News--Welcome to National Chiayi University

　　“Science in Chiayi” popular science exhibition takes place at Chiayi Cultural & Creative Industries Park (former Chiayi Distillery) from March 21st to April 22nd. Products deriving from teacher research results and academic-industrial cooperation in National Chiayi University are on display. On the first floor of the exhibition is “Science & Local Industries in Chiayi,” in which NCYU showcases the results of academic research, a combination with local characteristics, as well as academic-industrial collaboration, with a focus on precision agriculture and biotechnology.

　　In his studies on “high protein fermented feed,” Chen Guo-Long, chairman of the Department of Animal Science, NCYU, uses Bacillus subtilis compliant with GRAS to ferment soybean meal, which, after drying, is crushed to powder and added to animal diets. Bacillus subtilis fermentation products are helpful in modulating the immune system, improving the health and production functions of the host. The exhibition aims to introduce the public to today's agricultural method of enhancing the efficiency and growth of livestock, as opposed to the traditional approach based on the adoption of growth hormone, and also to enhance their confidence in food safety.

　　Also showcased are the results of Phalaenopsis breeding by the Phalaenopsis R & D Team, and breeding of new varieties of Tuberose by the Flower Research Team. In addition to flower displays, poster presentations are also available to help further the visitors' understanding of breeding of Phalaenopsis and new varieties of Tuberose, arouse their interest in flowers, and thus encouraging the public to regard flowers as a part of their life.

　　Zhuang Hui-Wen, chairman of the Department of BioAgricultural Science, NCYU, is dedicated to research on plant growth, and his research findings are exhibited in two parts: “application of soybean peptides in promoting the growth of tomatoes” and “application of nano silver in preserving fresh cut Lisianthus.” According to his findings, substance can be used to inhibit the growth of plants. The storage time of plants can be extended by way of applying nano silver coating on the cut area. When implemented in flower export shipment, the technique allows the flower crops to delay blossoming until reaching the destination, largely enhancing the production and marketing for flower growers.

　　 After testing more than one hundred bacteria, Lu Ying-Zhen, assistant professor of the Department of Food Science, NCYU, selected fermented strains with good flavor to develop vegetarian soybean yogurt. Without cholesterol and lactose, soybean yogurt is an alternative to the milk fermented yogurt commonly seen on the market, ensuring a high intake of probiotics and cellulose for people who are vegetarian, or intolerant to lactose.

　　The teacher research team from the Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, NCYU, carries out academic-industrial cooperation with the local company Shun Tong Wine in developing optimal fermentation conditions and improving distillation processes. By means of improved distillation processes, they utilize Alishan Oolong and Taikeng No. 9 and other quality agricultural products as materials in producing premium wine that meets the popular taste. “NCYU Alishan Oolong Wine” is the culmination of their efforts, as well as the results of innovative research and development on the parts of local industries and academic institutions.

　　Lien Zhen-Chang, associate professor from the Department of Biomechatronic Engineering, NCYU, develops biogas combustion hot water insulation system for pig farms based on the use of renewable energy in livestock production. After heated by methane combustion, the water will flow through the pipes in the aluminum alloy thermal conductivity plates inside the piglet incubators. The resulting heat will generate radiant heat that warms the air, achieving the effect of keeping piglets warm. This technique meets the policy of saving energy and reducing carbon emissions, and the trend of renewable green energy.

　　Guo Jian-Xian, assistant professor of the Department of Aquatic Biosciences, adopts new degeneration technique of modern molecular biology in creating all-male strains of Taiwan tilapia. By reaching an up to 100% all-male ratio of Taiwan tilapia strains, and producing drug-free quality seedlings, the technology helps boost the interests of the tilapia aquaculture industry in Taiwan.
By promoting techniques in agriculture, fishery and animal husbandry in a public-friendly way, the exhibition demonstrates practical research results by NCYU teachers. One and all are welcome to visit the grand event.