全國中小學科展

二等獎

降脂轉肌–將脂肪轉變成肌肉的可能性探討

先前研究發現一種多元不飽和脂肪酸 15-keto-PGE2 能減少肌肉慢性發炎以及增加肌肉生長因子胰島素的敏感性,具有增加肌肉的潛力。我們探討此脂肪酸在小鼠中將脂肪組織轉成肌肉組織的可能性。 我們先以 15-keto-PGE2 治療肥胖型肌少症小鼠後,再以全基因組mRNA定序,發現在小鼠皮下脂肪中,肌肉特異基因表現量高度上升。透過基因表現路徑分析軟體 GSEA證實此脂肪酸會高度引發皮下脂肪中,與肌肉分化、肌肉收縮與肌肉結構相關的生物路徑。另外, 15-keto-PGE2 也可以誘導脂肪前驅細胞3T3-L1中與肌肉生成相關的基因表現。 最後,我們發現以 15-keto-PGE2 治療的老年肥胖型肌少症小鼠,體重、血糖、脂肪比例下降,肌肉質量及力量上升,證實了它在體內同時減少脂肪並增加肌肉量的效果。

金屬多酚配位奈米載體合成與多功能腫瘤治療法開發

本研究結合奈米合成技術與生物醫學, 利用表沒食子兒茶素沒食子酸酯 (Epigallocatechin gallate, EGCG) 作為載體 調控摻雜Cu2+/Cu3+與 Fe2+/Fe3+之含量 並以π-π交互作用力附載缺氧性抗癌藥物替拉扎明 (Tirapazamine, TPZ) 成功製備出多功能金屬多酚配位奈米顆粒簡稱為EFeCuTPZ。 材料經紫外-可見光譜 (UV-vis),、動態光散射 (DLS) 及掃描式電子顯微鏡 (SEM) 確認其粒徑大小、形貌學與穩定性。利用808 nm和671 nm雷射分析其光熱轉換效率 評估光熱療法效果,。在腫瘤微酸性環境下, EFeCuTPZ可利用高濃度之H2O2行芬頓反應 (Fenton Reaction) 產生高活性之氫氧自由基 (•OH), 展現化學動力療法 (Chemo dynamic-therapy, CDT),。同時, 藉由材料中的Cu²⁺與腫瘤環境中的穀胱甘肽 (Glutathione, GSH)反應減少高活性物質 (Reactive oxygen species, ROS) 的消耗 增強CDT之療效。酸性條件下 TPZ顯著釋放 有助於腫瘤治療。 另外, 細胞實驗顯示EFeCuTPZ具有高生物相容性與治療效果, 成功開發出具CDT,、CT及PTT功能之奈米複合材料 為醫學新興藥物材料提供可能性。

應用多任務學習神經網路建構可識譜六孔竹笛機器人

本研究目標在建構可以識譜及吹奏中國笛的吹笛機器人。中國笛演奏必須協調吹法及指法;藉由控制吹氣流速、吹嘴角度及六指按壓音孔的變化來控制音高以完美地吹奏樂曲,是一項複雜的演奏技術。機器人以模擬吹笛口型的吹嘴,搭配兩個風箱往復送氣到一個壓力調節風箱送氣,以微控制板控制六個機械手指來蓋放完成演奏,為在音尾可確實止氣,設計一個風門,利用風門開闔也可模仿吐音技巧讓笛聲明確發音。辨識樂譜方面收集樂譜樣本,樣本分成譜線、音符、節奏三套,透過多任務學習MTL的深度學習架構進行訓練,建構可以辨識五線四間上下三線及全音符到16分音符及休止符的樂譜辨識模型。經測試若樂譜在符合音域範圍內,可以完整的辨識,轉換成音符資料傳送給吹笛機器人吹奏。

降脂轉肌–將脂肪轉變成肌肉的可能性探討

先前研究發現一種多元不飽和脂肪酸 15-keto-PGE2 能減少肌肉慢性發炎以及增加肌肉生長因子胰島素的敏感性,具有增加肌肉的潛力。我們探討此脂肪酸在小鼠中將脂肪組織轉成肌肉組織的可能性。 我們先以 15-keto-PGE2 治療肥胖型肌少症小鼠後,再以全基因組mRNA定序,發現在小鼠皮下脂肪中,肌肉特異基因表現量高度上升。透過基因表現路徑分析軟體 GSEA證實此脂肪酸會高度引發皮下脂肪中,與肌肉分化、肌肉收縮與肌肉結構相關的生物路徑。另外, 15-keto-PGE2 也可以誘導脂肪前驅細胞3T3-L1中與肌肉生成相關的基因表現。 最後,我們發現以 15-keto-PGE2 治療的老年肥胖型肌少症小鼠,體重、血糖、脂肪比例下降,肌肉質量及力量上升,證實了它在體內同時減少脂肪並增加肌肉量的效果。

克雷伯氏肺炎菌莢膜型K47菌株之噬菌體分離及其莢膜多醣分解酶表現

克雷伯氏肺炎菌(Klebsiella pneumoniae)近年來於亞洲盛行,其除了傷害健康外,亦對於醫療經濟造成一定程度的影響。隨著時間發展,此細菌也逐漸獲得了抗藥性,使早期使用之抗生素不再有效,因此,尋找治療此疾病的替代療法成為近年來持續被關注的議題。由於其對細菌具高度專一性,噬菌體之莢膜多醣分解酶被認為極具開發抗生素替代療法之潛力。 本研究陸續於污水中分離純化出1212P2、H-P7、H-P8、0505P5、0505P6、05052P5、0505Kp3等噬菌體,並藉由一系列實驗,篩選出可能具有莢膜多醣分解酶的噬菌體。最後將候選噬菌體1212P2、0505Kp3進行全基因定序。 未來,將進行全基因序列分析,若成功比對並找到具有莢膜多醣分解酶潛力之基因,我們將對其加以表現並測試活性。並進一步進行體內試驗檢驗此噬菌體或其莢膜多醣分解酶的效力,探討其是否能作為開發藥物的工具,為對抗克雷伯氏肺炎菌盡一份努力。

克雷伯氏肺炎菌莢膜型K47菌株之噬菌體分離及其莢膜多醣分解酶表現

克雷伯氏肺炎菌(Klebsiella pneumoniae)近年來於亞洲盛行,其除了傷害健康外,亦對於醫療經濟造成一定程度的影響。隨著時間發展,此細菌也逐漸獲得了抗藥性,使早期使用之抗生素不再有效,因此,尋找治療此疾病的替代療法成為近年來持續被關注的議題。由於其對細菌具高度專一性,噬菌體之莢膜多醣分解酶被認為極具開發抗生素替代療法之潛力。 本研究陸續於污水中分離純化出1212P2、H-P7、H-P8、0505P5、0505P6、05052P5、0505Kp3等噬菌體,並藉由一系列實驗,篩選出可能具有莢膜多醣分解酶的噬菌體。最後將候選噬菌體1212P2、0505Kp3進行全基因定序。 未來,將進行全基因序列分析,若成功比對並找到具有莢膜多醣分解酶潛力之基因,我們將對其加以表現並測試活性。並進一步進行體內試驗檢驗此噬菌體或其莢膜多醣分解酶的效力,探討其是否能作為開發藥物的工具,為對抗克雷伯氏肺炎菌盡一份努力。

Proposal for the Restoration of Fire-Damaged Soil Using Water-Soluble Aromatic Compounds Derived from Soil Actinomycetes

The following issues associated with soil affected by wildfires were identified: First, there was a significant decline in the populations of anaerobic and aerobic soil bacteria, which play a critical role in the decomposition and cycling of organic matter. This decline resulted in reduced water retention capacity and porosity of the soil, leading to poor moisture retention and increased evaporation compared to unaffected soil. Moreover, the organic matter content in the soil was significantly depleted, inhibiting plant growth. Additionally, there was a notable proliferation of methane-producing bacteria, which contribute to the greenhouse effect. It was further observed that fire-damaged soils exhibit limited natural recovery, even over prolonged periods. .An investigation into the underlying causes of these problems revealed that actinomycetes, the primary microorganisms responsible for producing watersoluble aromatic compounds in soil, are particularly sensitive to heat compared to other bacterial species. Research demonstrated that the population and diversity of actinomycetes are significantly diminished in soils exposed to wildfires. To mitigate these issues, water-soluble aromatic compounds produced by actinomycetes were extracted and introduced into wildfire-affected soil. This intervention promoted the restoration of actinomycetes populations, enabling their normal growth in the affected soil. Consequently, various wildfire-induced soil problems were effectively resolved. These outcomes were confirmed through the study...Key Words: Actinomycetes, anaerobic and aerobic soil bacteria, methane-producing bacteria, wildfires, water-soluble aromatic compounds.

Evaluating the Impact of the AI-Powered Interactive Journal “I Am Great Because of Me” on Reducing Impostor Syndrome Among High Performing Students

Impostor Syndrome, a psychological phenomenon where individuals doubt their abilities despite evident achievements, can hinder personal and academic development. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the interactive journal “I am Great Because of Me”, integrated with artificial intelligence (AI), in addressing Impostor Syndrome among high-performing students. The journal features innovative tools such as the Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale (CIPS) test accessible via QR code, self-acknowledgement pages, and virtual consultations powered by AI chatbots. These elements aim to support self-reflection, provide real-time diagnostics, and deliver actionable recommendations for users. The ADDIE model was employed for the journal's development, incorporating feedback from experts and users. Likert scales and Cohen’s D analysis were used to evaluate satisfaction, usability, and impact. Results showed that 90.1% of students expressed high satisfaction with the journal’s accessibility, interactivity, and capacity to enhance self-awareness and motivation. A pre-test and post-test conducted on the intervention group revealed a significant reduction in Impostor Syndrome by 42.5%, with an effect size of 2.84, categorized as "very large." Features such as the self-acknowledgement worksheets helped students recognize their strengths, while AI consultations offered additional psychological support. Expert validation emphasized the journal’s clarity, relevance, and objectivity, noting the absence of bias in AI-driven suggestions. The journal was praised for its accurate content, ease of use, interactivity, and the protection of user data, ensuring a safe and private environment for self-development. Students found the journal beneficial not only for addressing Impostor Syndrome but also for fostering personal growth and self-confidence. This research demonstrates the potential of combining psychological theories with AI-driven tools in education. The journal “I am Great Because of Me” effectively aids students in overcoming Impostor Syndrome and improving self-perception. It serves as a scalable solution for schools and individuals aiming to tackle similar psychological challenges. Future studies are encouraged to explore its application in broader contexts to maximize its impact.

EIBraille: An Electromagnetic Field-Powered Braille Training Device with Development of Printed Circuits and Algorithms for Visually Impaired Individuals

Visual impairment ranks among the top three disabilities globally, with affected individuals projected to increase from 39 million in 2015 to 115 million by 2050. Despite this growing prevalence, over 95% of visually impaired individuals face difficulties in learning Braille (AFB, 2022). In Thailand, the issue is compounded by limited resources, with only 48 schools for the blind serving 6.5% of visually impaired children, alongside a shortage of trained teachers and prohibitively expensive Braille displays. To address these challenges, the EIBraille Box was developed as a cost-effective and accessible tool enabling visually impaired individuals to practice Braille independently. The device utilizes electromagnetic field generation based on Lenz's Law and electromagnetic induction, employing copper coils and varying currents to drive a Braille dot display mechanism controlled by a microcontroller. Results show the device achieves an average display rate of 30–120 milliseconds per cell and a Braille dot-changing frequency of 3–20 cycles per second. The production cost is reduced from 11,660 USD to 87 USD—over 130 times more affordable—while maintaining performance comparable to traditional mechanisms. Additionally, the device integrates with a web application aligned with the Ministry of Education's curriculum to enhance learning. The EIBraille Box is planned for deployment across 48 schools affiliated with the Northern School for the Blind. Plans include extending access to individuals unable to attend schools via alternative distribution channels. This project stores high capacity to achieve global reach by partnering with the World Blind Union, extending its services to rural areas and ensuring access for underprivileged communities. This effort seeks to promote literacy among the blind on a worldwide scale. This innovation strives to enhance equity for the visually impaired by enabling blind individuals to participate in inclusive educational environments alongside their peers. It aims to eradicate the challenges of illiteracy and ensure equitable access to quality education.

Synthesis of fluconazole analogues with focusing on resistant strains Candida

Fungal infections, particularly those caused by resistant strains like Candida auris and Candida glabrata, pose a significant threat to global health. The widespread use of azole antifungals, such as fluconazole, has driven the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains, undermining the efficacy of existing treatments. These challenges necessitate the development of novel antifungal agents with enhanced activity and reduced resistance profiles. To address resistance mechanisms, we designed and synthesized hybrid molecules combining triazole and thiazolidine-2,4-dione (TZD) pharmacophores. This strategy leverages dual mechanisms of action: inhibiting fungal CYP51, a key enzyme in ergosterol biosynthesis, and disrupting fungal cell wall integrity. The structural versatility of hybrid molecules allows for targeted modifications to enhance antifungal potency, binding specificity, and pharmacokinetics. Using a stepwise synthetic approach, triazole-containing piperazine derivatives were first prepared and coupled with TZD-based carboxylic acids via optimized condensation reactions. The structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed through advanced spectroscopic methods, including 1D/2D NMR and high-resolution mass spectrometry. The antifungal activity of these hybrids was evaluated in vitro against clinical and reference strains of Candida spp. and Aspergillus fumigatus. Among the synthesized compounds, 6a demonstrated notable activity against Candida parapsilosis (MIC 0.06 μg/mL), comparable to voriconazole. Compound 4b exhibited moderate activity against C. parapsilosis (MIC 1–2 μg/mL) and A. fumigatus (MIC 8 μg/mL). However, most compounds showed limited efficacy against highly resistant strains such as C. albicans 8R and C. krusei. This study highlights the potential of hybrid triazole-TZD molecules in overcoming resistance and improving antifungal efficacy. While promising, further optimization is required to broaden the spectrum of activity and enhance efficacy against multidrug-resistant pathogens. These findings contribute to the growing field of antifungal drug development, emphasizing hybrid approaches as a viable solution for combating fungal resistance.