Innovation for the Mankind

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University The products of great interest are natural Expansion of the research results is an im-rubber pillows and mattresses. The technology and portant step to achieve a broader benefit. For thisinvestment for these products are not very high. How- reason, a pilot plant to produce “Creamed naturalever, the concentrated natural rubber latex, which is rubber latex” was established at Nongkrok Coop-the main raw material, needs to be provided by the erative Limited, Nongprue Sub-district, Rassada dis-concentrated latex industry. trict, Trang Province. The fresh natural rubber latex Thus, research challenge is to find “A simple from the surrounding area was used to produce theprocess of producing concentrated latex without concentrated latex by the creaming process. The ca-the requirements of advanced technology and high pacity was about 1,500 kg per day. Transferring theinvestment costs, low energy consumption, use of research results into the community is the researchthe material within the local area, and highly skilled goal. Making pillows and mattresses from creamedoperators”. natural rubber latex can also provide products with One of the interesting methods for prepara- high quality equal to the concentrated latex obtainedtion of concentrated natural latex for this research from the established industry.project is the creaming process due to the ease ofthe preparation and process. The process starts bypreserving the field natural rubber latex by ammonia,eliminating the magnesium, and ending with mixingthe latex with a creaming agent. In this research, different types and concen-trations of hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) were usedas creaming agents. It was found that HEC gradeHHRP250 at 0.4-0.5% by weight of dry rubber pro-vided the best separation effect.42

The success or distinction Innovation for the Mankindof this research project is that theresearch results can meet the goals In order to see other benefits of this concen-and objectives. trated latex, further research on the possibility of making a water reservoir or pond was conducted“The benefits not only re- by spraying the mixture of concentrated latex and duce the cost of concen- chemicals on canvas used as support and reinforce- trated latex production ment for a water reservoir. Furthermore, joint and produce a value-add- research was also conducted on the anti-washout ed final product but also properties at a riverside during the flooding season enhance the value of the and the results revealed that the use of the mixture fresh latex and strength- provided good anti-washout characteristics.”en the enterprise of the The technology of making creamed natural community. rubber latex has received much interest from many community enterprises, community cooperatives, and SMEs. They aim to use the research results to make enhanced value-added products from para rubber in their communities. Strengthening the agricultural sector of the country is one of the sustainable models for solving the problems of para rubber which is in accordance with the government policy. Awards 2010 - Outstanding Researcher Award from Thailand Research Fund (TRF) 2014 - Outstanding Research Award from TRF 2014 - Copper Award in Agriculture and Food from Inventions Geneva Salon International des Genies Inventions Asst. Prof. Azizon Kaesaman E-mail: [email protected] Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charoen Nakason, Asst. Prof. Dr. Adisai Rungvichani- wat and Mr. Somkit Srisuwun Natural Rubber Innovation Research Institute 43

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University Doctor N Medigel Doctor N Medigel is an surgery). Pres-innovative para rubber gel for sure sores are frequentlypressure sore prevention and encountered in the coccyx, head,relief and is the achievement of face, shoulders, elbow, back, hip,research conducted at Prince legs, and heel areas. Prevention isof Songkla University by better than treatment for pressureAsst. Prof. Nalinee Kovitwa- sores because the costs of care andnawong,MD Anesthesiologist treatment are rather high. Theyand head of the research also require personnel. Therefore,project from the Faculty of pressure sore prevention is betterMedicine, and Dr. Nattapong than treatment and quality mate-Nithi-Uthai, from the Faculty of rials with preventive characteristicsScience and Technology, Prince should be selected.of Songkla University. Doctor NMedigel is for the prevention andrelief of pressure sores causedby external pressure on the skin,particularly at a tubercle which isa rounded projection of a bone.Pressure sores are found in patientswith paralysis, paresis or brokenbones and in severely ill patientswho are unable to turn over con-veniently. Patients at particularrisk for pressure sores are theelderly, malnourished, diabetics,heavy smokers, and postoperativepatients exceeding two hours (e.g.,patients who undergo a majorsurgery such as cardiovascular44

Doctor N Medigel Innovation for the Mankindis a Thai research achieve-ment and it is a 100% natural 45para rubber product withits inherent propertiesof toughness, resistance, highelasticity, stability, and shaperetention when used for longperiods of time, malleability,and strong softness as needed.Natural rubber offers goodventilation and does not re-tain heat like synthetic rubberor other materials. It is alsoantibacterial, which makes itdifferent from synthetic rub-ber and it is water-resistant.The research included a studyof the properties of para rub-ber in effectively reducingand distributing pressure, theability to adjust softness andviscoelastic properly similarto polyurethane in which themolecular structure is modifiedby a special production methodthat makes it similar to a gel.Its special features are highelasticity, ability to help preventand relieve pressure sores, andgood ability to reduce pressuresore incidence at various partsof the body with tubercles. Theproduct can be used as neededby ordinary people who arechronically ill and not able tohelp themselves in turning overor changing position. Doctor NMedigel is also useful for hos-pital patients who are at riskfor developing pressure soressuch as patients who have beenanesthetized and have under-gone surgery that exceededtwo hours.

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University Doctor N Medigel canreplace more expensive materialsthat need to be imported fromoverseas. This product for pres-sure sore prevention and reliefis an achievement supported bymedical research to help patientswhile reducing the incidence ofpressure sores. The product hasreceived numerous awards bothdomestically and abroad such asthe Gold Awards of InnovationGuarantee from Geneva, Swit-zerland in 2014 and the awardfor research that is useful forcommunities in 2009.Research Findings and Testing Standards Award Doctor N Medigel was tested for the ability to reduce Gold Awards of Innovation Guar-pressure using the Flexiforce™ sensor (Tekscan, USA). It was antee from Geneva, Switzerlandtested with weights up to 7.25 kilograms, which is similar to the 2014weight of a patient’s head when lying down on the side. Thevalue obtained was calculated based on the correlation valuebetween the signal and sensor load. Based on the findings,Doctor N Medigel can reduce the incidence of pressure soresby nearly 50%. When used with patients admitted for surgeryexceeding 3 hours (average surgery time = 203.2 minutes), thefindings showed 68.6% of the patients had no skin changesin the areas exposed to the cushion pads. Moreover, 31.4% ofthe patients who were found to have minor skin breakage andpressure sores in the areas exposed to the cushion pads wereable to return to normal conditions within 30−60 minutes. Asst. Prof. Nalinee Kovitwanawong,MD1 E-mail: [email protected] Dr. Nattapong Nithi-Uthai2 Faculty of Medicine1, Faculty of Science and Technology246

“Innovation of Innovation for the MankindColostomy Appliancefrom Deproteinised”Natural RubberColorectal cancer (CRC) is will have a better quality of life. colostomy appliance is comprised one of the most common However, some patients may re- of a skin barrier and a colostomy cancer-related diseases ob- quire additional medical assistance bag which can be cleaned and re-served in Thailand. The number of for the rest of their lives, including used. However, the main problemCRC patients is rising and seems to a colostomy bag after receiving of using a colostomy applianceincrease dramatically every year. colorectal surgery. This surgical is insufficient supply. PatientsHowever, advances in technology operation provides patients with are unable to obtain the limitedfor the diagnosis of colorectal an alternative channel for feces number of colostomy appliancescancer, and the associated medical to leave the patient’s body instead supplied by the government. Eventreatment methodologies, have of the normal route. This surgical so, the colostomy appliance itselfbeen continuously developed operation is called a colostomy. is expensive. Other complicationswhich has resulted in rapid detec- Patients who have had a that arise during the use of ation of the disease and in more colostomy must release the fecal colostomy appliance include skineffective medical treatment than waste through this alternative rashes and degeneration of theever before. Due to better diag- channel due to the lack of an anal colostomy appliance itself whichnosis and medical treatment meth- sphincter muscle which results in results in unpleasant odors whichodologies, patients are able to live an uncontrollable release of fe- will directly affect the quality oflonger than in the past and some ces and gas from the colon. The life of the patients. 47

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University Between 2013 and 2015, in order to reduce the cost of National Research Council of Thai-Songklanagarind Hospital used production, facilitate domestic land for the development and useimported colostomy appliances spending, and provide material of the colostomy appliance. More-from two foreign vendors at a most suitable for the skin of Thai over, we also received supportcost of approximately 122−188 people. The research team is de- from the Regional Science ParkTHB (3.75−5.76 USD) per unit de- veloping natural rubber products (Prince of Songkla University), thepending on the commercial brand for colostomy appliances using Research and Development Officeand size of the bag. Patients or proteinised natural rubber. Our (Prince of Songkla University), thetheir relatives must contact and network includes the Faculty of Plastic Institute of Thailand and thetravel to the hospital monthly in Medicine, the Nursing Service Divi- Thai Food and Drug Administra-order to purchase new colostomy sion Songklanagarind Hospital, the tion. In addition, we collaboratedbags which are available only in Faculty of Science and the Faculty with external units such as Novateca central hospital. Accordingly, of Pharmacy at Prince of Songkla Inc. for the natural rubber process,the total annual estimated cost University. With this collaboration, SK-Polymers Inc. for the skin barri-of the imported appliance for pa- we have invented a rubber treat- er while the plastic beads for thetients in Thailand is approximately ment process for a product which colostomy bag were produced by4,664,678 THB (142,825.41 USD), is effective, safe, and non-irritat- PTT Global Chemical. The formingnot including travel expenses, ac- ing to the patient. The process is of the colostomy bag was donecommodations and cost of time for registered for a patent while the by TBPI Public Company Limited,patients and their relatives. design of the colostomy appliance and the Neoplast Company Ltd. Consequently, our research is registered for a petty patent. fused the plastic panel with theteam has aimed to solve the above This project was undertaken over skin barrier part. The assemblyproblems by searching for alterna- a period of three years (2013-2015) process, standardization processtive materials. The material must using research grants from the and business plan were performedbe manufactured within Thailand Faculty of Medicine and the by Novatec Inc.48

Innovation for the MankindLast but not least, all b e n e fi t s f r o m t h e development of this appliance will go directly to patients that will result in equal access to the service, increased quality of life, and filling the inequality gap between patients. The use of our inventive colostomy appliances from deproteinised natural rubber will reduce the budget for the government, reduce losses to the economy, and also create long term stability for all the involved business sectors.Asst. Prof. Worrawit Wanichsuwan,MDE-mail: [email protected] of Medicine 49

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University Thermoplastic Natural Rubber for Forensic Applications Nowadays, Thai crime addition, imported casting mate- scene investigators collect 3-D im- rials are expensive. Our research pressions of evidence using several group has developed the “Ther- techniques such as casting with moplastic Natural Rubber for 3-D plaster, clay, or silicone putty to Tracing”, to collect 3-D evidence copy tool marks. These methods (i.e. tool marks and human im- are complicated, require a lengthy pressions) which was proven to time to set, and the copied marks overcome these limitations for use are at risk of being damaged. In at a crime scene.50

Innovation for the Mankind“Thermoplastic Natural Rubber can be trans- formed with heat at ap- proximately 75ºC to form a clay-like soft putty that can be pressed on the marks to be investigated. After 10 seconds, the Thermoplastic Natural Rub- ber cools down while imprint- ing the marks of the evidence to create a mold which forensic investigators can use to make a copy and identify the evi- dence. This mold will maintain its shape until it is exposed to 75°C heat. For forensic applica- tions, it can be used for bullet holes, cracks, and damaged spots from small tools as well as human identification from the fingerprints and teeth of a corpse. 51

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University The positive features of the Thermoplastic Natural Rubber “include its ability to create a 3-dimensional im- print and mold which can be used in crime scene investigations. It is easy to employ, fast setting, and high quality. It can create multiple copies of the marks and will maintain its original imprint. The rubber-like mold is easy for users to carry and transport for further investigation in the laboratory and it is reusable. In addition, this in- novative product promotes the use of Thai natural rubber. Due to its low cost of materials, the Thermoplastic Natural Rubber is attractive and competitive for the development of commercial products related to 3-D imprinting in many fields. In addition to forensic investigations, it can be developed into products for various uses, such as medical and sport applications, environ- mental field research, and maintenance work in the construction industry. Asst. Prof. Dr. Ekwipoo Kalkornsurapranee This research work holds petty patent no.11992 E-mail: [email protected] and has received international and domestic awards for Faculty of Science innovation, including awards from the Malaysian Associ- ation of Research Scientist (MARS) Malaysia, Silver Medal52 of Innovation from the Korean Invention Promotion As- sociation (KIPA), Special Prize for Invention for Prosperity by National Research of Thailand Committee (NRTC), and First Prize of Commercial Innovation from the Ministry of Science and Technology and Regional Science Park.

Innovation for the Mankind Smoked Sheet Rubber Production with Co-firing of Firewood and BiogasProduced from Wastewater Treatmentfor Cost Reduction and Environmental Sustainability Thailand is the number one sheet are produced daily during facilities are not effective andproducer and exporter of natural the 6 to 8 months of the harvest sufficient to properly treat therubber in the world. Ninety per- season, which causes point source wastewater which always drawscent of its exported rubber is in water pollution. Throughout the complaints. Furthermore, cost ofthe forms of smoked sheet rubber, country of Thailand approximately energy to produce smoked sheetblock rubber, and concentrated 350 CRSFs are capable of produc- rubber mainly from firewood is stilllatex. Smoked sheet rubber is ing from 200,000 to 300,000 tons a big burden for the CRSFs, and inuniquely produced by the grass per annum. The resultant water some months of the year there isroot farmers at cooperative rubber pollution also causes disturbing insufficient firewood.smoked sheet factories (CRSFs). odors for the nearby communities.In each CRSF, 2-3 tons of rubber The existing wastewater treatment 53

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University In 2006, our research search team conducted a full eval- months of leaf shedding of the team initiated a study on the uation project for the appropriate rubber trees) and resume full op- lab-scale application of anaerobic anaerobic treatment at the CRSFs eration immediately without extra treatment for the CRSFs in with the possible use of a co-sub- care. The capture and utilization order to evaluate the potential strate from animal manure. The re- of methane by our system could of biogas production from the sults from this study gave necessary reduce greenhouse gas emissions wastewater of rubber sheet and solid information to the CRSF by approximately 48.3 tonnes CO2 production. In 2009 as a result groups, related governmental Eq/yr/CRSF. Currently, the system of our study, the first full scale bodies such as the Rubber Coop- has been installed in 25 CRSFs biogas production and utiliza- erative Aid Fund (the mandated throughout the country that ben- tion system was constructed authority looking over all CRSFs), efits around 7,500 CRSF member at the Ban Kao-Rang CRSF in Ministry of Energy, and Ministry farmers. Continuous interests from Songkhla Province. The ensuing of Industry to have full confidence CRSFs have been filed with the operation and optimization for in deploying this technology. The university and our team has sur- biogas use in combination with design of zero energy input for veyed over 30 CRSFs. The standard firewood was conducted which system operation, ease of mainte- design of the system is placed on yielded the first workable proto- nance by the farmers themselves, the website of PSU Energy Systems col for this industry. It resulted durability, safety of use, and most Research Institute for the CSRFs in a higher quality and lighter importantly the 30% reduction of who have an interest. The results color of smoked rubber sheets, firewood could compound savings prove from long term operation ease of operation for the smoke in the range of 100,000-300,000 that this system can be integrated room controller by cutting down baht per annum at a CRSF. This as a standard in smoked rubber the firewood loading frequency, system could also endure the sheet production of the country. and ultimately a reduction of annual shutdown of CRSF (2-3 firewood use. This application not only virtually eliminated the disturbing smell from CRSF wastewater, but also enabled the use of biogas for rubber smoking and cooking for the workers. The cost of heat for smoking was reduced with improved public perceptions, environmental quality, and product quality. However, the long-term prospect of this application still needs thorough investigation in order to spread this application to the rest of the CRSFs in the country. In the year 2012, our re-54

“ At present, our re- Innovation for the Mankind search team is conduct- ing studies on the efflu- ent from the installed biogas system in CRSFs as a plant growth promoting substance, which could add value to the biogas system, and the complete utilization of the natural resource from rubber. Our research team would like to recognize the financial support received from the Thailand Research Fund, Elec- tric Generating Authority of Thailand, Energy Policy and Planning Office, Ministry of Energy, Rubber Authority of Thailand, and all of the sup- porting authorities that may not be mentioned here who helped make this research and its extension possible. We hope this application can further spread and benefit the country in the long term.Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sumate Chaiprapat1,2E-mail: [email protected]. Prof. Dr. Thunwadee Techapattaworakul3and Isara Rakngam3Energy Systems Research Institute1,Faculty of Engineering2, andFaculty of Environmental Management3 55

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University Flood Early Warning SystemsEvery year, the northeast mon- the floods are inevitable in these this project, flood early warning soon results in heavy rainfall areas, flood damage can be systems for Klong Na Thawi andin Songkhla Province from Oc- reduced effectively by using a Klong Phumi watersheds weretober to January. In very wet flood early warning system. The developed in order to enhanceyears, floods occur in the flood system allows civilians to be able the flood preparedness capabilityplain areas of every watershed to promptly prepare and flood of the people in these areas.in the province. Even though, damage can be minimized. In56

Innovation for the Mankind Flood early warning is made possible by application. Solar cells are used as source of ener-using the water stage and time relationship from gy for these two devices. The flood early warningupstream to downstream. The main principle is for Klong Na Thawi and Klong Phumi watershedsthat when a high water stage occurs upstream, it can be accessed online at www.nadrec.psu.ac.th,will soon cause a high water stage downstream. at which, real time water stage reading and waterThe streamflow evaluation system for flood early stage images are shown for every station fromwarning in this project includes ultrasonic sensors upstream to downstream. The water stage imagefor real time water stage measurement and outdoor is embedded with a flag symbol with the colors ofinternet protocol cameras for water stage images green, yellow or red indicating the status of floodthat allow the process of self-monitoring via a web warning. 57

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University For the Klong Na Thawi Dang station in the upstreamwatershed, three telemetering area exceeds +5.00 m, the down-stations were installed at the stream areas of the RattaphumBan Pa Kan station, Talad Na district will be flooded within 5−7Thawi station, and Ban Klong hours.Leuk station from upstream tothe downstream areas. The water The flood early warningstage and time relationship for systems for Klong Na Thawi andthe flood early warning system Klong Phumi watersheds havefor these stations is as follows: 1) been successfully implemented.When the upstream water stage The local residents are continu-exceeds +6.50 m within 4−5 ously trained to use the system.hours, the Na Thawi downtown The system was awarded “bestarea will be flooded; 2) For the work for the benefit of localKlong Phumi watershed, when people” from Prince of Songklathe water stage at Ban Kaun Din University in 2014. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tanit Chalermyanont E-mail: [email protected] Assistant Prof. Dr. Tanan Chub-uppakarn Southern Natural Disaster Research Center, Faculty of Engineering58

Innovation for the Mankind Treatment of Industrial and Urban Wastewater by a Biological Processwith Algae and the Water Flea “Wastewater treatment in factories, especially factories which are in- volved in rubber process- ing, fisheries and aquacul- ture, traditionally implement the method of continuous aeration into the wastewater pond prior to the sedimen- tation process. The treated water is then discharged to the oxidation pond before being released to the external environment. It is commonly perceived that the management and treat- ment of wastewater through the aforementioned method involves significant operation costs which leave no added value to the proprietor. Fur- thermore, the method may also consequentially lead to hazardous outcomes to natural bodies of water if not handled properly which leaves unwanted residues in the external environment. 59

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University Wastewater from the rubber processing industry The rubber industry is one of the most prominent industries in the country. The sources of wastewater related to the pro- cessing of rubber vary accordingly to the nature of the production process. For example, wastewater is produced from centrifugation of the field natural rubber latex that contains about 60% rubber. A byproduct from the centrifugation is “skim latex” which consists of some remaining rubber particles which will be further separated by the addition of sulfuric acid before the water is discharged into the treatment system. Additionally, wastewater is also generated in the rubber sheet industry and in the production of rubber cup-lump. The methodology of separating rubber from the latex is similar to the stated process. It is also feasible to add formic acid into the latex to make the rubber coagulate, which will then go through the process- ing steps while the wastewater derived from the process needs to be treated in the factory. Biological process of wastewater treatment Wastewater from rubber pro- decay strongly implies that microor- cessing that is left untouched under ganisms can decompose substances natural conditions results in fermen- and change the properties in waste- tation of the organic substances water, especially the color and odor. caused by the natural cycle of de- Therefore, it is recommended that composability from microorganisms, biological processes could be used to which undoubtedly leads to a putrid manage wastewater by adapting an stench that may disperse into the appropriate biological process accord- surrounding areas. This phenomenon ing to the condition of the wastewater may cause annoyances to irrelevant without bearing any negative conse- third-parties. However, this state of quences to the environment.60

Innovation for the Mankind“The essential principle of waste- the treatment process will notably water treatment process starts show an improved water qualityby passing wastewater through the that is ready to be released to thestage of decomposition of organic external environment or it cansubstances by microorganisms. also be recirculated to clean theThe fermented water is then used factory once again. The resultingas a fertilizer to stimulate the zooplankton can be used directlygrowth of microalgae, Chlorella in as live feed for the aquacultureparticular, which will then be fi- industry or it can be released intonally removed from the treatment the natural water system to helpsystem by the grazing of a small create fertility and sustainabilityzooplankton, the water flea (Moi- of aquatic natural resources andna spp.). The final product from environments.Rubber wastewater for social and environmental benefits There are various advan- organisms can flourish. The final Asst. Prof. Dr. Chonlatee Cheewasedthamtages from utilizing the biological product from the wastewater E-mail: [email protected] of wastewater treatment treatment process, in addition to Assist. Prof. Dr. Wilairat Cheewasedthammentioned above. For example, recycling water back to the fac- Faculty of Science and Technologythe method aids the reduction of tory, also provides zooplanktonenergy consumption thus leading that can be used for economic andto a more cost-efficient form of environmental benefits, to servewastewater treatment. Further- mainly as a protein source formore, the water quality of treat- animal feed for both aquacultureed wastewater is homologous to industries and natural environ-natural water sources where living ments. 61

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla UniversityA DrivenModel of Multicultural Education-oriented School intoPractices multicultural education-oriented ment is needed on community-re-“The government has launched school development have become lations building and professional strategies to promote na- not only challenging issues but skills on multicultural education tionalism and a multicul- also lack a good management for the faculty and staff. tural society in the five southern model, especially in terms of The researchers conducted border provinces of Thailand policy. All related stakeholders the study in a primary school by addressing the educational need to be engaged to formulate under the jurisdiction of Pattani management provision that fits and implement a concrete policy municipality. Located in different the ways of life, traditions, and mainly on multicultural education- cultures, the school is surrounded beliefs of people in the region so al management and instructional by Thai-Muslim fishery commu- that they can live peacefully in a practices that reflect multicultural nities with slightly low economic diverse culture. This includes the education. Furthermore, develop- backgrounds and poor families. utilization of the existing cultural assets so as to develop the region to be a creative society. Under the developed strategies, schools play significant roles in transforming them into practices in terms of administrative and instructional management that reflects multi- cultural education. The concepts of62

Innovation for the MankindThis school serves Thai Buddhist, and diversity of teachers and vided different forms of teachingThai Muslim, Burmese, and Cam- students. The outstanding point and learning especially those thatbodian students. of the school was the courage to focus on cultural skills such as the Under the general affairs, write its school sign in tulisan Rumi promotion of traditional customsthe school established a new and in the Thai language which of Buddhists and Muslims as well asworkload unit for teachers called was initially resisted by the Thai emphasis on the five outstanding“multicultural education” which Buddhist communities. However, cultural activities including Dikirwas different from other schools they later accepted it after the an- Barat (Malay traditional dramaticin the area. In addition, the multi- nouncement that the school vision performance), Wau bulan (Malay-cultural education-oriented school is to focus on being a multicultural sian moon-kite)), traditional fabricpolicy was implemented to align education-oriented school in the folding, traditional desserts, andwith the identities of the school area. Furthermore, the school pro- three forms of cultural music (Thai, Chinese, and Malayu). 63

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University This study revealed the fact that the school had put a lot of effort into Asst. Prof. Dr. Ekkarin Sungtong driving the policies of the government E-mail: [email protected] to promote a pluralistic society and in- Assistant Prof. Dr. Sakkarin Chonpracha, structional management in accordance Kiti Rasadawong and with those policies. However, it still Chalermkiat Somkerd lacked knowledge in terms of systematic Faculty of Education instructional management, curriculum integration, and activity management 64 to reflect a multicultural classroom edu- cation which is the most important part of educational management based on a multicultural education. In addition, school administrators still lacked under- standing and leadership on multicultural education because they thought that it was a complicated issue and consumed time to understand. Discontinuity of the policy implementation, unawareness on multicultural education, and a shortage of instructional practices led to the in- ability to completely strive for a multi- cultural education-oriented school. The findings revealed that the promotion of multicultural education in the school helped administrators and teachers have more cultural understanding, were aware of building a pluralistic society in the classroom, and recognized each other. Schools and public agencies, es- pecially the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center (SBPAC) which exercises authority over the area, should actively promote educational manage- ment based on multicultural education into concrete effectiveness in prac- tice, instructional management, school management, and curriculum develop- ment that fits the identities and ways of life of the people which can respond in the right way in terms of policies that can bring the southern border provinces to peace and accept and respect each other without discrimination in race, language or religion.

Innovation for the MankindGroup Counseling to Enhance Resilience inThai Army Rangers and to Address Mental Healthof Thai Police Officers in an Unrest Situation“Overview of the research: art therapy using the Mandala, This article combines two cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), original research projects. and psychoeducation. Our group One project was group counseling counseling to reduce stress and that was used to enhance the re- support the mental health of the silience of army rangers. The other police officers included the interac- project addressed the stress and tive model of Cognitive Behavioral mental health of police officers Therapy, religious interventions, in an unrest situation. The group the Mandala drawing, and Reality counseling process was the inter- Therapy. The results supported the active model of existential therapy, hypothesis. 65

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University Results: Forty-four volun- tary army rangers were randomly assigned equally to the experi- ment and control groups. They were selected from 384 rangers. The experimental group attend- ed 20 sessions of group counsel- ling. The data analysis indicated that the average scores of those attending the group counsel- ling after the experiment and follow-up were significant. For- ty-two police officers participat- ed in the experiment-controlled trial. They were selected from 416 police officers. The results supported the hypothesis. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doungmani Chongruksa E-mail: [email protected] Lt. Gen. Dr. Sayan Sawatsri and Dr. Chanya Pansomboon Faculty of Education66

Innovation for the Mankind Spotlight: This study hadbenefits for policy making for thearmy and police. The participantsreported honestly on the unfairmistreatment by their commandersamid situations of unrest. This maycall for increased awareness in thecommanders for fairer treatmentof their subordinates. The efficacyof these interventions was sup-ported by the increased resilienceof the Thahan Phran (Rangers)and preventing the developmentof psychological symptoms of thepolice. Awarded: Group counsel-ing of the army rangers receivedthe Educational Research BronzeMedal (2014) from the NationalResearch Council of Thailand andthe Educational Research BronzeMedal (2012) was received fromthe National Research Council ofThailand for group counseling inpolice.Asst. Prof. Penprapa PrinyapolE-mail: [email protected] of Education 67

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University The Power of Storytelling: Relationship Enhancing in a Cross-cultural Area Overview of the research: ing on multicultural understanding foster multicultural understandingThe current unrest in Thailand’s and respect among students of the and respect among Thai-Buddhistfour southernmost provinces has two ethnic groups. The authors and Thai-Muslim students. Thewidened the gap of mistrust and hypothesized that the strategic results supported the hypothesis.prejudice between the Thai-Bud- storytelling program, which in- Implementation is illustrateddhists and Thai-Muslims. This study corporated non-prejudice and as well as a discussion and theexamined the efficacy of storytell- intergroup contact factors, would limitations.68

Innovation for the Mankind 69

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University Distinguished Treatment: We reviewed and decided to follow previous research guidelines. First, we selected the stories that recog- nize and acknowledge unique tradi- tion, customs, and beliefs of various ethnic and racial groups. Secondly, we suggested the selection of a story that has a well-developed plot, be- lievable characters, and the use of humor, drama, and imagination. We also thought of questions to help the participants become aware of their empathic understanding. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doungmani Chongruksa Asst. Prof. Penprapa Prinyapol E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Mr. Yahamasaulaet Wadeng and Faculty of Education Assistant Prof. Chaiwat Padungpong Faculty of Education70

Innovation for the MankindIn addition to the guidelines for storyselection, we took non-prejudicedcomponents and intergroup contactfactors into full consideration. Thatis, the stories that we selected need-ed to meet the two major criteriaof general story selection proposedby the guidelines in addition to be-ing consonant with non-prejudicedcomponents and intergroup contactfactors. Therefore, the selected storiesneeded to display the lesson learnedfrom categorization, self & ethnicidentity, empathy, patience, as wellas the values of justice and dignity. 71

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University Pharmacodynamics of Doripenem in Critically Ill Patients with Ventilator-associated Gram-negative Bacilli pneumonia In the current era of in- Doripenem, a carbapenemcreasing numbers of multidrug-re-sistant bacteria in hospitals, espe- antibiotic, is a ß-lactam antimicro-cially Pseudomonas aeruginosaand Acinetobacter spp. as well as bial agent with a broad spectrumonly a small number of new and of activity. It is approved for theeffective antimicrobial agents, treatment of complicated urinarytreating infections caused by these tract infections and complicatedmicroorganisms is becoming more intra-abdominal infections in thedifficult. One important strategy USA and Europe and is also ap-to deal with this problem is opti- proved for nosocomial pneumoniamising the antimicrobial activity of in Europe. This agent, in commonthe current antibiotics by findingthe optimum dosing strategy. with other ß-lactams, is character-Among the classes of antimicro-bial agents widely prescribed in ized by the time-dependent anti- microbial activity and the exposurenosocomial infections, ß-lactams time during which the free drug concentration remains above theare the most important antibiotics minimum inhibitory concentration,used for coverage of these highly which is the pharmacokinetic/resistant pathogens. pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) index that best correlates with efficacy.72

Innovation for the Mankind The mortality rate of pa-tients with nosocomial pneumo-nia, including ventilator-associatedpneumonia (VAP), remains high.Inappropriate use of antibiotics interms of spectrum of antimicrobialactivity, dosage regimens, frequen-cy of administration, and durationof therapy can cause therapeuticfailure or delayed response incritically ill patients. In addition,PK variations, including increasedvolume of distribution (V) anddrug clearance (CL), of hydrophilicantimicrobial agents in this patientpopulation may occur comparedwith healthy subjects, resultingin fluctuations of plasma con-centrations and the PK/PD index.ศ.นพ.วรี ะศักดิ์ จงส่วู ิวัฒนว์ งศ์ | Email : [email protected] 73 และ คณะ หนว่ ยระบาดวทิ ยา คณะแพทยศาสตร์

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla UniversityThe current study is the first phar- in patients with VAP and com- the two-compartment infusionmacodynamic study of doripenem pare the 1-h and 4-h infusion model used in the study wasin critically ill patients with VAP. A administrations. This study was solved numerically by using theMonte Carlo simulation (MCS) was conducted in patients with VAP Taylor series expansion method.also used to forecast the efficacy admitted into the Intensive Care A MCS was performed to predictof dosage regimens of doripenem. Unit of Songklanagarind Hospital, the efficacy of standard dosageThe aim of the study was to the largest tertiary-care center in regimens (0.5 g q8h) and higherdescribe the population pharma- southern Thailand, from October dosage regimens (1 g q8h and 2 gcokinetics and the probability of 2010 through October 2011. The q8h) of doripenem.target attainment of doripenem differential equation describing74

Innovation for the Mankind The PK study of the cur-rent population found that theV and CL values of doripenemin critically ill patients with VAPwere higher than the results ob-tained from a previous study. Inaddition, against pathogens lesssusceptible to doripenem withMICs >1 μg/mL, the dosage ofdoripenem should be increasedto 1 g q8h. Therefore, the dosageof doripenem for treatment ofsevere infections in this patientpopulation should be higher thanthe standard dosage regimen.Prof. Sutep Jaruratanasirikul,MDE-mail: [email protected] of Infectious Diseasesand Division of Clinical Pharmacology,Faculty of Medicine 75

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla UniversityDevelopment ofa ComputerSystem forStrabismicScreeningandManagement 76

Innovation for the Mankind Strabismus is a condi- with visual impairment can then tecting strabismus nationwide.tion in which the eyes are not be referred to the healthcare sys- The development of theproperly aligned with each other. tem. Those with the best screening values used in the analysis of stra-Strabismus may induce lazy eye ability are the ophthalmologists, es- bismus is from research in normalin children. Early treatment of pecially pediatric ophthalmologists. children who have been screened.strabismus and/or amblyopia in At the present time, there are Thailand has a governmentinfancy can reduce the chance of not enough ophthalmologists policy to screen for refractive errordeveloping a blind eye and depth to provide all of the necessary disorders and provide glasses forperception problems. At the same screenings. Therefore, many chil- children with visual impairments.time, if a child has eye problems dren are not properly treated. If additional imaging is usedsuch as cataracts, short sighted- As part of a project to develop for analysis by computer, it willness or long sightedness, it will a computer system for strabismic be precise and comprehensive.cause strabismus. Eye screening is screening and management, this Community-based screening canimportant in order to detect an innovation was developed to set also be used in community healthabnormal eye condition. Children up an appropriate system for de- clinics. 77

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University The principle of the innovation 78 The innovation is an auto- matic system that detects strabismus and shows the results. The principle is composed of a computer system to evaluate strabismus from photo- graphs that are compared to normal values and produce personal sugges- tion plans, such as eyeglass correction, eye muscle training, see an ophthal- mologist for an eye examination due to the high risk for strabismus, and reexam in a few years in children with low risk for abnormal eyes. The screening starts by getting the basic information (i.e. ID number, name, address, phone number, and birth date). The program begins with images. The users of the program se- lect the images at near or far for the patients to view for the strabismus analysis. The program will detect eye positions such as a central corneal light reflex in order to obtain a ratio that may indicate a deviation from the normal eye. The program is de- signed to detect and make a precise calculation. In addition, the inspectors can also measure visual acuity. Thus, the test results are more accurate. Visual acuity of the right and left eyes is recorded separately. The program analyzes the photograph and is also connected to a series of recommenda- tions prepared by experts, especially concerning strabismus. To display the most appropriate counselling for patients, users can print out a copy of the report. In addition, patient records are stored into an accessible folder with all images and measure- ment results, including recommenda- tions for the patients. The results can be searched from the ID number.

Innovation for the Mankind The advantages of the devices currently on the market disorders of vision, is advised to seeinnovation include automatic that are sold abroad are more an ophthalmologist. Segmentingstrabismic screening and it pro- expensive and need experts for according to the anomaly allowsduces personal suggestions, such analysis. for the distribution of resourcesas eye muscle training, refractive The screening divides peo- according to the needs of eachcorrection or the need to see an ple into 3 groups. The low-risk individual. This innovation willophthalmologist. The innovation is group would normally be advised be a benefit in terms of resourceused by trained professionals for to get eye care and screening in distribution, which will no lon-the early detection of strabismus. the future. The intermediate-risk ger be concentrated in publicThe highlight of the innovation group is likely to be short-sighted hospitals. This innovation can beis the possibility of meeting the or long-sighted and those in this developed further for easy eyecountry’s needs for easy access by group are advised to go for eye screening in young children andgeneral staff who are not neces- glasses. The high-risk group, which to develop a measurement to helpsarily ophthalmic personnel. The is likely to have strabismus and/or ophthalmologists in the hospital.This innovation can be utilized in these situations. The tool can be used in a mobile eye unit. The screening photographs of the students can be done at schools or in the health promotion programs at the hospitals. The screening can be used for young children in hospitals or childcare. The strabismus screening can also be done in the general population. The innovation will help develop more programs to be used on smart phones. The innovation will help develop new innovations to assist oph- thalmologists to measure the strabismus angle.AwardsA gold medal in The 45th International Exhibition of Inventions Assoc. Professor Supaporn Tengtrisorn,MDGeneva, 31 March 2017, Venue Swiss Confederation E-mail: [email protected] Best Innovation Award in Health Software Innovation Contest Faculty of Medicine“ICT Innovations for eHealth and mHealth”, 27 - 29 June 2017,Amari Don Muang Airport Hotel. 79

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla UniversityFormaldehydTest Kit :Simple and RapidFormaldehyde or formalin is a tive, and easy to use test kit was widely used industrial chemical developed for the monitoring ofespecially for the manufacturing formaldehyde in both industrialof adhesives, particle board, furni- and residential settings.ture, dyes, and paper. Indoor and The formaldehyde test kitoutdoor air can be contaminated was developed based on a trans-by formaldehyde because of its parent sol-gel with entrappedrelease from household products acetylacetone that reacts withor during the production process. formaldehyde. The transparent gelFormaldehyde is highly toxic and is turns yellow when exposured toclassified as a human carcinogen. formaldehyde vapor which allowsThus, the monitoring of formalde- for screening by visual detection.hyde in the air is necessary. How- Quantitative measurement canever, the conventional method for easily be done using a spectropho-its detection is still quite expensive. tometer.Therefore, a simple, cost-effec-Advantages of formaldehyde test kit Screening by visual detection when the transparent gel changes to yellow Simple to prepare and low cost Small and easy to handle Direct detection without any post-sample preparation Environmentally friendly using a small amount of a low toxic chemical Good selectivity Can detect formaldehyde at low concentrations80

Innovation for the Mankind The newly developed ration, and convenience. It can be and dye industry. Moreover, theformaldehyde test kit was success- used to detect formaldehyde at formaldehyde test kit can detectfully applied to detect formalde- many sampling points. In addition, formaldehyde in indoor air. Thehyde in the adhesive industry. This this formaldehyde test kit can be maximum exposure concentrationtest kit helped reduce the analysis applied to detect formaldehyde in recommended by the World Healthcost in the adhesive industry due to other places such as the particle Organization is 0.08 ppmv.its cost-effectiveness, simple prepa- board industry, paper industry, 81

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University Awards The Best Invention Award, National Research Council of Thailand (2012). Title “Cost-effective Formaldehyde Test Kit” Gold Prize, Seoul International Invention Fair 2012 (SIIF 2012). Title “Cost-effective Formaldehyde Test Kit” Korea Invention Promotion Association Assoc. Prof. Dr. Proespichaya Kanatharana E-mail: [email protected] Assoc. Prof. Dr. Panote Thavarungkul, Asst. Prof. Dr. Chongdee Buranachai and Asst. Prof. Dr. Opas Bunkoed Trace Analysis and Biosensor Research Center, Faculty of Science 82

Innovation for the Mankind Kratom(Mitragyna speciosa (Korth.) Havil.) Research ProgrammeKratom (Mitragyna speciosa (Korth.) Havil.) is classified in Category V of a 5-category classification of narcotics in theNarcotics Act B.E. 2522 (1979). Since kratom is a local plantand most commonly used by people in the South of Thailandthe research team from Prince of Songkla University becameinterested in carrying out a kratom research programme in2002. The programme covers research dimensions on cultural,behavioural, medical, and social science. 83

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla UniversityThe knowledge derived from our research programme can be summarised as follows. A. Pattern of kratom use and health consequences Traditional Thai kratom to enhance work endurance, for nausea and vomiting, tremblingusers usually use kratom by social functions, and as herbal hands, inability to breathe, havingchewing its fresh leaf and spitting medicine. the impulse to urinate or defe-out the leaf stalk. The amount Most users have expe- cate but can not pass anything,used is 1-3 leaves depending on rienced kratom “intoxication” feeling hot, and perspiring. Thosethe size of the leaf. Some people symptoms the first time if they symptoms might last for 5 minutesuse kratom once a day, some use use a large amount of kratom to 1 day depending on the user’sit every 1-3 hours and some use it continuously, take kratom on health. The symptoms can becontinuously throughout the day an empty stomach or use the self-treated or relieved sponta-and night. Most users use kratom intoxicating type of kratom. The neously through activities suchwith coffee, tea, chocolate drink, intoxication symptoms include as physical exertion to the pointenergy drink, water, and it is fatigue, feeling of stretching, of heavy sweating, drinking coldsmoked as hand-rolled tobacco. numbness, and flushing of face and water or ice, taking a cold bath,Most users are in the working age ears, drowsiness, numb tongue, taking a nap, or eating food thatgroup and report using kratom dizziness and giddiness, headache, includes sour fruit or candy.84

Innovation for the Mankind“ Long-term users were found to have their use behaviours, symptoms, and signs compatible with the international criteria for substance dependence that includes these criteria.• Strong desire/compulsion to use: • Impaired control: It is difficult to Have to chew kratom every day. stop or cut down using kratom. Have to keep kratom with them The person wants to quit but when travelling to other places cannot stop using it causing them to refuse to go else- where if they cannot take kratom with them and it interferes with work and daily functions.• Withdrawal: Has dis- tressing symptoms when stoppng the use or reducing the dose• Preoccupation with kratom: • T o l e r a n c e : I f Worry and always thinking chewed less than of how to get kratom. normally, the per- Some keep kratom in their son works slower mouth all the time. 85

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University The withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, no power to work, craving, muscle/ 86 bone/back/joint aches, cramps and numbness, muscle twitching, insomnia, anxiety, dysphoria, moodiness, restlessness, irritability, chills, sneeze, cough, yawning, watering eyes, runny nose, sticky mouth, no appetite and diarrhea. Villagers in southern Thailand use kra- tom for treatment of several symptoms and diseases such as cough, diarrhea, stomachache, and toothache. These people often use kratom occasionally when they have such symptoms. They also use it for chronic diseases (i.e. diabetes and hypertension) and as a substitute for other hard drugs (e.g., methamphetamine, heroin or alcohol). However, those who use kratom for treatment of chronic diseases or in replacement of other drugs usually use kratom regularly until they get dependent on kratom. At present, kratom has become an expensive drug because of the high market demand. Kratom leaves are marketed as dry kratom leaves, powder or juice and mixed with other drugs designed by the users to get their desired effects. This is known as a new psycho- active substance or the so-called ‘4x100’. The purposes of kratom use and the user group have also changed from middle-aged workers to adolescents who use kratom for recreation. This results in some criminal activities such as theft, kratom trading, and gang related activities that lead to risky behaviour or illegal conduct which are significant social problems. The ‘4x100’ has several ingredients depending on the users. Preparation of the ‘4x100’ mixtures has various methods and ingredients. The simpliest is boiling the kratom leaves in water. Other ingredients can be Coca Cola, cough syrup or other psycho- active drugs. The effects of the ‘4x100’ depend on these ingredients. For example, kratom has a stimulating effect on the central nervous sys- tem while Coca Cola is also stimulating. Cough syrup and benzodiazepine have sedative effects and with prolonged use causes sleepiness and impaired memory.

Innovation for the MankindB. Pharmacologic properties Mitragynine, the main alka- kratom leaves was reported to hematological indices. However,loid in the kratom leaf has the ef- be 4.90 g/kg and 173.20 mg/kg of chronic administration of kratomfects of reduced appetite, delayed total alkaloid extract. A high dose extract did not cause any toxicgastrointestinal transit, muscle of the alkaloid extract increases effect in mice indicating that longrelaxant, antinociceptive effects, liver enzymes, triglycerides, and term use of normal dose of kratomincreased intake of glucose into cholesterol levels. A very high dose may cause minimal toxicity. Thethe muscle cells, and attenuates of kratom extract (1000 mg/kg) ELISA technique is used to detectethanol and morphine withdrawal increases creatinine level but has mitragynine in kratom leaves andsyndrome in animal models. The no effects on body weight, volume kratom cocktails.LD50 of methanolic extract of of food, water intake or other 87

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla University In summary, our research has provided answers on the pattern of kratom use, symptoms, and signs of kratom dependence and withdrawal and short-term health impacts of kratom users. We also developed the Kratom Dependence Scale (KDS) and Kratom Withdrawal Scale (KWS). In addition, we have been studying the pharmacokinetics and pharma- codynamics of kratom in human beings. Our findings provide a basis for further research and development and can be used in planning public health and clinical interventions in prevention and treatment of health problems of kratom users and other drug users as well as in the develop- ment of herbal medicine. Southern Thailand is the best area to do research on kratom. Kratom research should be continued, in particular at present when there are needs for scientific and social science knowledge for the amendment of the narcotic laws. Prof. Dr. Sawitri Assanangkornchai,MD1 E-mail: [email protected] Dr. Darika Saingam1, Assoc. Prof. Somsmorn Chittrakarn2, Faculty of Medicine1, Faculty of Science288

Innovation for the MankindInnovations forThai Herbal Medicine andHealth Products 89

50th Anniversary Prince of Songkla UniversityHisol Curcuminoids Effervescent Tablets Hisol curcuminoid effer- clodextrin-polyvinylpyrrolidonevescent tablets were developed K30 ternary complexes; and theby combining three innovations: formulation of the curcuminoid ef-the green method for curcuminoid fervescent tablets themselves. Thisextraction that results in a reduced new product may help increase thecost for production; improved wa- bioavailability of curcuminoids forter solubility of curcuminoids using nutraceutical and medical applica- tions.curcuminoid-hydroxypropyl-ß-cy-Award Gold Medal Award from the 13th Taipei International Invention Show & Technomart (INST 2017), Taiwan.90

Innovation for the MankindDermal Patch for Pain Relief Developed from Zingiber cassumunarExtract and Mucilage from Ocimum americanum Seeds A dermal patch intended phenylbutanoids in the extractfor pain relief was produced com- were standardized using high-per-pletely by ‘green methods’ using formance liquid chromatographymucilage from Ocimum america- (HPLC) to control the quality of thenum seeds as the film forming patch. Importantly, the O. ameri-agent and Zingiber cassumunar canum mucilage did not elicit skinextract as the therapeutic. The irritationanalgesic and anti-inflammatoryAward Gold Medal Award from the 45th International Exhibition of Inventions, Geneva, Switzerland. 91