News

Big Data Confirms that Methylphenidate is good for reducing ADHD Mortality in the Long Term

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder in children and adolescents, significantly impacting cognitive learning and social interactions. Methylphenidate (MPH) is the primary pharmacological treatment for ADHD; however, parents’ concerns about potential side effects, including self-harm and suicide, have posed substantial challenges for clinical management. Professor Tzu-Chi Lee from the Department of Health Promotion and Health Education at National Taiwan Normal University has pioneered research in Taiwan to clarify the relationship between MPH use and mortality rates. The findings reveal that individuals who use MPH exhibit lower overall mortality rates compared to those who do not. Additionally, earlier initiation of MPH treatment following an ADHD diagnosis, as well as long-term use of the medication, is associated with further reductions in mortality risk.

Distinguished Lectures Series Showcases Global Expertise

NTNU officially launched its "Distinguished Lecturers Series," with 11 world renowned scholars from diverse fields, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and the humanities. The November and December 2024 lectures include Professor C.-T. James Huang (Harvard University), Professor Riichiro Saito (Tohoku University), and Professor Nai-Chang Yeh (Caltech). These lectures, delivered in English, are open for in-person attendance to students, faculty, and researchers across Taiwan and are globally accessible via online streaming. The program will expand in 2025 to include lectures by Nobel Laureates and other prominent academics.

NTNU Achieves Benchmark Status in MOE Bilingual Initiative

On November 8, National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) was designated a "Benchmark University" for the "Bilingual Education for Students in Higher Education Program" by the Ministry of Education (MOE), recognizing NTNU's exceptional achievements in bilingual education. Since the 2021 academic year, NTNU has been acknowledged by the MOE as a key institution for bilingual education through its diligent implementation of the Bilingual Education for Students in College (BEST) program. This latest recognition, secured alongside the "University-wide Benchmark Program" grant, underscores NTNU’s effective and strategic progress in advancing bilingual education.

How two-dimensional nano materials can help perovskite solar cells

Traditional solar cells primarily use silicon as its main material. However, with rapid advancements in technology, perovskite solar cells—a third-generation technology with lower costs and shorter production times—are now considered the most promising alternative to silicon-based solar cells. Professor Wen-Chin Lin of the Department of Physics at National Taiwan Normal University leads a research team that is actively exploring the potential of perovskite materials. They are attempting to combine ferromagnetic metals with perovskite, but achieving a stable bond between these two distinct materials presents a significant challenge. To overcome this, the team has successfully used two-dimensional materials to address surface tension issues, offering new insights into semiconductor material research.

Yu-Kai Chang Named International Fellow by National Academy of Kinesiology

Yu-Kai Chang from NTNU’s Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, has been named an International Fellow by the prestigious National Academy of Kinesiology (NAK), USA. At 47, Chang is the youngest recipient of this distinction in 2024, recognizing his pioneering research and significant contributions to the field of kinesiology.