Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology

Tan H., Lee K., Chen Y., Huang Y., Ke R., Horng G., Chen K.

The accurate assessment of pupillary light reflex (PLR) is essential for monitoring critically ill patients, particularly those with traumatic brain injury or stroke and those in postoperative care. Smartphone-based pupillometers represent a potentially cost-effective solution for addressing this need. We developed a smartphone pupillometer application (app) and evaluated its effectiveness against the penlight test and quantitative pupillometry. This study included 50 volunteers aged >20 years and excluded individuals with neurologic or ophthalmic conditions. The app captured pupillary images by displaying a red circle on the screen, and an algorithm processed these images to calculate the pupil constriction percentage (PCP). The results revealed that the smartphone app often required multiple attempts for successful image acquisition. The obtained PCPs were consistently smaller and less variable than those obtained using the penlight test and a commercial pupillometer (app vs penlight for the right eye: 27.0% [27.0%–8.0%] vs 33.0% [32.3%–39.3%]; app vs pupillometer for the right eye: 27.0% [27.0%–28.0%] vs 35.0% [31.8%–38.3%]; app vs penlight for the left eye: 29.0% [28.0%–29.0%] vs 33.0% [29.8%–34.3%]; app vs pupillometer for the left eye: 29.0% [28.0%–29.0%] vs 36.0% [30.8%–38.0%]; P <.001 for all). Notably, the penlight and the pupillometer exhibited comparable PCPs (right eye: penlight vs pupillometer: 33.0% [32.3%–39.3%] vs 35.0% [31.8%–38.3%], P = .469; left eye: penlight vs pupillometer: 33.0% [29.8%–34.3%] vs 36.0% [30.8%–38.0%], P = .148). The app requires further refinement to yield results comparable to those of established methods. Future iterations can include alternative measurement strategies and dynamic assessment. Penlight and quantitative pupillometry remain indispensable as established tools for PLR.

Lin J.

Taiwan will levy a carbon fee starting in 2025, according to the three-tier carbon accounting model and carbon emissions inventory measures. On 21 October 2024, Taiwan’s Ministry of Environment announced the carbon fee and that Taiwan had officially entered an era in which carbon emissions would be priced. The carbon fee officially took effect on 1 January 2025. Therefore, all manufacturing and power industries with annual carbon emissions exceeding 25,000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (tCO2e) would be billed. The carbon fee system provides various preferential rate options and encourages all companies to propose voluntary reduction plans. Rate differences can help generate substantial carbon reduction action. However, the carbon fee system is flexible and can be adjusted in the future based on implementation status and industry change to help cope with changes in the net-zero transformation process.

Chen Y., Chen S., Wu C.

Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) enable people to communicate with others or devices, and improving BCI performance is essential for developing real-life applications. In this study, a steady-state visual evoked potential-based BCI (SSVEP-based BCI) with multi-domain features and multi-task learning is developed. To accurately represent the characteristics of an SSVEP signal, SSVEP signals in the time and frequency domains are selected as multi-domain features. Convolutional neural networks are separately used for time and frequency domain signals to extract the embedding features effectively. An element-wise addition operation and batch normalization are applied to fuse the time- and frequency-domain features. A sequence of convolutional neural networks is then adopted to find discriminative embedding features for classification. Finally, multi-task learning-based neural networks are used to detect the corresponding stimuli correctly. The experimental results showed that the proposed approach outperforms EEGNet, multi-task learning-based neural networks, canonical correlation analysis (CCA), and filter bank CCA (FBCCA). Additionally, the proposed approach is more suitable for developing real-time BCIs than a system where an input’s duration is 4 s. In the future, utilizing multi-task learning to learn the properties of the embedding features extracted from FBCCA can further improve the BCI system performance.

Hung C., Wu C., Lee Y.

This paper explores the fabrication of aspherical microlens arrays using a grayscale ultraviolet (UV) exposure system based on a digital micromirror device (DMD). The proposed DMD-based lithography system employs an oblique stepping method, where the DMD array is slightly tilted in the stepping direction to perform step-by-step grayscale UV exposure. This approach assigns the DMD pixels to a group of exposure points that are uniformly distributed over a large area with high spatial resolution. Consequently, the desired UV dose distribution for accurately shaping microlens array profiles after photoresist (PR) development is achieved. Unlike many previous approaches, this technique utilizes backside UV patterning on a transparent substrate, allowing direct use of negative-tone PR materials for microlens fabrication. Comprehensive theoretical analysis and numerical modeling are provided, alongside detailed experimental procedures and measurement results.

Chang W., Liu J., Chen Y., Chen L.

With the gradual increase in the proportion of the global elderly population, the number of bathroom accidents also increases yearly. Due to the humid environment in bathrooms, the floors are mostly made of tiles, which are relatively prone to slips and falls. However, the existing pose recognition methods mostly use color images, and color images have concerns about personal privacy and are susceptible to lighting changes and complex spatial interference. Therefore, this paper proposes an abnormal behavior recognition system based on thermal image AI edge technology. Use a dangerous posture when using the toilet to avoid accidents in the bathroom, such as using the toilet being discovered too late, increasing the risk.

Chang E., Hsu C., Li J., Dubey R., Kan W., Sheu M., Cheng C., Chang C., Hsu C., Chuu J.

Ho F., Chung H., Yu C., Huang C., Liang F.

Although the administration of antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) is generally recognized as cost-effective and beneficial, recent studies have indicated potential long-term adverse effects on neurodevelopment, particularly for term-born infants. However, limited research has explored the association between the timing of ACS exposure, gestational age (GA) at birth, and their potential implications for mental and behavioral outcomes in offspring compared to non-exposed infants. This study aimed to examine the association between the timing of antenatal corticosteroid (ACS) exposure for threatened preterm labor and childhood mental disorders among early-term and full-term births. All eligible term infants born between 2010 to 2014 were included in this nationwide study and followed until the end of 2021. The primary outcome was any childhood mentaldisorders, with secondary outcomes being attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and developmental delay (DD). Compared to unexposed infants, ACS exposure before 34 weeks of GA increased the risk of developing mental behavior disorders. Exposure to ACS before 34 weeks was significantly associated with an increased risk of ADHD and DD; however, this association was observed only in early-term births but not in those born at full-term. Conclusion: Our finding suggests a need for further investigation into the influence of GA at birth on these disorders and supports that the risk of childhood mental disorders in term infants varied among different ACS exposure timing.

Chen K., Chuang F.

This study investigates the solution-aging treatment of precipitation-hardening SUS 630 stainless steel, alongside an analysis of the carbon emissions generated by the energy consumed during aging treatments. By employing atmospheric and liquid tin as aging media, the research comprehensively explores the effects of aging treatments on the characteristics of 630 stainless steel. The maximum hardness value for the 630 stainless steel was observed after atmospheric aging at 500 °C for 1 h. The given 630 stainless steel obtained its maximum hardness value after atmospheric aging at 500 °C for 1 h, indicating that the formation of secondary precipitates strengthens the steel’s performance. By leveraging the intrinsic characteristics of liquid tin, using it as an aging medium (Sn bath aging) significantly improves the efficiency of the aging process, achieving mechanical properties comparable to those of atmosphere-aged steel. The 630 stainless steel aged in a Sn bath exhibited a refined martensitic matrix with substantial precipitate formation, contributing to superior impact toughness and dynamic fatigue resistance. With an equivalent mass and performance, Sn bath aging notably reduced the duration of the treatment compared to atmospheric aging, leading to substantial energy savings and reduced carbon emissions. The Sn bath treatment, recognized in metallurgical science and heat treatment for its excellent thermal conductivity and recyclability, shows potential to enhance process efficiency and enable low carbon emissions in the heat treatment industry. By highlighting the differences between aging methods, this study provides solutions for optimizing heat treatment processes and thereby achieving industrial advancement and sustainability goals.

Loreño D.T., Huang Y.C.

This chapter examines the significant role of MSMEs in advancing a sustainable blue and green economy in the Philippines, focusing on Innovation for Sustainability and Financial Empowerment. It discusses how MSMEs can reduce environmental impact and enhance resource efficiency through waste minimization, greener technologies, and sustainable tourism. Financial empowerment through microfinance, public-private partnerships, and government policies ensures MSMEs can access funds for renewable energy projects and eco-friendly technologies. The chapter provides a framework for cooperation among policymakers, stakeholders, and MSMEs, offering practical insights and case studies of successful sustainable practices. It aims to guide the Philippine economy towards a resilient, sustainable path where economic growth aligns with environmental integrity, highlighting MSMEs as key drivers of this shift.

Koseki M., Wang S., Yang C., Feng I., Kuo H., Ho C., Huang C., Sheu M.

AbstractThe significant reduction in global colorectal cancer screenings due to the COVID‐19 pandemic, which led to an increase in the diagnosis of advanced cases rate in short periods, prompted this comprehensive retrospective study at Chi Mei Medical Center (CMMC) in Southern Taiwan. Conducted from January 2017 to December 2022, the study aimed to understand the impacts of these disruptions on the healthcare system, particularly focusing on emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations, and mortality rates. Utilizing statistical methodologies such as Pearson's chi‐square and Fisher's exact tests for categorical data, alongside the t‐test and Wilcoxon rank‐sum test for continuous data, this research compared the epidemiological and clinical outcomes across pre‐pandemic and pandemic periods. Kaplan–Meier plots, coupled with log‐rank tests, were employed to analyze mortality trends effectively. Among 3373 individuals who tested positive via fecal immunochemical tests (FIT), 96 patients were diagnosed with colorectal cancer before the COVID‐19 pandemic, and 89 during it. The pathological staging indicated a consistent early‐stage diagnosis rate of around 65% (p = 0.876). In addition, it revealed no significant changes in the frequency of ED visits and hospitalizations. Despite the pandemic's challenges and its extended duration, the median time to death and one‐year mortality remained stable, underscoring the effectiveness of robust healthcare strategies in maintaining high‐quality cancer screenings and managing patient care during public health crises. This research highlights the critical need for ongoing evaluations of healthcare protocols to mitigate the impacts of global health emergencies on diagnostic processes.

Hung F.S.

Serpentinite refers to a group of hydrated magnesium-rich natural silicate rocks. Because serpentinite contains metallic elements and has a layered structure, it can release magnesium ions when immersed in water. Garlic is a widely cultivated crop characterized by a rich chemical composition and many health benefits. Magnesium and manganese are essential nutrients for the human body. In garlic, magnesium stabilizes allicin and prevents its decomposition and release, and manganese promotes polysaccharide metabolism. In this study, serpentinite powder was modified using immersion plating and sintering to improve its crystallinity and ion release capability and enable the cultivation of magnesium–manganese-enriched garlic. An experimental analysis of growth characteristics confirmed the layered structure of serpentinite powder, with sintering effectively reducing impurities and enhancing the powder’s crystallinity and ion release capability. An evaluation of the powder’s specific surface area and ion release capability after surface treatment revealed that Mg-Si-Mn-O sintered at 400 °C for 1 h was the optimal powder for preparing magnesium–manganese ion water. Magnesium–manganese garlic grown with this water contained magnesium and manganese at concentrations of 38–43 and 11–17 mg/L, respectively, and had a higher concentration of allicin and sulfur compounds relative to garlic grown with distilled water. After natural drying, the allicin in the magnesium–manganese-enriched garlic remained stable, and the garlic was found to have a high moisture content. These findings jointly demonstrate the high nutritional value and antioxidant properties of garlic in applications involving serpentinite technology.

Huang C.L., Fu L., Hung S., Yang S.C.

ABSTRACTBackgroundMany studies have highlighted the positive effects of visual programming instruction (VPI) on students' learning experiences, programming self‐efficacy and flow experience. However, there is a notable gap in the research on how these factors specifically impact programming achievement and learning intentions. Our study addresses this gap by focusing on flowchart‐based programming—a relatively underexplored area in educational research. To ensure relevance to the educational context, AbilixChart and Ability Storm SK902 were specifically selected for their alignment with the curriculum of the target school, where these tools are widely utilised in both teaching and extracurricular activities. This alignment allowed for a seamless integration of these tools into regular classroom practices after the study's conclusion, ensuring continued application and maximising the study's practical impact. Furthermore, integrating educational robots enhanced student engagement and provided a practical means to evaluate the accuracy of their programming skills. By doing so, our study not only contributes to filling a gap in the literature but also has the potential to influence educational practices by demonstrating the value of incorporating flowchart‐based programming and robotics into the curriculum.ObjectivesThe present study aims to conduct an instructional experiment utilising VPI with flowchart‐based programming tools. The main objective is to investigate how these tools influence 219 high school students' flow experience, programming self‐efficacy, and sustained learning willingness.MethodsThis study employed a pre‐ and post‐test design with a single group and conducted an 11‐week instructional experiment. The students used the Abilix Chart software and the Ability Storm SK902 kit to build an intelligent car and learn about visual programming. They were tasked with independently designing programs to solve practical problems in different scenarios. Research tools included Scales of Flow Experience, Computer Programming Self‐Efficacy, Sustained Learning Willingness and Program Achievement.ResultsThe findings revealed that VPI effectively improved students' programming achievement, flow experience and programming self‐efficacy. Students with programming learning experience surpassed their inexperienced peers in willingness to engage in sustained learning. Conversely, 4.57% of the group with lower pre‐test scores and no learning experience showed more positive emotional experience than those with learning experience.ConclusionsThe results indicated that VPI positively affected programming achievement, self‐efficacy and flow experience. Regardless of prior programming experience, all students benefited from VPI. Additionally, self‐efficacy and flow experience were key factors influencing sustained learning motivation and achievement.

Wang Y., Tsai K., Ho C., Tseng W., Petersen I., Lai Y., Chiou H., Hsiung C.A., Yu S., Sampson E.L., Liao J., Chen P.

The need for home healthcare (HHC) is increasing among people living with dementia (PLWD) to achieve their desire to age. This study aimed to investigate the determinants of hospitalization among PLWD receiving HHC. This retrospective cohort study used data from the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan from 2007 to 2017. The primary outcome was subsequent hospitalization after HHC for PLWD. Using multivariate Poisson regression, baseline and follow-up HHC-related characteristics were examined as covariates and influencing factors. A total of 95,831 PLWD received HHC (mean age: 80.2 years), and 81.7% had at least one subsequent hospitalization during the follow-up period. Regarding baseline characteristics, prior admission was the strongest determinant of subsequent hospitalization, especially being admitted three to six months before HHC use (aRR = 1.47, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.39–1.56, P < .001), followed by dementia duration from diagnosis to index date more than 3.5 years (aRR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.19–1.24). Among HHC-related characteristics, a higher frequency of HHC visits (more than 2 counts/month) (aRR = 4.81, 95% CI 4.63–5.00) and visits by both physicians and nurses (aRR = 2.03, 95% CI 1.98–2.07) were associated with a higher risk of hospitalization. Our findings suggest that prior admission, longer dementia duration from diagnosis to the index date, and frequency of HHC were positively associated with increased hospitalization. Future interventions and strategies can focus on these factors to decrease hospitalization among PLWD receiving HHC.

Lin Y., Lin H., Lu K., Huang Y., Panyod S., Liu W., Lu Y., Chen M., Sheen L.

Cordyceps militaris (CM) and Armillaria mellea (AM) are medicinal mushrooms with potential applications in the treatment of mood disorders, including depression and anxiety. While research suggests that both CM and AM possess anti-inflammatory properties and hold potential for treating depression when administered separately, there is limited knowledge about their efficacy when combined in a formula, as well as the underlying mechanism involving the modulation of microglia. Rats received oral administrations of the low-dose formulation, medium-dose formulation, and high-dose formulation over 28 consecutive days as part of the UCMS protocols. The concentrations of serotonin, dopamine, and the corresponding metabolites in the rat prefrontal cortex and hippocampus were assessed. Blood samples were collected to examine corticosterone levels, and the brains were dissected for evaluating activated microglia morphologies and associated pro- and anti-inflammatory signaling pathways. s: The CM-AM formula effectively averted abnormal behaviors triggered by UCMS, such as anhedonia and hypoactivity, and decreased the turnover rate of monoamines in both the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. The formula mitigated the increase in serum corticosterone levels induced by chronic stress. Furthermore, the formula alleviated stress-induced microglia activation in the hippocampus, achieving this by down-regulating hyperactivated pro-inflammatory proteins and up-regulating hypoactivated anti-inflammatory proteins in the hippocampus. The antidepressant-like effects potentially stemming from the regulation of neurotransmitters and immunomodulation, likely by restoring the balance of M1 and M2 microglia fractions in the hippocampus. Consequently, the CM-AM formula could be explored as a prospective complementary and alternative therapy for depression.

Wong K., Li Y., Yang H., Chien C., Kao L., Lin T., Yang T., Shih C.

Various pulp-covering materials offer advantages in regenerative root canal treatment, but each has limitations, highlighting the need for more effective antibacterial strategies for pulp repair and regeneration. Mesoporous bioactive glasses (MBG) show significant biological activity, making them valuable in tissue/dental repair. Silver-incorporated MBG exhibits promising antibacterial effects against various bacteria; copper ions are crucial in regulating angiogenesis signals. Co-loading copper and silver in bioactive glasses has been explored to address clinical challenges. This study modified the preparation of silver-copper bimetallic mesoporous bioactive glass, analyzing their textural properties and antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis. The silver-copper co-loaded bioactive glass (designated as AgCu/80S) was synthesized using a sol–gel technique with modifications. Textural analyses were carried out via X-ray diffraction, UV–Vis spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis, and transmission electron microscope. The ion-releasing activity determined using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, and the antibacterial activity against E. faecalis was assessed through disk diffusion and kinetic bacterial growth curve. The modification led to weaker crystallization of calcium silicate, altering ion-releasing and antibacterial activities. Ag3Cu2/80S exhibited the highest released silver ion concentration at 112.6 ppm, with an inhibition zone of 9.09 ± 0.09 mm in disk diffusion assays. However, the inhibition zone of Ag2Cu3/80S was 9.92 ± 0.04 mm, implying that the antibacterial activity may not only be influenced by silver ions. The AgCu/80S showed a potential antibacterial activity against E. faecalis, whereas further research on AgCu/80S glasses is necessary to optimize ion release conditions, assess bioactivities, and explore potential dental applications.