A nationwide cohort study in Taiwan examined the impact of lipid-modifying agents on mortality risks among individuals with schizophrenia. Utilizing data from the National Health Insurance Research Database, the study found that lipid-modifying agents, particularly statins and fibrates, were associated with significantly reduced risks of all-cause, natural, and suicide mortality. The study highlighted the potential protective effects of these agents, possibly due to their lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The findings suggest that lipid-modifying agents could play a crucial role in reducing mortality risks, especially in schizophrenia patients with comorbid cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases. Despite some limitations, such as lack of data on actual medication adherence and lifestyle factors, the study underscores the importance of cardioprotective care in this population.

The study analyzes the antimicrobial susceptibility of E. coli isolates from intra-abdominal infections in the Asia-Pacific region between 2014 and 2018, highlighting significant regional variations in resistance patterns. The Study for Monitoring Antimicrobial Resistance Trends (SMART) program provided data showing that carbapenems remain highly effective, while ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin exhibit the lowest susceptibility rates. The study emphasizes the need for prudent use of fluoroquinolones and ceftriaxone, particularly in India, Thailand, and Vietnam, where resistance is notably high. The findings underscore the importance of regional epidemiology in guiding empirical antibiotic therapy.

The study explores the effective unidirectional wetting of liquids on multi-gradient, bio-inspired surfaces created through 3D printing and surface modification. Inspired by natural structures like spider silk and cactus barbs, the research demonstrates how specific patterns can enhance liquid movement on surfaces. The study employs 3D printing technology combined with plasma treatment and polymer grafting to fabricate surfaces that allow water droplets to travel significant distances, even against gravity. The findings have potential applications in microfluidic devices, drug delivery, and water collection systems.

Energy efficiency is crucial for reducing energy consumption in industrial processes. This study presents a mathematical programming model for optimizing heat exchanger networks (HENs) to improve heat recovery and minimize utility consumption. Applied to an ethylene glycol production plant in Taiwan, the model shows significant potential for steam savings, though practical constraints like space limitations and hazardous matches must be considered. The optimized HEN design achieves up to 91% steam savings, with ongoing evaluations for feasibility and economic benefits. Future work will extend the approach to other plants and focus on optimizing utility systems with time-dependent supply and demand.

The study analyzes the incidence rates and risk factors of self-reported short-term adverse events following COVID-19 vaccine booster doses in Taiwan. Data from Taipei Veterans General Hospital indicates that adverse events are more common among women and younger individuals, with the brand of vaccine being a significant factor. The mRNA1273 vaccine showed higher adverse event rates compared to BNT162b2 and MVC-COV1901. Despite the prevalence of adverse events, most were non-serious, aiding in informed decision-making for booster vaccinations.

The diabolical ironclad beetle (Phloeodes diabolicus) possesses an exceptionally tough exoskeleton, enabling it to withstand various physical pressures. Research by Rivera et al., published in Nature, uncovers the beetle's crush resistance through advanced microscopy, mechanical testing, and computer simulations. The study reveals that the beetle's exoskeleton's toughness is due to layered, jigsaw-like joints and diverse support structures connecting its parts.

The article explores the morphological diversity and multifunctional adaptations of shark skin denticles, highlighting their potential applications in various fields. It provides a comprehensive review of the current understanding of shark skin structure and its implications for biomimetic designs, particularly in reducing drag and enhancing material properties.

A 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of low-dose metformin on metabolic traits in clozapine-treated schizophrenia patients with pre-existing metabolic abnormalities. Conducted at Taipei Medical University–Wan Fang Hospital and Taipei City Psychiatric Center, the study found that metformin at 1000 mg/d significantly decreased body weight and BMI after 12 weeks, while 500 mg/d had a significant effect on BMI but not on body weight. No significant changes were observed in other metabolic parameters. The study suggests that longer-term treatment and larger sample sizes are needed to further explore the benefits of metformin in this patient population.