Texas A&M University System

Validating blow fly developmental datasets for estimating the time of colonization (TOC) of vertebrate remains is a critical component of applied forensic entomology. Reliable developmental data enhance the probative value of entomological evidence in forensic investigations; however, direct assessment of TOC under field conditions is inherently challenging because the timing of oviposition is rarely known. To address this limitation, previous studies have used time of placement (TOP) as a proxy for TOC to evaluate insect colonization patterns on carcasses deployed in the field. The present study evaluated the accuracy, precision, and error structure of TOP ratio estimates across multiple whole-carrion resources, focusing on the effects of thermal summation method, developmental study tissue type, species coexistence, and adult eclosion timing. Field experiments were conducted during summer months in Texas, USA, using the invasive and predatory blow fly Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart). Results demonstrated that TOP ratios generated using accumulated degree days (ADD) were approximately 5% better aligned with known placement intervals than those derived from accumulated degree hours (ADH). Estimates based on first-emerging adults were 18% better aligned than those based on last-emerging adults, and developmental datasets generated from equine or porcine tissue produced TOP ratios that were 10% better aligned than those from canine tissue. Estimates derived from single-species development of Ch. rufifacies were substantially more precise, exhibiting up to 80% less variability than estimates from mixed-species contexts involving its intraguild prey, Cochliomyia macellaria (Fabricius). However, this increased precision was accompanied by reduced accuracy, with misalignment increasing by as much as 57% depending on carrion type. Collectively, these findings emphasize the importance of both developmental dataset selection and ecological realism when applying thermal-based models in forensic entomology.

Climate smart agriculture (CSA) is a proactive and adaptive approach to enhancing sustainability of agriculture production that concerns food security and climate challenges. This chapter utilizes the key components such as integrated farming system (IFS), scale of operation, and the rationale for climate-smart agriculture to implement CSA principles. Integrating diverse agricultural practices, CSA enhances productivity, builds resilience, and helps to mitigate environmental impacts. This chapter examines climate risks, adaptation strategies, and mitigation measures emphasizing how CSA techniques such as conservation tillage, crop diversification, intercropping, precision technology, and resource efficient farming, can reduce vulnerabilities to climate change. In addition, it highlights the role of integrated farming systems in optimizing resource use, improving soil health, and ensuring long-term agriculture sustainability. The challenges regarding implementing CSA, particularly in resource limited regions, are also discussed, along with the prospects for scaling up smart climate technologies. Combining CSA with IFS helps support farmers and agricultural scientists in achieving greater food security, economic stability, and environmental stability. The synthesis presented here hopes to contribute to the broader goal of developing resilient food systems capable of withstanding climate uncertainties while ensuring long term agricultural productivity.

ObjectiveTo validate the Workplace COVID-19 Knowledge and Stigma Scale (WoCKSS) using item response theory (IRT), exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).DesignCross-sectional psychometric validation.SettingManufacturing companies registered in Malaysia.ParticipantsA total of 137 factory workers participated in the exploratory phase and 300 in the confirmatory phase. Inclusion criteria were Malaysian nationality and ability to read Malay.MethodsThe knowledge domain was examined using the two-parameter logistic IRT model in two stages: an exploratory IRT analysis in phase 1 to screen items and a confirmatory IRT analysis in phase 2 to evaluate the final item set. The stigma domain was analysed using EFA followed by CFA. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega (ω). The development process and content and face validity results were previously published.Results14 knowledge items were retained after exploratory IRT and formed the final knowledge scale evaluated in confirmatory IRT. For these final items, discrimination parameters ranged from 0.77 to 3.17 and difficulty values from −4.47 to 0.23, with unidimensionality supported (p=0.644). EFA supported a three-factor stigma structure (stereotype, fear, prejudice), and CFA confirmed excellent model fit (χ2=8.91, df=11, p=0.630; root mean square error of approximation=0.00; Comparative Fit Index=1.00; Tucker-Lewis Index=1.00; standardised root mean square residual=0.021). Composite reliability by McDonald’s omega ranged from 0.691 to 0.893.ConclusionWoCKSS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing workplace COVID-19 knowledge and stigma in industrial sectors in Malaysia.

Abstract College students face multiple stressors that increase vulnerability to mental health challenges and risky substance use, including simultaneous polysubstance use (using multiple substances at once), which poses significant health risks. This study examined the relationship between polysubstance use and depressive symptoms among a quota‑based sample of college students. Data from 2155 students who reported past-year alcohol use were analyzed using multivariable linear regression. Measures included self-reported indices of past-month alcohol, cannabis, and non-prescribed stimulant use (individually and simultaneously); depressive symptoms; and adverse childhood experiences. Cannabis and stimulant use were associated with higher depressive symptoms ( p < 0.01). Alcohol-stimulant polysubstance use was associated with depressive symptoms ( p < 0.05), while alcohol-cannabis was not ( p > 0.05). Adverse childhood experiences remained a significant correlate of depressive symptoms across all models. Findings underscore the need for campus mental health prevention and intervention efforts addressing polysubstance use and incorporating trauma-informed strategies for early childhood adversity.

As populations increase, water quality is increasingly affected by failing septic systems that introduce harmful fecal bacteria (e.g., E. coli) into watersheds. Septic system owners play a vital role in reducing the impact of such bacteria. Therefore, our study aimed to examine factors that influence septic system owners' decisions to improve septic system maintenance and protect watershed health in the Attoyac Bayou, located in East Texas. Using the theory of planned behavior, we addressed three research questions: (1) What are the characteristics of septic systems within the Attoyac Bayou watershed?; (2) How have septic system owners in the Attoyac Bayou watershed maintained their systems?; and (3) How do attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control predict septic system maintenance behaviors? We sent a questionnaire to septic system owners in the Attoyac Bayou watershed that included questions about septic system characteristics, maintenance histories, and owners' perceived norms, controls, attitudes, and intentions about septic systems. We found most septic systems in Attoyac Bayou are older conventional models with many owners lacking service contracts and reporting various times since the last pump out or inspection. While septic system owners generally demonstrate positive attitudes and confidence toward maintenance, our results revealed that attitude accounts for the greatest variance in maintenance behavior, with social norms and perceived behavioral control being less influential. Therefore, we recommend targeted messaging and interventions to reinforce positive attitudes, enhance perceived behavioral control, and promote consistent maintenance behaviors.

Emerging adults (ie, those aged 18 to 25 years) in the United States exhibit the poorest diet quality among all adult age groups, contributing to adverse health and academic outcomes. Existing nutrition education programs often overlook this population, particularly those without children. This study aims to present the development of a nutrition education curriculum for emerging adults, including its process and outcome evaluation strategies and measures. The Fuel to Thrive program was adapted from an established state program for adults. The content was informed by reviewing the literature, conducting focus groups with health educators, and holding regular meetings with a curriculum committee. The final program consists of five 1-hour lessons incorporating nutrition education, recipe demonstrations, and physical activity. Process evaluation will involve focus groups with participants and interviews with educators to assess relevance and feasibility. Outcome evaluation will include surveys administered before and after the program to assess dietary behaviors, physical activity, food safety, and food resource management. The program is currently being piloted at a Texas university. Additional implementations are planned for fall 2025 and spring 2026, with the inclusion of the Short Healthy Eating Index Survey to better assess diet quality changes. The Fuel to Thrive program addresses a critical gap in nutrition education for emerging adults by offering a tailored curriculum. Future iterations will refine the program based on participant and educator feedback and expand evaluation efforts. The long-term goal is national dissemination to improve dietary behaviors and health outcomes among emerging adults. DERR1-10.2196/81647.