finds that personality may play a far greater role in vaccine decisions than previously thought. The study, titled “<u><em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0277953624005173" title="Adopting the risk information seeking and processing model to examine the impact of personality on vaccination intentions in Taiwan"><span style="color:#3498db;">Adopting the risk information seeking and processing model to examine the impact of personality on vaccination intentions in Taiwan</span></a></em></u>,” was published in the international journal <em>Social Science & Medicine</em>.<br />
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<strong>Research Backed by Psychological Models</strong></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full">Professor Shu-Chu Sarrina Li of NYCU’s Institute of Communication Studies, together with Associate Professor Shih-Yu Lo, led a research team to investigate how personality influences vaccination decisions. Using the <strong>Risk Information Seeking and Processing (RISP) model</strong>, the team analyzed how 1,100 individuals in Taiwan sought information and made decisions regarding COVID-19 vaccination during the pandemic. The findings reveal significant behavioral differences based on personality traits when confronting public health risks.<br />
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The research team applied the widely accepted<strong> OCEAN model</strong>—Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism—to examine how different personality types process health risk information and act upon it.<br />
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<img alt="The Big Five Personality Traits (photo credit: Getty Images)" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250528225458386.png" /><br />
<em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">The Big Five Personality Traits (photo credit: Getty Images)</span></span></em><br />
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The study shows that individuals high in conscientiousness and extraversion were the most likely to actively gather pandemic-related information and make clear decisions to get vaccinated. Conscientious individuals tend to be organized and diligent, investing effort into understanding vaccine science and taking action accordingly. Extroverts, on the other hand, may be driven by social influence or concern for family members, prompting them to stay informed and take preventive measures.</div>
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<strong>Influence from Others Matters More Than Fear</strong><br />
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Those with agreeable traits, who value interpersonal relationships, were more likely to be influenced by friends and family when considering vaccination. Meanwhile, individuals high in neuroticism tended to seek information out of fear or anxiety but often absorbed the information in a fragmented and emotionally driven manner.<br />
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Surprisingly, openness—typically associated with curiosity and a willingness to explore new ideas—did not significantly predict whether individuals would engage with public health information. The researchers suggest that pandemic-related social restrictions may have stifled this group’s usual channels of engagement, dampening their motivation to seek information.<br />
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The study also found that simply perceiving COVID-19 as a serious risk or feeling fear was not enough to prompt information-seeking or vaccine uptake. Instead, social context proved to be a key driver. “When you notice that people around you are taking the issue seriously—or even expecting you to respond—you’re more likely to take action,” explained Professor Li, the study’s principal investigator.<br />
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“This research highlights that vaccine messaging should go beyond a binary ‘to jab or not to jab’ framework,” she explained. Understanding the varied motivations behind people’s health choices is essential. In an era of information overload and rampant misinformation, knowing why individuals choose to believe, act, or wait is the first step in designing effective public health strategies.<br />
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<img alt="Professor Shu-Chu Sarrina Li (front row, right) and Associate Professor Shih-Yu Lo (front row, left) from NYCU’s Institute of Communication Studies with their research team." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250528225828103.png" /><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Shu-Chu Sarrina Li (front row, right) and Associate Professor Shih-Yu Lo (front row, left) from NYCU’s Institute of Communication Studies with their research team.</span></span></em></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1377300363253649408&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[Sesamin from Sesame Oil Shows Promise in Combating Bladder Cancer and Enhancing Chemotherapy Effectiveness, NYCU and SKH Study Finds]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-05-28<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Sesamin from Sesame Oil Shows Promise in Combating Bladder Cancer and Enhancing Chemotherapy Effectiveness" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250528111404194.JPG" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">A new study by National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital (SKH) suggests that sesamin, a natural lignan compound found in sesame oil, may possess anti-cancer properties against bladder cancer. Beyond its known cardiovascular and weight management benefits, sesame may soon be a powerful adjunct in oncology.<br />
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The study, titled “<u><a href="https://www.ijbs.com/v21p2692.htm" title="Antitumor Effects of Sesamin via the LincRNA-p21/STAT3 Axis in Human Bladder Cancer: Inhibition of Metastatic Progression and Enhanced Chemosensitivity"><span style="color:#3498db;"><em>Antitumor Effects of Sesamin via the LincRNA-p21/STAT3 Axis in Human Bladder Cancer: Inhibition of Metastatic Progression and Enhanced Chemosensitivity</em></span></a></u>,” and recently published in the <em>International Journal of Biological Sciences</em>, reveals that sesamin effectively inhibits key degradative enzymes responsible for breaking down the cellular matrix. This action reduces the invasiveness and metastatic potential of bladder cancer cells.<br />
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<strong>Uncovering the Molecular Pathway Behind Sesamin’s Anticancer Impact</strong></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Sesamin, a sesame-derived compound, demonstrates potential to suppress bladder cancer metastasis." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250528111608792.JPG" /><br />
<em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Sesamin, a sesame-derived compound, demonstrates potential to suppress bladder cancer metastasis.</span></span></em><br />
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Dr. Chao-Yen Ho, attending physician in the Department of Urology at SKH and a doctoral candidate at NYCU’s Institute of Traditional Medicine, explained the breakthrough: “We have mapped a comprehensive molecular pathway showing how sesamin downregulates long non-coding RNA expression, thereby interrupting intracellular signaling and reducing the expression of matrix metalloproteinase MMP2—an enzyme critical to cancer cell spread. This offers a safer therapeutic avenue through natural compound intervention.”<br />
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The research team also discovered that sesamin enhances the sensitivity of bladder cancer cells to conventional chemotherapy drugs. This dual action boosts therapeutic efficacy and indicates potential for reducing the required dosage of chemotherapeutic agents, mitigating patient side effects.</div>
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<strong>Sesame in the Spotlight: From Classical Texts to Clinical Innovation</strong><br />
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“This represents a novel and promising clinical strategy for bladder cancer treatment,” said Dr. I-Sheng Hwang, Director of the Department of Surgery and attending urologist at SKH, who led the study. “Natural products like sesamin could become valuable tools in integrative cancer therapy.” An-Chen Chang from the SKH’s Translational Medicine Center added, “Sesamin demonstrates excellent safety and biocompatibility. This is the first time its anti-metastatic potential in bladder cancer has been scientifically validated.”<br />
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The findings also resonate with long-standing principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which emphasize the role of food as medicine. Sesame has historically been valued for kidney nourishment and digestive health, as documented in ancient texts such as the Compendium of Materia Medica, which praises its ability to “replenish qi and blood, strengthen the brain, and prolong life.”<br />
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Professor Tung-Yi Lin, Director of NYCU’s Institute of Traditional Medicine, emphasized the broader significance of the research: “This study not only confirms the anti-tumor mechanism of sesamin using modern molecular biology but also helps bridge traditional medicine and evidence-based science. It adds empirical value to the modernization and clinical application of TCM.”<br />
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With further clinical trials on the horizon, sesamin’s evolution from kitchen staple to cancer-fighting ally marks a potential paradigm shift in integrative oncology.<br />
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<img alt="Dr. Chao-Yen Ho (second from left), an attending urologist at Shin Kong Hospital, and Professor I-Sheng Hwang (center), Director of the Department of Surgery, are pictured with fellow research team members." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250528112043919.png" /><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Dr. Chao-Yen Ho (second from left), an attending urologist at Shin Kong Hospital, and Professor I-Sheng Hwang (center), Director of the Department of Surgery, are pictured with fellow research team members.</span></span></em></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1377125868920377344&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU Unveils Strange Metal Mechanism in Superconductors, Opening a Path to Energy-Efficient Technologies]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-05-26<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Chung-Hou Chung has unveiled the formation mechanism of high-temperature superconductors." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250527141130756.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Chung-Hou Chung has unveiled the formation mechanism of high-temperature superconductors.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Scientists worldwide have long sought superconductors that carry electrical current without resistance or energy loss. A research team led by Professor Chung-Hou Chung from the Department of Electrophysics at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has made a significant theoretical breakthrough in this pursuit. They have uncovered the formation mechanism of the “strange metal” quantum critical state in cuprates—a mysterious state first observed in 1986 that precedes the emergence of copper-based high-temperature superconductivity. This discovery marks a pivotal step toward solving a 40-year-old puzzle in physics.<br />
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<strong>The Strange Metal Phase: The Precursor to High-Temperature Superconductivity</strong><br />
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Unlike conventional metals, where electrical resistance arises due to electron collisions and energy dissipation, superconductors exhibit zero electrical resistance and perfect diamagnetism, making them ideal for minimizing energy loss. However, superconductivity can only be achieved below a material’s critical temperature.</div>
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<em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Theoretical Phase Diagram of High-Temperature Superconductivity</span></span></em><br />
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To unlock the potential for practical, everyday applications, scientists have sought ways to raise this critical temperature, hoping to discover superconductors that operate at room temperature and ambient pressure. Among all known materials, cuprates boast the highest superconducting transition temperatures under ambient pressure, positioning them as leading candidates for room-temperature superconductivity. Yet the underlying mechanism driving their superconducting behavior has remained one of physics’s most perplexing mysteries.<br />
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Professor Chung explained that before entering the superconducting phase, cuprates exhibit a peculiar “strange metal” state in which electrical resistance decreases linearly with temperature—behavior that sharply deviates from conventional metals. This strange metal phase transitions into a high-temperature superconducting state as the temperature drops. Many physicists now believe that decoding the origins of this peculiar metal state is the key to finally understanding high-temperature superconductivity.<br />
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<strong>Quantum Critical Entangled State: The Core of Strange Metal Behavior</strong><br />
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The NYCU research team has proposed a groundbreaking theory that identifies the “quantum critical entangled state” as the essential nature of strange metals. This state emerges from intense competition between two internal quantum phases in the material: a magnetic spin liquid state and a conventional metallic state. When these two phases are finely balanced, quantum fluctuations drive electrons into a highly entangled state, forming a quantum critical point.</div>
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According to Professor Chung, the material experiences pronounced local charge fluctuations near this critical point. This leads to a unique phase—the Planckian strange metal—where the scattering rate between electrons is linearly proportional to temperature and inversely proportional to Planck’s constant. This highly entangled quantum state represents the final gateway before the onset of high-temperature superconductivity.<br />
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The team applied a similar theoretical framework two years ago to explain the superconducting mechanism in rare-earth-based materials. For the first time, they have successfully explained various experimental data and phenomena in cuprates related to strange metals, including resistivity, electron scattering rates, specific heat, and the interrelationships between strange metal, superconducting, spin liquid, and metallic phases. This offers the strongest theoretical evidence for how superconductivity may emerge from the peculiar metal state.<br />
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<strong>NYCU Earns Global Spotlight with Groundbreaking Research Advancing Room-Temperature Superconductivity</strong><br />
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This original study, conducted independently by Professor Chung-Hou Chung, Dr. Yong-Yeh Zhang (Academia Sinica), Dr. Wen-Hao Ruan (NYCU), and Dr. Kim Remund, has garnered international attention. It was published in the prestigious journal <u><a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1361-6633/adc330" title="Reports on Progress in Physics"><span style="color:#3498db;"><em>Reports on Progress in Physics</em></span></a></u> by the Institute of Physics (IOP) in the UK and featured prominently as one of the journal’s most-read articles.<br />
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Professor Chung believes that unraveling the mystery of strange metals sheds light on the conditions necessary to elevate superconducting temperatures and opens the door to designing new materials capable of sustaining superconductivity at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. Such advancements would represent a significant milestone in reducing energy consumption and promoting global environmental sustainability.<br />
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<img alt="The research team includes Professor Chung-Hou Chung (center), Postdoctoral Researcher Dr. Wen-Hao Ruan (left), and Postdoctoral Researcher Dr. Kim Remund (right)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250527142020568.png" /><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">The research team includes Professor Chung-Hou Chung (center), Postdoctoral Researcher Dr. Wen-Hao Ruan (left), and Postdoctoral Researcher Dr. Kim Remund (right).</span></span></em></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1376807896372744192&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU TCMGRC Unveils Anti-Cancer Potential of Polysaccharides in Poria and Antrodia Cinnamomea]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-05-19<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Poria, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, contains a novel compound, Suc40 F3, isolated from its sulfated polysaccharides. In vitro studies have confirmed its dual effects in suppressing inflammation and inhibiting cancer cell growth." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250519214445671.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Poria, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, contains a novel compound, Suc40 F3, isolated from its sulfated polysaccharides. In vitro studies have confirmed its dual effects in suppressing inflammation and inhibiting cancer cell growth.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>Translated by Szu-Yung Huang<br />
Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In a groundbreaking study blending centuries-old tradition with modern science, researchers from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) have unveiled potent anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties in polysaccharides extracted from two popular Chinese medicinal herbs—Poria (茯苓) and Taiwan-native Antrodia cinnamomea (牛樟芝). This discovery marks a pivotal step toward the scientific modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).<br />
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While polysaccharides have long been believed to play a crucial role in regulating physiological functions, most TCM research has historically focused on small-molecule compounds, leaving the biological potential of these complex carbohydrates largely unexplored. To bridge this critical gap, NYCU’s College of Medicine established Taiwan’s first-ever <strong>Traditional Chinese Medicine Glycomics Research Center (TCMGRC)</strong>, following the founding of its School of Chinese Medicine. The center is dedicated to investigating the physicochemical properties of polysaccharides in traditional herbal remedies and accelerating their clinical applications.<br />
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<strong>Taiwan’s First TCMGRC Showcases Breakthrough Research Achievements</strong><br />
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The center’s current research zeroes in on Poria and Antrodia cinnamomea, both highly valued in folk medicine. Under the leadership of Professor Mei-Kuang Lu, the research team successfully isolated a novel compound, Suc40 F3, from sulfated polysaccharides in Poria. Laboratory tests have confirmed that this compound exhibits dual functionality—effectively suppressing inflammation and inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. The team is now actively decoding its chemical structure to pave the way for clinical therapies based on Poria polysaccharides.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The research team is actively analyzing the chemical structure of Suc40 F3, advancing the clinical application of Poria polysaccharides through scientific innovation." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250519215332990.png" /><br />
<em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">The research team is actively analyzing the chemical structure of Suc40 F3, advancing the clinical application of Poria polysaccharides through scientific innovation.</span></span></em><br />
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In parallel, Professor Tung-Yi Lin’s prior research on the use of Scutellaria baicalensis (黃芩) for oral treatments earned a prestigious gold medal at the 2025 Tokyo International Exhibition of Genius Inventions, showcasing Taiwan’s innovative edge in herbal medicine applications. Professor Lin continues to collaborate with Professor Lu to explore the untapped therapeutic potential of herbal polysaccharides.<br />
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<img alt="Professor Tung-Yi Lin earned the WGC 2025 Gold Award." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250519222558043.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Tung-Yi Lin earned the WGC 2025 Gold Award.</em></span></span></div>
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<strong>Precision Agriculture Boosts Antrodia Cinnamomea’s Anti-Cancer Potential</strong><br />
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Turning their focus to Antrodia cinnamomea, a rare medicinal fungus unique to Taiwan, Professors Lin and Lu are pioneering precision agriculture techniques to enhance the yield of its bioactive sulfated polysaccharides. Their experiments show that cultivating Antrodia cinnamomea with specific trace elements—particularly zinc sulfate—significantly increases the production of highly bioactive compounds. These compounds have demonstrated remarkable results in vitro, inhibiting lung cancer cell growth and activating macrophages, key components of the immune system, to further suppress cancer survival.<br />
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“This is a highly interdisciplinary initiative,” said Professor Dong-Yi Lin, Director of the Center and Head of the Institute of Traditional Medicine. “If we can successfully establish a comprehensive biochemical database for TCM polysaccharides, it will not only fill a longstanding research gap but also chart a new course for future drug development based on traditional medicine.”<br />
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Despite these promising advances, the research team cautions that polysaccharide studies remain in their early stages. They advise the public to consult qualified medical professionals before considering polysaccharide-based therapies.<br />
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As global interest in natural substances for biomedical applications continues to grow, Taiwan’s cutting-edge research into TCM polysaccharides could well become a shining beacon for the future of herbal medicine. These sustained research efforts underscore NYCU’s unwavering commitment to modernizing Chinese medicine and fulfilling the founding mission of its Department of Chinese Medicine.<br />
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<img alt="Professors Tung-Yi Lin (front row, right) and Mei-Kuang Lu (front row, left) lead the research team in polysaccharide studies." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250519215348685.png" /><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Professors Tung-Yi Lin (front row, right) and Mei-Kuang Lu (front row, left) lead the research team in polysaccharide studies.</span></span></em></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1374021637384441856&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU and NHRI Study Reveals New Hope for Alzheimer’s Treatment from a Surprising “Virus Warrior” Gene]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-05-15<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The research team (from right: NHRI Director Dr. Shie-Liang Hsieh, NYCU Institute of Brain Science Associate Professor Han-Juo Cheng, and Ph.D. student Yu-Yi Lin)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250515122842988.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>The research team (from right: NHRI Director Dr. Shie-Liang Hsieh, NYCU Institute of Brain Science Associate Professor Han-Juo Cheng, and Ph.D. student Yu-Yi Lin).</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Can a gene once believed to fight only viral infections also hold the key to preventing memory loss in Alzheimer’s patients? In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and Taiwan’s National Health Research Institutes (NHRI) have revealed that the immune gene CLEC5A plays a critical role in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, rewriting the scientific community’s long-held understanding of dementia. Published in the prestigious <u><em><a href="https://jneuroinflammation.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12974-024-03253-x" title="Journal of Neuroinflammation"><span style="color:#3498db;">Journal of Neuroinflammation</span></a></em></u>, this breakthrough offers unprecedented insights into Alzheimer’s disease mechanisms and paves the way for new drug development.<br />
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<strong>CLEC5A – The Double-Edged Sword of Immunity</strong><br />
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Traditionally, CLEC5A has been associated with viral defense, activating the immune system in response to diseases like dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, influenza, and COVID-19. It has also been linked to the deadly "cytokine storm" phenomenon. However, in a surprising twist, a research team led by Associate Professor Han-Juo Cheng of NYCU's Institute of Brain Science and Dr. Shie-Liang Hsieh, Director of NHRI's Immunology Research Center, discovered that this gene also plays a pivotal role in Alzheimer's disease.<br />
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Using genetic engineering techniques, the team bred Alzheimer's model mice that lacked the CLEC5A gene and compared them with normal Alzheimer's mice. The results were astonishing: mice without the CLEC5A gene performed significantly better in memory and learning tests. They showed a marked reduction in harmful β-amyloid plaque accumulation—a hallmark of Alzheimer's pathology.<br />
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<strong>Blocking the Gene to Restore Brain Defense</strong><br />
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Professor Cheng explained that microglia—the brain’s resident immune cells—become hyperactive in response to abnormal β-amyloid buildup, mistakenly attacking healthy neurons and accelerating disease progression. However, when CLEC5A was removed, not only did microglial inflammation decrease, but their ability to clear β-amyloid improved dramatically, slowing the progression of brain degeneration.</div>
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This discovery positions CLEC5A as a promising new therapeutic target for Alzheimer’s. By designing drugs to block this gene’s protein function, scientists believe they may open a new front in the battle against dementia.<br />
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<strong>An Accidental Breakthrough from the “Virus Warrior” Gene</strong><br />
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“It started as a hunch without solid evidence,” admitted Dr. Hsieh, who previously identified CLEC5A as a key factor in severe dengue and Japanese encephalitis cases. Initially, the team was uncertain whether this virus-related gene could also be implicated in Alzheimer’s.<br />
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However, further research revealed that CLEC5A doesn’t just recognize viruses—it’s also involved in autoimmune diseases like lupus, raising suspicions that it might also mistakenly attack the brain’s nerve cells.<br />
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This landmark study also credits NYCU doctoral students Yu-Yi Lin and Wen-Han Chang for their critical contributions. The findings, now officially published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation, have drawn significant attention from the international scientific community.<br />
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As Alzheimer’s cases rise globally, this breakthrough led by Taiwan’s scientific teams not only offers a fresh perspective on the disease’s origins but also points to an entirely new direction for drug development. Shortly, targeted therapies against CLEC5A could offer countless families a new beacon of hope in the fight against memory loss.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1372432383034265600&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[Revolutionizing Sustainable Fashion: NYCU Develops Self-Healing Material for High-Performance Apparel]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-05-08<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Jiun-Tai Chen (second from the left, front row) and his research team." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250508123042970.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Jiun-Tai Chen (second from the left, front row) and his research team.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The era of discarding high-value functional clothing due to minor damage may soon be over. A breakthrough from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) promises to reshape the future of smart textiles and sustainable fashion.<br />
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A research team led by Distinguished Professor Jiun-Tai Chen, Dean of the College of Science and faculty member in the Department of Applied Chemistry at NYCU, has developed a pioneering material technology with self-healing properties. The innovation was granted a Republic of China (Taiwan) invention patent in January 2025 under the title “Repairable Substrate, Its Preparation Method, and Repair Method.”<br />
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<strong>A Game-Changer for the Textile, Medical, and Wearable Tech Industries</strong><br />
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The team created a self-repairing “ion gel” that allows damaged fabrics to heal autonomously under specific conditions by integrating ionic liquids with specially engineered polymer materials. This groundbreaking advancement significantly extends the lifespan of functional materials and holds immense promise for applications across textile manufacturing, wearable electronics, and biomedical devices.<br />
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At the heart of the innovation lies a reversible physical cross-linking mechanism. The positive ions in the ionic liquid form stable ion-dipole interactions with fluorinated polymer chains, resulting in a network that can rapidly reassemble when damaged. When the material is coated and subjected to pressure, the damaged area heals efficiently, restoring structure and function.<br />
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<strong>Tackling Sustainability Challenges in High-Performance Apparel</strong><br />
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With growing demand for durable and eco-conscious products, consumers increasingly expect their functional clothing and wearable devices to last longer and perform better. However, most high-end gear is prone to irreparable damage, such as scratches and tears, leading to early disposal. This causes economic loss and exacerbates environmental problems through increased waste and energy consumption.</div>
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Professor Chen’s innovation directly addresses this pain point—enabling materials to recover from damage autonomously and drastically extending product lifespans, thus contributing to cost savings and carbon reduction.<br />
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<strong>Toward a Greener Future: Circular Design Meets Advanced Materials</strong><br />
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The patented technology offers broad commercialization potential and could soon be implemented across industries such as smart clothing, athletic performance wear, and advanced medical dressings. It represents a critical step toward circular material design, where products are made to last longer, consume fewer raw materials, and generate less waste.<br />
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By seamlessly aligning with Taiwan’s push for green transformation and technological innovation, this advancement reinforces NYCU’s commitment to sustainable development and high-impact academic research. The university will continue to foster academia-industry collaboration, bridging market needs with cutting-edge science to support Taiwan’s 2050 Net-Zero Emissions goals and promote a circular resource economy.<br />
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<img alt="At the core of the technology is the combination of polymers with varying degrees of crystallinity and ionic liquids to form a self-healing ion gel." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250508123358279.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>At the core of the technology is the combination of polymers with varying degrees of crystallinity and ionic liquids to form a self-healing ion gel.</em></span></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1369895471492894720&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[Breakthrough by NYCU and TYGH: Febuxostat Shows Dual Benefits for CKD Patient]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-04-28<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Febuxostat Shows Dual Benefits for CKD Patients" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250428144816854.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Photo credit: Getty Images</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often experience the accumulation of uremic toxins, which increases oxidative stress and inflammation, subsequently leading to cardiovascular diseases.<br />
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A research team from Taoyuan General Hospital (TYGH), Ministry of Health and Welfare, and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has discovered that Febuxostat, a drug clinically used to treat hyperuricemia, can improve kidney function in animal models by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, offering a promising new avenue for clinical treatment. The findings were published in the internationally renowned journal <u><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40068488/" title="Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy"><span style="color:#3498db;"><em>Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy</em></span></a></u> in April 2025.<br />
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<strong>Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: Key Drivers of Cardiovascular Complications in CKD</strong><br />
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The study was jointly led by Professor Chih-Hung Chiang of the Department of Urology at Taoyuan General Hospital and Associate Professor Ting-Ting Chang of the Institute of Pharmacology at NYCU.<br />
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Professor Chiang explained that clinically, patients with CKD are found to have a significantly increased risk of developing cardiovascular complications and higher mortality rates. One possible cause is the accumulation of uremic toxins in the bloodstream, which elevates oxidative stress and inflammation, impairs vascular function, and consequently contributes to cardiovascular complications and deaths. Thus, oxidative stress and inflammation are considered key drivers behind the rising incidence of cardiovascular complications among CKD patients.</div>
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Focusing on counteracting oxidative stress and inflammation, Chiang and Chang’s research team explored new therapeutic avenues for CKD-related vascular complications. Their findings highlight Febuxostat’s dual role: It not only preserves kidney function in CKD mice through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects but also promotes faster wound healing and enhanced vascular regeneration.<br />
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In summary, Febuxostat offers kidney-protective and pro-angiogenic benefits in CKD, representing a rare ray of hope for patients suffering from vascular complications. However, the researchers emphasized that further clinical trials must confirm whether Febuxostat can reduce cardiovascular complications in CKD patients.<br />
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<img alt="Professor Chih-Hung Chiang (fourth from the left in the back row) of the Department of Urology at Taoyuan General Hospital, Associate Professor Ting-Ting Chang (third from the left in the back row) of the Institute of Pharmacology at NYCU, and other research team members pose for a group photo." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250428145129404.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Chih-Hung Chiang (fourth from the left in the back row) of the Department of Urology at Taoyuan General Hospital, Associate Professor Ting-Ting Chang (third from the left in the back row) of the Institute of Pharmacology at NYCU, and other research team members pose for a group photo.</em></span></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1366306210520764416&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU Develops Deep-Ultraviolet Metalens for Advanced Imaging and Micro-Nano Processing]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-04-21<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Deep-ultraviolet (DUV) precision laser processing" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250422112543645.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Deep-ultraviolet (DUV) precision laser processing</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Researchers from the Institute of Electronics at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) have developed innovative deep-ultraviolet metalens, significantly advancing compact, lightweight optical components. This cutting-edge lens, boasting a thickness of just 380 nanometers—less than a human hair—delivers exceptional performance by focusing deep-ultraviolet (DUV) light with unparalleled precision.<br />
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Featured as the cover story in <em>Nano Letters</em> under the title ‘<em><u><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39879353/" title="Deep-Ultraviolet AlN Metalens with Imaging and Ultrafast Laser Microfabrication Applications">Deep-Ultraviolet AlN Metalens with Imaging and Ultrafast Laser Microfabrication Applications</a></u></em>,’ this breakthrough opens new doors in fields ranging from semiconductor manufacturing to biomedical imaging and diagnostics.<br />
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<strong>Advancing DUV Technology: A Metalens Innovation</strong><br />
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Deep-ultraviolet light, with a wavelength shorter than UVA and UVB, has long been integral to semiconductor processing and advanced imaging applications. However, the high costs and complexities of DUV components have limited their widespread use.<br />
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The NYCU Institute of Electronics team’s metalens addresses these challenges and achieves a remarkable milestone in DUV optical control. The lens demonstrates extraordinary capabilities by employing aluminum nitride—a material known for its high thermal resistance, chemical stability, and transparency to DUV light. For instance, it can produce nanoscale images and perform ultrafast laser engraving, both firsts in the field.<br />
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Assistant Professor Ming-Lun Tseng, who has dedicated years to developing metalens technology, highlights the transformative potential of this invention. “Deep-ultraviolet technologies are vital to basic research and industrial applications,” Tseng explains.<br />
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“Traditional DUV lenses used for precision laser machining can cost millions of NT dollars. Our approach using metasurfaces—consisting of intricately engineered semiconductor nanoantennas—enables precise light manipulation at a fraction of the cost, paving the way for broader adoption.”</div>
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<strong>Metasurfaces: Shaping the Next Generation of Optical Innovation</strong><br />
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Metasurfaces, made of custom-designed nanostructures, allow engineers to manipulate light in ways conventional optics cannot. The DUV metalens functions like a traditional lens, yet it delivers enhanced capabilities, making it ideal for high-accuracy and efficiency applications.<br />
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In recent years, such metasurfaces have been helpful in full-color imaging, quantum optics, and biomedical diagnostics. There are rumors that major tech companies like Apple may incorporate this novel optical technology into next-generation devices.<br />
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Tseng’s team is optimistic about the metalens’ potential for mass production and commercialization. The lens’s compact size, versatility, and high performance position it as a game-changer in key areas such as silicon photonic device fabrication, biomedical imaging, and semiconductor inspection.<br />
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As the field of metasurface technology evolves, its ability to bridge scientific innovation and industrial application continues to grow, offering unprecedented opportunities for research and industry alike.<br />
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<img alt="Assistant Professor Ming-Lun Tseng (center) led the team in developing the deep-ultraviolet metalens." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250422112859568.png" /><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Assistant Professor Ming-Lun Tseng (center) led the team in developing the deep-ultraviolet metalens.</span></span></em></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Using AI to Detect Brain Lesions Psychiatric Diagnosis Enters the Era of Brain Science" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250407112904279.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Using AI to Detect Brain Lesions Psychiatric Diagnosis Enters the Era of Brain Science.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Psychiatric diagnosis has long relied on clinical interviews and patient history, often lacking objective and quantifiable evaluation standards. To tackle this challenge, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and Taipei Veterans General Hospital (TVGH) have made groundbreaking advancements in brain imaging and artificial intelligence.<br />
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Since 2019, Professor Chih-Chieh Yang—Chair of the NYCU School of Medicine and Director of the Digital Medicine and Smart Healthcare Center—has led the development of a cutting-edge brain imaging analysis technology capable of accurately localizing brain degeneration across different ages and stages of psychiatric illness. By harnessing AI to detect abnormalities invisible to the human eye, this technology significantly enhances the objectivity and precision of psychiatric diagnoses.<br />
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Now successfully implemented in clinical services at TVGH, this innovation has not only transformed diagnostic practices but also earned international recognition with the prestigious <strong>2025 Edison Awards</strong> in the United States—underscoring its global impact on psychiatric research and clinical care.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Chih-Chieh Yang, Chair of the NYCU School of Medicine, led the development of an AI-powered brain imaging technology now implemented at TVGH—an innovation that earned international acclaim with the 2025 Edison Awards for its transformative impact on psychiatric diagnosis and global mental health care." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250926144607264.jpg" /><br />
<em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Chih-Chieh Yang, Chair of the NYCU School of Medicine, received the 2025 Edison Award for his groundbreaking contributions to psychiatric diagnosis and global mental health care.</span></span></em><br />
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At the core of this technology is a precise quantitative method for assessing brain degeneration across various regions. Based on long-term observations of brain aging and disease progression, the research team has established a degeneration trajectory model covering 138 gray and white matter regions. This model predicts the deterioration trends of specific brain regions based on the patient's age and disease stage, enabling targeted diagnosis and more precise treatments.<br />
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Professor Yang explains that the brain undergoes continuous degeneration in psychiatric disorders, but the patterns vary across different regions. Previous AI-based brain imaging technologies had struggled to establish causal relationships and track disease progression. However, the new technology overcomes these limitations by accurately predicting brain degeneration based on a patient's age and disease stage.</div>
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<img alt="This advanced brain imaging technology maps degeneration trajectories across 138 gray and white matter regions, enabling age- and disease-stage-specific predictions that significantly enhance the accuracy of psychiatric diagnoses and support the development of personalized treatment plans." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250407113213155.jpg" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Chih-Chieh Yang, Chair of the NYCU School of Medicine, led the development of an AI-powered brain imaging technology now implemented at TVGH—an innovation that earned international acclaim with the 2025 Edison Awards for its transformative impact on psychiatric diagnosis and global mental health care.</span></em></span><br />
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The technology has already been applied to research and clinical evaluations of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. Findings indicate that patients with schizophrenia experience significant brain volume shrinkage over 22 years post-onset, with abnormalities in cortical thickness observed in the early stages, particularly affecting the frontal, temporal, and insular lobes. The patients with bipolar disorder and major depression show distinct abnormalities in the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex, respectively. These discoveries offer important insights for enhancing treatments such as transcranial magnetic stimulation and deep brain stimulation, allowing for more precise targeting of affected brain regions.<br />
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This groundbreaking technology not only overcomes the limitations of existing deep learning systems in brain imaging analysis but also provides psychiatry with a scientific and quantifiable diagnostic tool. In the future, it is expected to be expanded for the early diagnosis and assessment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.<br />
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<em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Brain imaging technology reveals disease-specific brain degeneration in psychiatric disorders, enabling targeted treatments and paving the way for early diagnosis of conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.</span></span></em></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1362696923688996864&init=YUsing AI to Detect Brain Lesions Psychiatric Diagnosis Enters the Era of Brain Sciencehttps://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1358647326184312832&init=YProfessor Chih-Chieh Yang, Chair of the NYCU School of Medicine, received the 2025 Edison Award for his groundbreaking contributions to psychiatric diagnosis and global mental health care.https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1358647326356279296&init=YThis advanced brain imaging technology maps degeneration trajectories across 138 gray and white matter regions, enabling age- and disease-stage-specific predictions that significantly enhance the accuracy of psychiatric diagnoses and support the development of personalized treatment plans.<![CDATA[NYCU Develops Hair-Thin Fiber-Optic Microphone for Clear, Interference-Free Sound Transmission]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-04-01<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Cheng-Yang Liu of NYCU unveils a groundbreaking fiber-optic microphone as thin as a human hair, capable of capturing clear sound signals while resisting electromagnetic interference—paving the way for advancements in mobile and medical applications." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250401152302849.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Cheng-Yang Liu of NYCU unveils a groundbreaking fiber-optic microphone as thin as a human hair, capable of capturing clear sound signals while resisting electromagnetic interference—paving the way for advancements in mobile and medical applications.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has showcased a fiber-optic microphone as thin as a human hair. Despite its minimal size, this microphone can accurately capture sound signals, making it highly valuable for use in mobile phones, wearable devices, cochlear implants, hearing aids, and various other electronic products.<br />
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Traditional microphones are highly susceptible to electromagnetic interference, which leads to unclear sound signals due to added noise. To address this issue, Professor Cheng-Yang Liu's research team from the Department of Biomedical Engineering at NYCU, in collaboration with Dr. Po-Hung Li, the director of the Otolaryngology at Cheng Hsin General Hospital, and the Taiwan Instrument Research Institute (TIRI), has successfully developed a fiber-optic microphone.<br />
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Unlike traditional microphones, this innovative microphone utilizes optical fibers to transmit signals, effectively avoiding electromagnetic interference from mental components. It maintains stable and precise sound transmission, even in environments with strong electromagnetic fields.<br />
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The research team integrated cut single-mode optical fibers with capillaries and hydrogel films to fabricate and evaluate thin films composed of polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) and graphene oxide. They evaluated the effects of various hydrogel concentrations on the thickness and mechanical properties of the microphone, leading to the development of this fiber-optic microphone.</div>
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<em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">NYCU's fiber-optic microphone eliminates electromagnetic interference, ensuring clear and stable sound transmission.</span></span></em><br />
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Due to its tiny size, this microphone is ideal for use in hearing aids, cochlear implants, mobile phones, and other medical and consumer electronics. It has significant commercial potential in fields such as photoacoustic imaging, health monitoring, nondestructive testing, and medical clinical applications.<br />
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Professor Liu stated that this microphone effectively covers a wide range of human hearing frequencies, accurately capturing sounds between 100 to 10,000 Hz while minimizing background noise—almost completely eliminating the "hiss" often heard with traditional headphones. Even after continuous eight-hour signal measurements, the deviation remained stable. He emphasized that the primary advantages of the fiber-optic microphone are its simple structure, low cost, and reliable signal transmission. Additionally, since it contains no metal components, it is immune to electromagnetic interference, making it suitable for mass production.<br />
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The fiber-optic microphone represents a technological breakthrough and offers a new solution to the issue of electromagnetic interference found in traditional microphones. The research findings have been published in the prestigious optics journal <a href="https://reurl.cc/vpxvRA" title="Optics & Laser Technology"><em>Optics & Laser Technology</em></a>.<br />
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<img alt="The research findings have been published in the journal Optics & Laser Technology, presenting a breakthrough solution to electromagnetic interference and ensuring clear, stable sound for medical and consumer applications." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250401152720479.jpg" /><br />
<em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">The research findings have been published in the journal Optics & Laser Technology, presenting a breakthrough solution to electromagnetic interference and ensuring clear, stable sound for medical and consumer applications.</span></span></em><br />
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1356532775078858752&init=YCover imagehttps://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1356532775322128384&init=YNYCU's fiber-optic microphone eliminates electromagnetic interference, ensuring clear and stable sound transmission.https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1356532775431180288&init=YThe research findings have been published in the journal Optics & Laser Technology, presenting a breakthrough solution to electromagnetic interference and ensuring clear, stable sound for medical and consumer applications.<![CDATA[NYCU Study Links Improved Air Quality to Better Brain Health in Older Adults]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-03-25<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU Study Links Improved Air Quality to Enhanced Attention in Elderly Individuals" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250324210744385.png" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">While air pollution is widely known to contribute to lung cancer, recent research suggests it may also impact brain health, potentially increasing the risk of dementia.<br />
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A recent epidemiological study conducted by National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has found that improved air quality is closely linked to enhanced attention and better structural integrity of brain white matter in older adults. Published in <em>Environment International</em> under the title “<u><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412024004628" title="Yearly Change in Air Pollution and Brain Aging Among Older Adults: A Community-Based Study in Taiwan"><span style="color:#3498db;"><strong>Yearly Change in Air Pollution and Brain Aging Among Older Adults: A Community-Based Study in Taiwan</strong></span></a></u>”, the study provides valuable insights into the potential mechanisms connecting air pollution and brain health.<br />
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<strong>Tracking Pollution’s Impact: A Decade-Long Study on Air Quality and Brain Health</strong><br />
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The research analyzed data from 412 healthy individuals aged 60 and above residing in rural and urban communities. Using spatial models, researchers estimated the participants’ exposure to air pollutants over 10 years, including delicate particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), and suspended particles (PM10). Participants also underwent cognitive function tests and MRI scans to assess brain structure changes.<br />
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Medical students are attending a biochemistry lab class.</span></em></span><br />
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The finding revealed that reduced PM2.5 and NO2 concentrations were positively associated with improved attention in elderly participants. MRI scans further indicated decreased pollutant levels correlated with better structural integrity in several white matter regions responsible for attention and memory.<br />
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<strong>Bridging the Knowledge Gap: NYCU Study Unveils Air Quality’s Role in Brain Health</strong><br />
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Although the exact mechanisms by which air pollution affects the brain remain unclear, scientists widely believe that pollutants may stimulate the immune system through olfactory pathways, triggering systemic inflammation. This process may damage the blood-brain barrier, inflame cerebral blood vessels, and ultimately impair neurological health.<br />
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Dr. Yi-Fang Chuang, Associate Professor at NYCU’s Institute of Public Health and lead author of the research, emphasized that air pollution has long been considered a significant risk factor for cognitive decline. However, research exploring the structural impact of air pollution on the brain has been limited. “Our study fills this scientific gap, demonstrating the potential benefits of improved air quality for attention and white matter integrity in older adults,” Chuang stated.</div>
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Professor Chuang further highlighted that while genetic factors are unavoidable in brain aging, lifestyle choices and environmental factors can be adjusted to slow cognitive decline. “Improving air quality not only protects the environment but also enhances brain health and cognitive function in the elderly,” she added.<br />
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<strong>Uniting Expertise: Collaborative Efforts Unlock Key Findings</strong><br />
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Dr. Wen-Chi Pan, Associate Professor at NYCU’s Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, was key in interpreting the study’s data. He noted that this research is particularly significant in environmental health, as previous studies from Western countries have primarily focused on air pollution’s links to cardiovascular disease and lung cancer. Studies investigating air pollution’s impact on brain health, especially in Asian populations, have been relatively rare.<br />
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The study also benefited from the expertise of Professor Chih-Da Wu from National Cheng Kung University’s Department of Geomatics, who provided air pollution exposure estimates for participants over the past decade. His contributions were pivotal in enabling the team to identify these significant findings.<br />
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<strong>A Call for Change: Improving Air Quality for a Healthier Future</strong><br />
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The research team stressed that improving air quality is crucial for environmental protection and a vital strategy for promoting public health, particularly in aging societies. As populations worldwide grow older, safeguarding cognitive well-being through better environmental policies becomes increasingly urgent.<br />
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By shedding light on the connection between air pollution and brain health, the NYCU study underscores the need for collective efforts — from policymakers to community members — to reduce pollutant exposure. With targeted actions to improve air quality, societies can foster healthier aging, preserve cognitive function, and enhance overall quality of life.<br />
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<img alt="The study was led by Associate Professor Yi-Fang Chuang (second from right), with Associate Professor Wen-Chi Pan (second from left) responsible for data interpretation and analysis. The research team also included medical graduate Lin Ying-Tsen (first from left) and sixth-year medical student Fan Kang-Chen (first from right)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250324211510697.jpg" /><span style="font-size:90%;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em>The study was led by Associate Professor Yi-Fang Chuang (second from right), with Associate Professor Wen-Chi Pan (second from left) responsible for data interpretation and analysis. The research team also included medical graduate Ying-Cen Lin (first from left) and sixth-year medical student Kang-Chen Fan (first from right).</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Enhanced Display Longevity: NYCU Develop World’s First AI Model to Restore Screen Brightness" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250311154239113.png" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Have you ever noticed your smartphone or laptop screen gradually losing brightness and color after a few years? A research team led by Professor Paul C.-P. Chao from the Department of Electronics and Electrical Engineering at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has tackled this long-standing issue.<br />
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By integrating embedded AI technology, the team developed the world’s first intelligent AI model that dynamically compensates for screen brightness degradation based on user behavior and environmental temperature, ensuring optimal display performance. The team’s findings were published in the prestigious IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics journal.<br />
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The world’s first AI intelligent model that dynamically compensates for display brightness degradation in real-time, ensuring optimal screen performance.</span></em></span><br />
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<strong>Solving OLED Dimming at Its Root</strong><br />
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Professor Chao explained that OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) brightness degradation is a recognized technical challenge in the industry. Most manufacturers perform burn-in tests before shipment and apply uniform compensation based on average data. However, individual product variations and differing user habits make this one-size-fits-all approach insufficient to meet every consumer’s needs.<br />
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Professor Chao’s team dedicated two years to developing an innovative compensation system to address this issue. The research involved building a model to precisely estimate the internal temperature distribution of displays, collecting data on OLED brightness decay, and incorporating environmental temperature information.</div>
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<strong>Restoring Brightness with AI Precision</strong><br />
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<img alt="The AI compensation technology can restore the brightness of red, green, and blue primary colors to approximately 90%." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250311154535153.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The AI compensation technology can restore the brightness of red, green, and blue primary colors to approximately 90%.</span></em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:#000000;">“Research thrives on challenges, and that’s where we head,” Professor Chao remarked. Having successfully addressed display brightness degradation, his team aims to tackle even more complex challenges, such as color compensation for Micro OLED displays in AR/VR glasses and bidirectional photoelectric conversion in optical sensors. The team envisions advancing light-to-energy conversion technology to minimize performance degradation caused by brightness and color decay.<br />
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This groundbreaking AI compensation technology resolves the persistent issue of display degradation and opens new possibilities for next-generation display technologies and optoelectronic applications. Additionally, the technology is now being integrated into products by Taiwan’s largest display manufacturer, promising an enhanced visual experience for consumers worldwide.<br />
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<img alt="Professor Paul C.-P. Chao specializes in AI sensing, chip design, and biomedical sensing technologies, dedicating his efforts to advancing smart technology innovation." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250311154931079.png" /></span></span><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Paul C.-P. Chao specializes in AI sensing, chip design, and biomedical sensing technologies, dedicating his efforts to advancing smart technology innovation.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU and International Scholars Pioneer "Triazole Organic Molecular Catalyst" to Aid Carbon Neutrality" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250226111616312.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Photo credit: Getty Images</span></em></span></div>
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Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In a significant breakthrough for global sustainability efforts, an international study team at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has developed the world's first "<strong>triazole organic molecular catalyst</strong>" capable of efficiently converting carbon dioxide into methane. The revolutionary technology opens new possibilities for negative carbon technologies as the world moves toward 2050 net-zero carbon emission goals.<br />
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The groundbreaking research, titled "<u><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41560-024-01645-0" title="Electroreduction of CO2 to methane with triazole molecular catalysts">Electroreduction of CO2 to methane with triazole molecular catalysts</a></u>," was published in the prestigious journal <em>Nature Energy</em>, attracting significant attention and recognition from academic and industrial sectors worldwide.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The study team confirmed that the amino groups in the triazole molecules efficiently adsorb carbon dioxide and promote subsequent catalytic reactions." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250226111905273.png" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The study team confirmed that the amino groups in the triazole molecules efficiently adsorb carbon dioxide and promote subsequent catalytic reactions.</span></em></span><br />
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<strong>Methane Conversion Offers Path to Carbon Neutrality</strong><br />
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Methane, the primary component of natural gas, represents an important target for carbon dioxide conversion. Successfully transforming CO2 into methane offers a potential natural gas supply and contributes to net-zero emissions through carbon recycling. However, cost factors and catalyst materials have long presented bottlenecks for negative carbon technologies.<br />
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The international research team featured Assistant Professor Sung-Fu Hung from the Department of Applied Chemistry at NYCU, who holds prestigious appointments as a Ministry of Education Yushan Young Scholar and National Science Council 2030 Cross-Generation Young Scholar. Collaborating with Hung were Assistant Professor Ying Wang from the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Senior Lecturer Ziyun Wang from the University of Auckland, New Zealand, forming a cross-institutional partnership spanning multiple regions.</div>
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"Traditional negative carbon technologies can effectively convert carbon dioxide into useful carbon compounds like methane, but most rely on high-cost metal catalysts, limiting possibilities for large-scale application," explained Professor Hung. "Organic molecular catalysts have gradually gained attention in recent years due to their low cost and material availability. However, improving their catalytic efficiency and stability has remained a major technical challenge."<br />
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To address this challenge, the research team innovatively designed triazole organic molecules that significantly enhanced CO2 conversion efficiency and operational stability. Studies showed the catalyst could operate stably in a membrane electrode assembly with a current of 10 amperes, achieving a methane production rate of 23.0 millimoles (mmol) per hour with a 52 ± 4% conversion rate. Furthermore, the technology can directly regulate the generation of usable town gas, achieving sustainable carbon cycling goals.<br />
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This discovery provides new principles for designing organic molecular catalysts, advancing negative carbon technology development, and strengthening its crucial role in achieving net-zero emissions.<br />
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<strong>Moving Toward Net-Zero</strong><br />
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Professor Hung stated that this research not only breaks through the auxiliary role of organic molecular catalysts in negative carbon technology but also improves their cost-effectiveness and application potential. "The research team has proposed design principles for organic small-molecule materials, establishing a solid foundation for expanding their industrial applications. We hope this technology will help address the 2050 net-zero carbon emission challenge and lead to rapid global development of carbon cycling technologies."<br />
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<img alt="The Study Team: Professor Sung-Fu Hung and students posing for a group photo." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250226112157713.JPG" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The Study Team: Professor Sung-Fu Hung and students posing for a group photo.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Durgesh Kumar Ojha, the first author of the research paper" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250211150128668.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Durgesh Kumar Ojha, the first author of the research paper</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping our world at an unprecedented pace, driving innovations from autonomous vehicles to medical diagnostics. However, as the demand for AI applications soars, the energy consumption associated with traditional AI computation has become a pressing concern.<br />
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A research team from the International College of Semiconductor Technology at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has achieved a key technological breakthrough, paving the way for a more efficient and energy-saving computing paradigm. The study, now published in the prestigious journal <u><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c01712" title="Nano Letters"><em>Nano Letters</em></a></u>, represents a significant step forward in neuromorphic computing—an approach that emulates the human brain’s ability to learn and adapt.<br />
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<strong>Advancing Neuromorphic Computing through Low-Energy AI Models</strong><br />
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The team’s innovation centers around “field-free switching” (FFS), accomplished through a heterostructure device based on magnetic materials (W/Pt/Co/NiO/Pt), utilizing spintronics technology. This design eliminates the need for an external magnetic field, enabling magnetic switching with dramatically reduced energy consumption and enhanced efficiency.<br />
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Based on this foundation, the researchers developed low-energy artificial synapses and neurons, applying them to a three-layer artificial neural network (ANN). Their neural networks demonstrated high-accuracy performance on the MNIST and Fashion MNIST datasets, showcasing a human-brain-like operational model. These advancements open new doors for rapid processing in AI applications such as autonomous driving, intelligent surveillance, and medical imaging diagnostics.</div>
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<strong>Dual-PhD Student Overcomes Challenges, Pioneers AI Research</strong><br />
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Durgesh Kumar Ojha, a dual-PhD student at NYCU and the Indian Institute of Technology, led the research. Despite personal challenges that once caused a temporary pause in his studies, Ojha returned to Taiwan and overcame these difficulties, ultimately publishing his findings in a top-tier journal.<br />
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After graduation, he desired to contribute to Taiwan’s high-tech industry, hoping this research would elevate smart device technologies to new heights. The project’s supervising professor, Dr. Yuan-Chieh Tseng, noted that the achievement has garnered significant international academic attention and lays a critical foundation for the future of smart electronics.<br />
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As energy-efficient computing becomes an essential goal for next-generation electronics, NYCU’s breakthrough highlights the transformative potential of AI and neuromorphic computing. The team’s dedication is reshaping global perceptions of intelligent computing, promising safer and more convenient lives for all.<br />
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<img alt="An illustration shows right-handed spin-orbit torque magnetic memory in a neuromorphic computing approach to MNIST and Fashion MNIST." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250211145457284.jpg" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">An illustration shows right-handed spin-orbit torque magnetic memory in a neuromorphic computing approach to MNIST and Fashion MNIST.</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/doc?module=headnews&detailNo=1338771209382268928&type=sNeuromorphic Computing with Emerging Antiferromagnetic Ordering in Spin−Orbit Torque Deviceshttps://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1338769354157723648&init=Ycover image (photo credit: Getty Images)<![CDATA[NYCU and Global Teams Achieve Breakthrough in Quantum Communication, Strengthening Cybersecurity]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-02-04<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU and Global Teams Achieve Breakthrough in Quantum Communication, Strengthening Cybersecurity" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250205105321282.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em><span style="color:#7f8c8d;">(Photo credit: Getty Images)</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The digital era has brought unprecedented convenience but has also introduced new cybersecurity challenges. Quantum communication, with its unique physical properties, offers a crucial solution for secure data transmission in the future. In collaboration with top domestic and international teams, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) researchers have made a significant breakthrough in quantum key distribution (QKD) technology, enhancing communication stability and resistance to interference.<br />
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Their findings, published in the international journal <u><a href="https://pubs.aip.org/aip/app/article/9/12/126115/3328370/Asynchronous-bit-rate-differential-phase-shift" title="APL Photonics"><em>APL Photonics</em></a></u>, lay a solid foundation for cybersecurity protection. This breakthrough accelerates the practical application of quantum encryption and paves the way for advancements in network security, financial transactions, and national defense.</div>
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<strong>Advancing Quantum Communication Stability for Secure Encryption</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">A research team led by Dr. Hao-Chung Kuo, Director of the Semiconductor Research Center at Hon Hai Research Institute (HHRI) and Chair Professor at NYCU, has achieved a significant breakthrough in QKD technology.<br />
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Partnering with NYCU, National Taiwan University (NTU), and Japan’s National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), the team developed an innovative asynchronous bit-rate encoding and decoding technique, which significantly enhances quantum key stability and interference resistance while reducing the error rate. This breakthrough sets the stage for the next generation of quantum encryption applications.<br />
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By employing asynchronous encoding and decoding techniques, the team successfully minimized optical path discrepancies in the delay-line interferometer (DLI), expanding the free spectral range (FSR) and dramatically improving the system’s resilience to thermal disturbances. Experimental results demonstrated that extending the FSR to 1 GHz reduced the quantum bit error rate (QBER) to 2.2% while increasing the secure key rate (SKR) to 77.32 kbps—marking a significant leap toward stable quantum communication.</div>
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Additionally, the team adopted high-stability distributed feedback laser diodes (DFBLDs) as the light source, controlling wavelength fluctuations within ±0.05 pm. This advancement significantly reduced long-term decoding errors and improved overall system stability.<br />
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Compared to conventional synchronous techniques, this asynchronous DPS-QKD technology greatly enhances interference resistance, reduces reliance on high-precision temperature and current control equipment, lowers operational costs, and offers a more flexible solution for real-world quantum communication applications.<br />
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<strong>Ushering in the Era of Quantum Security with Expansive Applications</strong><br />
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This breakthrough paves the way for the practical implementation of QKD in network security, finance, and military applications, bringing quantum communication technology closer to real-world adoption. The research team emphasized that they will continue refining decoding algorithms and expanding large-scale quantum communication system deployments, accelerating the development of next-generation secure communication networks.<br />
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<img alt="The decoding performance of the asynchronous-bit-rate DPS QKD streams when using different fiberized DLIs with the corresponding FSRs of 40, 192 MHz, and 1 GHz. " src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250205105826545.jpeg" /><span style="font-size:90%;"><em><span style="color:#7f8c8d;">The decoding performance of the asynchronous-bit-rate DPS QKD streams when using different fiberized DLIs with the corresponding FSRs of 40, 192 MHz, and 1 GHz. (a) QBER and (b) SKR obtained at DLI’s visibility of 91.76%; (c) QBER and (d) SKR obtained at DLI’s visibility of maximum (∼96%); (e) the simulated visibility vs temperature fluctuation; and (f) the zoom-in plots showing the slope of the visibility vs temperature gradient suppressed with increasing FSR.</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1336531905293586432&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[A New Breakthrough in Cancer Detection: NYCU Enhances Near-Infrared Photodetector Technology for Accurate Tumor Localization]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-01-14<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU Enhances Near-Infrared Photodetector Technology for Accurate Tumor Localization" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250114153647658.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color:#7f8c8d;">(Photo credit: ArtRepublic)</span></em></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In a groundbreaking advancement, researchers at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) have significantly improved the performance of near-infrared (NIR) photodetectors, paving the way for innovations in cancer detection and biomedical treatments.<br />
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This cutting-edge technology enhances the sensitivity of photodetectors to faint light, enabling precise measurement of tumor size, location, and composition, which can aid medical professionals in devising accurate diagnostic and treatment plans. The findings were published in the prestigious journal<em> Small </em>in December 2024.</div>
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<strong>Tackling Material Challenges with Innovative Solutions</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The study, led by Associate Professor Chih-Shan Tan from the Institute of Electronics—ranked among the top 2% of global scientists—focused on enhancing NIR photodetectors. These devices absorb near-infrared light (wavelengths between 700 nm and 2500 nm) and convert it into electrical signals. NIR light’s longer wavelength and lower energy allow it to penetrate deeper into biological tissues with minimal damage, making it an ideal tool for medical diagnostics, surgery, and treatment.<br />
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Moreover, NIR light is less affected by autofluorescence from biological systems, ensuring high-precision imaging. However, the stability of existing materials has posed a significant challenge in advancing this technology.</div>
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<strong>Revolutionary Material Enhancements</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Graduate student Yu-Hsuan Lai spearheaded a revolutionary solution targeting tin-based perovskite, a lead-free, eco-friendly material with great potential. Lai introduced a protective layer of large alkylammonium ions, employing a dual-surface passivation technique that effectively stabilized the material, dramatically improving its photodetection capabilities and durability.</div>
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This innovation also significantly reduced material defect density, enabling the photodetector to detect faint signals with unprecedented precision—a major leap forward for NIR photodetection.<br />
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According to Associate Professor Tan, this technology is particularly effective for wavelengths in the 650-900 nm range. It combines deep tissue penetration with minimal damage, making it exceptionally suited for medical imaging and diagnostic applications.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><strong>Implications for Cancer Detection and Sustainable Technology</strong><br />
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This breakthrough not only elevates cancer detection and biomedical diagnostics to new heights but also serves as a valuable reference for research into environmentally friendly optoelectronic materials. It showcases NYCU’s commitment to technological innovation and highlights Taiwan’s growing influence in the fields of semiconductors and sensor technologies.<br />
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<img alt="Laboratory Group Photo: The first author of the article, Yu-Hsuan Lai (fourth from the right in the front row), and the corresponding author, Associate Professor Chih-Shan Tan (fifth from the right in the front row), capture this significant moment with their research team." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250114153938575.png" /><br />
<em><span style="color:#7f8c8d;">Laboratory Group Photo: The first author of the article, Yu-Hsuan Lai (fourth from the right in the front row), and the corresponding author, Associate Professor Chih-Shan Tan (fifth from the right in the front row), capture this significant moment with their research team.</span></em></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1328629951603150848&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[Proteins Assemble Like Superheroes? NYCU Research on “Proteins with IDRs” Offers New Hope for Neurodegenerative Diseases]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2025-01-07<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="NYCU Research on “Proteins with IDRs” Offers New Hope for Neurodegenerative Diseases" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250107161348998.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>(Photo credit: Getty Images)</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Can proteins assemble in response to a call like superheroes? A research team at the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has uncovered how <strong>proteins with intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs)</strong>, despite their lack of fixed structure, aggregate in a highly regulated manner.<br />
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Driven by changes in environmental pH, this process reveals new molecular mechanisms with promising implications for neurodegenerative disease treatments. This study, published in the prestigious journal <em>Advanced Science</em>, opens the door to potential drug targets and therapeutic strategies.<br />
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<strong>Proteins with IDRs: Dynamic Executors of Cellular Functions</strong><br />
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The research highlights <strong>Galectin-3</strong>, a protein pivotal in lysosome repair and a key marker of cellular damage. Abnormal aggregation of Galectin-3 has been closely linked to neurodegenerative diseases, but its underlying mechanisms were not well understood until now.<br />
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The team, led by Professor Jie-Rong Huang, demonstrated that Galectin-3 adjusts its aggregation behavior based on intracellular pH levels. Specific interactions within the protein structure mediate this regulation: positively charged residues in the protein’s folded domain interact with aromatic residues in its IDR via cation–π interactions, while π–π interactions occur between IDRs. Additionally, two negatively charged residues in Galectin-3’s IDR serve as pH-sensitive “safety valves,” fine-tuning the protein’s tendency to condense and preventing excessive aggregation.<br />
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These findings offer new insights into how electrostatic and molecular interactions regulate the delicate balance between disordered and structured regions of proteins, shedding light on previously unrecognized mechanisms.</div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The aggregation patterns of proteins with intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) in a pH 7 environment were observed under an optical microscope.</span></em></span></div>
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<strong>Balancing Aggregation: From Cellular Harmony to Disease</strong><br />
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Despite their lack of fixed structure, proteins with IDRs display remarkable functional flexibility. Under normal conditions, they form regulated assemblies to collaborate with other proteins and perform essential cellular tasks. However, abnormal aggregation can disrupt this balance, leading to disease. For example, Galectin-3’s unregulated aggregation may contribute to amyloid plaque formation, accelerating the progression of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s.<br />
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By identifying the charge-driven mechanisms governing protein aggregation, this research advances the understanding of IDR-associated proteins and reveals potential therapeutic strategies. Future treatments may exploit these regulatory pathways to prevent harmful protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases.<br />
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<strong>Young Scholars Pioneering Breakthroughs</strong><br />
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<img alt="Professor Jie-Rong Huang (left) with his research team: PhD student Yung-Chen Sun (center) and Master’s student Tzung-Lun Hsieh (right)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20250107162441043.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Jie-Rong Huang (left) with his research team: PhD student Yung-Chen Sun (center) and Master’s student Tzung-Lun Hsieh (right).</span></em></span><br />
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The study was co-authored by NYCU graduates Yung-Chen Sun and Tzung-Lun Hsieh, who contributed as joint first authors. Both researchers began their journeys as undergraduates in Professor Huang’s lab, gaining significant experience in cutting-edge molecular biology. Their work highlights the innovative power of young scientists and underscores the importance of fostering early research opportunities.<br />
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This study illuminates the intricate order hidden within the “disordered” realm of proteins with IDRs. As superheroes assemble to protect the world, these proteins respond to specific cues to maintain cellular function and stability. Their ability to aggregate and disaggregate in response to environmental changes highlights their essential role in cellular health.<br />
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Looking ahead, these “disordered heroes” may unlock transformative advancements in medicine, offering new hope for combating devastating diseases through innovative therapeutic interventions.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/doc?module=headnews&detailNo=1326107247171866624&type=sA Few Charged Residues in Galectin‐3 s Folded and Disordered Regions Regulate Phasehttps://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1326106213674389504&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[Professor Tzyh-Chang Hwang Deciphers Pathogenic Protein Structure, Advancing Drug Development for Cystic Fibrosis and Diarrheal Diseases]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-12-03<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Tzyh-Chang Hwang (left) and his research team from the Institute of Pharmacology have unraveled the structure of a pathogenic protein, paving the way for a new generation of treatments for cystic fibrosis, diarrhea, and other related diseases." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20241203113631639.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Tzyh-Chang Hwang (left) and his research team from the Institute of Pharmacology have unraveled the structure of a pathogenic protein, paving the way for a new generation of treatments for cystic fibrosis, diarrhea, and other related diseases.</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Why do drugs work in humans but not in pigs, even when the same genes are involved? A groundbreaking study by Professor Tzyh-Chang Hwang from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has revealed the structural intricacies of the <strong>cystic fibrosis (CF)</strong> protein, providing insights into how minor structural variations influence drug efficacy. This discovery could pave the way for a new generation of treatments for cystic fibrosis, diarrheal diseases, and beyond.<br />
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<strong>Decoding CFTR: Unveiling the Protein’s Role in Cystic Fibrosis and Diarrheal Diseases</strong><br />
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The <strong>cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)</strong> protein is essential for regulating chloride ion (a type of electrolyte) transport and maintaining proper hydration across cell membranes, which is crucial for the respiratory and digestive systems. Mutations in CFTR disrupt these pathways, leading to cystic fibrosis, a disease that impairs breathing and digestion. Conversely, hyperactive CFTR proteins can result in excessive fluid transport, causing secretory diarrhea.<br />
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Using advanced <strong>cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM)</strong>, Professor Tzyh-Chang Hwang from the Institute of Pharmacology and his team successfully mapped the complete structure of the CFTR protein. They identified how specific inhibitors bind to CFTR, triggering structural changes that reduce activity. This mechanism provides a new explanation for previously unexplained pharmacological effects and offers valuable insights for developing CFTR-targeted therapies.<br />
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Interestingly, while pigs also possess CFTR proteins, the same inhibitors that are effective in humans show limited efficacy in pigs. To unravel this mystery, the research team swapped structural segments of the CFTR protein between humans and pigs.</div>
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<strong>Bridging the Gap: How Structural Insights Transform Drug Efficacy Across Species</strong><br />
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The results showed that pig CFTR proteins began responding to inhibitors similarly to human CFTR proteins, demonstrating how minor structural differences can significantly impact drug responses.<br />
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“Observing cellular functions at the molecular and atomic levels has always been my scientific dream,” said Professor Huang. He emphasized that past medical research often focused on organ or cellular scales, limiting understanding of disease mechanisms and drug action principles. Such limitations hindered the development of next-generation therapies.<br />
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Professor Huang highlighted that while most drugs target proteins, the lack of precise knowledge about how these drugs interact with their protein targets has been a significant challenge. Cryo-EM technology now enables scientists to decode protein structures with unprecedented accuracy, unlocking new possibilities for structure-based drug design.<br />
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The team’s groundbreaking findings, titled “<u><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-50641-1" title="Allosteric Inhibition of CFTR Gating by CFTRinh-172 Binding in the Pore"><em>Allosteric Inhibition of CFTR Gating by CFTRinh-172 Binding in the Pore</em></a></u>,” were published in <em>Nature Communications</em>, marking a significant advancement in the scientific understanding of CFTR regulation and its role in rare diseases like cystic fibrosis. Leveraging cutting-edge structural biology, this research is poised to accelerate the development of targeted therapies for conditions such as cystic fibrosis, secretory diarrhea, and polycystic kidney disease, offering renewed hope to patients worldwide.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1313350036993609728&init=Ycover imagehttps://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1313350037245267968&init=YProfessor Tzyh-Chang Hwang and his research team.<![CDATA[From Literary Authorship Analysis to Disease Diagnosis: NYCU’s Mathematical Model Advances Early Alzheimer’s Detection]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-11-11<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="From Verifying Literary Authenticity to Diagnosing Brain Diseases: Mathematical Model Enhances Early Alzheimer’s Detection" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20241111165401567.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Photo credit: Getty Images</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>Translated by Szu-Yung Huang<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">A mathematical model developed years ago to analyze the authenticity of Shakespeare’s works and <em>Dream of the Red Chamber</em> has now been found applicable to detecting structural changes in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. This technology reveals differences between the brain structures of Alzheimer’s patients and healthy individuals, improving diagnostic efficiency and introducing a novel diagnostic method.<br />
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The study, “<u><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38654366/" title="Exploring morphological similarity and randomness in Alzheimer’s disease using adjacent grey matter voxel-based structural analysis"><strong><em>Exploring morphological similarity and randomness in Alzheimer’s disease using adjacent grey matter voxel-based structural analysis</em></strong></a></u>,” has been published in <em>Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy.</em><br />
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<strong>Breakthrough in Mathematical Applications: Distinguishing Healthy and Diseased Brain Structures</strong><br />
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Professor Albert Chih-Chieh Yang, Chair of the Department of Medicine at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), developed this mathematical model years ago. It was initially used for analyzing heart rate sequences, genetic nucleotide sequences, and even literary authenticity. Professor Yang once employed the model to identify potential forgeries in Shakespeare’s works and to suggest that Xue-Qin Cao may not have authored the last 40 chapters of Dream of the Red Chamber.<br />
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In this latest research, Professor Yang’s model was successfully applied to MRI images, transforming neuron density data into quantitative insights that distinguish Alzheimer ’s-affected brains from healthy ones, thus accelerating the diagnostic process.<br />
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<strong>A New Diagnostic Avenue for Alzheimer’s: From Symptom Observation to Structural Analysis</strong><br />
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Current Alzheimer’s diagnoses primarily rely on symptom observation, with Amyloid PET scans as the only option for early detection. This research introduces a novel pathway, enabling scientists to diagnose Alzheimer’s more effectively.</div>
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“Just like a house, once you understand the structure, you can compare and identify differences,” Professor Yang explains. He notes that Alzheimer’s brains exhibit structural disarray, potentially due to the irregular deposition of amyloid proteins disrupting neuronal alignment.<br />
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<strong>New Hope for Brain Disease Diagnosis</strong><br />
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Professor Yang emphasizes that this approach may extend beyond Alzheimer’s to other brain disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and Parkinson’s disease. While these are often diagnosed through functional assessments, this new structural data could facilitate earlier detection and treatment.<br />
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With these advancements in Alzheimer’s diagnostics, this mathematical model is set to revolutionize traditional brain disease diagnosis, paving the way for more accurate and early medical assessments and ultimately offering patients more effective treatment options.<br />
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<img alt="Chair of the Department of Medicine, Professor Albert C Yang (center), with the study’s first and second authors, Master’s student in Neuroscience Ting-Yu Chen (right) and Dr. Jun-Ding Zhu (left)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20241111165807988.png" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Chair of the Department of Medicine, Professor Albert C Yang (center), with the study’s first and second authors, Master’s student in Neuroscience Ting-Yu Chen (right) and Dr. Jun-Ding Zhu (left).</em></span></span><br />
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1305456941564170240&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[TVGH-NYCU Research Team Unveils Breakthrough in Lung Adenocarcinoma: New Mechanism Identified to Overcome Drug Resistance]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-10-24<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="TVGH-NYCU Research Team Unveils Breakthrough in Lung Adenocarcinoma: New Mechanism Identified to Overcome Drug Resistance" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20241024121734243.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Photo credit: Getty Images</em></span></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">A research team from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and Taipei Veterans General Hospital (TVGH) has made a groundbreaking discovery in the fight against lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The team identified a key mechanism behind tumor growth and metastasis, which could potentially lead to strategies that overcome drug resistance—an issue that has plagued the treatment of lung cancer despite advancements in medical technology.<br />
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<strong>Unveiling the Tumor’s Immune Evasion Tactics</strong><br />
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Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Taiwan, with NSCLC accounting for approximately 85% of cases. Among them, adenocarcinoma is the most prevalent subtype. One of the significant challenges in treating lung adenocarcinoma is its tendency to metastasize and develop resistance to therapies. Researchers discovered that a transcription factor known as <strong>NKX2-1</strong>, crucial for lung tissue differentiation, plays a pivotal role in the tumor microenvironment.<br />
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The team found that reduced expression of NKX2-1 is closely associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis. This decrease triggers tumor cells to manipulate the immune system, particularly neutrophils—white blood cells that typically serve as the body’s first line of defense. Instead of attacking the tumor, these cells are recruited to support its growth and spread.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="In the animal model, the infiltration of neutrophils into the tumor cells can be observed, with higher levels of red indicating more severe infiltration." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20241024122353552.jpg" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">In the animal model, the infiltration of neutrophils into the tumor cells can be observed, with higher levels of red indicating more severe infiltration.</span></em></span><br />
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<strong>The Switch: Why Do White Blood Cells Aid Tumor Growth?</strong><br />
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While the scientific community has long known that NKX2-1 is a key regulator in lung tissue differentiation, its downstream mechanisms have remained elusive—until now. The research, led by Professor Shih-Hwa Chiou from NYCU’s Institute of Pharmacology, found that when NKX2-1 expression decreases, cancer cells secrete CXCL chemokines. These chemokines interact with CXCR2 receptors on neutrophils, persuading them to enter the tumor microenvironment and inadvertently assist in tumor growth and metastasis.</div>
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“Neutrophils are the most abundant white blood cells and form the first line of innate immune defense,” explained Professor Chiou. “However, more and more studies confirm that in the tumor microenvironment, these immune cells can be subverted by cancer cells, supporting tumor growth instead of fighting it and contributing to drug resistance.”<br />
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<strong>Validating the Mechanism in Animal Models</strong><br />
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The research team validated this mechanism in animal models, successfully reducing tumor growth by targeting the CXCR2 receptor with an antagonist. This suggests that CXCR2-targeted therapies may hold promise as a future treatment strategy for lung adenocarcinoma patients, offering a way to overcome drug resistance and improve outcomes.<br />
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“This study further highlights the potential of NKX2-1 as a clinical biomarker for lung adenocarcinoma,” said Professor Chiou. “Understanding the role of NKX2-1 in shaping the immune microenvironment provides valuable insights into the complex interactions between cancer cells and the immune system, opening up new avenues for therapeutic interventions.”<br />
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<strong>A Collaborative Effort with Global Impact</strong><br />
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The research was a collaborative effort between Professor Chiou and Dr. Mong-Lien Wang, Associate Research Fellow at TVGH’s Department of Medical Research. The project was executed by Anita S. La’ah, a Nigerian Ph.D. student in the Taiwan International Graduate Program (TIGP) of Academia Sinica. The findings were published in the prestigious journal Advanced Science. La’ah’s groundbreaking contributions earned her a Ph.D. in Molecular Medicine from NYCU College of Life Sciences this July. She now has the opportunity to continue her research in the United States.<br />
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These findings mark a significant step forward in the fight against lung cancer, offering hope for more effective treatments and highlighting the potential of immunotherapy in overcoming one of the most challenging aspects of cancer treatment: drug resistance.<br />
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<img alt="Professor Shih-Hwa Chiou (left), Dr. Mong-Lien Wang (right), and Dr. Anita S. La’ah (center)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20241024122801622.png" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Professor Shih-Hwa Chiou (left), Dr. Mong-Lien Wang (right), and Dr. Anita S. La’ah (center).</em></span></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1298866315242508288&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[NYCU Unveils Groundbreaking Interface Technology to Revolutionize Anti-Counterfeiting Security for Credit Cards and Passports]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-10-21<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The research paper's first author, Huan-Teng Su (left), and Assistant Professor Yao-Wei Huang (right) discuss a schematic diagram in front of the measurement equipment." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20241021130135324.JPG" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The research paper's first author, Huan-Teng Su (left), and Assistant Professor Yao-Wei Huang (right) discuss a schematic diagram in front of the measurement equipment.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In a significant advancement for security technology, a research team led by Assistant Professor Yao-Wei Huang from the Department of Photonics at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has unveiled a novel metasurface interface technology. This breakthrough promises to significantly enhance the color performance of anti-counterfeiting labels, addressing current issues of limited color diversity and suboptimal chromatic dispersion. The innovation dramatically bolsters the security of critical identification documents such as credit cards and passports.<br />
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The research, titled “<a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c01858" title="Topology Optimization Enables High-Q Metasurface for Color Selectivity"><u><strong>Topology Optimization Enables High-Q Metasurface for Color Selectivity</strong></u></a>,” was featured as the cover story in the August edition of <strong><em>Nano Letters</em></strong>, drawing significant attention from academic and industrial sectors worldwide.<br />
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<strong>High-Q Metasurface Technology Elevates Color Purity and Efficiency in Anti-Counterfeiting Labels</strong><br />
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This innovative anti-counterfeiting label was developed under the leadership of Assistant Professor Yao-Wei Huang, a Yushan Young Scholar. Traditional anti-counterfeiting technologies, like the holograms found on credit cards or Japan’s new currency, primarily rely on grating structures for light dispersion, which results in limited color presentation.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The team fabricated the metasurface samples using advanced semiconductor processing equipment at the Nano Facility Center. Electron microscope images reveal the structural morphology of portions of the sample." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20241021130438075.png" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The team fabricated the metasurface samples using advanced semiconductor processing equipment at the Nano Facility Center. Electron microscope images reveal the structural morphology of portions of the sample.</span></em></span><br />
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Assistant Professor Huang explained that the newly developed narrowband metasurface technology operates within four narrow wavebands, displaying vivid red, yellow, green, and blue colors with exceptionally high purity. This level of color purity and angle-specific color rendering holds tremendous potential for applications in anti-counterfeiting labels.<br />
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The key to this innovation lies in a high-Q (high-quality factor) nonlocal metasurface, which resolves the inefficiencies associated with traditional techniques. Using a proprietary topology optimization inverse design method, the team designed a metasurface with an unprecedented quality factor of 1362. Experimental results showed a 15-fold increase in efficiency, reaching an experimental efficiency of 59%—a significant milestone in nonlocal metasurfaces.</div>
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<strong>A Fusion of Science and Art: A New Perspective on Optical Innovation</strong><br />
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<img alt="The metasurface samples display ultra-Q colors in red, yellow, cyan, and blue, resembling musical notes scattered across a spectral melody." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20241021130543355.jpg" /><br />
<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>The metasurface samples display ultra-Q colors in red, yellow, cyan, and blue, resembling musical notes scattered across a spectral melody.</em></span></span><br />
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During the experiments, the research paper's team member and first author, Huan-Teng Su, captured a striking visual of the color transitions—red, yellow, cyan, and blue—within the metasurface. He aptly named this image "The Melody of Colors in High-Q Metasurfaces" and entered it into the 11th Tin Ka-ping Academic Digital Imaging Competition, where it earned recognition.<br />
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Su remarked that the image resembled musical notes decorating a spectral melody, with the vibrant colors resembling macarons, blending science, visual art, and optics into an inspiring exploration of light and color.<br />
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This research marks a breakthrough in anti-counterfeiting technology and showcases the harmonious intersection of science and art. Through precise technical development and innovative artistic presentation, Assistant Professor Huang and his team have enhanced the practical value of anti-counterfeiting labels and invited us to appreciate the intricate beauty of the optical world from a fresh perspective. This achievement will spark further exploration and discussion in academic and industrial circles, paving the way for limitless possibilities in future technological innovation.<br />
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<img alt="A group photo of the research team." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20241021130740567.jpeg" /><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>A group photo of the research team.</em></span></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1297788838067834880&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[Transforming Biomedical Science: NYCU Develops Self-Healing Hydrogel for 3D Printing to Reduce Animal Testing]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-08-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Associate Professor Ming-Chia Li’s team from the Department of Biological Science & Technology has developed a nanocomposite hydrogel and successfully used biomimetic 3D printing to create Gyroid cell scaffolds and human outer ears." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240827224136217.jpeg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Associate Professor Ming-Chia Li’s team from the Department of Biological Science & Technology has developed a nanocomposite hydrogel and successfully used biomimetic 3D printing to create Gyroid cell scaffolds and human outer ears.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Inspired by the process of spider silk production, Associate Professor Ming-Chia Li from the Department of Biological Science & Technology at the College of Engineering Bioscience, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), has developed a groundbreaking nanocomposite hydrogel with self-healing capabilities. Using biomimetic 3D printing, Professor Li successfully fabricated Gyroid cell scaffolds and human outer ears.<br />
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Featured as the cover story for the 25th-anniversary issue of Biomacromolecules, this innovative material overcomes the limitations of traditional cell culture methods. By leveraging new biomaterials and 3D printing technology, scientists can replicate the three-dimensional structures and environments of real-world tissues and organs, reducing the need for animal testing and thereby enhancing animal welfare.</div>
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<img alt="Operating biomimetic 3D printing" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240827224329951.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: left;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Operating biomimetic 3D printing</span></em></span></div>
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<strong>Innovative Biomimicry: The Process of Spider Silk Inspires Advanced Hydrogel Development</strong><br />
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Professor Li explains that spider silk is known for its remarkable strength and elasticity, making it an ideal model for biomimicry. Hydrogels, which contain a high water content similar to human tissues, can mimic the natural extracellular matrix of target tissues. The research team set out to replicate the properties of spider silk in hydrogels, leading to the design of a nanocomposite hydrogel that enhances stretchability and self-healing capabilities.</div>
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To develop this hydrogel, the team utilized the non-crystallizing properties of G-polymer, which, through random physical entanglement within the hydrogel system, increased the material’s elasticity. Additionally, the researchers incorporated boronate ester bonds, formed between boric acid and the -OH groups of the G-polymer side chains, to endow the material with self-healing characteristics.<br />
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The hydrogel also contains Laponite, a charged nanoscale disc, which forms a “house-of-cards” structure in solution due to electrostatic interactions. When a specific shear force is applied to the hydrogel, these electrostatic forces are temporarily disrupted, causing the material to transition from a gel state to a solution state—a phenomenon known as shear thinning. This property is crucial for evaluating the printability of hydrogel materials.<br />
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Drawing on the salting-out phenomenon observed in spider silk production, the hydrogel’s protein molecules are enhanced in mechanical strength by the presence of high concentrations of inorganic salt ions. This has enabled the successful printing of Gyroid cell scaffolds and human outer ears without the need for support materials.<br />
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This technique can be applied to digital twin biological 3D printing, where biomedical imaging scans bring real-world data into a computer platform to construct digital models. These models can be used for biomechanical studies through fluid dynamics simulations, and then returned to the real world through 3D printing technology. The excellent biocompatibility of this material paves the way for clinical treatment and related research applications.<br />
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<img alt="Associate Professor Ming-Chia Li’s lab team" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240827224629397.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Associate Professor Ming-Chia Li’s lab team</span></em></span><br />
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1278608215180840960&init=Ycover image<![CDATA[New Study Brings Hope for PTSD Treatment! NYCU and International Researchers Discover New Brain Mechanism in Mice]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-08-20<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Real-time analysis of the freezing fear response in mice after they hear a sound and receive an electric shock." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240820183248503.jpeg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Real-time analysis of the freezing fear response in mice after they hear a sound and receive an electric shock.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>News and Photo by <em><a href="https://smctw.tw/" title="Science Media Center Taiwan">Science Media Center Taiwan</a></em><br />
Translated by Hsuchuan<br />
Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In a groundbreaking study, Professor Cheng-Chang Lien from the College of Life Sciences at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), in collaboration with research teams from Denmark and Austria, have discovered a new brain mechanism involved in the formation of fear memories in mice. This discovery could pave the way for reducing the negative impact of fear and potentially offer new treatment methods for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
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<strong>International Collaboration Sheds Light on Neural Mechanisms of Fear Memory Formation</strong><br />
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Professor Lien’s team joined forces with Professor Marco Capogna from Aarhus University in Denmark and Professor Francesco Ferraguti from the Medical University of Innsbruck in Austria. Their study revealed that fearful experiences activate a small group of inhibitory neurons in the amygdala of mice, preventing an overreaction to fear memories.<br />
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These findings provide deeper insights into the neural basis of fear memory formation and suggest potential solutions for treating PTSD. The study was published this month (August 5) in <em>Cell Reports</em>.<br />
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Dr. Wen-Hsien Hou, Assistant Professor at Aarhus University’s Department of Biomedicine and the study’s first author, explained that fear helps humans remember dangers, enabling quicker responses when facing similar threats in the future. For example, earthquakes are a common fear among Taiwanese people. When an earthquake alert sounds on a mobile phone, it triggers memories of terrifying earthquake experiences, driving protective and evasive actions.<br />
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Professor Lien pointed out that recent literature indicates a region beneath the brain’s outer cortex, which regulates fear-related emotions, the central amygdala. However, it was previously unclear whether specific neurons within this region form fear memories and modulate behavioral responses when recalling fearful experiences.</div>
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<strong>Unveiling Complex Mechanisms: Inhibitory Neurons Key to Fear Memory</strong><br />
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The research team discovered that fearful experiences lead to the long-term enhancement of a small group of neurons in the lateral central amygdala, which is responsible for inhibiting fear memory. Using genetically modified mice, the team labeled these neurons, primarily somatostatin neurons, activated by different fearful experiences. Professor Lien noted that inhibiting these labeled neurons caused the mice to exhibit even more fear.<br />
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Professor Lien emphasized that while most neuroscientists focus on how excitatory neurons in the brain process memory storage and response, this study demonstrates that inhibitory neurons also play a crucial role in modulating fear memory responses in mice, revealing a more complex neural mechanism. This small group of inhibitory neurons in the lateral central amygdala acts like a brake, preventing mice from overreacting.<br />
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However, Professor Lien also cautioned that although the brain structures of mice and humans are similar, there are differences in neural circuits and connections between the two species. Further research is needed to determine whether the central amygdala’s neurons regulate fear memory and behavior in PTSD patients. Developing methods to modulate specific neurons for treating PTSD remains a significant clinical challenge for the future.<br />
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<img alt="International research team" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240821111102133.png" /><br />
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1275403477194903552&init=YFear memory cells in the lateral central amygdala, with magenta and bright green representing neurons activated by two fearful experiences.<![CDATA[New Insights on Post-Disaster Recovery: NYCU Study Reveals Rapid Relocation to Permanent Housing May Not Ensure Psychological Well-Being for Typhoon Survivors]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-08-13<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The research team visited the affected households." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240814001815847.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The research team visited the affected households.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Fifteen years ago, Typhoon Morakot caused the most significant rainfall in Taiwan’s history, devastating numerous communities and forcing many survivors to relocate. A recent follow-up study, "<u><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38648277/" title="The Impact of Relocation Patterns on Psychological Stress">The Impact of Relocation Patterns on Psychological Stress</a></u>,” published in the international journal <em>Psychological Science</em>, found that those who quickly relocated to permanent housing did not necessarily experience better psychological recovery.<br />
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<strong>Study Highlights Importance of Preparation Time in Post-Disaster Relocation for Long-Term Psychological Recovery</strong><br />
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The study, conducted by the College of Nursing at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) in collaboration with the National Science and Technology Center for Disaster Reduction, surveyed 1,236 households severely damaged by Typhoon Morakot. Over a decade of tracking, researchers discovered that while those who quickly relocated to stable housing initially experienced lower psychological stress, their stress levels gradually increased, surpassing those with more time to prepare for relocation.<br />
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In contrast, survivors who did not immediately move into permanent housing—often taking years to find stable homes—underwent multiple relocations. Despite the upheaval, their long-term psychological recovery was notably better, likely because they had more time to prepare and adapt before moving.<br />
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The research team categorized survivors’ relocation experiences into six patterns: immediate return to original residences, long-distance relocation years later, immediate move to permanent housing, preparation time before a major relocation, no buffer time between two major relocations, and buffer time between two major relocations. The results underscore the importance of giving survivors ample time to discuss and decide during the post-disaster reconstruction. This could lead to more effective responses in future natural disasters.
<div class="ed\_txt">Assistant Professor Lu-Yen Chen from the Institute of Clinical Nursing at NYCU, who participated in the study, stated that disaster survivors who had more time to prepare or adapt before relocation demonstrated better long-term psychological recovery than those with less time. This trend held regardless of whether the survivors experienced one major relocation or two.</div>
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<strong>Survivor-Centered Relocation Planning: Key to Reducing Long-Term Psychological Stress After Disasters</strong><br />
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The findings suggest that providing disaster survivors more time to discuss and decide on their relocation timing and location could be a key factor in alleviating long-term psychological stress following a natural disaster.<br />
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Previous studies and reports have also highlighted the adverse effects of permanent housing on community cohesion and cultural preservation, as well as the emergence of land and housing rights disputes, making it challenging to help survivors rebuild their lives.<br />
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Amid increasing threats from extreme weather in Taiwan and globally, the research team believes this study offers crucial guidance for disaster risk management and building societal resilience. Assistant Professor Chen advises that future disaster response measures should prioritize the psychological needs of survivors, providing sufficient time and resources to help them make relocation decisions that suit their circumstances and to facilitate psychological adjustment, ultimately promoting better post-disaster psychological recovery.<br />
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<img alt="Assistant Professor Lu-Yen Chen and her research team." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240814000941544.jpeg" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Assistant Professor Lu-Yen Chen (center, front row) and her research team.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Tsai-Wen Chen (left) and Bei-Jung Lin from the Institute of Neuroscience observed the group behavior of neurons." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240726015728074.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Assistant Professors Tsai-Wen Chen (left) and Bei-Jung Lin (right) from the Institute of Neuroscience observed the group behavior of neurons.</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>Translated by Hsuchuan<br />
Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In a groundbreaking study, scientists have observed brain cells forming groups and working together, akin to friendships, using advanced microscopy techniques.<br />
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Published in this month’s issue of <em>Neuron</em>, the study from the Institute of Neuroscience at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) reveals how neurons exhibit collective behavior. Assistant Professors Tsai-Wen Chen and Bei-Jung Lin led the research team that discovered neurons activating synchronously, indicating a preference for specific cells to ‘<strong>team up</strong>’ during activation.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Interneurons prefer to activate together at the same time." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240726023624586.jpg" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Interneurons prefer to activate together at the same time. This marks the first time scientists have captured interneurons’ group behavior in a living animal’s brain.</span></em></span><br />
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<strong>Rare Interneurons Unveil Group Dynamics, Facilitating Brainwave Formation</strong><br />
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Interneurons, rare and previously studied through sporadic electrical signals from implanted electrodes, were likened to “finding a needle in a haystack,” according to Bei-Jung Lin. “Recording even a single cell could take a month, making interaction studies challenging.” The team used voltage imaging with fluorescent proteins to record up to 26 interneurons, unveiling their interaction patterns.<br />
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The study found that interneurons do not activate randomly but tend to fire together, suggesting they find ‘<strong>like-minded friends</strong>’ to transmit electrical signals.<br />
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“Much like an orchestra following a conductor,” Tsai-Wen Chen explained, “interneurons are crucial for inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain and play a key role in brainwave formation.”</div>
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Brainwaves arise from synchronized electrical activity across numerous neurons, detectable from the scalp. Interestingly, even without reaching the activation threshold, neurons displayed group activity under the microscope.<br />
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<strong>Innovative Imaging Technology Sheds Light on Neural Activity and Brain Function</strong><br />
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To overcome the challenge of directly observing voltage with a microscope, the research team led by Tsai-Wen Chen and Bei-Jung Lin collaborated internationally to develop voltage-sensitive fluorescent proteins. These proteins, delivered to neurons using adenoviruses as carriers, allow the cells to glow upon activation.<br />
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Additionally, to capture the highly brief neural impulses, the research team designed and set up an ultra-high-speed imaging system capable of capturing 2,000 frames per second. These technologies and facilities are now established at NYCU.<br />
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Brainwaves are critical signals in perception and memory functions. This new technology allows scientists to observe collective neural operations in living animals, revealing the intricate coordination essential for understanding brain functionality.<br />
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<img alt="The paper's first author, Yi-Chieh Huang, graduated from the Institute of Neuroscience and is now a postdoctoral researcher at Harvard University." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240726023019728.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The paper's first author, Yi-Chieh Huang, graduated from the Institute of Neuroscience and is now a postdoctoral researcher at Harvard University.</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1266095515947241472&init=Ycover imagehttps://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1266102086282514432&init=YScientists have observed live interneurons under a microscope for the first time.https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1266100665793384448&init=YInterneurons also have their preferred interaction partners (the closer the distance, the more they prefer to interact).<![CDATA[The solution to Phone Overheating! NYCU Research Team Breaks Through Multi-Core Chip Heat Management, Wins IEEE TVLSI Best Paper Award]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-07-16<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Solution for Overheating Phones! Research Team at the Institute of Electronics Breaks Through Multi-Core Chip Thermal Management Technology, Significantly Enhances Chip Performance" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240716185115158.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">(Photo credit: <a href="https://www.idropnews.com/how-to/7-ways-to-prevent-your-iphones-battery-from-aging-so-quickly/198007/2/" title="iDropNews">iDropNews</a>)</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>Translated by Hsuchuan<br />
Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Overheating phones drag down system performance and affect users’ moods. The Cerebral and Reliable SoC Laboratory (CERES Lab) at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has developed a temperature prediction and control technology for multi-core chip networks, which enhances heat dissipation and alleviates overheating issues. This research achievement has been awarded the Best Paper Award by the international journal IEEE TVLSI (IEEE Transactions on Very Large Scale Integration Systems), marking the first time in 30 years that a team from Taiwan has received this honor.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Led by Associate Professor Kun-Chih Chen (front row, right), the CERES Lab research team has made breakthroughs in multi-core chip thermal management technology." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240716185421356.png" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Led by Associate Professor Kun-Chih Chen (front row, right), the CERES Lab research team has made breakthroughs in multi-core chip thermal management technology.</span></em></span><br />
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<strong>Multi-Core Chips Essential for Computers and Phones, Temperature Management Key to Enhancing Performance</strong><br />
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In recent years, multi-core chips have been widely used in computers, smartphones, servers, and other devices. As the number of processor cores increases, the Network on Chip (NoC) connectivity structure has become a widespread technical issue. Additionally, the rise in the clock frequency of computing cores poses significant temperature challenges, significantly affecting chip performance and reliability.<br />
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Associate Professor Kun-Chih Chen of the Institute of Electronics led the CERES Lab research team, which included graduate students Yuan-Hao Liao, Cheng-Ting Chen, and Lei-Chi Wang. They proposed a low-cost online learning mechanism for accurate temperature prediction in NoC systems. Using adaptive reinforcement learning technology, they implemented dynamic, proactive temperature management to address the temperature challenges of multi-core chips, significantly enhancing the system’s temperature management performance.<br />
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The research team explained that the thermal issues in NoC systems require real-time system temperature monitoring. Dynamic thermal management mechanisms are triggered when the system temperature reaches dangerous levels to prevent overheating. Proactive Dynamic Thermal Management (PDTM) controls the system temperature in advance based on temperature prediction information. Using partial throttling schemes, PDTM reduces performance impact during temperature control, making it more effective than traditional reactive dynamic thermal management.</div>
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<strong>Machine Learning Helps NoC Systems Overcome Temperature Prediction Challenges</strong><br />
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The temperature behavior of NoC systems varies with different workload distributions, making it difficult to accurately capture physical parameters such as capacitance, resistance, and power during operation, leading to significant temperature prediction errors. In recent years, machine learning prediction methods have dynamically accommodated the hyperplane of physical system behavior. However, machine learning methods depend highly on the quality of training data, resulting in considerable errors in NoC systems.<br />
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Associate Professor Kun-Chih Chen stated that the research team’s machine learning-based proactive temperature management employs the least mean squares adaptive filtering theory to optimize the model. This approach dynamically adjusts temperature predictions, enhancing accuracy to cope with varying workloads and temperature changes.<br />
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The method introduces adaptive reinforcement learning, using real-time feedback on current temperature, predicted temperature, and system throughput to dynamically adjust throttling ratios, achieving optimal thermal management while maximizing system performance. The research results show that, compared to traditional methods, the proposed adaptive reinforcement learning method significantly reduces temperature prediction errors and improves system performance.<br />
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This innovative research achievement was selected for the 2024 IEEE TVLSI Best Paper Award, representing the highest recognition for the research team and highlighting NYCU’s exceptional research contributions and advanced technology development capabilities.<br />
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<img alt="The research achievement was selected for this year’s Best Paper Award by the international journal IEEE TVLSI." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240716185634825.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The research achievement was selected for this year’s Best Paper Award by the international journal IEEE TVLSI.</span></em></span><br />
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<em>Paper Title: <u><a href="https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/10153793" title="Adaptive Machine Learning-Based Proactive Thermal Management for NoC Systems">Adaptive Machine Learning-Based Proactive Thermal Management for NoC Systems</a></u></em></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1262724931766980608&init=Ycover imagehttps://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1262781004762845184&init=Ythe Best Paper Award by IEEE TVLSI<![CDATA[Protein Supplementation After Exercise Aids Weight Loss: NYCU Study Finds Appetite Control and Muscle Strength Benefits]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-07-09<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Protein Supplementation After Exercise Aids Weight Loss: NYCU Study Finds Appetite Control and Muscle Strength Benefits" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240709172606830.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><font color="#4e5f70"><span style="font-size: 14.4px;"><i>(Photo from Getty Images)</i></span></font></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>Translated by Hsuchuan<br />
Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Many people aim to lose weight through exercise but sometimes consume more calories post-workout. A research team from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) found that consuming high-protein foods within 30 minutes of exercise can suppress appetite, slow muscle degradation, and improve cardiovascular metabolism. The study results were published in the <em>273rd issue</em> of the scientific journal <em>"Physiology & Behavior"</em> earlier this year.<br />
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<strong>The Importance of Protein Intake and Exercise for Weight Control in Middle-Age</strong><br />
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Professor Chiao-Nan Chen from the Department of Physical Therapy and Assistive Technology at NYCU, along with his research team, conducted a study on middle-aged obese individuals with an average age of nearly 60. The participants underwent three months of high-intensity interval spinning exercises.<br />
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The study found that although appetite significantly increased after exercise, consuming a high-protein drink within 30 minutes post-exercise reduced hunger and decreased the likelihood of late-night snacking. The research team also found that combining exercise with a high-protein diet can improve cardiovascular risk factors and prevent sarcopenia in middle-aged obese individuals.<br />
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During the three-month study, participants who followed a high-protein diet in addition to exercising showed significant reductions in cholesterol and triglycerides, decreased fat mass, improved insulin sensitivity, better glucose tolerance, and reduced inflammation. Moreover, muscle strength and exercise capacity were enhanced.<br />
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Professor Chiao-Nan Chen stated that previous data suggests a daily protein intake of 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight to maintain muscle mass, and the research team used this as the dietary target for the experimental group.</div>
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"Big heart, fat body" is a common issue among middle-aged and older adults, often leading to cardiovascular diseases. Reduced physical activity further accelerates muscle loss. The research findings provide valuable insights for middle-aged and older obese individuals and offer new strategies and approaches for obesity management.<br />
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However, Professor Chiao-Nan Chen also cautioned that the study validates the physiological performance of high-protein diets in middle-aged and older populations, but it does not imply that solely consuming a high-protein diet is a good weight management method. Exercise remains fundamental; managing physical fitness (activity capacity) and the risks of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases is more crucial than focusing solely on weight.<br />
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<em><img alt="The cross-university research team includes Professor Kuei-Yu Chien (right) from the Graduate Institute of Sports Science at National Taiwan Sport University, Professor Chiao-Nan Chen (center) from the Department of Physical Therapy and Assistive Technology at NYCU, and Dr. Kuo-Chen Hsu (left)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240709173207301.jpeg" /></em></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The cross-university research team includes Professor Kuei-Yu Chien (right) from the Graduate Institute of Sports Science at National Taiwan Sport University, Professor Chiao-Nan Chen (center) from the Department of Physical Therapy and Assistive Technology at NYCU, and Dr. Kuo-Chen Hsu (left).</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Guan-Yu Chen of NYCU leads pioneering research in bionic organ-on-a-chips (OoCs), combining biomedical research with BioICT." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240703180717911.jpeg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Guan-Yu Chen of NYCU leads pioneering research in bionic organ-on-a-chips (OoCs), combining biomedical research with BioICT.<br />
(Photo from Hao-Yun Peng and Zong-Han Lyu / ZDunemployed studio)</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>By <u><a href="https://newsletter.lib.nycu.edu.tw/2024/06/24/persistence-is-the-key-to-success-nycu-professor-guan-yu-chens-bionic-lung-on-a-chip-research-journey/" title="NYCU Elite">NYCU Elite</a></u></strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Professor Guan-Yu Chen, from the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), is at the forefront of research in the field of bionic<strong> organ-on-a-chips (OoCs)</strong>. This innovative work combines biomedical research with semiconductor and Information and Communication Technology, known as BioICT. Prof. Chen has successfully developed a bionic lung-on-a-chip system replicating the human body’s microenvironment. His efforts have garnered media recognition, earning him the reputation of being “a pioneer in organ-on-chip (OoC) technology.” Prof. Chen has expressed his hope that Taiwan’s contributions to this field will receive global attention.<br />
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In 2023, Prof. Chen received multiple awards, including the Moderna Taiwan mRNA Innovation Awards. He was also honored with the Awarded Lush Prize Young Researcher Award-Asia and was elected as the candidate for the Lush Prize “Fighting Animal Testing” alongside Emulate, a leading OoC company this year (2024), suggesting that not only Prof. Chen’s groundbreaking research in bionic lung-on-a-chip technology but also Taiwan’s international leadership in OoC research.<br />
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Bionic OoCs involve growing human cells on microfluidic channel chips and replicating the complex microphysiological changes in the human body using a dynamic circulatory system. By leveraging bionic organ-on-a-chip (OoC) technology to emulate pathological conditions for conducting various drug trials, it is possible to significantly lessen the reliance on animal testing during clinical phases, leading to reduce the cost and time required. “This is a destructive innovation,” emphasized Prof. Chen. Bionic lung-on-a-chip, the most mature technology developed by Prof. Chen’s team, can mimic human lung tissue in the human body and the response to the inhalation test through the “aerosol dynamic mode,” assisting researchers in evaluating data for the solubility of the inhaled drugs, organs analysis, etc.<br />
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During his tenure as a postdoctoral research fellow at the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research in 2015, Prof. Chen received an academic offer from the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at the College of Electrical and Computer Engineering of NYCU. Despite numerous other opportunities, Prof. Chen chose to bring back what he had learned in the U.S., the most novel technology, to Taiwan. With his academic background spanning chemical engineering, biology, and biomedical science, along with an unrestricted approach to himself, Prof. Chen aligns perfectly with the open and autonomous research environment and the abundant interdisciplinary resources at NYCU, providing him with a solid foundation to venture into the then-nascent field of OoC technology in Taiwan, demonstrating remarkable courage and ambition.<br />
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In 2021, Anivance AI was officially teamed under Prof. Chen’s leadership. The core concept is composed of three words, “Animal,” “Advanced,” and “AI,” representing the mission of the team. Therefore, in early 2024, the team transitioned into a technological start-up company with the goal of building a complete and profitable industrial ecosystem for processing, standardization, and validation of the bionic OoCs.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Bionic organ-on-chips (OoCs) are considered “Compassion technology” as they preserve animal welfare, enhance precision medicine, and reduce patient risks by leveraging big data and AI to streamline drug development and minimize animal testing." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240703181040895.png" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Bionic organ-on-chips (OoCs) are considered “Compassion technology” as they preserve animal welfare, enhance precision medicine, and reduce patient risks by leveraging big data and AI to streamline drug development and minimize animal testing. (Photo from ZDunemployed studio)</span></em></span><br />
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Some consider bionic OoCs to be a “Compassion technology.” For this statement, Prof. Chen believes that the OoCs can not only assist in preserving animal welfare but also advance precision medicine and show mercy to human life. Using the example of lungs, drug research often used mice and rats as test subjects, with up to 100 million of these animals used in experiments each year. Nevertheless, mice have a respiratory rate five to seven times higher than humans, and their pulmonary immune system functions differently from that of humans. For this reason, many drugs that showed promise in animal experiments failed in human clinical trials, with a failure rate of up to 90 percent. As the development of the bionic lung-on-a-chip becomes more mature, with the combination of technology such as big data and AI, researchers can streamline their development schedules, accelerate the research and development of new drugs, and simultaneously reduce potential risks for patients.</div>
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Ten years ago, Prof. Chen made the strategic decision to focus on bionic lung-on-a-chip in order to get ahead in the field. At that time, research in OoC technology, including tumor chips, hearts, gastrointestinal tracts, livers, and nerves, was thriving in the U.S. and Europe, but lung-on-a-chip research needed to receive more attention. “By establishing a leading figure in the global lung-on-a-chip field, our team and Taiwan would naturally gain recognition worldwide,” Prof. Chen pointed out. This prospective decision now appears to be exactly right. Today, Prof. Chen has become the cream of the crop and is at the forefront of the bionic lung-on-a-chip field, attracting attention in Taiwan and internationally.<br />
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Indeed, devoting to start-up research is not always plain sailing. However, the team calmly confronts failure, extracting critical technology and experience from it, strengthening their foundation. Prof. Chen believes that “Actions speak louder than words.” and that being equipped with actual capability is essential. The team has collaborated with nearly ten medical and research institutes at home and aboard, including Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF), Molecular Devices, Moderna Taiwan, and Taichung Veterans General Hospital, and continuously optimized their collaboration mode. Customized solutions will be available whenever the pharmaceutical companies list their needs online. “When we validate our results in different places, we begin to validate our success,” Prof. Chen explains.<br />
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<strong>How will the next generation organ-on-a-chips (OoCs) develop?</strong><br />
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<img alt="The interdisciplinary environment at NYCU enabled Prof. Chen to pioneer OoC technology in Taiwan, leading to the formation of his research team and Anivance AI." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240703182019332.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The interdisciplinary environment at NYCU enabled Prof. Chen to pioneer OoC technology in Taiwan, leading to the formation of his research team and Anivance AI. (Photo from ZDunemployed studio)</span></em></span><br />
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Prof. Chen asserts that the value of the future organ-on-a-chips (OoCs) not only lies in whether the chip can stimulate the body environment to get the same test result as in the human body but, more importantly, by continuously expanding the data quantity, it can integrate with semiconductor sensing and AI technology to provide the pharmaceutical companies with more precise drug treatment and development strategy. By analyzing high-content images with algorithms to promptly detect changes in organs and pairing this with personal wearable devices, everyone may have their exclusive organ database in the future.<br />
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Prof. Chen indicates that the team plans to roll out the 3rd generation bionic lung-on-a-chips at the end of this year, and its accuracy is up to 85%. The team dares to announce that 80% of the organ chips module for respiratory diseases will be completed by the end of 2030. “If our technology can cover 80% of the study scope, it means that every team worldwide working on respiratory drug development will, in some way, need us.” Prof. Chen said with full confidence.<br />
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<strong>What is the most important thing to devote to start-up research?</strong><br />
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Prof. Chen revealed confidence in his eyes and said, “People matter most.” He replied that it is because he is fortunate to be able to utilize his strengths in NYCU, where there are many talents from diverse fields such as biomedical, information, electronics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, medicine, etc., as well as the university’s encouragement of industry-academia cooperation and investment in the start-up fields, which allows him to stand the steadiest and look the furthest in his field. With such perfect timing, location, supportive people, and efforts, one must believe that his development blueprints will be realized one after one in the near future.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Origin of Lissencephaly Continues to Be Uncovered? KCGMH and NYCU Research Team Discover New Causative Gene NDEL1" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240613113104704.png" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>Translated by Hsuchuan<br />
Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The research team from Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (KCGMH) and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has discovered a new causative gene, NDEL1, for lissencephaly. This follows their 2020 discovery of the CEP85L gene. The team has collectively identified four genes associated with lissencephaly, with this latest finding published in the prestigious neuroscience journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00401-023-02665-y" title="Acta Neuropathologica"><em><strong>Acta Neuropathologica</strong></em></a> in January 2024.<br />
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<strong>Lissencephaly: Rare but Severe, 300 Patients in Taiwan Face Significant Challenges</strong><br />
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Lissencephaly is an infrequent brain developmental disorder, with only about 300 patients in Taiwan. In a normal brain, the surface has many folds called <strong>Gyrus</strong>, which is crucial for developing higher cognitive functions. However, in patients with lissencephaly, the gyrus is either underdeveloped or absent, resulting in a smoother brain surface.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt"><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">MRI of Lissencephaly and Normal brain (photo from Chang Gung Memorial Hospital)</span></span></em><br />
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Dr. Meng-Han Tsai, Director of the Medical Research Department at KCGMH, stated that approximately 12 out of every million newborns are diagnosed with lissencephaly. These patients usually do not survive to adulthood and those who do have intellectual development comparable to that of an infant. They often suffer from severe developmental delays and intractable epilepsy. In the most severe cases, they cannot speak, swallow, or walk.<br />
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About 20 genes are known to cause lissencephaly, but approximately 20% of cases still have unidentified causes. During brain development, nerve cells must migrate to the cortex, which requires regulation by multiple genes. If these genes are abnormal, the nerve cells cannot move to the correct locations, leading to improper development of brain folds and lissencephaly.</div>
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<strong>NDEL1 Mutation Identified for the First Time, Advancing Brain Development Disorder Research</strong><br />
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KCGMH has conducted long-term research on lissencephaly in Taiwan and discovered a patient with refractory epilepsy combined with lissencephaly. The patient exhibited abnormal development of the gyri in the posterior brain region, indicative of lissencephaly. Research revealed that the causative gene for this patient’s lissencephaly is NDEL1, a spontaneous mutation in the patient that was not inherited from either parent. This gene has never been previously associated with any human disease worldwide.<br />
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KCGMH collaborated with Professor Jin-Wu Tsai’s team at the Institute of Brain Science of NYCU. They confirmed that this gene affects brain development in mice using advanced genomic sequencing technology. The protein produced by this gene impacts the motor proteins within cells, leading to abnormal brain development.<br />
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Professor Jin-Wu Tsai stated that the discovery of new genes involved in human brain development disorders not only helps to elucidate the fundamental regulatory mechanisms in brain development but also provides further insights into children’s cognitive development and the functioning of the nervous system. This research finding will aid in speeding up the diagnosis of brain development disorders by physicians in the future and offer scientists a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying brain development.<br />
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This vital research will help accelerate the diagnosis of brain development disorders by physicians and explain why individuals without a family history may develop these conditions. In the future, it may also become a genetic marker for prenatal screening, reducing the incidence of these diseases. Scientifically, this discovery provides a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of human brain development and holds promise for developing drugs or gene therapies in the future.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The epilepsy team from Taipei Veterans General Hospital with Professor Shih-Wei Wu (right two) and Dr. Wan-Yu Shih (right three) from NYCU." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240514130711729.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">The epilepsy team from Taipei Veterans General Hospital with Professor Shih-Wei Wu (right two) and Dr. Wan-Yu Shih (right three) from NYCU.</span></span></em></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">How are human preferences formed? How do they change under the influence of external factors? These have long been focal points of scientific inquiry. The latest research, conducted by a team led by National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), Taipei Veterans General Hospital (TVGH), and New York University, has observed neural activities in different brain regions at the micrometer scale, unveiling the neural mechanisms behind preference formation and contextual influences. This groundbreaking research was published in the top international journal "<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-42092-x" title="Nature Communications"><strong><em>Nature Communications</em></strong></a>."<br />
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<strong>Unprecedented Insight: Observing Human Brain Neuron Activity at Micrometer Scale</strong><br />
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Professor Shih-Wei Wu from the Institute of Neuroscience at NYCU elucidates the groundbreaking nature of recent research, which has transcended the limitations of past studies by observing neural activities in the human brain at the micrometer scale. Unlike previous methodologies restricted to millimeter-scale observations, this study provides scientists with unparalleled detail of neural activity.<br />
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Traditionally, micrometer-scale neural activities could only be observed in the brains of laboratory animals through techniques such as neural electrophysiological recordings or calcium ion imaging.<br />
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The research team identified that preferences and the factors influencing them are governed by neural activities in regions like the brain's orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), insula, and hippocampus. Within these brain areas, different neural populations react differently, some solely reflecting current preference strengths, others exclusively responding to external contextual factors.<br />
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Moreover, a minority of neural populations exhibit simultaneous responses to both, indicating that the influence of contextual factors on preferences arises from the coordinated actions of functionally complementary neural populations adjacent to space.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Among the 166 different electrode points within the OFC, approximately 15% exhibited responses to current preferences, 9% responded to contextual preferences, and 5% simultaneously responded to both.</span></span></em><br />
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<img alt="The research team utilized stereotactic electroencephalogram recordings of intracranial brain signals in treating epilepsy patients. The illustration depicts the electrode locations within the orbitofrontal cortex 166, correlated with preference responses." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240514130943987.png" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>The research team utilized stereotactic electroencephalogram recordings of intracranial brain signals in treating epilepsy patients. The illustration depicts the electrode locations within the OFC 166, correlated with preference responses.</em></span></span><br />
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<strong>Deciphering Brain Activity: Insights from Stereotactic EEG</strong><br />
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<span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Dr. Hsiang-Yu Yu, a leading physician in the epilepsy team at TVGH, underscores the pivotal role of stereo electroencephalogram (sEEG) in diagnosing lesions in patients with refractory epilepsy. This method assists clinicians in delineating lesioned brain regions, enhancing surgical precision, and holds significant clinical and research implications.<br />
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Professor Shih-Wei Wu from the Institute of Neuroscience highlights the importance of understanding human preferences and decision-making across disciplines such as economics and psychology. Preferences reflect subjective experiences towards different stimuli, emphasizing the need to study individual uniqueness and laying the groundwork for interdisciplinary dialogues in neuroscience, economics, and psychology.<br />
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This study enhances our comprehension of human behavior and decision-making and provides a crucial foundation for future neuroscience research, promising to unravel more mysteries surrounding brain activity.</span></span><br />
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1239805153293373440&init=Ycover imagehttps://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-42092-xElectrophysiological population dynamics reveal context dependencies during decision making in human frontal cortex<![CDATA[Becoming the Most Reliable Support for the Semiconductor Industry: NYCU’s Tech Aid Reduces Damage from Earthquakes in Technology Factories]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-04-29<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Yen-Po Wang from the Department of Civil Engineering at NYCU and the research team conducted seismic simulation tests for the vibration control of automated warehouse systems in technology factories." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240426171646721.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Yen-Po Wang from the Department of Civil Engineering at NYCU and the research team conducted seismic simulation tests for the vibration control of automated warehouse systems in technology factories.</span></em></span></div>
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<strong>Translated by Hsuchuan<br />
Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The powerful magnitude 7.2 earthquake on April 3 caused severe damage in Hualien and affected several tech plant buildings. However, some facilities quickly resumed operations, mainly due to the assistance provided by the Department of Civil Engineering and the Disaster Prevention and Water Environment Research Center (DPWE) at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU).<br />
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Since 2016, they have assisted semiconductor factories in developing and installing seismic-resistant devices for furnace pipes and warehouse systems. With years of promotion and implementation, these measures have demonstrated seismic resilience during this earthquake, effectively reducing damage and losses.<br />
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<strong>How Vibratory-Sensitive Process Equipment in Technology Factories Confront Earthquakes</strong></div>
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Taiwan is in a seismic zone, rendering earthquakes an inevitable natural disaster. Consequently, seismic resilience becomes a critical issue for technology factories. The powerful magnitude 6.6 earthquake that struck Meinong, Kaohsiung, on February 6, 2016, severely impacted the high-tech industry in southern Taiwan, resulting in losses exceeding one hundred billion New Taiwan Dollars.<br />
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At that time, semiconductor factories commissioned the Department of Civil Engineering and the DPWE at NYCU to develop seismic-resistant technologies for vulnerable equipment, including vertical furnaces, automated warehousing systems, ceilings/floors, and carts/racks, which suffered significant damage during the earthquake. Through full-scale seismic simulation tests conducted in the Department's large-scale structural laboratory, the feasibility of these technologies was confirmed, gaining recognition from both tech plants and insurance companies and gradually being implemented throughout the facilities.<br />
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Professor Yen-Po Wang from the Department of Civil Engineering pointed out that many vibration-sensitive process equipment in tech plants are highly susceptible to damage during earthquakes. Among them, the protective measures for automated warehousing systems must be revised. The fully loaded wafer boxes on the racks can fall off when the earthquake intensity reaches a certain threshold.<br />
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<em>"During the strong earthquake in 2016, the proportion of items falling was very high. It is estimated that sixty to seventy percent of the losses were due to items falling from the automated warehousing system."</em><br />
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However, installing energy dissipation and vibration control systems in automated warehousing systems can significantly reduce vibration responses, effectively preventing wafer boxes from falling off. This damping effect was fully validated during the earthquake on April 3rd.<br />
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In fact, after the earthquake in 2016, many manufacturers strengthened the seismic resilience of their factories. For example, the factory of Innolux Display Corp. is constructed with earthquake-resistant architecture, and once the shaking exceeds magnitude 3 to 4, the machines will automatically shut down. TSMC has also been gradually installing dampers. However, in addition to earthquake-resistant buildings, falling ceilings can also cause damage to equipment.</div>
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<strong>The Vulnerability and Seismic Improvement of Cleanroom Ceilings in Technology Factories</strong><br />
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Professor Yen-Po Wang stated that wafer fabs rely on these enclosed systems for cleanliness. The ceilings of cleanrooms are part of a suspended system, swinging independently during earthquakes without synchronizing with the structural deformations of the building. This can lead to collisions and compressions around the perimeter, causing the displacement and deformation of the overhead crane rails and equipment. In severe cases, it may even collapse, contaminating the cleanroom. This not only delays the resumption of operations but also adds to the losses incurred due to operational interruptions.<br />
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In response to the seismic demands of cleanroom ceilings, the NYCU team assisted technology factories in installing energy dissipation and vibration control devices. They also completed seismic reinforcement projects for the cleanroom ceilings of a 12-inch wafer fab in the Hsinchu Science Park. These efforts demonstrated excellent seismic performance during the recent earthquake.<br />
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Looking back, the seismic damage patterns of technology factories in Taiwan have been remarkably similar over the years, and related vibration reduction technologies have matured and been rigorously tested by earthquakes. Professor Yen-Po Wang stated that given limited resources and time, it is possible to control significant sources of seismic damage and complement them with strategically planned industrial insurance coverage. This approach can significantly reduce the seismic risk of tech plants and enhance their seismic resilience.<br />
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The semiconductor industry has made Taiwan a globally renowned tech island. NYCU adapts to local conditions and tailors earthquake-resistant techniques according to different needs, aiming to improve seismic engineering in high-tech factories and become the most reliable support for safeguarding the Semiconductor industry.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">In response to the seismic demands of cleanroom ceilings, the NYCU team assisted technology factories in installing energy dissipation and vibration control devices.</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1233349304832233472&init=YCeiling vibration damping devicehttps://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1233349304924508160&init=YProfessor Yen-Po Wang presents new seismic-resistant technologies for Taiwan's technology factories at an international conference.<![CDATA[Farewell to Smartphone Notches! NYCU Teams Up with HHRI to Break Spatial Computing Limits, Introducing Cutting-Edge Facial Recognition Technology Published in Top Global Journal]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-03-20<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The research achievement is attributed to the excellent collaboration between the Department of Photonics at our university, led by Assistant Professor Yao-Wei Huang (front row, left), a young scholar from NYCU, and the team from HHRI's Semiconductor Division, led by Dr. Hao-Chung Kuo (front row, right), Director, and Dr. Yu-Heng Hong (back row, second from left)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240320181222438.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The research achievement is attributed to the excellent collaboration between the Department of Photonics at our university, led by Assistant Professor Yao-Wei Huang (front row, left), a young scholar from NYCU, and the team from HHRI's Semiconductor Division, led by Dr. Hao-Chung Kuo (front row, right), Director, and Dr. Yu-Heng Hong (back row, second from left).</span></em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>Translated by Elaine Chuang<br />
Edited by Chance Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The Semiconductor Division at Hon Hai Research Institute (HHRI) and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) have collaborated to develop a groundbreaking technology successfully - the "<strong>Novel Depth Sensing and Facial Recognition System</strong>." This achievement was recently published in the prestigious global journal ’<em><strong>Nano Letters</strong></em>.’ It was selected as the cover story for the February issue, highlighting the outstanding performance of NYCU's research on the international stage.<br />
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<strong>Innovative Depth Sensing and Facial Recognition Technology Ushers in a New Era of Smartphones</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Comparisons were made between depth information generated by the research team's system (top row) and depth information obtained through the iPhone dot projector (bottom row)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240320181441896.jpeg" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Comparisons were made between depth information generated by the research team's system (top row) and depth information obtained through the iPhone dot projector (bottom row).</span></em></span><br />
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Assistant Professor Yao-Wei Huang stated that this research achievement combines novel nanophotonic technology with human-machine interaction sensing techniques. It enables the miniaturization of depth sensing and facial recognition systems to approximately the width of three hair strands. In the future, it is expected that smartphone notches will be eliminated, facial unlocking will be more energy-efficient, and real technological challenges will be addressed.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Furthermore, the research also demonstrated the potential applications of effective small-scale, low-power imaging solutions in areas such as facial recognition, robotics, augmented reality, and mixed reality.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">HHRI stated that the era of spatial computing has arrived. The future demand for depth sensing systems is expected to significantly increase compared to the common facial depth perception and recognition unlocking seen in today's smartphones. The system developed at this time is expected to become mainstream.</div>
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<strong>Research Achievements Garner High Attention and Global Recognition</strong><br />
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The significant research achievement, titled "<a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c05002" title="Metasurface- and PCSEL-Based Structured Light for Monocular Depth Perception and Facial Recognition"><em><strong>Metasurface- and PCSEL-Based Structured Light for Monocular Depth Perception and Facial Recognition</strong></em></a>," was published in the top global journal <em>Nano Letters</em>. It was also selected as the cover story for the February issue. Furthermore, it was chosen as a highlighted topic by the American Chemical Society (ACS) in February and featured in a spotlight news interview. These recognitions highlight the considerable attention and praise garnered by this achievement, marking a significant advancement in facial recognition technology.<br />
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Corresponding patent applications have been granted in Taiwan and China, with the United States patent application currently in progress. The successful outcome of this significant research underscores NYCU's leading position in technological innovation and injects new momentum into the development of Taiwan's technology industry.<br />
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This research was supported by Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd., the Forward-looking Cooperation Project of the National Science and Technology Commission (Principal Investigator: Prof. Edward Yi Chang, Chair Professor of the International Semiconductor Industry College at NYCU; Co-Principal Investigators: Prof. Tien-Chang Lu, Chair Professor of the Department of Photonics at NYCU, and Prof. Chun-Hsiung Lin, International Semiconductor Industry College at NYCU), and the Youth Project Grant from the Ministry of Education.<br />
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<img alt="The research team members include Assistant Professor Yao-Wei Huang (back row, left), Dr. Yu-Heng Hong (back row, right), and the first author, doctoral candidate Wen-Cheng Hsu." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240320181902941.jpg" /></div>
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">The research team members include Assistant Professor Yao-Wei Huang (back row, left), Dr. Yu-Heng Hong (back row, right), and the first author, doctoral candidate Wen-Cheng Hsu.</span></em></span><br />
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix"> <div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The 2024 Harvard World Model United Nations (WorldMUN) is scheduled to take place in Taipei from March 10th to March 14th. " src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240202162220841.png" /></div> <div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Deputy Mayor Si-chuan Li (third from the left) banged the gavel at the press conference, declaring, &quot;2024 Harvard WorldMUN in Taipei!&quot;.<br /> President Chi-Hung Lin of NYCU (second from the right) and Vice Dean Zhang Li-Hong of the Liberal Arts College (far right) also attended to show their support.</span></span></em></div> </div> <div class="ed\_model04 clearfix"> <div class="ed\_flex\_box"> <div class="box"> <div class="ed\_txt"><strong>By Yen-Chien Lai</strong><br /> \_\_\_\_\_\_</div> <div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">After a 14-year hiatus, the 2024 Harvard World Model United Nations (WorldMUN) is scheduled to take place in Taipei from March 10th to March 14th. This event, acclaimed as the &#39;Olympics of Model United Nations,&#39; provides a fresh international platform for students worldwide and signifies the proactive advocacy of the Taiwan Model UN Development Association. It showcases the independent organizational spirit of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) students, illustrating the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere of the institution. The participation of over 1500 international university students is anticipated as they come together in Taiwan, contributing to the success of this resounding event.<br /> <br /> The Harvard WorldMUN, founded in 1992, has toured 30 cities globally, attracting participation from 110+ countries and 30,000 students. Held in major cities like Paris, Montreal, Rome, Seoul, Geneva, and Singapore, it features Model United Nations conferences where participants act as diplomats discussing global issues like security, economics, humanitarianism, and law. Emphasizing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the conferences simulate multilateral diplomacy, allowing delegates to express views and debate issues. Diplomatic events during the Golden Age, including the World Village Carnival, Cultural Night, and banquets, fostered exchanges and friendships.<br /> &nbsp;</div> <div class="ed\_txt"><strong>Student-Led Initiative! President Lin: Embodies NYCU&#39;s Commitment to Cultivating Future Leaders and Connecting Globally</strong></div> <div class="ed\_model08 clearfix"> <div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Yu-Jia Gu, the Executive Director of the Taiwan Model UN Development Association, expressed the hope that this event would create opportunities for Taiwanese youth to engage with the international community." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240202163404066.png" /></div> </div> <div class="ed\_txt"><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Yu-Jia Gu, the founder of the Taiwan Model UN Development Association and Executive Director of the 2024 WorldMUN, expressed the hope of creating opportunities for Taiwanese youth to engage with the international community.</span></span></em></div> <div class="ed\_txt"> <div style="text-align: justify;"><br /> The organizer of this event is the student-led Taiwan Model UN Development Association, with Yu-Jia Gu serving as the Executive Director&mdash;a student from the first cohort of NYCU&#39;s Bai Chuan Program. This underscores the crucial role of students in organizing and promoting the event. In addition to the independent initiatives of the students, NYCU&#39;s Liberal Arts College has generously sponsored the event. Collaborating closely with the Taipei City Government, we aim to provide the best venues, services, and support to ensure the event&#39;s success.<br /> <br /> &nbsp;</div> </div> <div class="ed\_model08 clearfix"> <div class="ed\_pic\_full">&nbsp;</div> </div> <div class="ed\_txt">&nbsp;</div> </div> <div class="box"> <div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp; <div style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div> <div class="ed\_model08 clearfix"> <div class="ed\_pic\_full">Taipei City Vice Mayor Si-chuan Li expressed that Taipei&#39;s selection as the host city for the &lsquo;2024 WorldMUN&rsquo; affirms Taipei&#39;s international standing. This event has garnered support from various sectors, including government, industry, and academia, with the expectation that the Harvard WorldMUN conference will not only increase awareness of Taipei among students from around the world but also contribute to cultivating a new generation of leaders in Taiwan with international perspectives engaged in global affairs.<br /> <br /> <img alt="Chi-Hung Lin, the President of NYCU, stated: &quot;As the co-organizer of this conference, our Liberal Arts College will seize this rare opportunity to showcase Taiwan to the world and foster understanding of Taiwan." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240202164044552.png" /></div> </div> <span style="font-size:90%;"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em>Chi-Hung Lin, the President of NYCU, stated: &quot;As the co-organizer of this conference, our Liberal Arts College will seize this rare opportunity to showcase Taiwan to the world and foster understanding of Taiwan.</em></span></span><br /> <br /> President Chi-Hung Lin of NYCU said this marks a significant milestone in NYCU&#39;s journey toward becoming a &#39;great university.&#39; It showcases NYCU&#39;s commitment to academic excellence and reflects our enthusiasm for international affairs and concern for global issues. President Lin emphasizes that Model United Nations is a crucial educational activity for cultivating critical thinking, independent thought, and global intelligence. It embodies NYCU&#39;s dedication to humanities and global values and the determination to nurture future leaders with a worldwide perspective and connect with international affairs.<br /> <br /> Let us look forward to the 2024 Harvard WorldMUN held in Taipei, which will propel NYCU onto the global stage and serve as a prominent platform for Taiwan to engage in youth exchanges with the international community, jointly embracing various challenges that lie ahead.<br /> &nbsp;</div> </div> </div> </div>" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240223150417045.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">The lead researcher of this study, Dr. Chia-Shu Lin, an Adjunct Professor at NYCU's Dental Department and Institute of Brain Science</span></span></em></div>
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Preventing dementia goes beyond exercising the brain and engaging in social activities; paying close attention to one's oral health now appears crucial. Recently, the dental department at NYCU published a report in the international medical journal 'Ageing Research Review,' revealing substantial evidence supporting a strong correlation between severe periodontal disease, extensive tooth loss, and dementia.<br />
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The Ministry of Health and Welfare estimates that the dementia population in Taiwan exceeds 300,000, with those aged 65 and above accounting for 96%. Dementia is a general term for a disease, not simply an aging phenomenon, with Alzheimer's disease being the most well-known. In addition to memory decline, dementia also affects cognitive functions and alters personality and behavior in the human brain. Although previous studies have found a correlation between deteriorating oral health and an increased risk of dementia, the exact nature of this relationship remains unclear.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>Research Evidence Indicates Strong Association Between Severe Oral Health Issues and Cognitive Impairment</strong>
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The latest research from the Dental Department systematically reviewed 28 studies conducted over the past five years, analyzing the correlation between oral health and cognitive impairment. Most of these studies focused on the association between periodontal disease, oral microbiota, and Alzheimer's disease. More research evidence now supports a strong link between severe oral health issues, such as severe periodontal disease and, extensive tooth loss, and cognitive impairment.<br />
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However, there is a lack of consistent conclusions regarding other oral health issues, such as the chewing function in the elderly. Moreover, whether oral health can prevent early or mild-stage dementia has yet to receive more robust research evidence support.<br />
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The lead researcher of this study, Dr. Chia-Shu Lin, an Adjunct Professor at NYCU's Dental Department and Institute of Brain Science, noted significant divergence in the current discussions about the relationship between oral health and cognitive impairment.</div>
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However, overall, oral issues like extensive tooth loss or severe periodontal disease show the strongest association with dementia.<br />
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He emphasized that the correlation between the two should not be oversimplified into a causal relationship. For instance, while there is a connection between tooth loss and dementia, it doesn't necessarily mean that wearing dentures will prevent dementia or that increased chewing will automatically enhance cognitive function. The association between oral health and dementia cannot be simplified to the idea that regular brushing alone can prevent dementia. "These aspects require further research for confirmation," he added.<br />
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<span style="background-color: var(--bs-body-bg); color: var(--bs-body-color); font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">In fact, due to the gradual loss of self-care abilities that often accompanies dementia, patients may be unable to maintain their oral hygiene practices, such as brushing their teeth and rinsing. As the condition progresses, this can lead to more severe oral issues.</span></div>
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However, Chia-Shu Lin also noted that even though scientists cannot clarify the causal relationship, oral health still holds significant relevance to cognitive function. Unfortunately, the majority of people are not aware of this connection. "We hope to raise awareness among the public about the crucial link between oral health and cognitive well-being. Oral health should play a vital role in caring for the elderly," he emphasized.<br />
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This study, led by Professor Chia-Shu Lin from NYCU's Department of Dentistry, along with Dr. Ta-chung Chen from Taipei Veterans General Hospital's Stomatology Department, and Dr. Jong-Ling Fuh, the Director of the Department of Neurosurgery, collaborated with an international team from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden and the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam in the Netherlands. The team systematically analyzed existing systematic literature using an umbrella literature review approach. The research was published in a top-tier journal in the field of geriatric medicine in January of this year and featured in a report by Newsweek in the United States.<br />
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/doc?module=headnews&detailNo=1209381431382380544&type=sAn umbrella review on the association between factors of oral health and cognitive dysfunctionhttps://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1210482387574591488&init=YThe lead researcher of this study, Dr. Chia-Shu Lin, an Adjunct Professor at NYCU’s Dental Department and Institute of Brain Science.<![CDATA[Breakthrough in Taiwan-Japan Collaborative Research: Development of Helical Nano Quartz Glass Paves the Way for a New Era in 3D Displays and Quantum Computers]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-01-19<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The study involves incorporating achiral fluorescent molecules and solvents into nano-glass containers. Mixing and adjusting the solvent ratios enables the free generation of circularly polarized luminescence ranging from green to blue." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240119124925058.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">The study involves incorporating achiral fluorescent molecules and solvents into nano-glass containers.<br />
Mixing and adjusting the solvent ratios enables the free generation of circularly polarized luminescence ranging from green to blue.</span></span></em></div>
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<strong>Translated by Yen-Chien Lai</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Professor Ming-Chia Li's research team from the Department of Biological Science and Technology at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) collaborates with a multinational research team involving Associate Professor Tomoyasu HIRAI from Osaka University and Professor Teruaki Hayakawa from Tokyo Institute of Technology.<br />
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Together, they have successfully developed circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) technology, allowing control of light emission from green to blue by placing fluorescent molecules and solvents into spiral-shaped nano-glass containers. This innovative technology finds applications in 3D displays and quantum computing.<br />
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<strong>Building on Innovation: Advancements in Nano-Glass Technology through Molecular Design Synthesis and Helical Structures</strong><br />
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Prof. Ming-Chia Li stated that this research is a continuation based on the findings from 2021. The team employed molecular design synthesis techniques, utilizing anionic polymerization reactions with active ions. This led to the development of three-dimensional regular polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) materials with side chains containing polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS). The team successfully produced quartz glass containers with nanoscale helical structures through high-temperature firing.<br />
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The study involves incorporating achiral fluorescent molecules and solvents into nano-glass containers. Mixing and adjusting the solvent ratios enables the free generation of circularly polarized luminescence from green to blue. This successful establishment of control over molecular ground states and the regulation of optical activity can serve as a technological foundation for applications in stereoscopic 3D displays, nano-drug carriers, and the field of quantum computing.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Shaping the Future: 'Controlling Circularly Polarized Luminescence' Emerges as a Global Scientific Sensation in JACS Au</strong><br />
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This significant research achievement, titled '<em><strong><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jacsau.3c00390" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="\_blank" title="Controlling Circularly Polarized Luminescence Using Helically Structured Chiral Silica as a Nanosized Fused Quartz Cell(Open New Windows)">Controlling Circularly Polarized Luminescence Using Helically Structured Chiral Silica as a Nanosized Fused Quartz Cell</a></strong></em>,' has been published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society ‘<strong><em>JACS Au</em></strong>.’<br />
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The innovative perspectives and breakthroughs in the study have garnered numerous views and downloads from researchers in the global scientific community over the past month. Not only has it become a highly-read article in the journal (MOST Read), but it was also selected as the cover story for the November issue of JACS Au.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Ming-Chia Li's research team</span></em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1197766953091993600&init=YThe study involves incorporating achiral fluorescent molecules and solvents into nano-glass containers.https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jacsau.3c00390Controlling Circularly Polarized Luminescence Using Helically Structured Chiral Silica as a Nanosized Fused Quartz Cell (published in JACS Au)<![CDATA[NYCU’s Breakthrough in Transistor Technology: Advancing Moore’s Law with Enhanced Chip Integration Density]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2024-01-10<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Po-Tsun Liu stated that the breakthrough in transistor technology offers hope for the continuous improvement of the density of integration of chip circuits" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20240110121436772.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Professor Po-Tsun Liu stated that the breakthrough in transistor technology offers hope for the continuous improvement of the density of integration of chip circuits.</span></span></em></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>By NYCU Elite<br />
Edited by Elaine Chuang</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has been deeply committed to advanced transistor technology research. The research team, led by Professor Po-Tsun Liu from the Department of Photonics at NYCU, has developed “Ultra High-Density Heterogeneous Complementary Field-Effect Transistor Technology” this year to challenge the next-generation technology goal of angstrom-scale integrated circuits. This achievement offers hope for the continuous improvement of the density of integration of chip circuits, and the research results have been published in the internationally renowned academic journal Advanced Science in 2023.<br />
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<strong>NYCU Leads the Way in Cutting-Edge Integrated Circuit Chip Technology with Ultra-High-Density Integration</strong><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">This research is part of the 'Angstrom Semiconductor Initiative,' led by Professor Po-Tsun Liu in collaboration with Yushan Fellow of the Ministry of Education, Professor Yue Kuo from Texas A&M. The focus of the research encompasses three key areas: materials, electronic devices, and circuits. More specifically, the study has pioneered the development of complementary field-effect transistor technology (CFET), designed for the application of monolithic three-dimensional integrated circuits (M3D-ICs).<br />
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According to Prof. Liu, the exponential growth of the semiconductor industry has led to an increasing demand for high-performance chips with features such as high speed, high density of integration, and low power consumption. To address the challenges posed by the physical limits of miniaturization, the concept of M3D-ICs was proposed. This involves vertically stacking multiple layers of transistor devices within a limited area, potentially surpassing Moore’s Law.<br />
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In a recent project, a team of researchers from NYCU developed a novel nanometer-thick amorphous indium tungsten oxide (a-IWO) semiconductor channel layer. They successfully implemented a complementary inverter logic circuit by combining a novel N-type amorphous indium tungsten oxide transistor with a P-type polycrystalline silicon thin-film transistor (poly-Si TFT).<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em>Professor Po-Tsun Liu discussed experimental data with the laboratory team.</em></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">The inverter circuit is renowned for its high voltage gain, low power consumption, and high noise margin. By employing a three-dimensional stacking structure, this circuit substantially reduces the area occupied by devices, thereby effectively enhancing the integration density of transistor devices and circuits.<br />
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In a recent study, the research team successfully integrated heterogeneous semiconductor channel materials, low-temperature polycrystalline silicon, and indium tungsten oxide channel transistors to create a CFET-based inverter circuit. This innovative development showcases the technology's potential applications in M3D-ICs.<br />
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"If we integrate this atomically thin oxide transistor with front-end-of-line devices for three-dimensional integrated circuit technology, it could boost the transistor density on the chip and enhance chip functionality to meet a variety of product applications. Additionally, it has the potential to advance semiconductor technology and further the trajectory of Moore’s Law," said Prof. Liu.<br />
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The three-dimensional integration technology of heterogeneous semiconductor devices enables CFET to achieve high voltage gain under low operating voltage. It is well-suited for various low-power consumption applications, such as AIoT intelligent networks, driver ICs, wearable electronics, display panels, and the metaverse-related industry chain. The CFET technology boasts higher energy efficiency, contributing to a low-carbon emission production chain, anticipating its future application in the semiconductor industry to realize the goal of a green semiconductor production chain.</div>
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<strong>Intensive Collaboration with Domestic and International Scholars and Industry</strong><br />
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The NYCU faculty collaborates extensively with domestic and international scholars, industry partners, and government agencies to enhance research and development resources. Since 2020, Prof. Liu’s team has engaged in a forward-looking collaboration with TSMC, actively participating in the Joint Development Project (JDP) focused on advancing three-dimensional transistor technology. Additionally, they are involved in international collaborations with Professor Yue Kuo from Texas A&M University, Professor Peide Ye from Purdue University, and Academician Chenming Hu from the Academia Sinica.<br />
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Currently, a cross-university team, under the guidance of Prof. Liu, is executing two phases of the 'Angstrom Semiconductor Initiative.' This team primarily focuses on developing critical technologies for high-density integrated circuits in forward-looking Monolithic Three-dimensional Integrated Circuit (M3D-IC) technologies. The initiative aims to address pressing challenges in the production technology of angstrom-scale devices and circuits, striving to achieve the performance equivalent to the 2030 1-nm node in integration density and the cost of logic and memory circuits.
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<div class="ed\_txt"><span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em>Professor Po-Tsun Liu from the Department of Photonics at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University</em></span><br />
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<strong>International Research Collaboration: Bridging Students’ Gap Between Theory and Practice</strong><br />
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Collaboration between on-campus faculty and industry is pivotal in advancing research and technology within the field. Moreover, it offers students valuable insights into the latest technological developments in the industry, effectively bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Prof. Liu emphasizes, "This is why almost all graduate students from NYCU College of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) secure job opportunities with Taiwan’s semiconductor industry giants even before graduation."<br />
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Furthermore, he highlighted the university’s provision of financial support and diverse international exchange programs, encouraging students to capitalize on these opportunities. Participation in such programs, he noted, not only allows students to refine their communication skills and boost their confidence but also provides them with fresh knowledge that can inspire innovative ideas.<br />
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In his closing statements, Prof. Liu reiterated the profound significance of perseverance in research. Overcoming the inclination to 'give up' forms a sturdy foundation in academic pursuits and is the singular path to success in one’s studies.
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<span style="color:#4e5f70;"><em>Professor Po-Tsun Liu and the laboratory team</em></span></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1194500905773305856&init=YProfessor Po-Tsun Liu stated that the breakthrough in transistor technology offers hope for the continuous improvement of the density of integration of chip circuits.<![CDATA[Taiwan’s Mountainous Disaster Research: Critical Breakthroughs in Landslide and Rockfall Prevention]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2023-09-26<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Research team conducting field investigations in the Central Cross-Island Highway" src="https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1164747191915384832&init=N" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="font-size:90%;">Research team conducting field investigations in the Central Cross-Island Highway</span></span></em></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt"><strong>Translated by Yue-Ting, Luo<br />
Edited by Elaine Chuang</strong><br />
National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University<br />
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Last week, Taiwan experienced continuous heavy rainfall across the island, leading to the risk of landslides, road erosion, and slope failures in mountainous regions. The fragmented geological conditions in Taiwan have made slope-related disasters increasingly frequent. Among these, rockfall disasters have garnered significant attention due to their high-speed impact on mountain roads, resulting in casualties and road closures.<br />
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In order to elucidate the impact of these disasters, a multidisciplinary research team consisting of Professor Meng-Chia Weng, Associate Professor Terry Y.P. Yuen, and Associate Professor Weian Chao from the Department of Civil Engineering, along with the collaboration from National Taiwan University, National Taipei University of Technology, National United University, and Sinotech Engineering Consultants Inc., has made significant breakthroughs in the analysis and prevention of rockfall disasters.<br />
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<strong>Significant Breakthroughs in the Analysis and Prevention of Rockfall Disasters</strong><br />
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Their research provides valuable insights into the damage caused by fragmented geology and extreme weather in Taiwan. These research findings not only serve as a reference for the Second Maintenance Office of the Highway Bureau, MOTC but have also been published in the prestigious journal “Engineering Geology,” receiving high acclaim.<br />
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Professor Meng-Chia Weng stated that the rapid acquisition of disaster information regarding crucial transportation routes after slope disasters is an urgent research priority. This information is crucial for devising disaster rescue strategies and regulatory project designs. With support from the National Science and Technology Council’s “Disaster Prevention and Rescue Technology Innovation Service Project,” the research team has developed a system called the “Slope Disaster Information Integration and Assessment System” (GeoPORT System).<br />
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This system can swiftly integrate disaster data, including landslide locations, areas, scales, rainfall, and seismic intensity, and subsequently simulate the post-disaster impacts. It aims to offer rapid assessments for disaster prevention and rescue units and recommendations for subsequent remediation by supervisory authorities, ultimately reducing the societal and economic impacts.</div>
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<strong>The Analytical Approach can be Tailored to Specific Rockfall-prone Locations, Customizing Protective Measures to Align with the Type of Rockfall Encountered</strong><br />
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Associate Professor Terry Y.P. Yuen expressed that following the massive boulder impact on the Tayun Bridge of the Central Cross-Island Highway in February 2022, the research team collaborated with highway authorities to conduct an exhaustive investigation at the disaster site. The research team utilized technology, including optical radar and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to collect geological and rockfall data on-site, proposing an innovative high-fidelity simulation analysis and method known as the Hybrid Discrete Element-Finite Element Method (Hybrid DEM-FEM).<br />
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This method enables a comprehensive reconstruction of the causes of rockfall disasters, the three-dimensional trajectories of falling rocks, and the impact energy on the bridges. The simulation results closely matched the observed rockfall paths and bridge damage patterns on-site. The entire process seems to resemble a detective’s meticulous process of reconstructing the incident based on on-site evidence.<br />
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Associate Professor Weian Chao further explained that unlike conventional rockfall impact force design methods, this analytical approach can be tailored to specific rockfall-prone locations, customizing protective measures to align with the type of rockfall encountered.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="In Feb 2022 Tayun Bridge on the Central Cross-Island Highway was struck by massive boulder impactheavy rocks causing significant damage to the bridge and a complete traffic blockade. structure. This rare and significant disaster garnered public attention." src="https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1164747188991954944&init=N" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="font-size:90%;">In Feb 2022 Tayun Bridge on the Central Cross-Island Highway was struck by massive boulder impactheavy rocks causing significant damage to the bridge and a complete traffic blockade. structure. This rare and significant disaster garnered public attention.</span></span></em></div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1164747191915384832&init=YResearch team conducting field investigations in the Central Cross-Island Highway.https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1164747188991954944&init=YIn Feb 2022 Tayun Bridge on the Central Cross-Island Highway was struck by massive boulder impactheavy rocks.<![CDATA[The fetus contracting COVID-19 has a safe solution: ITM Confirm “Molnupiravir” Can Penetrate the Placenta to Achieve Effective Therapeutic Concentrations]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2023-09-18<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="ITM Confirm “Molnupiravir” Can Penetrate the Placenta to Achieve Effective Therapeutic Concentrations" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230919130928216.jpeg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">ITM Confirm “Molnupiravir” Can Penetrate the Placenta to Achieve Effective Therapeutic Concentrations</span></em></div>
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<strong>Translated by Yi Yun Huang</strong></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic" style="text-align: justify;">Molnupiravir is a drug authorized for emergency use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat COVID-19, but many aspects of its mechanism are still unclear. Professor Tung-Hu Tsai from the Institute of Traditional Medicine (ITM) at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has confirmed through pharmacokinetics that Molnupiravir and its active metabolite, NHC, can penetrate the placental barrier to reach the fetus and achieve effective virus inhibition concentrations. This research was published in the scientific journal ‘eBioMedicine,’ which is part of the Lancet series.<br />
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During the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a lack of information on medication research. According to the interim guidelines for clinical management of novel coronavirus infections by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, prescribing physicians should only consider using Molnupiravir for pregnant women if the benefits outweigh the risks and must thoroughly inform pregnant women about the risks of using the medication during pregnancy. Even with this risk assessment, it remains entirely unknown whether the treatment reaches a therapeutic concentration for the fetus.<br />
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This research is part of the epidemic prevention scientific research center project led by Vice President Muh-Hwa Yang and was carried out in collaboration with the University of Cambridge in the UK. </div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Professor Tung-Hu Tsai leads the research team, which used self-developed microdialysis probes to collect samples from the blood, placenta, amniotic fluid, and fetuses of pregnant mice. The concentrations of Molnupiravir and its active metabolites were analyzed using Liquid Chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The research found that approximately 29% of the effective metabolite in the mother’s bloodstream reaches the fetus, 19% reaches the amniotic fluid, and 9% reaches the placenta. Furthermore, when combined with past in vitro research literature, it was discovered that the overall concentration of effective metabolites entering the fetus through placental tissue after administration is approximately only one-third of the concentration in the mother’s blood.<br />
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Professor Tung-Hu Tsai stated that the concentrations of the drug in the blood, placenta, fetus, and amniotic fluid of pregnant mice were all higher than the effective therapeutic concentrations, confirming it as an effective treatment regimen. The dosage administered achieves effective treatment concentration ranges in both the pregnant mother and the fetus. This scientific discovery holds important reference value for the use of medication by pregnant women infected with the COVID-19 virus and whether it can effectively treat infections in the unborn fetus.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153559009261785088&init=YITM Confirm “Molnupiravir” Can Penetrate the Placenta to Achieve Effective Therapeutic Concentrations<![CDATA[“NYCU Laser System Research Center” has been awarded the Technology Transfer Award of the 2023 TAIPEI BIOTECH AWARDS.]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2023-09-18<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt=""NYCU Laser System Research Center" has been awarded the Technology Transfer Award of the 2023 TAIPEI BIOTECH AWARDS." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230919130106364.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">"NYCU Laser System Research Center" has been awarded the Technology Transfer Award of the 2023 TAIPEI BIOTECH AWARDS.</span></em></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic" style="text-align: justify;">The Laser Systems Research Center of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has been dedicated to laser technology research. With a focus on developing medical laser systems, our team leverages solid engineering techniques to deepen and broaden the application of laser systems in the field of healthcare. By creating innovative medical laser systems with a forward-looking approach, we strive to nurture postgraduate talents who possess a visionary perspective on laser technology in the industry, and have the capability to develop laser technology products. Our goal is to lead Taiwan’s laser technology industry into the international arena of medical laser technology, thereby establishing a mutually beneficial model of collaboration between the medical device industry and academia.</div>
<div class="ed\_pic"><img alt="Artificial intelligence enabled electrocardiogram interpretation system" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230919130205650.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:90%;"><em>Artificial intelligence enabled electrocardiogram interpretation system</em></span></div>
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<div class="ed\_pic" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Artificial intelligence enabled electrocardiogram interpretation system</strong></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">NYCU Laser System Research Center has pioneered an ophthalmic laser system using Stimulated-Raman-Scattering (SRS) technology. We inventively developed a top-efficient high-power dual-wavelength Nd:YVO4 self-Raman laser by using two different lithium triborate (LBO) crystals. Based on the same cavity configuration, a highly efficient NdYVO4/KGW cavity was also developed to generate Raman laser at 579 nm.In this cavity design, the Np-cut potassium gadolinium tungstate (KGW) crystal is specially coated to prevent the Stokes wave from propagating through the gain medium, and new output coupler with double-sided dichroic coating was to exterminate the leakage power of the Stokes wave to lead to a remarkable improvement for the output efficiency.<br />
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Laser System Research Center also provides regulatory supports to ensure the quality of the commercialization; ISO13485 design control process is in place; technical data is complete and sufficient for regulatory submissions; and animal study is to ensure the clinical evaluation. The goal is to bring the Multi-wavelengths Pattern Scanning Ophthalmic Laser System to be ready for sales with leading edge laser technology, revolutionary clinical innovation, and rigorous quality management control.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153558062783533056&init=Y“NYCU Laser System Research Center” has been awarded the Technology Transfer Award of the 2023 TAIPEI BIOTECH AWARDS.<![CDATA[Breakthrough in Light Source Control: NYCU Develops the First Method for Continuously Adjusting Spectral Peak and Bandwidth]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2023-09-18<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Left: laser source device (compared the size with NT$50 coin)" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230919125700962.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Left: laser source device (compared the size with NT$50 coin)</span></em><br />
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<div class="ed\_pic" style="text-align: justify;">Did you know that precise control over light sources can open up new possibilities for scientific research and engineering applications? National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) develops world’s first device for continuous adjustment of spectral peaks and bandwidth, which can be widely applied in various pulsed laser systems.<br />
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<div class="ed\_pic"><img alt="Accurately manipulate the generation of light sources creates new possibilities for scientific research and engineering applications." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230919125546443.jpg" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Accurately manipulate the generation of light sources creates new possibilities for scientific research and engineering applications.</span></em><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Research and Discovery</strong><br />
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Assistant Professor Shih-Hsuan Chia from the Institute of Biophotonics, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), has developed a laser source device that can concurrently adjust the spectral location and bandwidth of pulsed light. This innovation greatly enhances the understanding of the interaction between light and matter and facilitates the practical application of this knowledge. Mr. Chia developed a device measuring approximately 2.5 cm3. The device can individually and continuously adjust the spectral peak and bandwidth by controlling the nonlinear effects (self-phase modulation) of optical fibers. It is the world’s first device to enable the arbitrary, individual, and continuous manipulation of spectral peaks and bandwidth. With this device, scientists can freely adjust the center frequency and bandwidth of short pulsed light sources and achieve pulse widths as short as 14 femtosecond (10−15 seconds).</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic"><img alt="Assistant Professor Shih-Hsuan Chia from the Institute of Biophotonics, NYCU, has developed a laser source device that can concurrently adjust the spectral location and bandwidth of pulsed light." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230919125812087.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Assistant Professor Shih-Hsuan Chia from the Institute of Biophotonics, NYCU, has developed a laser source device that can concurrently adjust the spectral location and bandwidth of pulsed light.</span></em></div>
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<strong>Limitations and Breakthrough</strong></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The application of optical technology in various fields provides numerous advantages. The ability to accurately manipulate the generation of light sources creates new possibilities for scientific research and engineering applications. In particular, a key aspect of this ability is the control of spectral locations and bandwidth. Nevertheless, this capability is limited by the types of luminescent materials that are used. Typically, spectral locations and bandwidth cannot be adjusted freely, and this limits the effect and potential of subsequent applications. This research achievement will have a positive influence on nonlinear spectral analysis and microscopy technology. The research team believes that this breakthrough will assist scientists in conducting more efficient studies of material properties and lead to further advancements in the practical application of light sources. </div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153556020807602176&init=YLeft: laser source device (compared the size with NT$50 coin)<![CDATA[NYCU’s Successful Challenge to the Next-Generation Angstrom-Level Integrated Circuit Technology, with Potential to Go “More than Moore”]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2023-07-04<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">With the rapid advancement of semiconductor technologies and the industry in recent years, the concept of a monolithic three-dimensional integrated circuit (M3D-IC) has emerged as a solution to overcome the limitations of transistor miniaturization, as predicted by Moore’s law. M3D-IC technology involves a shift toward a multilevel vertically stacked structure in transistors, allowing for increased transistor density within a limited chip area and aiming to achieve “More than Moore.” This technology is expected to enable the production of small chips with high processing speeds and low costs while further miniaturizing semiconductor manufacturing processes.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Led by Liu Po-tsun, a Chair Professor from the Department of Photonics at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, a team conduct the National Science and Technology Council’s Angstrom Semiconductor Initiative in an international collaboration with Professor Kuo Yu at Texas A&M University in the U.S., who is also a Yushan Fellow. The team focused on innovations in materials, transistor devices, and circuits, leading to the development of a complementary field-effect transistor (CFET; Figure 1) specifically designed for use in M3D-ICs. They employed a novel semiconductor material called amorphous indium tungsten oxide (a-IWO) to achieve exceptional current performance in the channel with a thickness of only a few atomic layers. The CFET also exhibited high voltage gains in logic circuits, low static power at the pico-watt level, and a highly symmetric noise margin (see Figure 2). By successfully addressing the technological challenges associated with M3D-IC, the team’s novel material and technology proved comparable to the silicon-based transistor commonly used in the semiconductor industry today.<br />
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The technological advancements achieved through this research hold significant application value for next-generation Angstrom-level integrated circuits; it facilitates the integration of heterogeneous semiconductor chips that contain high densities of transistors, while achieving high device performance with low power consumption. This milestone represents a significant breakthrough for the semiconductor industry beyond the scope of Moore’s law. The research finding has also been published in the prestigious journal Advanced Science (p. 2205481, Jan. 2023. Impact Factor: 17.52, FWCI: 3.32).</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt">Figure 1. The vertically stacked CFET structure for use in M3D-ICs to facilitate the manufacturing of advanced semiconductor chips with ultra-high densities of circuits.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The performance of an inverter comprised of three-dimensional vertically stacked CFET at various operating bias voltages: (a) low-bias-voltage transfer characteristics, (b) high-voltage gains (~ 152V/V), (c) ultralow static power consumption at the pico-watt level, and (d) highly symmetric noise margin (~80%)." src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230914125247815.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt">Figure 2. The performance of an inverter comprised of three-dimensional vertically stacked CFET at various operating bias voltages: (a) low-bias-voltage transfer characteristics, (b) high-voltage gains (~ 152V/V), (c) ultralow static power consumption at the pico-watt level, and (d) highly symmetric noise margin (~80%).</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153497382986452992&init=Ylaboratory members<![CDATA[Scientists Discover Ferroptosis Enhances Immunotherapy Efficacy in Head and Neck Cancer]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2023-05-24<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) recently made a breakthrough in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) research. The research team led by Professor Muh-Hwa Yang of the Institute of Clinical Medicine, NYCU discovered that inducing iron-dependent cell death (ferroptosis) in HNSCC enhances the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. This crucial finding was published in the international journal Advanced Science in April this year.</div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Dr. Yang Muhua takes a group photo with members of the Cancer Progression Research Center of Excellence" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915093910137.jpeg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The immunoregulatory molecule PD-L1 on the surface of tumor cells serves as a critical target for immunotherapy. However, in some cases of metastatic/recurrent head and neck cancer, the expression of PD-L1 in cancer cells may be insufficient, thereby affecting the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. The NYCU and Taipei Veterans General Hospital (VGHTPE) research team discovered that by augmenting ferroptosis signature in tumor cells, the PD-L1 expressions in tumor cells can be increased, thereby enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy. This finding provides new insights and directions for head and neck cancer treatment strategies.<br />
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Ferroptosis, is a cell death process newly discovered in recent years. Cells generate reactive oxygen species that accumulate on the cell membrane during iron metabolism. When these reactive oxygen species cannot be cleared normally, cell death can occur.<br />
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The NYCU–VGHTPE research team analyzed HNSCC specimens and found that the ferroptosis signals in the specimens were closely related to inflammation/immune-related signatures, indicating that ferroptosis is a form of cell death that triggers an immune response. Upon further injecting ferroptosis inducers into cell lines and tumor sites in mice, the researchers observed the effect of suppression of cancer development and immune activation in the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, inducing ferroptosis in cancer cells significantly increased PD-L1 expression; thus, the combined use of ferroptosis inducers and immunotherapy demonstrated synergistic therapeutic effects in the animal experiments.<br />
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Recently, a US research team discovered that immunotherapy could increase ferroptosis in tumor cells, confirming the potential synergy of ferroptosis inducers and immunotherapy in cancer treatment. This study by NYCU directly confirms that ferroptosis itself can inhibit tumor cell growth and synergistic effects of immunotherapy can be achieved through modulation of the tumor microenvironment.<br />
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Professor Muh-Hwa Yang said that immunotherapy has clinically become mainstream in tumor treatment. Current research focuses on enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy and improving immunotherapy response in therapy-resistant cancer cells. The present research showed that inducing ferroptosis in cancer cells to enhance immunotherapy efficacy could potentially become a new cancer treatment strategy. Although, currently, no clinically ferroptosis inducers are available, this research has revealed the ferroptosis and immunoregulation mechanisms in HNSCC treatment, which will aid in developing new treatment strategies and laying the foundation for future drug research.<br />
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This study was jointly conducted by Prof. Muh-Hwa Yang and Dr. Chih-Hung Chung’s team from the Institute of Clinical Medicine at NYCU, in collaboration with Dr. Pen-Yuan Chu, Director of the Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Department at VGHTPE and Dr. Shyh-Kuan Tai, Chief of the Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Department at VGHTPE. The Cancer Progression Research Center, NYCU performed various experiments, including the spatial association of the transcriptomic signatures in the clinical specimen analysis for the study, and Assistant Prof. Chun-Yu Lin from the Department of Biological Science & Technology, NYCU, performed the advanced bioinformatics analysis.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153499973610901504&init=YDr. Yang Muhua takes a group photo with members of the Cancer Progression Research Center of Excellence<![CDATA[Professor Edward Yi Chang of NYCU won a prestigious academic award bestowed by the Ministry of Education in Taiwan]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2023-05-17<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">Professor Edward Yi Chang (張翼), Dean of the International College of Semiconductor Technology (ICST) of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has long been committed to the research of compound semiconductor. He has been the pioneer in many discoveries in compound semiconductor area including the world’s highest frequency InAs quantum transistor, the world record InGaAs fin fish transistor and Innovative E-Mode GaN power components for fail safe EV applications. His significant contributions won him the 66th Academic Award of the Ministry of Education in 2023.</div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Edward Yi Chang awards photo" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915100000472.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Professor Edward Yi Chang is an internationally renowned scholar in the field of III-V semiconductors. He is leading the trend in research and technology in the field of compound semiconductors; as well as paving the ways for the applications of III-V components in the fields of high speed energy saving electronics, high-frequency communication components and high-power electro-mechanical conversion components. He is actively deploying compound semiconductor technologies for the next wave of Taiwan’s industry.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The outstanding performance of Professor Edward Yi Chang in the field of semiconductor technology has long been recognized by his peers at his homeland and abroad. In addition to winning three outstanding awards from the Ministry of Science and Technology, he has previously been recognized by the 2019 IEEE Life Fellow and JSAP Fellow International awards; he is also a Fellow of the Chinese Society for Materials Science and Technology, a Fellow of Taiwan Vacuum Society, and was awarded the prestigious Hou Jindui Science and Technology Outstanding Honor Award. Currently, he is also the center directors of Foxconn-NYCU Research Center, TSMC-NYCU Joint Research Center, NYCU-Win Semiconductor Technology Innovation Center.<br />
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Besides academic recognition, Professor Edward Yi Chang is also well known in industry and has won several awards, such as the Industrial Economic Contribution Award and the Industrial Innovation Academic Award from the Ministry of Economic Affairs, as well as the 27th TECO Award, 42th Lu Tze-Hung award for materials scientist and the 110th Annual “Outstanding Technology Transfer Contribution Award” from the Ministry of Science and Technology.<br />
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Professor Chang has served the university for over 30 years in different capacities at NYCU including Department Head, College Dean, Director of Office of International Affairs, and Senior Vice President for Research. Congratulations to Professor Chang for another milestone achievement.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153500162878869504&init=YProfessor Edward Yi Chang awards photo<![CDATA[100% desalination! Amyloid for seawater desalination published in the international journal Small]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2023-05-11<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">Being impacted by extreme weather, Taiwan has been facing a crisis of water shortage in recent years. Seawater desalination has become a new means of water creation. Professor Sheh-Yi Sheu of the Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University served as the principal investigator of a research paper published in the international academic journal Small. Scientists used amyloid that can cause Alzheimer’s disease to block salt ions and transport water molecules, achieving the magical effect of 100% seawater desalination and developing a new method of seawater desalination.</div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Sheu group photo with lab member" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915100346167.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Professor Sheu explained that amyloid is an insoluble fibrous protein that accumulates abnormally in body organs, causing a variety of severe diseases, the most famous of which is Alzheimer’s disease. The medical field hopes to find a way to clear the accumulated amyloid in the brain, thereby treating Alzheimer’s disease. However, scientists went in the opposite direction and developed a method of seawater desalination by using the properties of amyloid to block salt ions.<br />
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The seawater desalination method involves the use of a nanotube comprising three pieces of the amyloid protein and ingeniously utilizes the potential difference on the protein membrane surface to drive water molecules to move in a single direction, blocking the passage of salt ions (e.g., sodium ions and chlorine ions) and forming a molecular motor to achieve the effect of seawater desalination without any external energy supply.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Professor Sheu stated that reverse osmosis is currently the mainstream seawater desalination technology, which requires a motor to pressurize seawater to pass through the reverse osmosis membrane, thereby separating salt from seawater. Although the technology is feasible, it requires a large amount of electricity and equipment, rendering it difficult to achieve economies of scale. Using amyloid to filter seawater demonstrates a new direction for effective and energy-saving seawater desalination using biomimetic nanomaterials.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The research team theoretically estimated that a filtering membrane composed of a 10 ×10 cm2 amyloid nanotube could produce 2.5 tons of fresh water per day, which is 200 times more than the amount of fresh water produced using the existing reverse osmosis method.<br />
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Professor Sheu stated that the sheet-like structure formed by amyloid can automatically guide water molecules. In addition, by changing one amino acid in the structure to a charged one and increasing the nanotube’s hydrophilic potential, the efficiency of separating water molecules and salt ions can be enhanced. The experimental results allow the scientific field to understand the automatic transmission mechanism of biomimetic materials and an effective and energy-saving method of seawater desalination.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Professor Sheu pointed out that climate change has intensified the crisis of water resource shortage. This biomimetic nanomaterial not only demonstrates that the one-way diffusion of water molecules can occur on the nanoscale protein surface but also provides a new candidate material and research direction for future development of a seawater desalination mechanism that features high-yield, low-energy consumption, and low-carbon emission.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153500443419086848&init=YProfessor Sheu group photo with lab member<![CDATA[Team NYCU’s Unmanned Surface Vehicle Mission Surpassed Expectations and Earned a Well-deserved Third Place in the 2022 Maritime RobotX Challenge, thanks to Their Innovative Approach and Meticulous Planning]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2023-04-11<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">Team NYCU participated in the 2022 Maritime RobotX Challenge held in Australia from November 11-17, 2022. The competition, organized by the international unmanned system association, RoboNation, and co-sponsored by the Australian Department of Defense, attracted 20 universities from around the world. The Office of Naval Research (ONR) of the United States Navy initiated the competition in 2012 and continued to sponsor the 2022 event. Team NYCU showed excellent on-site performance and mastery of the new tasks in the finals, standing out from the other finalists, and achieving a remarkable third place.</div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Team NYCU Maritime RobotX" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915101600997.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The Maritime RobotX Challenge is a biennial competition. In 2018, Team NCTU from National Chiao Tung University delivered an outstanding performance, achieving fifth place and receiving the award for the best single-day performance. In 2022, a team from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University participated in the competition once again. Led by Associate Professor Hsueh-Cheng Wang from the Department of Electrical Engineering and the Institute of Electronics, a cross-disciplinary team of 14 students from the Department of Electrical Engineering, Institute of Electronics, and Robotics Program completed autonomous surface missions using the software and hardware design of unmanned surface vehicles and drones.<br />
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All teams participating in the competition were required to use unmanned aerial vehicles and unmanned surface vehicles to complete various tasks. These tasks included passing through entrance and exit gates, taking off and landing on platforms, capturing waterborne targets, using hydrophones to confirm the location of underwater sound sources, following paths accurately and crossing floating buoys to enable the vessel to enter from a designated location and successfully complete the mission.<br />
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During the competition, both unmanned aerial vehicles and unmanned surface vehicles must pass strict safety checks before each takeoff and launch. Completing the designated tasks qualifies teams to enter the semi-finals. In the finals, all sub-tasks must be completed within the specified time frame to earn points. Apart from the practical tasks, teams must also present their system design through written and oral reports. The final ranking is based on the accumulation of all points.<br />
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Assoc. Prof. Hsueh-Cheng Wang expressed that taking part in the competition is an ongoing learning process that equips students with skills that are not easily gained in the classroom. He added that students learn how to establish objectives, tackle challenges, cooperate in large teams, and adapt to unexpected situations. Before the contest, he inquired about his students’ expectations. Initially, they lacked confidence, but during the competition, they consistently emerged as frontrunners. Wang believes that the most significant benefit of participating in such contests is learning how to develop confidence while working with international teams.<br />
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The team members have mentioned that the preparation schedule before the competition was rigorous, requiring them to work overtime on weekends. During the contest period, everyone worked diligently, resulting in less than 5 hours of sleep each day. Despite the difficulties encountered, the team members aided each other and found solutions, leading to the discovery of more effective strategies. Ray, the team leader, expressed his satisfaction with their joint effort, saying, “It feels fantastic to work together! Our emotions fluctuated with the progress of the competition, from the uncertainty before departure, the nervousness in the initial stages of the contest, the thrill of entering the finals, to the gratification of completing the competition. However, our determination to do the best we can remained constant.<br />
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Team NYCU would like to sincerely express our appreciation for the support provided by our alumni, Dr. Kuan-Ting ‘Peter’ Yu at XYZ Robotics, Lungteh Shipbuilding Co., and K-Best Co., who generously donated funds towards our travel expenses.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153501298511843328&init=YTeam NYCU Maritime RobotXhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/Tw5rHTJ2Macyoutube<![CDATA[Herbicides are discovered to stimulate immune responses and deteriorate intestinal inflammation]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2023-03-07<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">Western food and genetic inheritance are considered the main risk factors of intestinal inflammation, which has become increasingly prevalent in Taiwan. The research collaboration between National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and Harvard University identified herbicides as a risk factor that deteriorates such inflammation. This discovery marks a breakthrough regarding the effect of environmental factors on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and has therefore been published in Nature.</div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Associated Professor Yu-Chao Wang take group photo with lab member" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915111811526.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">IBD mainly includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. In Taiwan, the prevalence of ulcerative colitis increased from 2.1 patients per 100,000 population in 2001 to 12.8 patients per 100,000 population in 2015, demonstrating a five-fold increase in 14 years[1]. Previously, IBD was mostly observed in Western countries. Although scholars have confirmed approximately 200 genes related to this type of disease, their understanding of relevant environmental factors is limited.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Associated Professor Yu-Chao Wang from the Institute of Biomedical Informatics, NYCU collaborated with Harvard Medical School and used zebrafish to examine chemical substances that potentially affect intestinal inflammation, thereby creating a prediction model for compounds that deteriorate IBD. The model was applied to the ToxCast database of the US Environmental Protection Agency to identify more compounds that potentially lead to the deterioration of IBD.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Among the top 20 most influential compounds identified by Dr. Wang, more than half were associated with agriculture. The research team further examined propyzamide, a type of herbicide commonly used to remove weeds in sports venues and gardens, by conducting in vitro and in vivo experiments. They confirmed that this compound disturbs dioxin receptors that maintain intestinal stability and induces immune responses associated with T cells and dendritic cells, causing the deterioration of IBD.<br />
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Propyzamide decomposes slowly when used on plants; after 50 days, 60% of the compound can remain on plants. Consequently, individuals who frequent grass sports fields or gardens are at risk of being exposed to propyzamide. Dr. Wang stated that the research team is currently developing nanoparticles and probiotics to alleviate IBD caused by herbicides.<br />
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This research project involves interdisciplinary efforts between dry labs and wet labs. In general, dry labs focus on the use of computer simulation, whereas wet labs mainly conduct conventional biochemistry analysis. In the current research collaboration between Taiwan and the United States, the NYCU research team mainly uses big data from relevant databases to create disease prediction models. The Harvard research team, led by Dr. Francisco Quintana, then verifies the models by using conventional laboratory techniques and large samples.<br />
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Dr. Wang noted that interdisciplinary research is a common and crucial approach in biomedicine. It has been prevalently applied in the research of various diseases. Bioinformatics involves the use of big data analysis to quickly identify potential treatment methods, which are then verified through laboratory experiments. This in turn reduces the substantial human resources, time consumption, and costs that are otherwise needed in conventional biological research. The finding of the research team received the attention of Nature because it identified an environmental factor of IBD and demonstrated the viability of combining bioinformatics with in vitro and in vivo experiments through interdisciplinary collaboration.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153504821140000768&init=YAssociated Professor Yu-Chao Wang take group photo with lab memberhttps://www.irjournal.org/journal/view.php?number=731&utm\_source=TrendMD&utm\_medium=cpc&utm\_campaign=Intestinal\_Research\_TrendMD\_1[1] Yen et al. (2019). Epidemiological trend in inflammatory bowel disease in Taiwan from 2001 to 2015: a nationwide populationbased study. Intestine Research, 17(1).<![CDATA[Why do we live longer when we eat less? Scientists have found the answer in nematode. Key protease that activates autophagy shows potential in antiaging therapy.]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2023-01-10<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">We may need not cut our diet to live longer anymore. On 0.1-cm-long nematodes, scientist have found a molecular mechanism where dietary restriction promote autophagy and delay aging. This finding has laid a clear path for determining the appropriate target of antiaging drugs.<br />
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Several animal models have proven dietary restriction or calorie intake restriction in promoting autophagy and delaying aging. This is because autophagy is an inherent function of the body cells that removes damaged organelles for cell regeneration and is more obvious under certain conditions, with dietary restriction being one of them.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In recent research, scientists have found that nematodes extend their lives, which are 2 weeks on average, to 3 to 4 weeks by eating a little bit less every day. The research team observed that dietary restriction changed histonemethylation[1][2] in chromosomes through two critical proteases, SAMS-1 and SET-2, thereby regulating the activity of TFEB and FOXA, two transcription factors associated with autophagy, and increasing the expression of hepatic and intestinal autophagy in nematodes.<br />
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In other words, when nematodes were fed less Escherichia coli, the expression of SAMS-1 was low, which affected the methylation of histones, allowing genes downstream of autophagy to be transcribed. Conversely, nematodes with a regular diet had a normal expression of SAMS-1 and exhibited limited autophagy.<br />
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Ao-Lin Hsu, the leading researchers of this research and a professor at the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), said that based on the prior knowledge of dietary restriction being an effective way to delay aging, this finding revealed the molecular mechanism that underlies the relationship between dietary restriction and autophagy. He also said that these findings, which revealed the critical proteins that affect aging in dieting, could help scientists determine the appropriate target of antiaging drugs and further develop aging-delaying methods that do not require dieting.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The speed of aging can be altered by environmental factors and is an inevitable part of our lives. Hsu said that an appropriate practice of dietary restriction promotes cellular repair because under a condition with insufficient resources (e.g., dietary restriction), cells prioritize repair over reproduction regarding the use of resources for survival.<br />
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In Hsu’s laboratory, nematodes are the main animal used for testing. They are the top choice of animal for aging research because they are nonparasitic, live in soil, have a shorter lifespan compared with mammal animals such as mice, reproduce in large numbers within their limited lifespan, and have similar key genes to humans. This research is a joint effort between NYCU and Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute. The research team also includes Tsui-Ting Ching, an associate professor at NYCU Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, and Chiao-Yin Lim, the first author and a PhD student at NYCU Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. The research is published on Autophagy, an international journal.<br />
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[1] A histone is a protein that provides structural support for a chromosome.<br />
[2] Methylation is a biochemical reaction. The methylation of proteins inhibits or affects gene expression and is the foundation of epigenetics.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153506579744559104&init=YLaboratory member<![CDATA[Why do some obese people remain healthy while others become sick as soon as they gain excessive weight?]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-12-22<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">Obesity is a common disease in civilization. Scholars have confirmed its association with various metabolic disorders. However, a problem remains to be addressed regarding why specific obese individuals can remain healthy. Recent study has identified stomatin as a key factor causing obesity-related chronic diseases.</div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="laboratory member group photo" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915130542116.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Stomatin is a protein encoded by the STOM gene and exists prevalently on the membranes or the organelle surface of various cells. It can be discovered in peripheral blood, embryos, and organs such as the fat, bone marrow and placenta. Previous scholars considered stomatin to be a membrane protein associated with overhydrated hereditary stomatocytosis. However, a research team from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has conducted in vitro and in vivo experiments and verified that this protein modulates adipogenesis through the ERK pathway and regulates fatty acid uptake and lipid droplet growth. It may also induce abnormal metabolic syndromes.<br />
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Through in vitro experiments, researchers in the NYCU observed that stomatin could distribute to the cell membrane and lipid droplet surface of fatty cells. They discovered that reducing the expression of stomatin caused the notable inhibition of adipocyte differentiation and further reduced lipid accumulation in cells. In contrast, high expression of stomatin accelerated lipid droplet fusion and enhanced the ability of cells to absorb fatty acid.<br />
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In subsequent in vivo experiments, the researchers fed mice with calorie-rich food for 20 weeks. They observed that the stomatin transgenic mice exhibited significantly higher body weight and fatty tissue weight than the wild-type mice and experienced abnormal metabolic syndromes such as insulin resistance and hepatic impairment. Interestingly, the transgenic mice remained healthy as long as they received regular food.<br />
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Dr. Shao-Chin Wu explained that when ingesting excessive calories, the body stores additional fat by increasing the number and size of adipose cells, which in turn causes obesity. When the body increases fat accumulation by increasing the number of adipose cells, the normal functioning of adipose cells is maintained, and the resulting obesity is considered healthy. However, when the body enlarges adipose cells to store additional fat, the excessive accumulation of fat in the cells greatly increases the likelihood of cell dysfunctions. This causes the cells to lose their ability to store fat, and free fatty acids are absorbed by other organs in the body, thereby inducing abnormal syndromes in these organs. Excessive expression of stomatin enhances the ability of adipose cells to absorb fatty acids and consequently enlarges the cells in an unhealthy manner.<br />
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The discovery explains why some obese individuals with high body fat are able to remain healthy without experiencing metabolic disorders, whereas other obese individuals have unfavorable health conditions. Metabolic syndromes induced by obesity might be associated with the regulation of adipose cell differentiation and fat absorption. The study conducted by the research team highlighted a new research direction regarding the role of stomatin in health risk assessment, preventive medicine, and pharmaceutical development.<br />
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This study was completed by Dr. Chi-Hung Lin (Biological science and Technology, NYCU; Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, NYCU), Dr. Chien-Yi Tung (Cancer Progression Research Center, NYCU) and Dr. Shao-Chin Wu ( Cancer Progression Research Center, NYCU; Institute of Biophotonics, NYCU), published in Nature Communications, a subjournal of Nature Publishing Group.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153507635153080320&init=YLaboratory member with principal<![CDATA[Maternal voice can both make babies laugh and alleviate pain A clinical experiment discovered maternal voice to be effective in reducing preterm infants’ pain response during heel sticks]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-10-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="nurse taking care baby photo" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915134230161.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">For babies, maternal voice can not only make them laugh but also can alleviate their pain.<br />
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A study by the College of Nursing, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) on heel sticks in preterm infants discovered that during the heel sticks and blood draw process, if preterm infants hear maternal voices, their heart rate is more stable, and their external pain response is more subdued. <br />
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Out of considerations for withdrawing blood for blood tests and the risk of bleeding, a common blood draw technique used in infants is heel sticks. This technique involves stabbing infants’ heels using needles to obtain their health information. However, the pain caused by this intrusive examination method has negative impacts on preterm infants and worries the mother. <br />
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To verify the criticalness of maternal voice on infants, Prof. Chi-Wen Chen of the College of Nursing, NYCU led a research team and Ms. Wan-Chin Yu, who was a registered nurse at the neonatal intensive care unit at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan to conduct an experiment. In the experiment, 64 preterm infants were randomly divided into the experimental group and the control group. On the fourth day after birth, the preterm infants of the experimental group received heel sticks. Three minutes before receiving heel sticks, a recording from their mother reading the children’s book Xiaoqi’s Yellow Persimmon was played at no louder than 70 dB until the entire blood draw process ended. The infants’ pain reactions were measured by six behavioral indicators including facial expression, crying, breathing pattern, arms, legs, and state of arousal. The results revealed that playing maternal sound significantly reduced the heart rate and pain indicators of participants in the experimental group compared to those of the control group. <br />
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In addition, the research team discovered that infants who listened to maternal voices had slower respiratory rate, increased blood oxygen saturation, and superior mother–infant bonding. Although the data of these three indicators did not show significant differences, the experimental group indeed has better data performance.. <br />
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A past French study revealed that playing recordings of mothers reading the classic The Little Prince is conducive to stabilizing infants’ heart rate and reducing infants’ sense of insecurity from not having their mothers by their side. However, the effects were related to the volume of the maternal voice. When the recording exceeds 70 dB, infants’ heart rate increased rather than decreased, reflecting that loud sounds are not conducive to soothing infants. <br />
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Prof. Chen stated that preterm infants require medical care at a high frequency for a long time. Limited by the ward space and visiting hours, mothers cannot stay by the infants all the time. Pain is not only a physiological feeling but also affects infants’ behavioral reactions. <br />
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Ms. Yu stated that the results of this study confirmed the effect of maternal voice on infants and showed that when clinical nurses care for preterm infants, specifically, when they perform heel sticks, they should consider incorporating more measures friendly to mothers and infants. For example, they can provide a more diverse environment for the preterm infants, and clinically, they can provide a family-centered novel care model. <br />
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This study was jointly conducted by NYCU and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan. The results of this study have been published in the <em>Journal of Pediatric Nursing</em>. </div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Chen Jiwen (right) and nurse Yu Wanzhen from Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915134413703.jpg" /></div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153509764395700224&init=YNurse taking care baby<![CDATA[Scientists probably find a solution for long COVID anxiety Animal model reveals that the problem may be caused by the Fkbp5 gene]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-10-03<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="01-1FKBP5 gene and anti-anxiety mechanism" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915141136327.jpg" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Anxiety is a symptom often mentioned in the syndrome of long COVID-19. But why do patients suffer less sequelae after recovery from a common cold? Fkbp5 gene may be the answer according to the latest research.<br />
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The Fkbp5 gene can regulate the activity of stress hormone receptor and plays a critical role in mental disorders. The Fkbp51 protein encoded by Fkbp5 is related to neuroendocrine system, which controls the stress response to hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA) feedback as well as immune response. <br />
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A research team from Institute of Physiology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and Department of Psychiatry of Taipei City Hospital, Songde Branch discovered that Fkbp5 knockout mice still showed anxiety-like behaviors in the early stage of recovery from body inflammation although their illness symptoms had mitigated. By contrast, wild-type mice did not show anxiety-like behavior after recovery.<br />
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To simulate the body’s inflammatory response, the research team intraperitoneally injected lipopolysaccharide—a toxic chemical commonly found on bacterial cell walls—into Fkbp5 knockout mice, causing the mice to appear ill (i.e., temporary appetite and weight loss). By nature, all rodents dislike heights and open fields. The research team put them into an elevated plus maze and an open field to observe their activities and behaviors. The longer the mice stayed in the open field, the more they adapted to the heights and open field, implying reduced anxiety.<br />
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The study found that 7 days after lipopolysaccharide injection, the appetite and weight of the mice gradually recovered, but Fkbp5 knockout mice exhibited anxiety-like behaviors. Generally speaking, the immune system and microglia in the brain’s hippocampus will be activated to combat inflammation while detecting foreign toxin in the body. Nonetheless, such phenomena were not noticeable in Fkbp5 knockout mice. This confirms that the Fkbp5 gene can regulate anxiety caused by inflammation in vivo. </div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Professor Yi-Hsuan Lee of Institute of Physiology, NYCU—a leading researcher of this project—said that inflammation activates the HPA, enabling the Fkbp51 protein transcribed from the Fkbp5 gene to overexpress, initiating a series of molecular mechanisms including more GABA-synthesizing enzyme-GAD65 in ventral hippocampus neurons to inhibit neural activity, which stabilizes emotions. However, knockout of the Fkbp gene prevents the molecular pathway to function normally as a mood stabilizer, leading to anxiety. <br />
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Dr. Ming-Chyi Huang from the Department of Psychiatry of Taipei City Hospital, Songde Branch, who is also a research team member of this project, said that ventral hippocampus neurons have been proven to exhibit more GABA nerve conduction, which is helpful in the combat against inflammation-induced anxiety, but ineffective in treating other types of anxiety. This study provides a new rationale for the diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders after recovery from inflammation-related diseases.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Director Huang Mingqi, Department of Psychiatry, Songde Campus, Beijing United Medical College" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915141356167.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Cytokine storm caused by COVID-19 infection are one of the reasons for the inflammatory response. Although the relationship between Fkbp5 gene and long COVID-induced anxiety requires further investigation, the study has initially revealed the molecular mechanism of Fkbp5 gene in inflammation-induced anxiety.<br />
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Research team members are Ph.D. student Yu-Ling Gan, master’s student Rong-Heng He, postdoctoral research fellow Chen-Yu Wang, and Professor Hui-Ching Lin of the Institute of Physiology, as well as Professor Hsin-Hsien Yeh of the Brain Research Center and Professor Jiuan-Jeng Chung of the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology. The findings have been published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Group photo in the laboratory of Professor Li Yixuan, Institute of Physiology, Yangming Jiaotong University" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915141446807.jpg" /></div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153510430388260864&init=YResearcher photo<![CDATA[Sources and Health Risks of PM2.5 Vary Across Regions Research Shows Measuring the Oxidative Potential of Particulate Matter Better Reflects Air Quality]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-09-26<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Xiao Dazhi and Professor Ji Kaixian took a group photo in front of the observatory" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915141629110.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Scientists have found the components of particulate matter (pm)—in addition to its mass concentration—to be the main cause of health risks and advised further investigations into the cellular oxidative potential of pm, which reflects toxicity, for a more precise understanding of the effect of air quality on human health.<br />
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A research team from National Taiwan University (NTU) and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) investigated pm in an urban area and found that its substances including organic aerosols, iron, manganese, and copper, all of which increased cellular oxidative potential. Notably, these metals in the air did not always come from vehicle exhaust emissions and were more likely a result of the abrasion of brake pads; the level of such abrasion was particularly high in traffic jams.<br />
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The research team had monitored air quality for one month at a station in NTU near Keelung Road and observed that the largest fraction of pm composition, which are commonly known as secondary inorganic aerosols, comes from photochemical reactions of vehicle exhaust emissions. The pm also contained small amounts of black carbon and metals. Accordingly, congested traffic in the urban area was one of the main causes of reduced ambient air quality. Apart from the commonly known traffic pollutants, namely secondary inorganic aerosols and black carbon, metal particulates produced from frequent braking—nonexhaust emissions—were verified by the research team to have similar adverse effects on human health. <br />
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A study from Britain revealed that metal particles from the abrasion of brake pads caused cellular inflammation and increased the risk of respiratory complications just as exhaust gas emitted from engine combustion did.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Metal particles released by frequent braking of automobiles and motorcycles - "non-exhaust emissions", the impact on health cannot be underestimated" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915141728496.jpg" /></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Ta-Chih Hsiao, the leading researcher of this project and a professor at NTU Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering, suggested that pm is harmful to the human body because human cells can be damaged when an excessive amount of active oxygen species from such matter accumulates in the cells, which is commonly known as free radical accumulation. According to the research, secondary inorganic aerosols, black carbon, and metals in pm were all possible causes of oxygen oxidative potential increase.<br />
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Kai-Hsien Chi, who was responsible for analyzing the components and toxicity of pm in the research and a professor at NYCU Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, pointed out that the measured mass concentration of pm failed to reveal the holistic picture of its risks and that the correlation between the mass concentration and cellular oxidative potential was weak. PM may exhibit the same mass concentration across regions, but the components can vary. A further investigation into the cellular oxidative potential of pm components is required to provide more air quality information. <br />
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NTU and NYCU research team will introduce the concept of cellular oxidative potential into the current monitor system and try to establish a next-generation air quality evaluation method which is expected to understand the real air quality for citizens and help the government develop precise and effective pollution control policy.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="city traffic photo" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915141837782.jpg" /></div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153512106750906368&init=YProfessor Xiao Dazhi and Professor Ji Kaixian took a group photo in front of the observatory<![CDATA[Predicting the Outcomes of Liver Cancer Treatment via Fecal Bacteria TVGH–NYCU Research Team Discovers a New Biomarker of Liver Cancer Immunotherapy]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-09-08<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Rongyangjiao team held a press conference on September 7 to explain the research results of new indicators for immunotherapy of liver cancer" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915142204883.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Feces are generally perceived as dirty, unclean, and something to avoid at all costs. However, the latest study has revealed that fecal bacteria can effectively predict the treatment effects of immunotherapy on liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, HCC). Patients with good gut microbiota not only respond more favorably to immunotherapy, but also demonstrate markedly higher survival rates.<br />
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Immunotherapy is a novel cancer treatment option available today; it is particularly beneficial to patients whose liver cancer cannot be surgically removed or locoregional treatment failure. Nevertheless, biomarkers that can effectively predict the treatment effects of immunotherapy on HCC are currently lacking.<br />
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Accordingly, since 2018, the liver cancer research team led by Dr. Yi-Hsiang Huang, a professor at the Institute of Clinical Medicine (National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University) and the Chief of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine (Taipei Veterans General Hospital) has collected the fecal samples of 41 HCC patients who received immunotherapy at the Taipei Veterans General Hospital. The collected fecal samples were compared with those of 17 healthy people to analyze their gut microbiota through next-generation sequencing. Next, the research team collected fecal samples of 33 patients with HCC for further validation.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Preparation of fecal bacteria used in the study" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915142310599.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The feces of patients with HCC mainly consist of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes at phylum level. In the feces of patients whose tumor worsened by immunotherapy, Professor Huang’s research team found mostly Prevotella 9 (under phylum Bacteroidetes ). By contrast, in the feces of patients who responded favorably to immunotherapy, the research team found mostly Lachnoclostridium and Veillonella (under the phylum Firmicutes). In addition, the research team discovered that the abundance of the Lachnoclostridium in the feces was correlated with their secondary bile acid concentration.<br />
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Overall, in patients with good gut microbiota, their liver tumors responded significantly more favorably to immunotherapy, and the patients had higher survival rates. Statistical predictions indicated that in the best-case scenario, patients with more Lachnoclostridium and less Prevotella 9 in their feces had a median overall survival of 22.8 months.<br />
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Professor Huang noted that the human gut contains trillions of bacteria. These bacteria are closely related to nutrition, metabolism, immunity, and other bodily functions. Studies have reported that in addition to predicting the treatment response of immunotherapy on liver cancer, gut microbiota can regulate the effects of immunotherapy on melanoma, certain lung cancers, and kidney cancer.<br />
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Although the effects of gut microbiota on cancer therapy remain inconclusive, some studies have discovered that Lachnoclostridium features anti-inflammatory potential, and that Prevotella 9 is associated with inflammatory imbalances. These reasons may attribute to why gut microbiota have an effect on immunotherapy effectiveness.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Huang Yixiang (third from left), Dr. Li Peizhang (first from right) and members of the research team" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915142400842.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Doctor Pei-Chang Lee, a member of Professor Huang’s research team and an attending physician of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, remarked that both Taiwan and the Asia-Pacific region have high HCC prevalence rates. Thus, the results of this study will help clinicians predict, using a noninvasive method, the tumor responses and survival prognoses of patients with liver cancer during immunotherapy. This enables clinicians to provide patients with more precise HCC treatment and lower their mortality rates. <br />
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Although the correlation between gut microbiota and cancer treatment has already been discovered in the field of science, such as the effects of Bifidobacterium and Ruminococcaceae on the immunotherapy treatment results of melanoma (as confirmed in animal and human experiments), the present study is the first made on the correlation between gut microbiota and HCC immunotherapy. The study has won the recognition as the best study in the 2022 European Association for the Study of the Liver (category: liver cancer) and been published in Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer, an internationally renowned journal.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153512273713565696&init=YRongyangjiao team held a press conference on September 7 to explain the research results of new indicators for immunotherapy of liver cancer<![CDATA[The Future Possible Diabetes Management Method–Scientists Use Silk of Nephila pilipes to Develop a Fiber Optic Sugar Sensor for Glucose Measurement]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-08-24<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt=""Spider silk fiber optic sugar content sensor" developed by Professor Liu Chengyang's team from the Department of Biomedical Engineering" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915143723851.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Spiders are often pictured as villains in literary works or films, and Nephila pilipes, which is the size of a palm, is particularly dreadful to many. Despite this, spiders probably will not be considered so negative if its silk can be used to measure glucose as a tool for managing diabetes someday.<br />
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Professor Liu Cheng-yang and E Hsuan-pei, a master’s graduate, from the Department of Biomedical Engineering at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (hereafter NYCU) used the silk of N. pilipes to develop a fiber optic sugar sensor capable of measuring fructose, sucrose, and glucose within 0.1 ms. Because its measuring range covers all possible glucose levels inside a human body, the sensor is suitable as a next-generation glucose meter.<br />
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As population ages, diabetes has become a common disease. Measuring glucose at home with lancets puts patients at a risk of infection; furthermore, all used lancets are considered medical waste. Therefore, scientists have been working to develop more convenient ways to measure glucose in real time.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="The source of spider silk: human-faced spider" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915143819176.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Different from the traditional glass or plastic fiber optics, spider silk exhibits a high tensile strength, transmits light waves, and, for its high biocompatibility, is suitable for the human body. The research and development team led by professor Liu collaborated with Taipei Medical University and the Taiwan Instrument Research Institute of National Applied Research Institute to obtain natural spider silk from living spiders. Photocurable resin was used to stabilize the structure of the spider silk before a thin gold nanolayer was deposited on the surface of cured silk by using glancing-angle sputtering to enhance the spider silk fiber optic’s sensitivity to sugar. Finally, a visible fiber optic sensor with a diameter similar to that of human hair was fabricated.<br />
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Based on the optical physical principles of surface plasmon resonance, scientists can calculate the refractive index of different types of sugar on metals, thereby determining changes in the sugar concentration. This fiber optic sensor developed by Liu has been verified through experiments to maintain its sensitivity at the same level within one year and to function normally at room temperature and human body temperature.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Metal electroplated spider silk fiber under electron microscope" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915143904313.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In fact, the research and development team have tried using two or three spider breeds and also spiders they found on the campus in their experiments in order to obtain suitable materials. However, silks from these spiders all exhibit substandard quality. They had experimented with different spider silks before they settled on N. pilipes as the source of silk. To ensure the quality of spider silk, the team also learned to keep spiders and designed an appropriate silk collection method. <br />
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Ms. E said that she was afraid of N. pilipes because of its large size and the human face–like pattern on its back and that the silk collection process was frightening to the team because the spider was not easy to keep under control and was always running around during the process. For the making of spider silk fiber optics, the team experimented with various types of resins and metals, including gold, silver, and copper. The team also had a chance to meet owners of a reptile shop and resin businesses during the process, which was an unexpected reward to them.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Spider Silk Optical Fiber Production Process\_1" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915143958119.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Liu indicated that patients with diabetes need to measure their glucose before and after every meal; therefore, a glucose sensor that is suitable for long-term use in the human body and offers real-time, accurate glucose measurement can obviate the hustle the patients face and achieve the goal of precision medicine; consequently, this sensor can benefit an even wider population of patients with chronic diseases.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">This achievement is owed to the joint effort of NYCU, researchers Chen Wei-chun and Chen Che-chin at the Taiwan Instrument Research Institute of National Applied Research Institute, and professor Cheng Chia-hsiung at Taipei Medical University. The research outcome will be published in the September issue of Biomedical Optics Express this year as the editor’s pick.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Liu Chengyang (first from left), Master E Xuanbei (first from right) and team members of the Department of Medical Engineering" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915144057028.jpg" /></div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153513578582511616&init=YProfessor Liu Chengyang (first from left), Master E Xuanbei (first from right) and team members of the Department of Medical Engineering<![CDATA[Professor Lin Ching-Po’s Team Develops a Cerebrovascular Age Estimation Method to Assess the Health of the Aging Population]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-08-18<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Picture diagram of brain white matter" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915144737334.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Markers that can be used to effectively determine the extent of cerebrovascular aging are lacking. However, scientists have developed a set of white matter analysis techniques that can be used to estimate cerebrovascular age. In addition, this method can be used for brain nerve health estimation and cardiovascular disease risk prediction.<br />
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A research team comprising Dr. Huang Chu-Chung from the Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Sciences of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Distinguished Prof. Lin Ching-Po from the Institute of Neuroscience of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, and Dr. Chung Chih-Ping from the Department of Neurology of Taipei Veterans General Hospital used artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze the brain magnetic resonance imaging images of more than 1000 middle-aged and older adults. In their mathematical model, the volume of cerebral white matter can be used to estimate the physiological age of cerebral blood vessels, and this information can serve as a basis for predicting cardiovascular disease. This research was published in Age and Ageing, which is an influential journal in the field of aging research.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="researchers photo" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915144943964.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Prof. Lin explained that cerebral white matter deteriorates with age, and as it degenerates, it becomes diseased, which can lead to cognitive impairment, dementia, and other diseases in older adults. If the degree of brain nerve aging can be measured, potential cerebrovascular lesions and risks can be effectively identified.<br />
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Prof. Lin reported that a person’s age is not completely equivalent to their brain’s biological age because each person’s genes, diet, education, and living habits are different. This results in differential aging processes; two people of the same age may have different degrees of brain aging. Prof. Lin also reported that because cerebral neuropathy is most often associated with cerebrovascular diseases, people whose cerebrovascular age is higher than their actual age are usually at a higher risk of the diseases that accompany old age.<br />
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Prof. Lin’s research team also analyzed the risk of cardiovascular disease after 10 years by using the Flemingheim Cardiovascular Disease Risk Assessment System, which has been applied in various countries. Prof. Lin reported in the study that the risk of developing cardiovascular disease in the following 10 years is 5% higher in older adults whose white matter age is higher than their actual age. However, Prof. Lin specified that the inferences of his study were based on a healthy population. For populations with cardiovascular disease or a risk of hypertension, hyperglycaemia, and hyperlipidaemia, further model correction and evaluation may be required. He added that the trained artificial intelligence models are relatively new, and longer-term geriatric tracking data would lead to more accurate inferences in the future.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Research shows that people with younger brain ages DA have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease within ten years than older people AA" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915145039882.png" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Dr. Chung reported that cerebral white matter hyperintensity is the most common symptom of cerebral small vessel disease, which is responsible for 30% of strokes and 45% of dementia cases in the older population. The incidence and severity of cerebral white matter hyperintensity are proportional to a person’s age. However, in clinical practice, clinicians lack a set of objective clinical assessment criteria independent of actual age. For middle-aged and older adults who have not yet developed obvious symptoms, making objective clinical judgments regarding white matter lesion severity and future prognoses is difficult. Dr. Chung reported that the research team’s study can assist in understanding the correlation between cerebrovascular physiological age and cognitive function as well as reveal the associations between cardiovascular risk indicators—such as diastolic blood pressure, systolic blood pressure, and pulse pressure—and glycated hemoglobin. In addition to enabling effective prediction of the risk of cardiovascular disease and mental deterioration associated with cerebrovascular aging, the results of the study have clinical value in that they can be used in predicting cerebrovascular physiological age.<br />
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Prof. Lin reported that in previous estimations of brain aging and brain age, brain volume was used as a basis for assessing brain tissue atrophy and related cognitive deterioration. However, assessments of cerebrovascular disease risk were deficient. Prof. Lin believes that his research team’s breakthrough findings can be applied to more than simple assessments of people’s current cerebrovascular health. For Taiwan, which is moving toward a super-aged society, the research findings can be used to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease in Taiwanese individuals or applied in clinical practice as a means of evaluating the effectiveness of treatment for aging diseases.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153513838377701376&init=YResearchers photo<![CDATA[Published in “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, PNAS”: A Research Group Led by Prof. Chung-Hou Chung at Department of Electrophysics Uncovers the Mystery of Strange Metal]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-07-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">A research group led by Prof. Chung-Hou Chung at Department of Electrophysics uncovers a major mystery in condensed matter physics—the mechanism for strange metal phenomena in correlated quantum matter. Their work is published in the prestigious journal “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, PNAS” on March 1, 2022, for the first time for all co-authors being Taiwan-affiliated theoretical physicists.</div>
<div class="ed\_pic\_full"><img alt="Professor Zhong Chonghou’s team solves the mystery of condensed matter physics" src="/userfiles/nycuen/images/20230915150635241.jpg" /></div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The research group led by Professor Chung-Hou Chung of the Department of Electrophysics, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University has achieved a major breakthrough in fundamental research in physics. Together with two postdoctoral researchers, Dr. Jiangfan Wang and Dr. Yung-Yeh Chang, they revealed the mechanism for the strange metal behaviors observed in rare-earth intermetallic compound CePdAl, based on the interplay of the low-temperature quantum-mechanical fluctuations of electron charges and spins [1].<br />
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Professor Chung pointed out that in the low-temperature regime where superconductivity has not yet appeared, resistivity of ordinary metals such as copper decreases with the square of the temperature, while the specific heat coefficient remains a temperature independent constant. This phenomenon has been well understood and successfully explained within the “Fermi-liquid theory”, established by a Soviet physicist, Lev Landau in 1956. However, over the past three decades, a growing number of correlated electron systems whose transport and thermodynamic behaviors violated Landau’s Fermi-liquid paradigm, so called “non-Fermi liquid” or “strange metal”. Examples of these strange metal phenomena include the high-temperature cuprate superconductors, iron pnictides, and the rare-earth intermetallic compounds. Typical strange metal behavior includes a logarithmic-in-temperature divergence in electronic specific heat coefficient and a quasi-linear-in-temperature electrical resistivity. Those phenomena usually exist in the quantum critical region caused by the competition between two quantum ground states (phases). The microscopic mechanism behind the strange metal behavior still remains a major puzzle in the condensed matter physics community. Since 2017, Prof. Chung’s group has been developing a new theoretical framework, distinct from the previous approaches, to resolve this puzzle. After several years of effort, they have reached a breakthrough—their theory successfully explains the strange metal phase, an elusive quantum-mechanical ground state, recently observed in a rare-earth intermetallic compound CePdAl (Fig. 1 a) in magnetic fields and pressure [2].<br />
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Professor Chung pointed out that, similar to the three well-known phases of water–ice, liquid water, and vapor– quantum-mechanical effect can also give rise to exotic but stable states/phases of matter at low-temperature regime where the quantum-mechanical fluctuations dominates over the thermo-fluctuations. The strange metal state here is an example of a new state of matter due to the quantum-critical fluctuations at zero temperature, also known as “quantum-critical phase”. Addressing this fundamental issue helps us to uncover the mysteries behind the novel state of matter due to quantum mechanical effects. Professor Chung further explained that there are two types of electrons with different electronic properties in the rare-earth intermetallic compounds: the mobile conduction electrons (c-electrons), and the local immobile f-orbital electrons (f-electrons). The emergence of the strange metal phase/state is driven by the competition of two distinct types of antiferromagnetic interactions among these two different electrons near an unstable quantum critical point: one interaction is the antiferromagnetic coupling between c-electron and f-electron (the Kondo effect), while the other is the antiferromagnetically RKKY interaction between two local f-electrons (Fig. 1 d). Meanwhile, due to the geometrical frustration arising from the kagome lattice structure of CePdAl, the RKKY interaction leads to antiferromagnetically short-range order spin-liquid state. Hence, the strange metal state can be understood as a quantum-critical phase due to the interplay of the quantum-mechanical fluctuations of the Kondo effect and the magnetic short-range ordered spin-liquid phase. They further found that the key mechanism is the quantum-mechanical fluctuations of the Kondo effect near the quantum critical point (quantum-critical Kondo fluctuation). This fluctuation features the “spin-charge separation” of an electron; namely, a physical electron is fractionalized into a charge-neutral spinful “spinon”, and a spinless charged “holon”. The microscopic mechanism for strange metal phase is attributed to a holon simultaneously interacting with a spinon (f-electron) and a conduction electron via critical Kondo fluctuation near an unstable quantum critical point (Fig. 1 b). More interestingly, this originally unstable quantum critical state can be stabilized and becomes a stable “quantum-critical phase” when the particle-hole symmetry is preserved (Fig. 1 c). This mechanism successfully explains the existence of the stable quantum-critical phase (the strange metal state) and the strange metal behaviors in electrical resistivity (Fig. 1 e) and specific heat coefficient (Fig. 1 f) observed in CePdAl [2]. The success of this microscopic mechanism proposed by Prof. Chung’s group paves the way to resolve the long-standing puzzle of strange metal phenomena across various correlated electron systems, including the most well-known T-linear resistivity observed in high-Tc cuprate superconductors.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Figure 1: a. Crystal structure of CePdAl. b. Upper left: schematic representation for generating a composite holon (χ): a holon χ is generated by creating a spinon (f, orange arrow) and annihilating a conduction electron (ψ) through the Kondo interaction vertex. Upper right: schematic plot of a RVB spin-singlet bond. Bottom: Schematic plot of the gapless strange metal spin-liquid phase. c. Schematic phase diagram in terms of g, 𝜅, and T of our model, where g = JK/JH is defined as the ratio of the Kondo coupling JK and the Heisenberg coupling JH. d. Schematic representations of the Kondo effect and the RKKY interaction with TK being Kondo scale. e. T-matrix (proportional to electron scattering rate and electrical resistivity) as a function of dimensionless temperature T/TK (TK being the Kondo temperature). Inset shows scaling of T-matrix. f. Specific heat coefficient as a function of T/TK.<br />
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[1] Jiangfan Wang, Yung-Yeh Chang and Chung-Hou Chung, A mechanism for the strange metal phase in rare-earth intermetallic compounds, (PNAS), Volume 119(10) e2116980119 March 1, 2022. DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2116980119 (2022).<br />
[2] H. Zhao et al., Quantum-critical phase from frustrated magnetism in a strongly correlated metal. Nat. Phys. 15, 1261–1266 (2019).</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153514712063807488&init=YResearch photo<![CDATA[Important research of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University: Ganoderma Microsporum immunomodulatory protein, GMI, exhibits the biological function for preventing COVID-19]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-06-17<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">As the epidemic intensifies, the confirmed cases in Taiwan are rising continually. In addition to vaccination, preventing the infection of COVID-19 in daily life is also a major point. A research team from the National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University cooperated by Tung-Yi Lin, who has served as an Associate Professor of the Institute of Traditional Medicine, and Assistant Professor Ming-Han Tsai from the Institute of Microbiology and Immunology showed that the Ganoderma Microsporum immunomodulatory protein “GMI” could induce the degradation of ACE2 in the host cells and alleviate the infection of SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus. This finding has been published in “Phytomedicine”, a reputable international journal in the field of Complementary and Alternative Medicine.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Associate Professor Lin has been engaged in the research of Lin-Zhi (靈芝) proteins for many years. The Herbal Foundation Compendium (本草綱目) records that Lin-Zhi “replenish the lung Qi (益肺氣)” which shows the certain effects of Ganoderma lucidum on the lungs. Professor Lin believes that Ganoderma lucidum may play a pivotal role in the COVID-19. In this study, GMI, a novel protein isolated from Ganoderma microsporum in Taiwan, exhibits high potential in preventing COVID-19. To study the effects of GMI in SARS-CoV-2 infection, Assistant Professor Tsai had created a SARS-CoV-2 pseudotyped virus to mimic the infection in ACE2-expressing host cells. The findings showed that GMI effectively inhibits the infection of SARS-CoV-2 by affecting the host cells.<br />
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Increasing evidence shows that the ACE2 protein in the host cells would bind to the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2, causing the virus to infect the host cells. The research team showed that GMI could prevent virus infection in two ways. For viruses, GMI could interact with the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 virus to interfere with the binding activity of the virus and the host cells. For the host cells, GMI induces the endocytosis of ACE2 on the host cells, leading to the induction of ACE2 degradation. Taken together, GMI not only affects the host cells but also binds to the virus, leading to the alleviation of SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus infection in the host cells.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In addition, Prof. Lin thinks that virus infects the host cells through the respiratory system. Using GMI to directly protect the respiratory tract could be more effective to prevent the virus infection. Therefore, GMI was inhaled to the lung respiratory tract of mice by a “nebulized inhalator (霧化吸氣性)”. The findings showed that the aerosol treatment could reduce the expression of ACE2 in the lung of mice, suggesting that the aerosol treatment of GMI could provide a novel strategy to prevent the COVID-19.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The research team found that GMI not only interfered with the virus binding to the host cells but also reduced the virus infection. This finding has won the gold medallion award of the Moscow International Salon of Inventions and Innovative Technologies ARCHIMEDES competition. Currently, the SARS-CoV-2 virus is still mutating continuously. Using the scientific-based evidence to identify the safe ingredients by Chinese pharmacopoeia could be a complementary epidemic prevention strategy.<br />
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The research team also emphasized that during the epidemic outbreak, GMI could be used for daily health care as a dietary supplement, while more clinical and basic research are still required to confirm its efficacy. Therefore, it is recommended that people should follow the government policies or consult doctors to prevent COVID-19.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153515338613133312&init=YLaboratory members<![CDATA[NYCU Develops a Stable Perovskite Solar Cell in a Transnational Collaboration with a Saudi Team Marking a Milestone for Energy Sustainability]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-05-12<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Energy transition plays a critical role in humans’ sustainable development. An NYCU team led by Chien-Lung Wang, a professor at the Department of Applied Chemistry, collaborated with a Saudi team led by Prof. Stefaan De Wolf at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology Solar Center in successfully developing a stable perovskite solar cell (PSC), paving the way to the commercialization of next-generation solar cells. This breakthrough has been published in the top journal Science.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Solar energy has been considered an ideal form of renewable energy because it is nearly inexhaustible. In recent years, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of commercial solar cell modules has grown stably to approximately 20%. With >22% PCE and reasonable manufacturing cost, PSCs have become a critical research direction in next-generation solar cell development. However, PSCs’ low environmental stability has continued to prevent their commercialization. The long-term stability of PSCs must first be realized.<br />
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In his recent study titled “Damp heat–stable perovskite solar cells with tailored-dimensionality 2D/3D heterojunctions,” Prof. De Wolf employed 2D/3D composite active layers to passivate the interface between the electron transport layer and the active layer of PSCs, solving the lack of long-term stability in conventional 3D PSCs. The 2D/3D composite PSCs provide 24.3% PCE. More importantly, they retain 95% of their initial efficiency after 1,000 hours of accelerated aging under high humidity and heat.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In the new PSCs, the 2D/3D composite nanostructure plays a major role in component performance and stability. In this research project, Prof. Wang and his master’s student Yuan Chen succeeded in analyzing this nanostructure using the grazing-incidence wide-angle x-ray scattering technology developed by the National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, providing an empirical reference for distinguishing 2D/3D composite PSCs and conventional 3D PSCs according to their film morphology. The new component design and elaborate nanostructure analysis are a key basis for PSC commercialization.<br />
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The successful transnational collaboration between NYCU and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology has contributed to the commercialization of next-generation solar cells. This will also encourage further transnational and interdisciplinary collaborations on energy sustainability.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153516804409135104&init=YProfessor Wang Jianlong (right) and Masters student Chen Yuan successfully analyzed the 2D3D composite nanostructure of new perovskite solar cells<![CDATA[Traditional Chinese Medicine “Coronavirus-clearing Concoction” Developed by NYCU Proven to Prevent COVID-19 and Lower COVID-19 Infection]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-05-12<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Modern medical science has proven that traditional Chinese medicine can be used to prevent COVID-19. “Coronavirus-clearing concoction,” a traditional Chinese medicine developed by the Institute of Traditional Medicine, NYCU (hereafter “ITM”), has been verified to lower the chances of infection and relieve coronavirus-related symptoms, making it an extra means of protection against COVID-19 in addition to COVID-19 vaccines. The NYCU will adopt the model for licensing the AZ vaccine when licensing the concoction to benefit the public.<br />
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The concoction, developed by Hsu Chung-hua, professor at the ITM and superintendent of the Branch of Linsen, Taipei City Hospital, contains the herbal medicines Forsythia suspensa, Scutellaria baicalensis, Bupleurum chinense, Magnolia officinalis, and Agastache rugosa. Professor Hsu developed the concoction by referencing his SARS epidemic-prevention experience in 2003, his clinical experiences, and traditional Chinese medicine theories.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The concoction was administered to more than 1,000 frontline medical personnel prior to the mass vaccination in Taiwan. The medical personnel voluntarily took the concoction as a means of self-protection and symptom improvement. A total of 90% of the medical personnel subsequently interviewed indicated that their sore throat, cough, and headache improved considerably after taking the concoction for a week.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt">To investigate the scientific mechanisms of this concoction, ITM Professor Fu Shu-ling, ITM Associate Professor Lin Tung-yi, and Department and Institute of Pharmacology Associate Professor Ping Yueh-hsin formed a research team and conducted animal experiments. The experimental results showed that by feeding the animals the concoction for two days, their in vivo ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expressions dropped significantly. Because the proteins on the membranes of the two cells are receptors where coronaviruses and cells bond, decreasing such expressions reduces the opportunities for coronaviruses to successfully bond with cells, effectively preventing infection of host cells.<br />
Medication via steam where drugs are absorbed by nasal cavities via steam is a common practice in traditional Chinese medicine. Such a practice allows drugs to be quickly transferred to nasal cavities and lungs, ameliorating cold symptoms. Accordingly, the research team administered the concoction to lab rats via steam. The results showed that said medication method also lowered the ACE2 protein expression significantly in the rats’ lungs, confirming the feasibility of inhalation dosing.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">During the cell experiments, the research team also found that in addition to decreasing the opportunities for coronaviruses to bond with cells, the concoction inhibited coronavirus replication.<br />
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The research team stated that despite COVID-19 continuing to mutate, the use of traditional Chinese medicine to reduce and weaken the virus may serve as an auxiliary infection-prevention method. Said medicine, which is safe and effective, offers the public a novel COVID-19-prevention strategy.<br />
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However, the research team emphasized that the concoction cannot replace COVID-19 vaccines. Professor Hsu Chung-hua said that the concoction is used to weaken and attenuate the virus, serving as an auxiliary means of protection and an additional COVID-19-prevention strategy. He further underlined that the concoction requires a medical prescription by traditional Chinese medicine doctors, that more clinical and basic research is needed to verify the effectiveness of the concoction, and that people should consult professional doctors if they would like to learn more about the concoction.<br />
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This research was made possible because of the NYCU team and support from the Ministry of Science and Technology, confirming the feasibility of traditional Chinese medicine and allowing the “coronavirus-clearing concoction” to be published in the renowned pharmacology journal Frontiers in Pharmacology.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153517233981362176&init=YLaboratory members<![CDATA[The TVGH–NYCU Team Confirms the Oncogenicity of Circular RNA by Applying Gene-editing Technology, a Discovery with Great Potential in the Development of a New Lung Cancer Treatment]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-04-20<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Targeted drugs are the hope for treating cancer; but like all drugs, drug resistance is inevitable. The Taipei Veterans General Hospital–National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (TVGH–NYCU) team has successfully applied in vivo gene-editing technology to remove a segment of the oncogenic circular RNA (circRNA) gene, confirming that the technique can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and potentially treat cancer.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Non-small cell lung cancer accounts for the majority of lung cancer cases. In Taiwan, lung adenocarcinoma is the prevailing lung cancer. Scientists have found that the activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) on tumor cells initiates a series of signaling transduction chains in the cells, causing tumor cells to grow and metastasize. This discovery has led to the emergence of targeted drugs, which inhibit the activity of EGFR through tyrosine kinase and block the signaling transduction pathways responsible for cancer cell growth.<br />
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A research team comprising Afeez Adekunle Ishola (a Nigerian Ph.D. student in Taiwan), Dr. Shih-Hwa Chiou (NYCU Institute of Pharmacology Chair Professor), Dr. Mong-Lien Wang (TVGH Department of Medical Research Assistant Research Fellow), and Dr. Yuh-Min Chen (TVGH Department of Chest Medicine Chief) discovered that circular RNA 190 (circRNA C190) transmitted receptor signals on the cell surface to the DNA in the nucleus through the intracellular molecular pathway ERK/MAPK. Accordingly, C190 plays a crucial role in triggering the division and growth of cancer cells; can be detected in serum; reflects the current state of cancer cells. The discovery enables C190 to be used as a marker for the non-invasive diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer in clinical settings.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Subsequently, the research team used CRISPR/Cas13a RNA editing technology to reduce the expression of C190 and found that it reduced the differentiation and migration of cancer cells, and even inhibited their growth, either in vivo or in vitro. The discovery reconfirms the role of the C190 gene in lung cancer and shows that gene therapy combined with RNA editing technology can be used as an innovative cancer treatment worthy of further development.<br />
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Professor Shih-Hwa Chiou, the principal investigator of this study, noted that circRNA is a type of RNA that was deemed as a by-product of RNA transcription with no main function, a view that has been overturned by recent research. Professor Chiou stated that the TVGH–NYCU team has detected, in their past research, more C190 manifestations in the blood of patients with terminal lung cancer; the presence of C190 implies poor treatment outcomes. C190 is closely related to tumor size, depth of invasion, metabolism, and survival rate.<br />
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This study unprecedentedly combined gene therapy with RNA editing technology to eliminate oncogenic circRNA C190. Unlike targeted drugs that block EGFR, RNA editing can directly target key genes to block cancer cell signaling.<br />
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This study was published in Cancer Research in February of 2022. The first author, Afeez Adekunle Ishola, a student in the Taiwan International Graduate Program organized by Academia Sinica, obtained a Ph.D. in Molecular Medicine from NYCU and Academia Sinica earlier this year. This shows that the TVGH–NYCU team highly values international research talent. The research team has received support from the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Education through the Higher Education Sprout Project and has worked with National Institutes of Health and other agencies in the United States to achieve multinational research cooperation, thereby increasing the international visibility of Taiwan’s research results.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153517442274693120&init=YTVGH-NYCU Team group photo<![CDATA[NYCU researchers’ inventions on semi-conductor biochips enable automation for fast PCR tests and cell biology applications.]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-03-03<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
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Researchers in the System-on-Chip (SoC) Research Center and Institute of Electronics at NYCU have recently announced a programmable biochip based on standard CMOS process. Different from conventional approaches, this innovative semiconductor biochip provides basic functional modules, such as location sensing, microfluidic operations, temperature control, etc. As a result, bioprotocols for any target sample tests can be derived to achieve automation with less test time and test cost, making this biochip very suitable for emerging applications, such as fast polymerse chain reaction (PCR) tests and cell quality assurance in cell therapy.<br />
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Based on the experience in smart sensing circuit designs, the capacitive sensing mechanism has been exploited in this biochip to identify and locate both sample and reagent are placed on top of the biochip. In addition, permittivity difference from different materials can be easily identified by this biochip by adjusting sampling phase. As a result, this biochip can be used for anti-body and anti-gen tests in a very efficient way. In addition, bit-plane images collected from different sampling phases can be acculumated to form 3D profiling of samples. This technique, named cell tomography, can be applied for cells’ quality check to idendify which cell or cell cluster are qualified for further cultivation in cell production. Both spatial resolution and temperal resolution can be further enhanced with the proposed biochip to cover more cell-biology applications.
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Microfluidic operations play key important role in bio-experiments using conventional lab-on-a-chip solutions. Researchers at NYCU have also integrated several microfluidic operations (e.g. cutting, mixing, merging, moving, etc) into this biochip based on electrowetting on dieletric (EWOD) mechanism. Thanks to the novel micro-electrode-dot-array (MEDA) architecture, microchannels demanded for different sample tests can be easily programmed on top of the biochip. Combining with the location sensing capability mentioned above, feedback loop control can be applied to monitor the droplet test procedure. Since the biochip can be programmed to meet the requirements of different sample tests, not only bio experiments can be speed up but also contamination failure can be largely reduced. Part of the design automation of this biochip has been in collaboration with Prof. Krishnendu Chakrabarty from Duke University since 2015.
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Temperature or thermal cycle control is another important factor for medical tests, especially in PCR applications. Researchers at NYCU have integrated heating sources using digital control patterns to control temperature profile in a very efficient way with the same CMOS process technology. Preliminary measurement results demonstrate that temperature change rate can be higher than 50C/sec. Combining with location sensing and microfluidic operations mentioned above, both single sample and multi-sample can be easily handled on top of the biochip. Note that precise heating regions can be well identified to meet thermal cycle requirement and achieve better energy-efficiency when batttery-operated devices are considered.
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The above mentioned functions can be programmed via 2D digital patterns on the biochip, leading to a possibility of test automation based on bioprotocols dervied from target sample test procedures in the very near future. Prof. Chen-Yi Lee, the team leader, highlights that there will be more research opportunities ahead when multi-diciplinary teams are working tightly togeter. Of course, the research outcome will benefit our soceity and pave a way to better life with the current/on-going invention and solutions.<br />
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(For more information, please contact the author via <a href="mailto:cylee@nycu.edu.tw" title="cylee@nycu.edu.tw">cylee@nycu.edu.tw</a>)</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153519777692520448&init=YMicroelectrode Dot Array<![CDATA[NYCU / Team TDIS (Transdisciplinary Design Innovation Shop) is one of the most famous research unit based university in Taiwan and the world]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-03-03<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The NYCU / Team UNICODE made major achievements when their Orchid House project won the 1st prize of UDTA, 2nd prize of innovation and 3rd prize of energy efficiency at SDE 2014. Their project C.A.B. also won the 3rd prize of Creative Solution, 7th place winner of SDME AWARD at SDME 2018.<br />
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TDIS is committed to research and development, Industry-Academia Collaboration and promotion of applied research by the way of architectural action, such as Taiwan Exhibition in International Architecture Exhibition of Venice Biennale 2016. It comprises three fields of sustainable materials, architectural systems and smart living. TDIS is not only the “Think Tank” but the “Do Tank”.<br />
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We aim to change over the city dweller and structure. In this age of citizenship and revolution, we believe that with the concept of shared economy and co-operatives, we can bring about physical as well as social changes by designing a better housing for all.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The air temperature will be controlled through the multilayered space in living area to minimize the energy consumption for cooling and heating the living space. The hot air will travel through multilayered with basic purified and cool down before going through HVAC system, and also in another way, air will pass through our cooling system from roof to ground to cool down and condense water.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">We have been investigating solar tracking photovoltaic system for the house, especially from the manufacture in Taiwan. Among many companies, we have paid attention to Neo Solar Power Corporation, the industry leading PV manufacturer in Taiwan. The highest efficiency panel from Neo Solar Power, Black19+, archives 19.4% efficiency, which allows fewer panels for meeting energy harvesting requirement for the competition. Combining with solar tracking system, we focus our research and development on low energy consumption system type to produce the maximum electricity during the day.<br />
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Apart from this, Delta Electronics offers the most energy efficient PV inverters which is up to 98.7% efficiency. Based on our experience in SDME 2018, Delta’s BESS system works well during competition. Our design team will work with Neo Solar Power and Delta Electronics research team closely to develop the most efficient solar tracking PV system for the house. The PV system is not only the prime power generator, but also the key element for the architectural aesthetic.<br />
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After the SDME 2018 competition, we continually develop the solar tracking PV system. Scale down our prototype in to a container size. Located in several space such as park, plaza, for public as a living lab.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">We have seen the realization of vertical farms among high rise buildings. If this type of vertical agricultural productions come to be materialized, perhaps it would be able to provide human beings with sufficient amount of food, bringing land back to nature and enabling the health of city dwellers.<br />
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We improve our Orchid House project after the competition in SDE 2014. A modularized green wall, form into cross-shape units by durable material. Combine with the Drip Irrigation System, which reuse the reclaimed water and raindrop, and consider the penetration of air and light. The soil is mixture of eco-friendly artificial soil and Taiwan’s latest developed glass soil.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Through Peltier technology, MCC Core can collect water from the air without using batteries or current inverter. By using photovoltaic panels, MCC Core can cool downs the aluminum blocks’ temperature below ambient dew point, making water condense on its surface. Also, if the air is relatively clean, the water generated from MCC Core can be used as drinking water as well.<br />
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The Peltier element has a regular temperature difference between the outer “hot” side and the inner “cool” side. The more the hot side releases its heat – the more cooling potential is realized in the cool side.<br />
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The MCC Core can provide hot and cool water to Hydronic Radiant System. It refers to temperature-controlled surfaces that exchange heat with their surrounding environment through convection and radiation. It’s useful to reduce the household energy demand.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">We have rich experiences in the latest eco-friendly materials research and construction design. In our recently project: Taiwan Exhibition in Venice Biennale Architecture Exhibition 2016, we used a new eco-friendly material nPulp, which is made from stalks, to build our exhibition space. We will use it in SDE21 project, is a great opportunity for us to further test our researches in a new house. This increases the chances of these materials being commercialized in the coming future, allowing more people to adopt eco-friendly materials in their constructions.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153520054361395200&init=Ytransdisciplinary design innovation shop<![CDATA[NYCU researchers collaborate with the US’s NIH to tackle novel risk factors for liver and gastrointestinal tumors]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The international collaborative study by the researchers in the Institute of Clinical Medicine at NYCU and the National Institute of Health (NIH) in the United States measured various common metals in human serum and found that six metals were related to the presence of gallstones and twelve metals were related to gallbladder cancer. Many metals are present in the natural environment and metal elements are required to maintain normal functions in human body. However, the levels of exposures matter. Extremely high or low concentrations of metals may associate with cancer development. Because of technological limitations in the past, only one or two different metals could be measured in blood simultaneously. The work applied ‘metallomic approach’ and measured multiple relevant metals in the same time. Most heavy metals were found to be risk factors for gallbladder cancer. It is the first large-scale case-control study to measure multiple metals to investigate their associations with gallbladder cancer.<br />
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Different metal elements and their association with gallstone and gallbladder cancer</div>
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The researchers focused on applying advanced approaches in combination with novel technologies to investigate potential risk factors or biomarkers for cancer development. By discovering these risk factors and biomarkers, these works facilitate the understanding for cancer etiology and high-risk patient identification.<br />
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By taking liver cancer as an example, patients diagnosed with early-stage liver cancer are usually treated by curative surgical resections. However, tumor recurrence may still occur among nearly 70% of the patent who received surgery.<br />
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Prediction models for early recurrence of liver cancer after surgical resection remain necessary. The researchers in NYCU applied evolutionary learning to combine patients’ clinical information and the contrast-enhanced computed tomography images to innovate a prediction model for cancer recurrence for liver cancer patients after the operation. The accuracy of the model has been effectively improved. Because of its novelty and relevance, the work won the 2021 National Innovation Award.<br />
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The researchers at NYCU discovered genetic variants and the development of liver cancer by high-throughput platform. They identified genetic variants associated with liver cancer across the whole genome of patients with chronic hepatitis virus infection in Taiwanese population. They also integrated large-scale database to investigate genetic variants on the likelihood of viral clearance after chronic viral infections. These studies emphasize the importance of host genetic background play roles for disease progressions and provide clues for future functional studies.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">A research team led by Professor Kung-Hwa Wei, in the Materials Science & Engineering Department of NYCU had used a novel approach involving controlling molecule diffusion at the interface of sequentially deposited (SD) p-type and n-type materials layers to achieving a pseudo p-i-n, as opposed to conventional bulk heterojunction (BHJ), active layer for semitransparent organic photovoltaics (St-OPVs); the objectives are (i) providing St-OPVs with both high power conversion efficiency (PCE) and high visible light transmission (VLT) for simultaneous power generation and photosynthesis that are difficult to achieve with devices having conventional BHJ active layers because of severe trade-off occurring between PCE and VLT and (ii) flexible and light St-OPVs that can be incorporated into green houses and building without requiring large land uses, particularly favorable for high population-densities countries.<br />
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For example, semitransparent organic photovoltaics were fabricated having the structure of glass/ITO/PEDOT:PSS/(D:A for BHJ; D/A for SD)/ZnO nanoparticles (NP)/Au/Ag. For the SD architecture, a solution of the PBDB-T-2F was spin-coated on the PEDOT:PSS layer to form the front layer, and then a solution of the Y6 was spin-coated onto the surface of the donor layer, followed by thermal deposition of a 1- and a 15-nm thick Au and Ag layer as the anode.<br />
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Semitransparent organic photovoltaics of polymer (PBDB-T-2F)/small molecule (Y6) with active layer thickness of 115, 100 and 85nm were prepared. The results show the SD device and BHJ device provide (i) the champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.91% (visible light transmission (VLT) of 14.5%) and 12.77% (VLT of 13.4%), respectively, at 115 nm; (ii) the champion PCE of 12.73% (VLT of 18.3%) and 12.17% (VLT of 15.2%), respectively, at 100 nm; (iii) the champion PCE of 12.22% (VLT of 22.2%) and 11.23% (VLT of 16.6%), respectively, at 85 nm. The slopes for the visible light transmissions (VLTs) vs. active layer thickness (T) curves for the cases of bulk heterojunction (BHJ) and sequential deposition (SD) devices are 0.11 and 0.26, respectively, indicating the increase in VLTs of the SD devices are more sensitive to the reduction in the active layer thickness. The ratios of dPCEBHJ/dVLTBHJ and dPCESD/dVLTSD are 0.45 and 0.08, respectively, implying a larger trade-off between the power conversion efficiencies and the visible light transmissions for the devices with bulk heterojunction active layer than that for the devices with pseudo p-i-n active layer structure. (Adv. Energy Mater., 2021, 11, (13), 2003576). The direct evidence of p-i-n active layers be found in the (a) Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectra and (b) X-ray Photoelectron spectra (XPS) that show a gradient concentration distribution of a n-type material across the layer, while the BHJ structure having an almost constant concentration of a n-type material. The detailed structure of the active layer was determined with small angle X-ray scattering as shown in the Front cover inside figure (Adv. Energy Mater., 2021, 11, (13), 2003576).<br />
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The impacts of this study in the field are (i) a first psuedo p-i-n active layer structure with tunable light absorption for semitransparent organic photovoltaics having both high power conversion efficiency and high visible light transmission and (ii) low-weight and flexible devices being developed; these contributions are important for the green houses and buildings applications that require visible light transmission for photosynthesis and infrared light absorption for suitable power generation. As opposed to conventional silicon solar cells that require large land areas for installations and wirings for electric transport, flexible and light semitransparent organic photovoltaics not only can be fitted into green houses or existing buildings that allows power generation and enough visible light transmission for photosynthesis for agriculture purposes that will also reduce CO2 emission.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153521001250689024&init=Ynovel semitransparent organic photo voltaics for green buildings<![CDATA[AgriTalk: IoT for Precision Soil Farming of Turmeric Cultivation]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">AgriTalk is an inexpensive IoT platform for precision farming of soil cultivation. We conduct experiments on turmeric cultivation, which indicates that the turmeric quality is significantly enhanced through AgriTalk. Specifically, the curcumin concentration is up to 4500-5500 mg/100g, which is 5 times more than existing products. We demonstrate how to intuitively configure the connections between the sensors and the actuators with the desired farming intelligence, and to effectively maintain AgriTalk for precision farming. We conduct measurement, analytic analysis, and simulation experiments to investigate the IoT message delays of AgriTalk. Our study indicates that the delays for automatic control and automatic-manual control switching with long distances (more than 30 Km) are very short (less than 0.2 seconds) and AgriTalk can easily respond to quick and dynamic change of the field environment conditions in soil cultivation.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Today, most lands suitable for farming are already in use. To increase the volume with the limited crop cultivation resources, we need to improve production efficiency through precision farming. Many IoT techniques have been utilized to improve crop cultivation. Specifically, IoT sensors collect data to monitor soil quality, weather conditions, crop growth, and so on. The IoT switch devices control the agriculture actuators such as spray, drip irrigation, repellent lights and so on. Through the interaction between the sensors, the controllers and actuators, an IoT system automates the irrigation, fertilization, and pest control processes, which assists to provide better crop growth for accurate crop product distribution.<br />
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Based on AgriTalk, we have established several IoT-based farming fields in Mountain Bao in Taiwan. This paper uses turmeric cultivation as an example to show how AgriTalk provides precision farming. We utilize different farming methods in three fields to grow turmeric. Fig. 1 shows the aerial photos of three turmeric Bao-fields of the sizes 112.5m², 307.5m², and 600m², respectively. In the photos, some IoT devices (weather station sensors and smart irrigation system) can be seen from the air. Field Bao-2 exercises bag cultivation in an open field. Bao-3 is an open soil-based field. Bao-4 exercises bag cultivation in a shaded field. In each field, we have fully or partially exercised precision farming to study the effects of AgriTalk. This work investigates farming from the viewpoint of IoT, and would like to encourage the farmers to accept the IoT technology by reducing the costs of AgriTalk implementation with high reliability and availability.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">AgriTalk provides precision farming by allowing the farmer to automatically and remotely manage the irrigation and the pest control systems. AgriTalk includes several agriculture IoT devices (Fig. 2 (1) and (2)) connected to the control boards called “AgriCtls” (Fig. 2 (3) and (4)). An AgriCtl board is an Arduino microcontroller board that controls the connected IoT devices. An AgriCtl board connected to the sensors is called SensrCtl (sensor control board; Fig. 2 (3)). In the cloud, the AgriTalk server (Fig. 2 (5)) including the IoTtalk engine (Fig. 2 (6)) and the AgriGUI (Fig. 2 (7)) is deployed to configure the IoT devices with analytical capabilities, in-built accounting/reporting features, and powerful dashboards/controls that can be accessed remotely through smartphones (Fig. 2 (8) and (9)). To develop IoT-based precision farming, it is essential to select appropriate sensors and actuators. Depending on the crops to be grown, the types of information to be collected determine the IoT devices to be deployed. The quality of the IoT devices is critical to the accuracy of the collected data and its reliability. Several IoT devices are utilized in AgriTalk, including the weather station and the soil sensors for precision monitoring, and the cultivation actuators for irrigation, pest control and fertilization. Although we have developed these IoT devices, AgriTalk can flexibly accommodate commercial IoT devices if they have better performance and/or lower prices.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153521694313287680&init=YAgriTalk IoT for Precision Soil Farming of Turmeric Cultivation<![CDATA[From Bioelectronics to Nano-bioelectronics: NYCU Biomedical Electronics Translational Research Center]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Electrical neuromodulation is an evolving therapy with the targeted delivery of constant voltage stimulation (CVS) or constant current stimulation (CCS) to specific neurological sites in a body to enable the alteration of nerve activities. It can influence nerves by releasing transmitters such as dopamine, or other chemical messengers such as the peptide substance, that can modulate the excitatory functions or inhibitory functions of neural circuits. The end effect is the normalization of a neural network function from its perturbed state. Presumed mechanisms of electrical neuromodulation could include a depolarizing blockade, stochastic normalization of neural firing, an axonal blockade, reduction of neural firing keratosis, and suppression of neural network oscillations. Although the exact mechanisms of electrical neuromodulation are not known, its empirical effectiveness has led to considerable clinical applications.<br />
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Electrical neuromodulation using implantable devices was first achieved in the 1980s. Its technologies and applications have continued to develop and expand. Existing and emerging electrical neuromodulation treatments have been applied to neural disorders like drug-resistant epilepsy, chronic pain, and Parkinson’s disease. They have also been used to improve sensory deficits, such as cochlear implants for hearing and retinal implants for vision, as well as functional therapies such as bladder or bowel control. Electrical neuromodulation therapy has been investigated for other chronic conditions, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and rheumatoid arthritis. It is also called bioelectronic medicine, which can “turn off” chronic diseases or disorders by electricity. Bioelectronic medicine has great potential to be widely used as the future medicine.<br />
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In general, implantable electrical neuromodulation systems consist of electrodes and an implanted pulse generator (IPG) with associated external components. Electrodes can be epidural, subdural, or parenchymal electrodes placed via minimally invasive needle techniques, open-surgical exposure to the target, or stereotactic implants for the central nervous system. Depending on the distance from the electrode access point, an extension cable may be added to the system. The IPG can have either a non-rechargeable battery needing replacement every 2 – 5 years depending on the stimulation parameters, or a rechargeable battery that is replenished via an external inductive charging system.<br />
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Although most systems are operated in an open loop through the delivery of a constant train of stimulation, we are now at the advent of so-called closed-loop or feedforward stimulation, where the device’s activation is contingent on a physiological event, such as an epileptic seizure. In this circumstance, the device is activated to deliver a desynchronizing pulse to the cortical area that is undergoing an epileptic seizure. This concept of closed-loop stimulation is likely to become more prevalent as physiological markers of targeted diseases and neural disorders are discovered and verified [2]. On-demand closed-loop stimulation may contribute to a longer battery life if the sensing and signal-processing demands of the system are sufficiently power-efficient. New electrode designs could yield more efficient and precise stimulation, requiring less current and minimizing unwanted side-stimulation. The wireless power transfer to recharge the implanted battery and wireless bidirectional data transceivers to communicate with implanted devices have been adopted in neuromodulation systems.<br />
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In addition, to leverage the advanced CMOS nano-electronics technologies, the operation speed of algorithm with complex functions in the implanted medical devices to judge the symptoms of neuro-disorders can be processed quickly. Thus, the in-time treatment with the electrical stimulation can be executed to stop the symptoms of neuro-disorders. As well as, the power consumption of the SoC fabricated by the nanoscale CMOS technologies can be significantly reduced to get a longer battery life for the implanted medical device in medical field applications. Thus nano-bioelectronic medicine will become more and more attractive.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Biomedical Electronics Translational Research Center (BETRC) at NYCU established in 2004 focuses on researches and developments of implantable medical electronic systems using System-on-a-Chip (SoC) technology and biocompatible materials, especially for close-loop neuromodulation for the treatment of neurological diseases through electrical voltage/current stimulations. The mission and vision of this BETRC include (1) to treat the intractable neurological disorders by conducting inter-disciplinary researches to develop multi-disciplinary technology platform, (2) to explore the frontier of neural sciences, and (3) to incubate the start-up companies on neural prosthetic devices. The technologies for biomedical devices and diagnosis equipment require many semiconductor chips and biomaterials can be developed or manufactured in Taiwan with strong industrial support. Fig. 1 illustrates the relationship of medical applications and technology platforms in the BETRC. The group photo of research team in BETRC is shown in Fig. 2.</div>
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<em>Fig. 1. Integration of medical applications and technology platforms in BETRC.</em><br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">There were five project teams in BETRC working on the following topics: (1) Photovoltaic – powered subretinal prostheses for patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), (2) Closed-loop epileptic seizure control systems for patients with epilepsy or dementia , (3) Bone-guided cochlear prostheses for patients with high-frequency hearing loss, (4) Closed-loop Parkinson deep brain stimulation (DBS) system for Parkinson’s disease (PD), and (5) EEG(electroencephalogram)-tDCS(transcranial direct-current stimulation) system for neurological rehabilitation of stroke patients. Moreover, the BETRC invites partner universities to form the integrated engineering-biomedical joint research platform in Taiwan. The BETRC center also promotes international collaborations with worldwide top research centers, institutions, and enterprises.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The research projects have been partially supported by “the Aim for Top University Project” of the Ministry of Education (MoE), Taiwan from 2006-2015 and “the Featured Areas Research Center Program within the framework of the Higher Education Sprout Project” of MoE since 2015. Moreover, partial long-term supports are also from the National Science Council (NSC) and later the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), as well as the National Chiao Tung University (Now the National Yang-Ming Chiao-Tung University).<br />
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In 2013, the research work on the closed-loop epileptic seizure control SoC was published at the International Solid-State Circuits Conference (ISSCC) and awarded by the ISSCC 2013 Distinguished Technical Paper Award. In 2016, a start-up company called A-Neuron Electronic Corp. was established by transferring the technologies of BETRC on Photovoltaic-powered subretinal prostheses and closed-loop epileptic seizure control systems. The teams at A-Neuron Electronic Corp. will commercialize the technologies into two major medical products.<br />
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Fig. 3 shows the chip photographs of both closed-loop epileptic seizure control SoC and its external control system fabricated by 0.18-µm CMOS process technology [3]. The highlighted key achievements of SoC includes a low-noise ECoG (Electrocorticography) acquisition unit with input protection circuit to share electrodes with stimulators, a bio-signal processor for accurate and fast human seizure detection, a biphasic CCS up to 3mA with adaptive power supply, and a wireless power and bi-directional data telemetry in single pair of coils. When the epileptic seizure onset is detected, the biphasic CCS is enabled to stimulate the onset site of brain to stop the onset seizure before it spreads out to cause a large seizure. The wireless power transfer is used for battery charging and the bi-directional data telemetry is used to transfer ECoG out and control signal in. This is the first SoC for human closed-loop epileptic seizure control.</div>
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<em>Fig. 3. Chip photographs of both closed-loop epileptic seizure control SoC and its external control system fabricated by a<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease of the motor nervous system. It is estimated that the prevalence of the PD is about 1% in the population over 60 years old. The pathological evidences showed that degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra is the essential feature of the PD. Substantia nigra is a part of the basal ganglia, which plays a crucial role in motor control of voluntary movement. When the dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra degenerated, the balance between the direct and indirect pathways of the basal ganglia is disrupted, leading to symptoms of the PD. Patients may experience symptoms such as resting tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia [5]. Medical treatment can alleviate related symptoms; however, long-term medication is susceptible to levodopa-induced dyskinesia, motor fluctuation, or other side effects.<br />
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For patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease, they may choose deep brain stimulation (DBS) to treat the drug-induced adverse effects. The conventional DBS (cDBS) is an open-loop system. When the power of medical device is turned on, the stimulator provides continuous electrical stimulation in the brain until the power is exhausted; usually about ~5 years later, the patient must undergo another surgery to replace the stimulator. Continuous electrical stimulation may cause some adverse effects, such as gait instability, dysarthria, or stimulation-induced dyskinesia. Because continuous electrical stimulation not only inhibits abnormal neural function, but also interferes normal neural function. Can it be possible to detect unique disease biomarker as feedback control signal for electrical stimulation? This is the concept of closed-loop system, in which physicians and scientists are highly interested.<br />
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The local field potential (LFP) is the ensemble activity of the synaptic potentials surrounded the lead contacts and can reflect the synchronized activity of a population of neurons. LFP can be recorded in the subthalamic nucleus (STN) of the PD patients when DBS leads were implanted in the operating room [6]. After the spectral analysis, abnormal beta-band oscillations (13-35 Hz) were observed in the STN of the patients [7]. This finding was similar to the recording in the internal globus pallidus (GPi) of the parkinsonian rhesus monkey [8]. When patients received medical treatment or cDBS on the STN, the beta oscillations were significantly inhibited and the symptoms of PD were also improved. Therefore, abnormal LFP of the STN can be used as a biomarker for the symptoms of PD, which has been widely recognized by experts.<br />
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If this unique beta oscillation is used as a feedback control signal for electrical stimulation, a proposed threshold can be set according to the suitable signal power. Professor Brown’s group first demonstrated that using beta oscillation as a feedback control signal for electrical stimulation within one week after DBS surgery in PD patients, their motor symptoms improvement score was significantly better than that of continuous electrical stimulation (50 % vs. 29%, p = 0.005), and the overall required electrical stimulation time was only 44% of the continuous electrical stimulation [9]. Custom-built device was used to design different algorithms of beta oscillation for closed-loop stimulation. According to the dynamic power change of beta oscillation, the stimulation intensity of the stimulator was adjusted. The motor symptoms were significantly improved compared with those in fixed-intensity electrical stimulation [10]. Such a closed-loop DBS, also known as the adaptive DBS (aDBS), has passed clinical trials for proof of principle.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The conventional devices used in adaptive DBS technology were implemented by system-on-board design. The latest aDBS device (Medtronic Summit RC+S) also adopts system-on-board design with several integrated circuit components of differential functions via connections through PCB board. In our work, the SoC-based design can improve the performance of detection, computing, and stimulation functions. Moreover, it can effectively reduce the operating power consumption of the implanted medical device. The microphotography of SoC developed with adaptive deep-brain detection and stimulation for implantable medical devices is shown in Fig. 4. Through integration co-design with the neural-signal acquisition analog frond-end circuit and the high-voltage tolerance stimulator circuit, the artifact interference during electrical stimulation can be successfully blocked from the acquired neural signals. In this SoC, it can simultaneously record the LFP signals from 16 channels within the implanted electrodes, converted them to digital signals, and then processed by bio-signal processor. The algorithm to evaluate the symptoms of PD, that co-developed with medical doctors, can be real-time processed by the bio-signal processor to judge whether the electrical stimulation will be applied, or not. Therefore, the closed-loop/adaptive deep brain stimulation can be efficiently executed by this developed SoC. The adaptive DBS implemented with SoC chip can increase the service life and therapeutic effect of the implanted stimulators.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">A biomedical device built with the fabricated SoC chip has been prepared for pre-clinical tests, including animal experiments, electrical safety, recognized medical-device standards tests, and algorithm/software validation. After the safety certification and in vivo safety tests have been completed, clinical trials on human will be executed.<br />
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<em>Fig. 4. The microphotography of SoC with adaptive deep-brain detection and<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Both implantable closed-loop epileptic seizure control systems and intelligent adaptive closed-loop DBS System for Parkinson’s disease in this article are physics-based circuits and systems. The essential design is on CMOS SoCs or integrated circuits. In the future development of bioelectronic medicines, it is believed that more and more advanced CMOS nano-electronics technologies, innovative circuit/system designs, and nano-bioelectronics technologies will be applied. These advancements will greatly benefit patients and lead to progress in neural science and engineering.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153521950081945600&init=YCenter Biomedical Electronics Translational Research Center<![CDATA[NYCU brain research facilitates interdisciplinary approaches to uncover the mystery of brain functions]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The Brain Research Center (BRC) of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) is a nationally renowned research center consisting of multidisciplinary teams of scientists and clinicians. The focus of the BRC is on six major basic and clinical science disciplines related to normal and pathological brain functioning. These are headache and pain, neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, psychiatric disorders, normal and disease-associated cognition, and neurotechnology. To advance our knowledge in these areas of research, the BRC draws on the strengths and resources of NYCU and Taipei Veterans General Hospital. The overall goal of the center is to establish a cross-species and multidimensional brain database bridging data from animals to humans, including both basic and clinical data, molecular to systemic networks data, and data reaching from genetic expression to cognitive behaviors. Such a database can be used to study the physiopathological mechanisms and develop personally-optimized precision medicine targeting disease progression and symptom alleviation and may, furthermore, be used to promote medical and biotechnological industries in Taiwan.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The Headache and Pain Research Group has been one of the leading groups internationally that have targeted both clinical headache services and research.<br />
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The research group has become renowned for contributing to Taiwanese epidemiological studies, implementing cutting edge technologies and equipment in migraine pathophysiological research, taking the leading role in studies related to reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS), spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) and other rare primary headache disorders in the world. Our research also has been focusing on the neuroimaging-based chronic pain disorders and the development of non-invasive neurotechnology (e.g., neuromodulation) for clinical applications.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Many neurological and psychological disorders result from abnormalities in neural development. The Brain Research Center focuses on a wide range of brain diseases and via the research carried out by the Neural Development Group, it targets the mechanistic aspects of brain diseases. Over the past few years, members of the Neural Development Group have established various different models, including mouse, fruit fly and human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) models and these have been used to study brain diseases. Importantly, the Neural Development Group’s collaboration with clinical researchers has been able to reveal in detail the molecular mechanisms of a number of brain diseases. These findings help with the discovery of novel therapeutic targets that can be used to treat brain diseases.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">This group aims, using in vitro and in vivo models, to understand the pathogenic mechanisms behind Alzheimer disease (AD), the pathogenic mechanisms underlying the depositing amyloid protein, and to develop/test novel treatment/prevention approaches for AD.<br />
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We are using the largest cohort study of Alzheimer’s disease in Taiwan to explore blood-based and neuroimaging-based biomarkers for AD.<br />
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We are also investigating the role of SUPT4H nucleotide expansion in neurological disorders. Furthermore, his group is investigating the genetic mechanisms behind inherited neurological diseases, with an an emphasis on cerebral small vessel disease, inherited peripheral neuropathy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Finally, this group is also analyzing the effects of cerebral ischemia and inflammation on brain injury and how neurodegeneration progression interacts with susceptible genes.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">This research group has used randomized-control trials and neuroimaging methods to explore effective treatments for major depression disorder. The treatment approaches have included theta burst stimulation over the prefrontal cortex by repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and low-dose ketamine. We have also established a rat model aimed at helping our understanding of the mechanisms behind how ketamine and rTMS can help relieve treatment-resistant depression. The group has used also used electroencephalographic event-related potentials (that is mismatch negativity regarding emotional syllables and error-related negativity in moral scenarios, linked to functional/structural neuroimaging, that is guilt-related neural activation), as well as other neurocognitive tasks, to explore the potential neural signatures associated with major depression disorder.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Understanding how the human brain performs complex cognitive computations is a key question in cognitive and systems neuroscience. To help answer this question, the Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience group (CSN) consists of an interdisciplinary group of psychologists, neuroscientists, and clinicians who aim to unravel the mysteries of human cognition by combining behavioral, computational, neurophysiological and neuroimaging approaches. This unique combined approach of the CSN group involves using intracranial stereo-EEG (SEEG) recordings obtained from epilepsy patients that record more than a hundred neurophysiological signals across many brain regions of humans.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Sydney Brenner (2002 Nobel laureate in Physiology/Medicine) asserted, “Progress in science depends on new techniques, new discoveries and new ideas, probably in that order.” In keeping with that spirit, an important domain of this research group is to develop new techniques that will allow us to study brain function at the single neuron level. We are developing a variety of tools for labeling, tracing, recording, imaging and manipulating single neurons. By synergizing our talents with other BRC resources, we aim to provide unprecedented opportunities for scientists to use these cutting-edge techniques on the NYMU campus. This will increase the momentum of brain research, and thus promote our international competitive edge.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153522163374886912&init=YCenter Brain Research Center BRC<![CDATA[Cancer research at NYCU offers novel therapeutic strategies from tumorigenesis to metastasis]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The Cancer Progression Center of Excellence (CPC) integrates the research energy of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and Taipei Veterans General Hospital (TVGH) with a solid foundation supported by Ministry of Education, Taiwan. The main goal of the Center is to explore novel mechanisms in cancer progression and try to translate the results into clinical practice. The major efforts of CPC are made for the establishment of the platform of circulating tumor cells isolation and detection, single-cell sequencing, multispectral imaging, and spatial transcriptomics analysis for analysis of the tumor cells and immune cells in tumor microenvironments (TME). These platform developments will provide essential tools to study the functional crosstalk between immune cells, cancer stem cell, and cancer cell movement in TME during cancer progression. Overall, the Center will continue to conduct in-depth basic and translational researches of cancer progression by asking the major clinical questions.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of a heterogeneous group of tumor cells together with a variety of other host cells, all of which actively participate within the tumor-host interface as part of disease aggression/progression. The extracellular structural and cellular molecular patterning of these many types of cell not only dictate the niche configuration of the tumor, but also contribute to anti-tumor immunity, which in turn leads to therapeutic heterogeneity. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide and it has high cancer-related mortality. The disease progression of CRC is tightly associated with an aberrant activation of an intestinal stem cell (ISC) signature and the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). We have found that colorectal cancer stem cells (CRCSCs) undergo the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) with Snail being the predominant EMT regulator; this results in cancer stemness and allows symmetrical cell division (SCD) to expand the CSC pool. Tumor-infiltrating neutrophils are initially educated by the CSC-exosomes and then are recruited by CSC-chemokines; this subsequently allows the development of a permissive tumor and an immunosuppressive TME.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The acquisition of the ability of cancer cells to migrate in a complex three-dimension environment is one of important characteristics of tumor malignancy. Different types of cancer cells are able to migrate via different modalities; these include mesenchymal cell migration, amoeboid cell migration, and collective cell migration. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. The goal of this subproject is to understand the molecular mechanisms behind cancer cell migration via a multidisciplinary approach, including an in vitro 3D culture platform, advanced microscope technology, ‘omics approaches, animal models, and clinical studies. Understanding how cancer cells migrate in vivo should provide new ways of intervening in the disease as part of cancer therapy. Cell migration in a complex three-dimension environments is a complicated process that requires the coordinated regulation of many cellular activities, including gene regulation, post-translational modification, cytoskeletal dynamics, cell adhesion, cell contractility, extracellular matrix remodeling, and other systems. To better understand these alterations in the biophysical properties of cancer cells during cell migration, advanced live-cell microscopy is being developed to analyze cell rigidity, cellular deformability, cellular contractility, and the ability of cells to remodel extracellular collagen fibers.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt">Cancer stem cells (CSCs) and cancer initiating cells make up only a small part of the cancer cell population within heterogeneous tumors, but, nevertheless, they are considered to play a central role in the development of drug resistance and thence cancer relapse. Researchers at NYCU has applied the concept of reprogramming to cancer cells and has identified several key pathways that are directly involved in cancer malignancy and relapse, as well as identifying various key regulators of cancer stemness that are suitable therapeutic targets. One such is miR-142-3p, which regulates the properties of CSCs and the cancer reprogramming step. Suppression of the expression of miR-142-3p leads to the recurrence and progression of glioblastoma (GBM); while a reactivation of miR142-3p expression blocks the protein synthesis pathways for IL-6, HMGA2, and Sox2 during GBM-reprogramming, and prevents GBM recurrence. NYCU scientists has discovered an IL-6-dependent positive-feedback loop that is active in GBM and this suggests that the IL-6/miR-142-3p signaling pathway is a prospective therapeutic target for the treatment of GBM. His discovery, with its prospect of clinical applications, is a step forward in terms of GBM therapy.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153522603936190464&init=YCenter Cancer Progression Center of Excellence CPC<![CDATA[Meeting the rise of 5G, EV, and future high speed and low power consumption logic applications]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Compound Semiconductor Device Research Center (CSD Research Lab) at NYCU is dedicated to the development of world class III–V electronics technologies for academic excellency as well as to support the III–V community with the frontier technologies for industrial applications. As the global leader in the semiconductor industry, Taiwan must actively invest in the development of its innovative technologies to maintain the competitive advantages. CSD Lab will serve as a research platform for the integrated III–V technology for Taiwanese industry from materials, devices, processes, equipments, package, and testing up to pilot line production.<br />
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CSD is the only university laboratory worldwide that provides 3 – 6 inch III–V MMIC fabrication service with process capability down to 60–nm. The Lab provides the GaAs and GaN foundry services to offer unique solutions for III-V MMIC and III-V/Si integration for future high frequency communication and terahertz imaging applications, and GaN based high power high frequency devices for 5G and EV applications. CSD Research Lab cooperates closely not only with the industry through the execution of industry – university cooperative research projects but also with the international research institutions through innovative, pioneer joint research projects.<br />
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In 2010, the research team from NYCU led by Prof. Edward Yi Chang have successfully developed the world’s highest cut-off frequency (ft) of 710 GHz InAs high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs). The output performance of the world-class high frequency InAs HEMTs has reached terahertz (THz) band. It is potential for the future submillimeter-wave applications such as space telemetry, imaging radar, and biomedical detection.<br />
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From 2013 – 2017, the center in NYCU started a research project “International Center of Excellence in Advanced Heterogeneous Integration of Green Electronics Research – iRICE” funded by the Ministry of Science and Technology in Taiwan. It aimed at developing advanced semiconductor-related technologies for the post – Silicon and More – Moore era technology demands in the future. To enhance the global competitiveness, this center was established between the NYCU – Taiwan and UC Berkeley EECS – USA, based on their long-term solid foundations of research and strength in the semiconductor field. The goal was to establish a world-class nanoelectronics research center in Taiwan. In addition, companies such as TSMC, Applied Materials, Integris, and Panasonic have joined and co-sponsored the research activities.<br />
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Since 2018, the Center for Semiconductor Technology Research has been established at NYCU to integrate the cross-disciplinary talents of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, combined with the Taiwan Semiconductor Research Institute and the Synchrotron Radiation Center, closely cooperated with TSMC to jointly solve the technical bottlenecks facing the extreme scaling of semiconductor devices. The research topics are divided into five major topics, namely monolithic stacked devices and circuits, negative capacitance transistor technology, two-dimensional semiconductor devices and materials, low-impedance interconnect and contact resistance technology, and III–V based transistor technology for high speed and high frequency applications. In this program, CSD Lab will develop InGaAs FinFET for high frequency applications with high cut-off frequency ft up to terahertz to meet future IoT and 5G with high-bandwidth communication applications. In addition, an integrated process of GaN drain FinFETs is under development targeting at high frequency FinFET with high breakdown voltage.<br />
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nother project in progress for CSD Lab is to develop a lighter, longer-distance, faster and safer LiDAR for EV application. This project is in cooperation with Foxconn corporation, to develop LiDAR system with high reliability and low cost for self-driving cars. In order to achieve the targets of longer range and faster plan, the team intends to develop a new high frequency, high current gallium nitride high electron mobility transistors (GaN HEMTs) laser drive to integrate with the aforementioned new surface emitting laser chip using flip-chip technique into a new LiDAR laser light source chip assembly. By using GaN HEMTs to generate high current and high speed pulses, the LiDAR can achieve higher resolution and longer distance. The ultra-small size of GaN HEMT also make it the best driving element for lightweight LiDAR applications. In this research project, CSD team will demonstrate a high-quality beam with a narrow exit angle. This LiDAR light source chipset can also be used in optical digital instruments and electronic optical switches developing by CSD – NYCU to integrate optical, electronic and mechanical components to ensure good optical and electronic characteristics to meet the needs of extremely light, longer distance, and more fast and safer requirements.<br />
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Prof. Edward Yi Chang has been very active in cooperating with international leading institutes, the cooperation partners include labs from UC Berkeley (USA), Virginia Tech (USA), MIT (USA), TIT (Japan), NTT (Japan), IMEC (Belgium), and Chalmers University (Sweden). The results have been disseminated in the form of high quality publications. The important findings from these collaborations have resulted in successful technology transfer, which acts as another driving force for developing advanced III-V semiconductor devices in the 5G/6G and EV application. CSD Research Lab is very well equipped with all the necessary tools for III–V hetero-structure product development and has very good relationship and records with government agencies and industrial partners through successful product development and technology transfers. The reseachers in CSD Research Lab look forward to continued co-operation with pioneer semiconductor industries and top universities around the world.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153523064332357632&init=YMeeting the rise of 5G EV and future high speed and low power consumption logic applications<![CDATA[Active industry-academia cooperation establishes the NYCU-TSMC Research Center]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Morris Chang, founder of TSMC, once delivered a speech entitled “New Talents in the New Century”: “We need reform, otherwise there will be a limit to growth, and if there is a shortage of talents, it is also the reason for the growth limit.” With the joint efforts of Former President of NCTU Wu Yanhua and former CTO of TSMC Sun Yuancheng, the two sides signed a cooperation agreement on May 20, 2013 and held an unveiling ceremony “Chiaotung University-TSMC Joint R&D Center” was officially established. The mission of this R&D center is to encourage more top Doctoral talents to engage in nanoelectronics-related research and overcome the challenges of transistor microfilm and heterogeneous material integration. Future planning and development will be: 1. Based on the research results used by TSMC, we will strengthen cooperative research and strive for research resources. 2. Continue to cultivate doctoral-level semiconductor talents 3. Cooperate with the government to encourage new industries, use the center as a platform to strive for government and TSMC resources, and create new entrepreneurial services.</div>
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NYCU-TSMC Research Center Scholarship</div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In 2013, NYCU and TSMC established the TSMC Joint R&D Center with the purpose of promoting forward-looking semiconductor technology-related research and cultivating semiconductor industry talents. In order to recruit outstanding students to participate in research projects and encourage high-level research, TSMC has established a scholarship system for university departments and assistants in master’s and doctoral research. From 2013 to 2021, TSMC’s joint R&D Center provided a total of NTD34.418 million yuan in scholarships, and a total of 364 students received scholarships.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In order to encourage outstanding students to invest in semiconductor-related fields to pursue doctoral degrees, in order to promote the quality of key talents and R&D energy of Taiwan’s overall semiconductor industry, and continue to promote the development of advanced technologies. During the doctoral studies, the annual award is NT$500,000, and the award is limited to 5 years. Senior TSMC executives serve as industry teachers to help understand the stages and challenges of industry and technology development; during the school period, he will be arranged to TSMC for internship, and after graduation, he will be given priority after review, and those who perform well will enjoy differentiated salary treatment. Since 2020, TSMC has provided doctoral scholarships for three years, and a total of 15 students have received TSMC doctoral scholarships (annually/ 500,000 yuan, up to 5 years of scholarships).<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The Center breaks the restrictions of the Ministry of Science and Technology that only students who publish papers can receive the overseas subsidy, regardless of the publication of the paper, they can apply for important foreign seminars such as IEDM and VLSI. In addition, funding is also provided for students to go abroad such as UCB and UCLA for ex-situ training. From 2013 to 2021, TSMC R&D Center will provide nearly NTD5.5 million yuan to send professors and students abroad to participate in international seminars and the University of Berkeley, Stanford University and Oxford University in the United Kingdom for one year of ex-situ training. Under the learning of different research fields and environments, it is of great help to stimulate students’ research ability and thinking logic.<br />
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<div class="ed\_title01">TSMC participates in research programs for master’s and doctoral students</div>
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Since the establishment of TSMC in 2013, many outstanding graduate students have followed professors to conduct research every year, and so far 517 graduate students and 206 doctoral students have graduated from the R&D Center, and nearly 85% of them have held engineer positions at TSMC.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The industry asks questions, and the academics find answers to win-win goals. By pooling ideas and resources, industry and academia closely integrate with each other to share know-how, stimulate cutting-edge technologies, enhance the academic status of NYCU in the field of semiconductors, and consolidate the international competitiveness of Taiwan’s semiconductor industry. In terms of academic achievements and technological breakthroughs, TSMC Joint R&D Center has made significant progress and growth in international journal publications, IEDM, VLSI, and U.S. patent grants every year from 2013 to 2020.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The establishment of TSMC’s joint R&D center will strengthen the R&D capabilities of the academic and industry alliance teams. In the Intelligent Semiconductor Nanosystem Technology Research Center led by Academician Hu Chengming (Chief Technology CEO of Front Desk Accumulated Electricity and Inventor of FinFET Technology) and the School of Industry-University Innovation and Research led by Dean Sun Yuancheng (Chief Technology Chief and Vice President of R&D), Professor Chang Yi and Professor Tang Zhenhuan, under the cooperation of both sides, we strive to enhance the core competitiveness of China’s nanoelectronics technology and the top R&D of semiconductors, and make good use of the huge and rich resources provided by the R&D center and the government to develop key semiconductor technologies for the next decade. Become a semiconductor technology leader, enhance and cultivate key semiconductor technologies, accelerate the cultivation of more international industry elites with the concept of “co-creation” between industry and academia, build a World Cup-level top talent and research team, and become a leader in the global fierce semiconductor competition.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153523352363601920&init=YActive industry academia cooperation establishs the NYCU TSMC Research Center<![CDATA[Tunable Ultra-low Threshold Bound State in the Continuum Lasers Discovered through NYCU-Russian Collaboration]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">Bound State in the Continuum (BIC) is a special eigenstate, which energy lies in the continuous spectrum of propagating modes of the surrounding space. However, the state does not interact with any of the states of the continuum; therefore, it cannot emit and cannot be excited by any wave that came from the infinity. BIC resonance can theoretically reach an infinite quality factor (Q-factor), if there is no absorption in the system. BIC has the potential application in the design of optical resonators, lasers, filters and sensors.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Concept of bound state in the continuum (BIC) with 1D photonic crystals</span></em></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">This project is supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) “Outstanding Young Scholars Program” and the MOST-RFBR international joint project (Taiwan – Russia). The project’s main PI is Prof. Kuo-Ping Chen, from Institute of Imaging and Biomedical Photonics, College of Photonics, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University -NYCU (originally, National Chiao Tung University – NCTU). The collaborated research team is led by Dr. Ivan Timofeev from Kirensky Institute of Physics, Russia. In this project, we successfully developed the world’s first tunable BIC combining liquid crystals and photonic crystal. This research was mainly conducted by Bing-Ru Wu, Jhen-Hong Yang, Pavel S. Pankin, and Chih-Hsiang Huang. The research results have been published in March 2021, Laser and Photonics Review (IF = 10.655, Journal Ranking: 4th/97 in Optics). In this research, we study both BIC and quasi-BIC in nematic liquid crystal (LC) layer embedded between a distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) and a metal layer. We experimentally demonstrate a special class of true BICs between the DBR and the metal film with the strong field localization provided by the Brewster TE reflection in the DBR.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size:90%;">Ultra-low threshold laser with bound state in the continuum (BIC)</span></em></div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In addition, we also successfully developed the world’s first silicon nitride metasurfaces with R6G dye for the ultra-low threshold lasing. This research was mainly conducted by the Ph.D. student from NYCU, Dr. Jhen-Hong Yang. The research results have been published in Aug 2021, Laser and Photonics Review. In this research, Si3N4 metasurfaces with hybrid SLRs are used to investigate BICs with complete dark resonance modes. To determine the design rule and mechanism of BICs, simulations and experiments were performed with external and internal excitation. Compared to the nanolaser, the BIC metasurface laser possesses directional radiation and a large emission volume, and the high Q-factor resonance overcomes the limitation of large mode volume in achieving thresholdless lasing. In addition, a proposed design rule can eliminate the wavelength shift when the Q-factor changes, which makes the comparison of lasing threshold in different BIC metasurfaces possible. We successfully use the high localization ability of BICs to demonstrate a low-threshold (1.25 nJ) BIC laser at room temperature. Also, the large spontaneous emission coupling factor (β = 0.9) and S-curve in the “light in-light out” diagram are rigorously discussed and demonstrated in both simulation and experiment. Interestingly, due to the high Q-factor resonance of BICs, the laser signals and images can be observed in almost transparent samples. The novel features of metasurfaces provide the way for engineering BICs. The developed device can be used in various applications, including novel light sources, optical sensing, nonlinear optics, and topological photonics.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The Taiwan research team includes Prof. Kuo-Ping Chen (NYCU), Prof. Wei Lee (NYCU), Prof. Tien-Chang Lu (NYCU), Prof. Tzy-Rong Lin (NTOU), and Prof. Chan-Shan Yang (NTNU). The Russian research team includes Dr. Ivan V. Timofeev, Dr. Almas. Sadreev, Dr. Dmitrii N. Maksimov, Dr. Pavel S. Pankin, and Dr. Rashid Bikbaev. The collaboration research will continue to develop the BIC with metasurfaces for quantum photonic application. This research also has the strong potential in development of quantum source and topological photonics.<br />
The Headache and Pain Research Group has been one of the leading groups internationally that have targeted both clinical headache services and research.<br />
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The research group has become renowned for contributing to Taiwanese epidemiological studies, implementing cutting edge technologies and equipment in migraine pathophysiological research, taking the leading role in studies related to reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS), spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) and other rare primary headache disorders in the world. Our research also has been focusing on the neuroimaging-based chronic pain disorders and the development of non-invasive neurotechnology (e.g., neuromodulation) for clinical applications.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153549536585584640&init=YBound State<![CDATA[NYCU researchers develop an efficient shallow neural network to solve surface PDEs and PDEs with singularities]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-27<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">Researchers in the Mathematical and Scientific Machine Learning Laboratory (MSML) leading by Prof. Ming-Chih Lai at Department of Applied Mathematics in NYCU investigate computational fluid mechanics and explore potential machine learning approaches in solving fluid-structure interaction problems. The study of such incompressible flows with interfaces plays an important role in many natural phenomena and industrial applications, especially for soft matter physics and fluid dynamics of microfluidic systems, and is also of major interest to the applied mathematics community.<br />
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Over the past decade, deep learning has gained incredible success in image recognition, natural language processing, computer vision, and many other practical applications in our daily life. But only until recently, it draws much attention to solving partial differential equations using deep neural networks in the scientific computing community. Part of the theoretical reason can be attributed to the various kinds of expressive power for function approximations using DNN. Automatic differentiation in machine learning makes it easier to evaluate derivatives through neural networks, which is probably another reason in practice.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Based on the experience of studying the fast solvers for partial differential equations, Prof. Lai’s group at MSML, and in collaboration with scientists at National Central University, have developed a simple yet efficient way to present discontinuous functions, discontinuity-capturing shallow neural network (DCSNN). There are three major advantages to using this network; namely, (1) jump discontinuity in the function is captured sharply (as shown in Figure); (2) it is completely shallow, comprising only one hidden layer, (3) it is completely mesh-free when it is used to solve PDEs. Compared with traditional grid-based numerical methods, this network can easily solve partial differential equations defined in irregular regions, and even in high dimensions.<br />
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The idea behind the design of DCSNN is to introduce an extra input variable (as shown in Figure) that acts as an indicator to distinguish different smooth parts of a function. The network for solving PDEs is based on Physics-Informed Neural Network in literature (Raissi, Perdikaris, and Karniadakis 2019) trained by minimizing the mean squared error loss, which includes the residuals of the governing equations, boundary conditions, and interface jump conditions. With such a simple design and shallow network architecture, the DCSNN model solves the elliptic interface problem with efficiency and accuracy comparable to the well-known numerical methods.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Lai’s group at NYCU also investigate another type of elliptic problem where delta function singularity appears as a sourcing term to the equation. By introducing the energy functional of the problem, the delta function singularity can be replaced by a regular integral along the interface. The network is again designed to be shallow and includes an additional level set function as augmented input feature. The training of the network here is based on deep Ritz method (E and Yu 2018) which trains the network by minimizing the loss function written as a discrete version of the energy functional. Numerical experiments have shown that, with proper design, a shallow network with moderate number of neurons can solve the problem with high accuracy compared to deep neural networks proposed in existing literature. One should notice that, a shallow network is much easier to train than the deep one. This research shows that traditional challenging problems in scientific computing can be solved efficiently with the tool of machine learning. These important advances should bring more applied mathematicians in Taiwan into the field of scientific machine learning.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153548375530934272&init=Yshallow network architecture<![CDATA[NYCU researchers’ inventions uncover genetics and mechanisms underlying brain developmental disorders]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-22<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model01 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Researchers in the Brain Research Center (BRC) at NYCU investigates mechanisms brain functions and discover potential treatments to brain disorders. In Taiwan, there are approximately 200,000 patients with epilepsy or brain developmental disorders. These patients face challenges due to their mental, physical, and mental disabilities when they try to live independently and work.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Based on the experience in studying the development of the brain, researchers at the BRC developed the first gene screening method that combined transposition with in utero electroporation, a technique to allow the induction of mutations in neural stem cells. Using this method, the screening for genes that are important during neuronal development was possible and the team has identified many new genes that are involved in brain development and neural diseases. In addition, by cooperating with the Genomics Research Center of NYCU, and the epilepsy surgery team of Taipei Veterans General Hospital, the team has been able to carry out clinical verification of these genes. With “Next Generation Sequencing,” the team was able to verify that a mutated gene found in mice is also present in patients with focal corticaldysplsia and epilepsy.<br />
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Researchers at NYCU has also been investigating other related brain developmental disorders in collaboration with international scientists to discover the mechanism behind brain malignant tumors. To understand the mechanism of medulloblastoma, the most common deadly malignant childhood brain tumor, the team and a French team at the Curie Institute used cerebellar electroporation and successfully tracked the development of cerebellar stem cells in vivo. Under the microscope, they saw the transition of neural stem cells into tumor cells and were able to clearly pinpoint important events. They discovered that a key transcription factor controls the division of neural stem cells by modulating primary cilium. Furthermore, the presence of a defect in primary cilium is able to cause abnormal cerebellar development. This research has become an important milestone in the treatment of brain tumors and their relationship with the loss of primary cilium.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Recently, researchers at NYCU has formed an international research team, including researchers in Australia, United States, and Malaysia, to utilize Next Generation Sequencing to identify new genes associated with “lissencephaly.” Lissencephaly is a serious brain developmental abnormality and patients show serious developmental delay, as well as intractable epilepsy. The most serious patients usually lack language, are unable to swallow and cannot walk; these patients become a huge burden on their families. Lissencephaly is a relatively rare disease and has an incidence of about 12 individuals per million. In Taiwan, there are around 300 cases. The team deintified that loss of function of a novel gene called CEP85L leads to a defect in neural cell migration and this defect is related to the functioning of centrosome. This is the first centrosome composition gene found to be involved in lissencephaly.<br />
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A normal brain has many folds called gyri, and these are directly involved in high-order cognitive function development. Patients with lissencephaly have gyri that are underdeveloped or not developed at all; thus their brains have a smooth appearance that is called lissencephaly. The team leader, Distinguished Professor Jin-Wu Tsai of Institute of Brain Science, remarked that part of the lissencephaly phenotype of patients is caused by a genetic mutation. During the development of the brain, neural cells move to the surface of the brain (the cortex) and this process is regulated by many genes. If any of these genes are defective, the neural cells are unable to move to their correct location and this can lead to abnormal development of gyri or lissencephaly. Up to this point, CEP85L had never been associated with any human diseases and thus the identification of mutants of CEP85L and its association with lissencephaly is a world first.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">These important discoveries should help to accelerate the diagnosis of different types of abnormal brain developmental diseases by doctors and it also helps to explain why some newborns are found to have this serious disease without any family history. These genes could be used for prenatal screening in the future, which should decrease the occurrence of related. In terms of the science, this research has provided scientists with a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind brain development and may also help to guide drug development and/or genetic therapy in the future.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153552780116365312&init=Ygenetics and mechanisms<![CDATA[NYCU Researchers Find Polymeric Nanomaterials under Nanoconfinement for the Development of Light-Responsive Electronics]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-22<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">Polymer nanomaterials with fascinating physicochemical properties that differ from their bulk states have gained extensive attention in recent years. To develop polymer nanomaterials with distinctive functionalities, critical issues such as chain alignments and micro-phase separation of polymers under nanoconfinement should be thoroughly discussed.</div>
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">The previous works, however, focus mainly on the confined crystallization behaviors of conventional polymers. Confined polymers with more complicated organization systems, such as stereocomplex PMMA, have yet to be discussed. Recently, Prof. Jun-Tai Chen’s research group from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University has reported the study of self-assembly and crystallization behavior of the stereocomplex PMMA under nanoconfinement. The polymer is first introduced into the nanopores of the metal oxide templates by the solution wetting method to prepare the polymer nanorods. The thermal properties and crystal structures of the polymer are identified by differential scanning calorimetry and grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering (GIWAXS), respectively. This study is also conducted by the light source from the National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center to investigate the weak diffraction signal of the polymer inside the nanopores.<br />
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Polymers confined in narrow three-dimensional geometries bring exciting opportunities for the development of functional materials, such as dynamic photoswitches and environment-responsive electronics. Over the years, researchers have demonstrated that the light-driven isomerization or molecular conformation of small molecules can turn into macroscopic property changes and provide multiple applications, such as solid-to-liquid transitions, live-cell imaging, and conductance photoswitching. Due to the difficulties of complicated synthetic routes and problematic side effects, however, only a few reports have achieved the photocontrolled ionic conductivities in the solid state.<br />
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In another recent work reported by Prof. Jun-Tai Chen’s research group, a newly photoswitchable composite gel polymer electrolyte consisting of photochromic spiropyran molecules and nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide is demonstrated. The spiropyran as the thermodynamically stable form can isomerize to the open merocyanine form upon UV (365 nm) irradiation and reversibly isomerize back to the spiropyran form upon visible (555 nm) light irradiation. Taking the advantage of the light-induced surface property changes, they successfully control the ion mobility at the interfaces.</div>
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<div class="ed\_pic\_full" style="text-align: justify;">The researches have been published by Macromolecules and Chemistry—A European Journal. Additionally, one of the publications has been selected as the cover story. The authors would like to acknowledge the supports from the Ministry of Science and Technology of Taiwan and the Center for Emergent Functional Matter Science of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University.</div>
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</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153551323472334848&init=Yinstrument<![CDATA[Professor Chen Jyh-cheng of the College of Computer Science and His Team Use Magnetic Forces to Achieve Positioning Inside Tunnels, with Their Paper Published by MobiCom 2021]]>Office of International Promotion and Outreach2022-02-21<![CDATA[<div class="ed\_model08 clearfix">
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">In 2021, the ACM International Conference on Mobile Computing and Networking (MobiCom), a prestigious international conference, published a paper on positioning inside tunnels via the use of magnetic forces, a study conducted by Professor Chen Jyh-cheng and his team of students. This was the second time that a full-length paper (with all of its authors being Taiwanese) was published by MobiCom since its establishment in 1995. Concurrently, the team came in first place at the MobiCom 2020 Student Research Competition (category: graduate school), marking the first time that Taiwanese succeeded in this internationally renowned competition.<br />
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Professor Chen indicated that self-driving cars will be the trend of the future. Today, the problem with self-driving systems is that satellite positioning fails or is unable to operate effectively in areas including tunnels and multi-level roads, preventing drivers from trusting the systems. Accordingly, this study used magnetic fields to achieve positioning in areas where satellite positioning fails. The study results (i.e., “MVP: Magnetic Vehicular Positioning System for GNSS-Denied Environments) were subsequently published by MobiCom 2021.<br />
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<div class="ed\_txt" style="text-align: justify;">Positioning is an indispensable function in self-driving cars because they rely on it to identify their positions. However, the inability of cars to receive satellite positioning signals in areas such as tunnels, parking lots, and underpasses denies the cars from performing self-driving. Additionally, in multi-level roads, satellite positioning is unable to determine the exact positions of the cars (i.e., whether they are on elevated roads or ground roads), causing drivers to potentially receive wrong driving instructions and making self-driving unsafe. Professor Chen’s team introduced cars that used magnetometers to measure magnetic fields, and utilized an algorithm that it had developed to compare the measured magnetic fields with magnetic field maps. The results showed that the proposed method achieved positioning and offered a positioning accuracy of 5.14 meters without the use of satellite positioning. Currently, the research team has conducted large-scale road experiments in 56 tunnels and 23 bridges in two countries for 36 months, producing 5,943 pieces of data that provided correct positioning to verify the effectiveness of the system. Moreover, the system can be accessed using only smartphones and requires no high-priced positioning equipment, considerably reducing the costs of precise positioning when satellite positioning is unavailable. This study is the first-ever study to use magnetic forces to achieve precise vehicle positioning in areas where satellites fail, increasing completeness and safety of self-driving systems.<br />
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Since 1995, MobiCom has published less than 10 papers with authors from Taiwanese research institutions; most of said papers involved Taiwanese researchers working with foreign universities. The last time that a study was conducted solely by Taiwanese team members and published by MobiCom was 22 years ago in 1999. The present study features Ph.D student Wang Jia-cheng as its first author, who came in first at the ACM MobiCom 2020 Student Research Competition, marking the first time since 2005 (the year that the competition was introduced) that a student from a Taiwanese university came in the top 3.<br />
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Professor Chen’s team expressed their hopes for the study results to enable self-driving cars to have positioning capabilities in any environment, making self-driving car systems more complete and their passengers ride with a peace of mind.</div>
</div>]]>https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/image?module=headnews&detailNo=1153523694295846912&init=YProfessor Chen Jyh-cheng of the College of Computer Science and His Team