Reflection of environment, human health and wellbeing by kam yu Wong https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh EECE2730 WONG KAM YU (20941234) en-us 2023-02-14 10:06:05 UTC 2023-03-29 16:27:29 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet.net/icons/png/1f340.png The relevance of microbes to our daily lives kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2481978674 In this lecture, we've learned about good, and bad bacteria and the main difference between viruses and bacteria. The virus unexpectedly is nonliving but still poses a significant threat to humans like the coronavirus we are facing. Although bacteria and viruses have contrasting sizes, composition structure, and treatment methods, there is one thing we can be sure of: prevention of the ‘bad guy’ is keeping hygiene such as hand washing. We touch hundreds of surfaces every day which contain their little worlds of microbes. From the video above, we know that they can get into our bodies in different ways and eventually cause infection and diseases so hand washing is the most simple method to avoid healthcare-associated infections. ]]> 2023-02-14 14:28:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2481978674 kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2482039458 Apart from the ‘bad guy’, I’m surprised some microbes can provide convenience and help in humans' life. In 2017, a microbe museum called Micropia in Nederland exhibited chairs, slippers, and other household items made by Fungi. The mycelium(菌絲體) of fungi is applied instead of wood, leather, or even plastic. Different fungi can be used to produce different materials such as hard, elastic, permeable, or heat-resistant. It could also reduce the use of chemical substances and the overexploitation of natural resources. I expect this type of technology can be widely used in the near future for sustainable development. 
(216 words)]]> 2023-02-14 14:55:23 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2482039458 kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2482051860 Slippers made by mycelium]]> 2023-02-14 15:00:59 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2482051860 How critical microbiome? kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2483669621 Microbiome is the main topic of this lecture. I’ve realized how important our gut microbiome is. Our health status is basically equal to the diversity of our microbiome which can contribute to the immunity to resist bad microbes. 
The gut contains the most microbes including bacteria in the human body. According to the above research, many physiological functions require a healthy microbial composition so the less bacterial diversity we have the higher opportunity to get obesity, immune and inflammation-related diseases.
]]> 2023-02-15 15:44:16 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2483669621 The necessity of little dirt kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2483686317 After this lecture, we know that infants born by Caesarean section and vaginally delivered have big differences in microbes. For example, children born by C-sections are dominated by opportunistic bacteria and have less bifidobacterium, enhancing the immune system. Unfortunately, I was born by C-section(Thank you for everything my mum has done for me!) but I do not think my immunity is weak than others. It could be attributed to my living environment. I live in a village from birth and easily accessible nature. Therefore, I believe that environmental exposure can improve the colonization of the gut microbiota. It also means that absolute cleanliness is not conducive to building up a high diversity in our microbial community and parents should allow a little dirt to their children. (207 words)]]> 2023-02-15 15:55:31 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2483686317 Diet and Microbiome kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2483766042 The most impressive thing in this lecture is the case study of Yakult. There is a fun fact that even though the Lacticaseibacillus casei(LcS) in Yakult can reach and survive in the gut of the Chinese, it is hard to persist once we stop consuming it. Moreover, I thought people need to continuously drink Yakult to maintain a healthy population of gut microbiota but all we know is that it contains much sugar so it actually adds up the risk of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes at the same time. The effectiveness of Yakult is really doubtful. ]]> 2023-02-15 16:47:29 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2483766042 kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2485173641 The technique of Fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT) came as a shock to me. I understand the fecal from the selected donor can introduce healthy bacterial flora and restore the colonic microflora. However, I cannot accept directly transferring fecal matter into the intestinal tract through pills or colonoscopy. I hope that the professional can study other methods to transfer healthy bacterial flora and improve universal access of this technique.]]> 2023-02-16 15:50:09 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2485173641 kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2485177672 On the other hand, I learned a new concept which is gut-brain-connection. As the gut microbes are responsible for 90% of the messaging to our brain and it relates to both mental and physical health, I think we should value our guts. For example, Zinc has positive properties on mood and may help against mood swings and smaller depression so we can eat steak or crab high in Zinc as a dietary intervention. 
(239 words)]]> 2023-02-16 15:52:10 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2485177672 Climate change and Health kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2485211376 In this lecture, we know more about health from a macroscopic perspective which is climate change. Many people may think it is far from them but it is already around us. According to the data from World Health Organization, climate change is expected to cause approximately 250 000 additional deaths per year, from malnutrition, malaria, diarrhea, and heat stress between 2030 and 2050. Therefore, Climate change can be seen as the biggest health threat facing humanity. Due to coal-fired power generation, industrial development, and other emissions of greenhouse gases,  low air quality, and abnormally high temperatures led to diseases and even death. We have to reflect on our behavior which puts the ecosystem out of balance and take action to improve it as soon as possible instead of just warning people about the seriousness of climate change. ]]> 2023-02-16 16:12:18 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2485211376 kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2487140001 Humans should unite to fight climate change. Everyone changes a small habit that can result in tremendous help. For example, resisting fast fashion. If we can buy fewer new clothes and wear them longer, carbon emissions could significantly decrease because the fashion industry accounts for 8-10 percent of global carbon emissions and it is an unnecessary 'sacrifice'. People changing this small habit can not only avoid the health problem caused by climate change but also save money. 
(214 words)]]> 2023-02-18 15:07:11 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2487140001 Grass also contains pollen!! kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2487156953 It is the first time that I know grass has pollen and the quantity of grass pollen could be more than other flower pollen. According to the above video, allergy to timothy grass pollen is one of the most common allergies worldwide. As the growing seasons are shifting under global warming, Spring is arriving earlier and winters are shorter. These climate changes affect the timing of many life cycle events, such as the period of flower bloom being extended. Therefore, people with these types of allergies are affected for a longer time including suffering from itchy eyes, allergic asthma, and even hives. Developing pills and treatments for people with allergies is essential but the key is addressing the root causes. We should stop global warming from getting worse to prevent the increasing number of pollen.]]> 2023-02-18 15:50:04 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2487156953 kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2487197031 In this lecture, we also know about thunderstorm asthma. It is unbelievable that thunderstorms can suddenly cause asthma in people. This asthma led to a disaster in Victoria before because thousands of people suddenly had asthma attacks and needed urgent asthma treatment at one time. It was hard for emergency services to help everyone so we hope it will not happen again in the world. 
(200 words)]]> 2023-02-18 17:33:34 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2487197031 Benefits from climate change? kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536789583 After this lecture, it is unbelievable that there are advantages of climate change. While climate change has many negative impacts, it can also have some positive effects in some regions, such as an increase in wine production. However, this is only true for certain types of wine, and only in specific regions where the climate is suitable. 

Then, I try to find other advantages of climate change on the internet and I discover that agricultural productivity is increased in certain regions due to longer growing seasons or higher levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. 

However, it's important to note that these perceived benefits are short-term and localized, and they are far outweighed by the long-term and global negative impacts of climate change, including more severe weather events, rising sea levels, increased risk of wildfires, loss of biodiversity, and negative impacts on human health and well-being. Therefore, we still need to put effort to prevent the situation from deteriorating. ]]> 2023-03-29 14:06:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536789583 People should awaken! kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536814855 Climate change is a global issue that requires a collective effort to address. While some people may be aware of the issue, many do not fully understand the severity of its consequences. To address this, governments and global organizations have a responsibility to promote the real consequences of climate change and motivate people to take action to save our planet. This can be achieved through various means, such as education campaigns, policy changes, and incentives for individuals and businesses to adopt sustainable practices and save our planet.
(247 words)]]> 2023-03-29 14:21:30 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536814855 Healthy diet is good for us and the environment kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536862108 I learn that a healthy and balanced diet can enhance our health and healthy planet in this lecture. Choosing lean proteins such as fish, poultry, and plant-based sources such as tofu and beans can promote good health while reducing the environmental impact of our diet. I read some research showing that animal-based proteins are often associated with high carbon emissions and land use, while plant-based proteins are generally more sustainable.

In addition to the direct health benefits of a healthy and balanced diet, it is good news that choosing sustainable food sources can also have a positive impact on the planet. Sustainable agricultural practices, such as organic farming and regenerative agriculture, can help promote soil health and biodiversity because they reduce the use of pesticides and other harmful chemicals. By choosing sustainably produced foods, we can support these practices and help reduce the negative impact of food production on the environment.]]> 2023-03-29 14:51:03 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536862108 kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536865985 Overall, I will try to take a more healthy and balanced diet that is rich in plant-based foods and sustainably sourced proteins to promote both personal health and the health of the planet. For example, the Mediterranean diet. I happen to love eating nuts, white meat, and legumes. 
(199 words)]]> 2023-03-29 14:53:28 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536865985 Facing Nature deficit disorder kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536910702 This lecture mentioned a new term for me called Nature deficit disorder. Although it was coined to describe the negative impacts that a lack of exposure to nature can have on physical and mental health, especially in children, I think I also have this problem. Miss Chan emphasized that spending time in nature has numerous benefits for both physical and mental health, including reduced stress, improved mood and cognitive function, and increased physical activity levels.

To combat nature deficit disorder, I should spend more time in nature involving going for walks or hikes in natural areas, spending time in parks or other green spaces, or simply spending time outdoors in your backyard or balcony. It's also important for me to incorporate nature into daily routines, such as by putting plants into my home.]]> 2023-03-29 15:22:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536910702 Role of school and teachers kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536922133 Nature deficit disorder is becoming increasingly common in children, especially in urban areas. Many children spend a significant amount of time indoors, whether it be at home or in school, and may not have regular opportunities to connect with nature. As a propspective teacher, I think schools can play an important role in addressing nature deficit disorder by incorporating nature-based activities into the curriculum and encouraging outdoor play and learning. This can involve incorporating nature-based themes into lessons, taking students on field trips to natural areas to support the physical and mental health of children. 
(228 words)]]> 2023-03-29 15:29:39 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536922133 Surprising number of species in HK kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536950718 In this lecture, we explored different plants and animal species in Hong Kong. Even though Hong Kong is a densely populated city with a high level of urbanization. I did not expect Hong Kong has a high level of biodiversity compared to other countries with more natural habitats. Hong Kong is home to a surprising number of species, including many that are considered rare or endangered.

I learned that one reason for this is the climate of Hong Kong. As a subtropical region, Hong Kong provides a suitable environment for a wide range of plant and animal species to thrive. The hot and humid summers in Hong Kong provide optimal conditions for many plant species to grow, especially  a variety of fruit trees adapted to tropical or subtropical climates. The mild winters in Hong Kong can also support a range of species, including many migratory bird species that visit the city during the winter months. 

However, I found that climate change can also have a negative impact on the number and types of species that are found in Hong Kong. Rising temperatures, changes in rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events can all affect the ability of certain species to survive in the region. This highlights the importance of sustainable practices and conservation efforts to protect the biodiversity of Hong Kong's natural areas.
(225 words)]]> 2023-03-29 15:49:40 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536950718 kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536953395 2023-03-29 15:51:33 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536953395 Stress & Nature kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536988668 I have recently had a lot of pressure about my future career but luckily I studied stress recovery theory in this lesson which may help me to cope with the pressure. According to this theory, spending time in natural environments can help to restore our attentional capacity and reduce stress by promoting relaxation and reducing mental fatigue.

Therefore, here are my plans to promote stress reduction and recovery through exposure to natural environments. First of all, I aim to spend time in natural environments, such as parks or forests. Whether it's going for a walk, having a picnic, or simply sitting and enjoying the surroundings, I hope it can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress. 

Second, I will try to practice mindfulness such as meditation or deep breathing in nature. I believe focusing on the present moment and observing the natural surroundings can help to promote relaxation and reduce mental fatigue.]]> 2023-03-29 16:17:19 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2536988668 kamyuiris02 https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2537002177 I also learned that Biophilic design is an approach to architecture and design that seeks to incorporate natural elements into built environments in order to promote human health and well-being. So I am imagining my future house designed with Biophilic principles might include a green roof or living wall, which can provide visual and sensory connections to nature. 
(210 words)]]> 2023-03-29 16:27:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kamyuiris02/asr8rwpoms3aieqh/wish/2537002177