City University Research Articles

O-073 CD163 in follicular fluids can be the novel marker to predict clinical outcome of oocyte

Abstract Study question Can we find novel marker in follicular fluid at the oocyte retrieval to evaluate oocyte condition besides karyotype by proteomics? Summary answer We found significant higher concentration of CD163 in the follicle fluids, from those oocytes resulted in pregnancy or live birth. What is known already Although preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) is effective for embryo selection, only karyotype is considered in PGT-A. If we can evaluate other conditions of oocytes besides karyotype, the pregnancy rate can be improved. In addition to changes in the oocyte per se, factors affecting the quality of oocytes, such as ageing, change the microenvironment surrounding the oocyte. For example, it has been reported that the follicle itself becomes more fibrotic with age, resulting in increased oxidative stress, and that the concentration of cytokines, amino acids, fatty acids, and other substances in the follicle also changes. Study design, size, duration Proteomic analyses were performed on follicular fluid collected at the oocyte retrieval, and the proteins showed differences in relation to clinical outcome. We focused on one of those candidates, CD163, and evaluated the concentration by ELISA and checked for possible relevance to clinical outcome of the oocytes derived from each follicles. We also investigated the effect of this protein on oocyte maturation. Participants/materials, setting, methods Under the ethical review of Yokohama City University and informed consent with patients in Reproduction center of Yokohama City University Medical Center, we aspirated human follicular fluids individually at the oocyte retrieval. The oocytes were retrieved from the follicular fluid and remained fluid was cryopreserved for further analysis. We followed clinical outcome of oocyte from each follicle, compared the concentration of the protein in each follicle. Main results and the role of chance Proteomic analysis revealed CD163 in follicular fluids seemed to have relation with the clinical outcome. We collected 120 follicular fluid samples from 93 patients from 2017 to 2021, and evaluated the concentration of CD163 of them. Follicles which had contained oocytes derived are cryopreserved or fresh embryo transferred had higher than other follicles; 140.6 ± 73.1 vs 95.2 ± 30.7 ng/ml (mean ± SD, p < 0.01). Similarly, follicles, which had contained oocytes led to clinical pregnant and live birth after single embryo transfer, had higher concentrations of CD163; 140.5 ± 71.8 vs 101.6 ± 38.4 ng/ml (pregnant vs not pregnant, mean ± SD, p < 0.01), 138.7 ± 74.1 vs 109.2 ± 45.3 ng/ml (live birth vs not live birth, mean ± SD, p < 0.01). These results suggest that CD163 concentration in follicular fluid might be a novel marker of the clinical outcome. Limitations, reasons for caution Although we tried to investigate the relationship of CD163 and oocyte maturation, unfortunately we have not yet been able to clarify them. However, we believe that CD163 may act as an indirect marker representing other factors directly involved in oocyte maturation and development. We would like to investigate this further. Wider implications of the findings When CD163 concentration in follicular fluids is evaluated, we might be able to predict the clinical outcome of each oocyte at the day of oocyte retrieval. This may contribute to further improvement of pregnancy rate without invasion to embryo. Trial registration number the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) KAKENHI Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research C (Grant Number 22K07920)

O-262 Karyotyping of single sperm from non-obstructive azoospermia patients and obstructive azoospermia patients using a combination of micromanipulation and next-generation sequencing

Abstract Study question Is there a difference in the frequency of aberrant karyotype in sperm when the cause of infertility is non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) versus obstructive azoospermia (OA)? Summary answer Aberrant karyotype was found in 7 of 46 sperm with NOA, none of 26 sperm with OA and none of 28 sperm with control. What is known already It is known that aberrant karyotype occurs more frequently in sperm from infertile men than sperm from general population, and that the severity of infertility is proportional to the frequency of sperm chromosomal abnormality. In fact, miscarriage rates are high in cases where TESE-ICSI is performed for azoospermia, and embryonic chromosomal aneuploidy derived from sperm is thought to be one of the causes of miscarriage. Azoospermia is classified into OA and NOA. However, it is unclear whether there is a difference in the frequency of sperm chromosomal abnormality between NOA and OA. Study design, size, duration Sperm were picked up individually by micromanipulation for the OA and NOA groups who underwent TESE in clinical practice. For comparison, ejaculated sperm from males who underwent IVF or ICSI for female infertility were picked up. As a quality control, ejaculated sperm from balanced reciprocal translocation (RcT) carriers were also picked up. Each sperm was karyotyped by next-generation sequencing (NGS) to compare the number of normal haploid sperm and aberrant sperm. Participants/materials, setting, methods Under the ethical review of Yokohama City University and informed consent with patients, we collected human sperm which were discarded after clinical use. Sperm samples were picked up individually by micromanipulation. Following whole-genome amplification (WGA), karyotyping was performed by NGS. For each sperm, if even one of all chromosomes had abnormality, that sperm was counted as aberrant sperm, and if all chromosomes were haploid, it was counted as haploid sperm. Main results and the role of chance We analyzed 10 sperm per patient. Karyotyping analysis was performed on sperm from 2 patients in the RcT group,4 patients in the control group, 4 patients in the OA group, and 5 patients in the NOA group. WGA was successful in 90% (18/20) of RcT carriers group, 95% (38/40) of the control group, 72.5% (29/40) of the OA group, and 92% (46/50) of the NOA group. Acquisition rate of karyotyping was 90% (18/20) of RcT carriers group, 70% (28/40) of the Control group, 65% (26/40) of the OA group, and 95% (46/50) of the NOA group. The results of karyotype analysis showed 28 haploid sperm and no aberrant sperm in the control group, 26 haploid sperm and no aberrant sperm in the OA group, and 39 haploid sperm and 7 aberrant sperm in the NOA group. Karyotyping of sperm from RcT carriers group showed sperm with unbalanced chromosomes derived from translocations of the carriers. The frequency of aberrant karyotype was significantly higher in NOA than control (P = 0.0297). It was also higher in NOA than OA(P = 0.0363). Limitations, reasons for caution In our research, micromanipulation was performed manually to isolate sperm, and the number of sperm that could be analyzed was small. Sperm with good morphology are selected using micromanipulation and analyzed by NGS, so the results do not reflect the results of all sperm actually collected by TESE. Wider implications of the findings In this study, sperm with good morphology were selected by micromanipulation and analyzed, so it is thought that the karyotype of sperm actually reflects the karyotype used in clinical practice. These results suggest that PGT-A is particularly effective in preventing miscarriages among patients whose azoospermia was caused by NOA. Trial registration number not applicable

Jack Amariglio: In, of, and against Capitalist Reaction in the United States

Against a backdrop of the post-1945 capitalist reaction against the New Deal, this contribution by Richard Wolff to a Festschrift for Jack Amariglio traces Jack’s development as a student and activist, first at the City College New York (CCNY) and then as part of the graduate program in economics at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. This period was followed by Jack’s decisive engagement with the group that would found the journal Rethinking Marxism during the 1980s and '90s, with Jack serving as its first editor. The essays follow through to Jack’s own development of a novel synthesis of postmodernism and Marxism, provoking and providing new theoretical standpoints from which to work, both from within and without the field of economics.

Research model on the impact of human resource management and educational innovation on the engagement and sustainable development of lecturers: Case study at private universities in Ho Chi Minh City

Research model on the impact of human resource management and educational innovation on the engagement and sustainable development of lecturers: Case study at private universities in Ho Chi Minh City

Predictive Factors for Well-being of Vietnamese Undergraduate Students and Gratitude Journaling Intervention

The current study investigated the impact of predictive factors on the well-being of undergraduates in Ho Chi Minh City. Those factors were relationship satisfaction, academic achievement satisfaction, and financial well-being. Besides, the study explored the effectiveness of gratitude journaling in increasing students’ well-being. There are two phases in this study, in the first phase, referred to as study 1, a total of 102 undergraduates from twenty-two universities in Ho Chi Minh City were surveyed. After being controlled for individual differences in socio-economic status, the multiple linear regression results showed that satisfaction in the relationship and academic achievement positively predicted overall well-being, while financial well-being did not make a significant contribution. In the second phase, which is study 2, forty-five participants from study 1 agreed to move on to this phase, where they were randomly divided into two groups for a controlled pre and post-experiment. The experimental group practiced self-guided gratitude journaling for seven days. Analysis of covariance assessment was made to evaluate the impact model and the improvement of participants’ well-being before and after the experiment. Results showed that the difference in well-being between the control and experimental group was insignificant and did not come directly from practicing gratitude journaling, but might indicate individual and cultural differences in well-being. Further research on cross-cultural differences and standardized protocol is encouraged.

Evaluation of Ambient Air Quality Levels at Various Locations Within Lead City University, Ibadan

BACKGROUND: Air quality in university environment is strongly affected by the student population explosion, climatic conditions and industrial activity within the institution. Monitoring the main air pollutants such as carbon dioxides, carbon monoxide and particulate matter may help control the most polluted areas of the institution and take measures to reduce the pollution.Universities are big metropolitan institutions with sizable populations of students, employees, and visitors. However, university settings can contribute to air pollution, with diverse activities such as lab work, cooking in dorms, and vehicle traffic, among others, causing interior and ambient air pollution. It is impossible to estimate how much air pollution affects the health and happiness of students without embarking on this type of research work. PURPOSE/AIM: Evaluation of meteorology parameters (i.e. temperature and relative humidity (RH)) and ambient air quality (CO, CO2 and particulate matter (PM2.5)) level at various locations within Lead City University, Ibadan is essential. METHODOLOGY: Ambient concentrations of carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), Relative humidity (RH), Temperature (TEMP), and Particulate Matter (PM2.5) were measured in 15 locations across Lead City University over a two-week period (between 25th of June 2023 and 3rd of August 2023) with Bosean air quality detector -T-201. RESULTS: Morning temperatures in all the locations measured ranging from 23.7°C to 29.2°C while afternoon temperature fluctuates more significantly, with the lowest recorded at 27.2°C and the highest at a notably warmer 35.8°C in all the locations measured. The morning RH levels ranging from 63.8% to 74.7% while afternoon RH values, ranging from 58.2% to 63.4%. The finding also shows that afternoon CO2 levels range from 468.5 ppm to 971.6 ppm, with Location 13 having an unusually high average. Morning CO levels ranging from 4.1 ppm to 49 ppm, with location 13 showing the most highest figure of 184.2 ppm. CO2 and CO levels are mostly within acceptable ranges as recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) that CO2 concentration levels in school buildings should kept below 1000 ppm and CO be below an average of nine parts per million (ppm) for any eight-hour period, and below 25 ppm for any one-hour period as an indicative benchmark of good indoor air quality (IAQ). Morning RH values range from 63.8% to 74.7%, with Location 1 having the highest average while afternoon RH values are between 58.9% and 67.7%, with Location 6 having the highest average. The relatively narrow variance in RH indicates that the dataset predominantly represents conditions with moderate humidity levels. Morning PM levels vary from 8.9 to 17.1µg/m³, suggesting diverse air quality conditions across the samples. In the afternoon, PM concentrations display a broader range, from 8.9 to an exceptionally high 436.1 in Location 13. Interestingly, all the air pollutants measured are still within the USA EPA permissible level of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for PM2.5, which is 35 μg/m3, and CO, which is 40 mg/m3 and CO2 between 400 - 1,000ppm CONCLUSION: Variability in these parameters has implications for human health therefore, adequate ventilation and pollution control measures is thereby recommended for the university management in order to improve indoor air quality.

Preface

10 - 13 December 2023 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Conference Website: https://www.isegt.org SEGT 2023 The International Conference on Sustainable Energy and Green Technology 2023 is being held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from 9-13 December 2023. The conference is co-organized by Universiti Malaya, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City-University of Science, Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR). Additionally, there are other supporting institutions such as National Cheng Kung University, Xi’an Jiatong University, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, De La Salle University, National Dong Hwa University, The University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, and the International Association for Hydrogen Energy. SEGT 2023 welcomed more than 350 participants, representing institutions from 25 economies worldwide, including Malaysia, Thailand, Canada, Taiwan, Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, Hong Kong, China, India, Vietnam, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, Poland, the UK, the Netherlands, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, the US, etc. There are two plenary speakers: Prof. Ibrahim Dincer from Ontario Tech University and Prof. Niu JianLei from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Additionally, six keynote speakers include Mr. Tien Q. Duong, Dr. Luan Quoc Huan, Prof. Wei-Hsin Chen, Prof. Fariborz Haghighat, Prof. Dennis Leung, and Prof. Michael K.H. Leung. Furthermore, there are five special sessions organized by Prof. Qihong Deng, Prof. Talal Yusaf, Dr. Xiao-Qing Yang, Dr. Hiang Kwee Lee, Prof. Hyung-Ho Park, Dr. Viyak G. Parale, and Prof. Chang Jo-Shu. List of Committee of SEGT 2023 and Group photo are available in this pdf.

Global Immune-Nutrition-Information Index Is Independent Prognostic Factor for Gastric Cancer Patients Who Received Curative Treatment.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical impact of the Global Immune-Nutrition-Information Index (GINI) in patients with gastric cancer (GC) who received curative treatment and to clarify the potential of the GINI as a biomarker. Patients who underwent curative resection for GC at Yokohama City University between 2005 and 2020 were selected based on their medical records. The GINI was calculated as follows: GINI=[C-reactive protein × platelet × monocyte × neutrophil]/[albumin × lymphocyte]. A total of 258 patients were included in this study. Of these, 169 patients were categorized into the GINI-low group and 89 into the GINI-high group using a cut-off value of 1,730. The three- and five-year overall survival (OS) rates were 86.4% and 78.4%, respectively, in the GINI-low group, and 66.4% and 58.3% in the GINI-high group (p<0.001). In a multivariate analysis for OS, the GINI was identified as an independent prognostic factor [hazard ratio (HR)=1.772; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.053-2.979, p=0.031]. Similar results were observed for RFS. In addition, the GINI affected the perioperative clinical course, including postoperative surgical complications and postoperative adjuvant treatment. The GINI is a promising biomarker for the treatment and management of GC.

Note-taking and Its Impact on Learning, Academic Performance, and Memory

Note-taking is a significant part of students’ academics because it improves their learning and helps them with their memory. Writing effective notes that are concise helps students to understand the information easier and allows them to retrieve information efficiently. Note-taking allows students to organize information and to enhance their cognitive processing. There are many different ways to structure notes such as intentional free notes, outline notes, and matrix notes. Therefore, it is important that students find their own structured way to write effective notes during lecture. The purpose of this research study is to investigate whether effective-note-taking improves the quality of learning and memory retrieval for students. A survey was administered and collected from 200 students of the City College of New York during fall of 2022. The survey questionnaire included Likert-type and open-ended questions, which was used to examine the students’ thoughts, perceptions and their views about the benefits of effective note-taking. The data suggest that student’s ability to note-taking and their method of note-taking is positively correlated with their GPA and performance. Furthermore, most students believe note-taking is vital to have a higher academic performance. Furthermore, the data suggests that the students’ perceptions is that effective note-taking helps them with their memory and information retrieval.

Ineffective Strategies in Scientific Communication: Textual Wordiness vs. Clarity of Thought in Thesis Conclusion Section

Introduction. The issue of lexical redundancy in academic writing remains crucial. Research based on Russian-language corpora is vital for the development of effective targeted academic writing courses that meet the unique needs of universities. This paper aims to identify factors through examples of wordiness in the Conclusion sections of theses to alter the design of courses broadening academic writing skills to fight against textual redundancy at various educational levels. Materials and Methods. A corpus of 72 theses across three educational levels (Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Candidate degrees) was analyzed. We selected theses from the repositories of the HSE University and Moscow City University. We focused on Conclusion section due to its highest level of conciseness: textual redundancy critically impacts its effectiveness. The analysis included a comprehensive procedure of raw data extraction, coding, conceptualization during iterative discussions, and classification according to Brohaugh’s taxonomy. Results. “Invisible” type of wordiness is a prevalent issue in academic writing across all levels of education. Such types as “overkill”, “weak-kneed” and “empty” occur more frequently in research in Master’s and Candidate’s theses. The need to comprehend the reasons behind the use of different types of wordiness and their impact on readability is stressed. Candidate’s theses are wordier despite the expectation of a higher level of academic writing skills at this level. Discussion and Conclusion. The study highlights the systemic role of academic writing courses at all educational levels in reducing text wordiness. Despite our expectations of advanced writing skills in Candidate’s theses, their high level of wordiness indicates the need for developing effective academic writing strategies. It is crucial to implement a personalized approach to academic writing instruction, considering the specific needs and challenges of each educational level, to create more concise academic texts. The paper provides insights into approaches to designing academic writing courses.

Environmental management of the water supply of Cidade Universitária Prof. José da Silveira Netto (UFPA) and implementation model for granting water use

This study was carried out in the Prof. José da Silveira Netto University City, on the campus of the Federal University of Pará (UFPA), on the evaluation of the environmental management of water supply and the normative status of models for granting the right to use water resources in the administrative body, the State Secretariat for the Environment and Sustainable Development (SEMAS/PA). The aim of the study is to propose necessary procedures for implementing a project to support good environmental management of urban sanitation systems, based on SEMAS/PA Normative Instruction no. 3 of March 26, 2014. The methodology was developed through documentary/bibliographical research and visits to the competent bodies (SEMAS/PA, CPRM and FEMAC) and technical visits to the sectors of the university city. The studies show that the process of environmental management of water resources and the model for granting water rights need to be improved from the outset. The water resource use on the campus of the Federal University of Pará should meet this requirement and comply with the applicable regulations and any technical conditions proposed by the competent environmental protection agency.

Exploring Code-Switching Practices in Vietnamese Classrooms: An Introductory Investigation

This study delves into the nuanced practice of code-switching (CS) in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms in Vietnam, examining its implications for language learning from both educators' and learners' perspectives. Through a mixed-methods approach, involving surveys and interviews with 225 ESL students and 8 experienced ESL lecturers at a renowned public university in Ho Chi Minh City, this research illuminates the multifaceted role of CS in enhancing comprehension, engagement, and linguistic proficiency. The findings reveal a general preference among students for a balanced use of English and Vietnamese, underscoring the pedagogical value of strategic CS in facilitating understanding and reducing the affective filter in language learning. Educators' narratives highlight the benefits and challenges of CS in maintaining English exposure while accommodating diverse learner needs. The study also uncovers emerging issues, such as the impact of digital and online learning environments on CS practices and the influence of external expectations on educators' language use decisions. By integrating insights from existing literature, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamic interplay between language use and educational outcomes in bilingual settings, advocating for flexible, learner-centered teaching approaches that accommodate the evolving landscape of language education.

Leveraging ChatGPT for Enhancing English Writing Skills and Critical Thinking in University Freshmen

This study assesses the impact of ChatGPT, an AI conversational agent, on English writing proficiency and critical thinking among freshmen at Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry and Trade. Through qualitative and quantitative methodologies, including semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and analysis of writing samples, improvements in grammar, vocabulary, coherence, and argumentation depth were documented. While findings demonstrate significant enhancements in writing skills and stimulated critical thinking, challenges such as potential over-reliance on AI tools were also recognized. The study proposes recommendations for integrating AI in language education, emphasizing the need for balanced and critical engagement with technology.

The Level of Reading Interest and Speed Reading of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Learners: A Correlational Study

Speed reading is a requisite skill in reading comprehension among adolescent learners. It allows them to process information quickly and meaningfully. Since reading has been a major concern of the Philippine education despite efforts exerted for years, this study aimed to determine whether reading interest itself among adolescent learners correlates with speed reading, particularly grade 11 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learners from a private university in City of Koronadal, South Cotabato. A descriptive-correlational design was used in the study, utilizing an adopted survey questionnaire to assess the level of reading interest and a reading comprehension test to assess the speed reading of the respondents. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as weighted mean to describe the level of reading interest; an effective reading rate (EER) to assess speed reading; and a Pearson correlation coefficient (r) to determine the relationship between reading interest and speed reading. It was found that the level of reading interest of the respondents was high; their speed reading was classified as above average; and thus, there was a high positive correlation between the level of reading interest and speed reading among the respondents, signifying that efforts should be made as well toward intensifying love for reading among Filipino learners.

Evaluation of Ambient Air Quality Level at Various Locations within Lead City University, Ibadan

BACKGROUND: Air quality in university environment is strongly affected by the student population explosion, climatic conditions and industrial activity within the institution. Monitoring the main air pollutants such as carbon dioxides, carbon monoxide and particulate matter may help control the most polluted areas of the institution and take measures to reduce the pollution.Universities are big metropolitan institutions with sizable populations of students, employees, and visitors. However, university settings can contribute to air pollution, with diverse activities such as lab work, cooking in dorms, and vehicle traffic, among others, causing interior and ambient air pollution. It is impossible to estimate how much air pollution affects the health and happiness of students without embarking on this type of research work. PURPOSE/AIM: Evaluation of meteorology parameters (i.e. temperature and relative humidity (RH)) and ambient air quality (CO, CO2 and particulate matter (PM2.5)) level at various locations within Lead City University, Ibadan is essential. METHODOLOGY: Ambient concentrations of carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), Relative humidity (RH), Temperature (TEMP), and Particulate Matter (PM2.5) were measured in 15 locations across Lead City University over a two-week period (between 25th of June 2023 and 3rd of August 2023) with Bosean air quality detector -T-201. RESULTS: Morning temperatures in all the locations measured ranging from 23.7°C to 29.2°C while afternoon temperature fluctuates more significantly, with the lowest recorded at 27.2°C and the highest at a notably warmer 35.8°C in all the locations measured. The morning RH levels ranging from 63.8% to 74.7% while afternoon RH values, ranging from 58.2% to 63.4%. The finding also shows that afternoon CO2 levels range from 468.5 ppm to 971.6 ppm, with Location 13 having an unusually high average. Morning CO levels ranging from 4.1 ppm to 49 ppm, with location 13 showing the most highest figure of 184.2 ppm. CO2 and CO levels are mostly within acceptable ranges as recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) that CO2 concentration levels in school buildings should kept below 1000 ppm and CO be below an average of nine parts per million (ppm) for any eight-hour period, and below 25 ppm for any one-hour period as an indicative benchmark of good indoor air quality (IAQ). Morning RH values range from 63.8% to 74.7%, with Location 1 having the highest average while afternoon RH values are between 58.9% and 67.7%, with Location 6 having the highest average. The relatively narrow variance in RH indicates that the dataset predominantly represents conditions with moderate humidity levels. Morning PM levels vary from 8.9 to 17.1µg/m³, suggesting diverse air quality conditions across the samples. In the afternoon, PM concentrations display a broader range, from 8.9 to an exceptionally high 436.1 in Location 13. Interestingly, all the air pollutants measured are still within the USA EPA permissible level of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for PM2.5, which is 35 μg/m3, and CO, which is 40 mg/m3 and CO2 between 400 - 1,000ppm CONCLUSION: Variability in these parameters has implications for human health therefore, adequate ventilation and pollution control measures is thereby recommended for the university management in order to improve indoor air quality.

Evaluating Self-Study Practices and Needs for Chinese Idioms among Upper-Year Students at Ho Chi Minh City University of Education

Evaluating Self-Study Practices and Needs for Chinese Idioms among Upper-Year Students at Ho Chi Minh City University of Education

EFFICIENCY OF SOLAR THERMAL COLLECTORS ON STUDENT DORMITORY BUILDING IN THE UNIVERSITY CITY IN BANJA LUKA

&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;To achieve sustainable urban development goals, facilities must promote improved living conditions, reduce energy consumption, and preserve the environment. The Nikola Tesla student dormitory in Banja Luka&amp;#039;s University City, a public landscape architecture area, meets these standards with its simple design, rational use of space, and moderate architectural expression. This study analyzes energy consumption in the 4th pavilion of the Nikola Tesla student dormitory in Banja Luka from 2018-2023. Solar thermal energy accounted for 4.63% of the total delivered energy. The paper highlights the importance of monitoring energy consumption over time.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;

Association between meal skipping and the double burden of malnutrition among university students

Background: The study delves into the nuanced relationship between meal skipping and the double burden of malnutrition among university students. It addresses a critical gap in understanding how young adults' irregular dietary patterns contribute to undernutrition and overnutrition, phenomena typically studied in isolation. Aims: This research aimed to shed light on the broader implications of meal skipping within the context of student health and well-being. Subjects and Methods: The study surveyed a representative sample of undergraduate students from various academic disciplines at Lead City University in Ibadan, Nigeria, utilizing a descriptive cross-sectional approach. Detailed questionnaires were administered to assess the frequency of meal skipping, dietary habits, and associated lifestyle factors. Body mass index (BMI) and self-reported health data were also collected. Statistical analyses, including univariate and bivariate analysis, were employed to identify the nutritional status and meal patterns of the students, Principal component analysis was employed to identify the dietary patterns prevalent among the students from the food frequency questionnaire administered. Results: The findings reveal a significant correlation between meal skipping and the risk of undernutrition and overnutrition. Students who regularly skip meals are likely at an increased risk of undernutrition, characterized by lower BMI and potential micronutrient deficiencies, and overnutrition, indicated by higher BMI and associated health risks. This dual risk factor challenges existing perceptions of nutrition among young adults, suggesting that meal skipping can be a critical determinant of diverse and complex nutritional outcomes. Conclusion: The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive nutritional strategies at university campuses, focusing on educating students about the risks associated with inconsistent eating patterns. It calls for implementing targeted interventions and policy changes to address the double burden of malnutrition, promoting healthier lifestyles, and preventing long-term health issues among university students. Keywords: Meal skipping, double burden of malnutrition, university students, nutritional status, dietary patterns, public health interventions, young adult health.

First Report of Neofusicoccum parvum causing leaf spot on Camellia japonica in China.

Camellia japonica is an important garden landscape plant in southern China. In April 2022, leaf spot symptoms were observed at the camellia garden of Jiaying University (24°32'83″N, 17 116°12'31″E) in Meizhou city, Guangdong Province, China. The initial symptoms were grayish brown spots on the leaves, as the disease progressed, the lesions were enlarged and affected the whole leaf and eventually led to the loss of its ornamental value. The disease incidence was above 15%. Leaf pieces (5 × 5 mm) from 3 diseased Camellia leaves were sterilized in 75% ethanol for 1 min, then in 1% NaOCl for 1 min; and rinsed three times with sterile water. Leaf pieces were inoculated on potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium and incubated at 25 °C. Three days later, fungal colonies initially showed a white aerial mycelium, turning gray after 5 days, and dark gray after 7 days of incubation. Conidia were single-celled, hyaline, ellipsoidal and without septa. Dimensions of conidia (n≥50) were 14.27 to 20.65 × 4.28 to 6.56 μm. The morphological characteristics matched the genus Neofusicoccum (Pavlic et al. 2009). For molecular identification, the rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS1, 5.8S and ITS2) region, translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α), and beta-tubulin (tub2) of a representative isolate SC6-2 were amplified using the primer pairs ITS1/ITS4, EF1/EF2 and BT2a/-BT2b, respectively (Golzar and Burgess，2011). The sequences obtained were deposited in GenBank (accession nos. PP064173, PP479650 and PP082457 for ITS, tef1-α and tub2, respectively). Nucleotide BLAST analysis showed a 99.81% homology with N. parvum (519/520 bp, OQ509869; 519/520 bp, KF294003; 518/519 bp KF293989) for ITS, 100% homology with N. parvum (398/398 bp, MN318108; 398/398 bp, MK294085; 398/398 bp, MH936021) for tub2, and >99% homology with N. parvum (259/259 bp, 100%, MW390561; 263/265 bp, 99.25%，MN175952; 263/265 bp, 99.25%, MK781982) for tef1-α. The combined phylogenetic analyses (ITS, tef1-α, and tub2) showed that the sequence of the tested isolate and the corresponding sequence of N. parvum (CMW9081, SHSJ1-2) in GenBank grouped in the same branch of the phylogenetic tree. Based on morphological characters, DNA sequencing, and the phylogenetic tree, it can be determined that the pathogen was Neofusicoccum parvum. Inoculation on Camellia leaves was performed to confirm pathogenicity. Nine healthy camellia leaves were pin-pricked with a sterile needle and inoculated with mycelial plugs of isolate SC6-2. Nine other healthy leaves were pin-pricked and inoculated with noncolonized PDA plugs as control leaves. The inoculated leaves were maintained on water agar solid medium at 25°C. To keep a high-humidity environment the inoculation sites were covered by moistened cotton for 2 days. The experiment was repeated three times. Five days after inoculation, all the inoculated leaves showed similar symptoms to those observed in the field, whereas control leaves were asymptomatic for 6 days. The fungal isolates recovered from inoculated leaves were morphologically identical to the N. parvum isolates originally recovered from symptomatic leaves collected in the field, fulfilling Koch's postulates. Neofusicoccum parvum is an aggressive pathogen that causes severe disease on important tree and woody species (Liddle et al. 2019). It has been reported that N. parvum can infect the leaves and branches of grapes (Otoya-Martinez et al. 2023), dieback on Camellia japonica (Pintos, et al. 2012), Brazilian pepperwood (Bertetti et al. 2022), mango (Giancarlo et al. 2023) and other plants. To our knowledge, this is the first report of N. parvum causing leaf spot on Camellia japonica in China.

Docked bikeshare: a review of the interrelationship between socio-economic disadvantage and the built environment

ABSTRACT Promoted for their contribution towards decarbonising transport, encouraging modal shift, and improving health outcomes, bikeshare schemes (BSS) have developed worldwide. However, evidence suggests that fixed docking stations are often disproportionately located in white, high-income and high employment areas. Consequently, certain (often disadvantaged) communities may not be able to benefit as much as others from BSS. Interrelated issues concerning the built environment and socio-economic disadvantage include inequities related to population and residential accessibility, cycle lane access, docking station density and location, integration with public transport, access to city centres, universities, and unsafe areas. The paper reviews these aspects and discusses their implications for docking station planning practices that incorporate built environment insights and facilitate equitable access and use. Future research directions pertaining to examining the interrelationship between the built environment and disadvantage are suggested.