bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solving forward and inverse problems involving a nonlinear three-dimensional partial differential equation via asymptotic expansions
Authors: Chaikovskii Dmitrii , Zhang Ye
Published: August 2023

This paper concerns the use of asymptotic expansions for the efficient solving of forward and inverse problems involving a nonlinear singularly perturbed time-dependent reaction–diffusion–advection equation. By using an asymptotic expansion with the local coordinates in the transition-layer region, we prove the existence and uniqueness of a smooth solution with a sharp transition layer for a 3D partial differential equation. Moreover, with the help of asymptotic expansion, a simplified model is derived for the corresponding inverse source problem, which is close to the original inverse problem over the entire region except for a narrow transition layer. We show that such simplification does not reduce the accuracy of the inversion results when the measurement data contain noise. Based on this simpler inversion model, an asymptotic-expansion regularization algorithm is proposed for efficiently solving the inverse source problem in the 3D case. A model problem shows the feasibility of the proposed numerical approach.
Variation in pediatric and adolescent electronic health data sharing practices under the 21st Century Cures Act
Authors: Sinha Shikha , Bedgood Michael , Puttagunta Raghuveer , Kataria Akaash , Bourgeois Fabienne , Lee Jennifer A , Vodzak Jennifer , Hall Eric , Levy Bruce , Vawdrey David K
Published: August 2023

Objective

To describe real-world practices and variation in implementation of the Information Blocking provisions amongst healthcare organizations caring for pediatric patients.

Materials and methods

An online survey regarding implementation practices was distributed to representatives from 10 participating US healthcare organizations located in 6 different states. The survey was followed by structured interviews conducted through video conference. Information was gathered about implementation practices at each organization, with a focus on patient and proxy portal access to, and segmentation capabilities of, certain data classes listed in the United States Core Data for Interoperability Version 1.

Results

All organizations had implemented the information blocking provisions at their institution. All organizations utilized different portal account types for proxies and users. All organizations reported the capability of sharing labs, medications, problem lists, imaging, and notes with the parent/guardian of the non-adolescent minor user with differences in how sensitive elements within the data classes were protected. Variability existed in how data was shared with the remaining user types.

Discussion

Significant variability exists in how organizations have implemented the information blocking rules. Variation in data sharing and data access between institutions can result in privacy breaches and create confusion about completeness of data for patients and families.

Conclusion

Healthcare organizations have utilized varying strategies to comply with the information blocking provisions of the 21st Century Cures Act. Increased clarity from the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology on minor, adolescent, and caregiver privacy and improved segmentation capabilities from Electronic Health Record vendors is needed.
783 Consensus Criteria for Palliative Care Consults: A Modified Delphi Approach
Authors: Grossoehme Daniel H , Brown Carrie , Brown Miraides , Friebert Sarah , Khandelwal Anjay , Lou Richard B , Teo Esther
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Specialist palliative care (PC) is a limited resource, best conserved by identifying persons most likely to benefit from a PC consult. Little guidance is available for clinicians on whether/ when to consult PC. The authors previously developed empirically-derived consult criteria to guide burn providers in specialist PC consultation, refining them by expert panel input.

Methods

A modified three-iteration Delphi process was employed to revise and develop consensus on empirically-derived PC consult criteria in burn patients. Eligible participants (N=202) were identified by (a) having published on burn and PC (b) presented nationally on burn and PC or (c) nomination by the study team as having equivalent expertise in the field.

Results

Forty-three individuals participated in Iteration 1; n=34 (79%) in Iteration 3, which rank-ordered three versions of criteria and invited further revisions. Consensus eliminated the most parsimonious version. Expert review panelists integrated feedback, yielding a consensus list with 6 criteria for PC consultation and 6 criteria for consideration of PC consult. Consult criteria include patient/family request; conflicted or unclear goals of care; and high modified Baux/SCORTEN scores. Criteria for consideration include no longer meeting milestones; assistance with symptom management; or cardiac arrest.

Conclusions

Consensus among burn and PC providers enhances validity and supports clinical use to guide burn providers on patients most likely to benefit from specialist PC consultation. Future research should prospectively explore whether adherence to the criteria is associated with improved outcomes and potential further revision.

Applicability of Research to Practice

Provides guidance on PC consultation and may be used to examine outcomes.
284 Effect of <20-minutes of Cool Running Water < 3hours on Burn Patient Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Singer Yvonne M
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Burn injuries are a leading cause of morbidity that can result in devastating disability and poor quality of life for survivors. This systematic review aimed to synthesise evidence regarding the effect of 20 minutes of cool running water (CRW) within three hours of injury on outcomes of patients with thermal burn injuries.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted in reference to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Multiple databases (PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL Complete via EBSCO, PROQUEST Dissertations and Theses), and the Australia New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry were searched for eligible studies published in English and Chinese, without date restriction. Meta-analyses were undertaken. Methodological quality of studies was assessed by using Downs and Black Checklist.

Results

Of 323 records, seven studies were included, with a combined study population of 11,383 patients. The majority (67%) of studies were conducted in Australia and New Zealand. The methodological quality was ranked between ‘fair’ and ‘good’. Approximately half of the study population (n=5782 [50.8%]) received 20 minutes of CRW within three hours of injury. Patients who received 20 minutes of CRW, within three hours of injury, had significantly decreased odds of requiring skin grafting or other surgical intervention when compared to patients who did not receive 20 minutes of CRW within three hours of injury.

Conclusions

There is considerable evidence demonstrating the association between the application of 20 minutes of CRW within the first three hours of injury and improved outcomes for patients with burn injury. Burns first aid guidelines and recommendations vary widely globally. Burn care organisations should reach international consensus about burns first aid best practice and provide clear, simple, and unified messaging. Burn care organisations should also engage in cross-sector collaborations with relevant jurisdictional EMS organisations to translate burns first aid evidence into pre-hospital practice.

Applicability of Research to Practice

Applying CRW after burn injury is a relatively simple procedure that can be performed at the scene by conscious patients, bystanders, firefighters, and other EMS responders. Data from the ABA burn repository shows that burn injuries in the United States (US) mostly occur in the home and most are < 10% total body surface area (TBSA). Therefore, for US EMS responders responding to the burn injured, CRW is accessible in most situations, when injuries occur in the home and the medical urgency to transfer most patients with non-severe injuries (< 10%TBSA) is not time critical. These contextual conditions of responding to most people with burn injuries, uniquely places US EMS responders in a window of opportunity to provide CRW at the scene, that can significantly reduce the burden of injury for patients.
290 Admission Inflammatory Cytokine Levels Are Predictive of Fluid Resuscitation Requirements in Thermally Injured Patients
Authors: Kelly Edward J , Carney Bonnie C , Keyloun John , Moffatt Lauren T , Shupp Jeffrey W , Tejiram Shawn
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Resuscitation of patients with major thermal injury is accomplished with crystalloid infusion-based injury size and patient weight ultimately titrated based on patient response. Estimations of fluid requirements can be imprecise and predicting responsiveness lacks precision. Previous work has demonstrated perturbations in both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in burn patients. However, there is a paucity of literature examining the impact of these perturbations and their usefullness to help predict resuscitation needs. This study sought to examine patient specific cytokine levels which may provide better insight into resuscitation requirements.

Methods

Burn injured patients presenting to a regional center over six years were prospectively enrolled in this observational clinical trial. Blood samples were collected on admission. Plasma cytokine levels (IL-1b, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12p70 and TNF-a) were quantified by ELISA. Crystalloid resuscitation volumes during the first 48 hours were assessed for correlation with cytokine levels after adjusting for weight and %TBSA.

Results

Thirty-eight patients were included in the analysis. Mean total body surface area (TBSA) burned was 26.7±14.4%. Elevated levels of IL-6 significantly correlated with normalized resuscitation volumes (ml/kg/%TBSA) from 8-24hrs and 24-48hrs (r=0.52, p< 0.001; r=0.41, p< 0.01). Elevated levels of IL-10 were also significantly correlated with normalized crystalloid volumes from 8-24hrs and 24-48hrs (r=0.55, p< .01; r=0.46, p< 0.001). Elevated levels of TNF-a also correlated with normalized crystalloid volumes from 8-24hrs and 24-48hrs (r=0.60, p< 0.0001; r=0.57, p< 0.001).

Conclusions

Predicting resuscitation volumes (and preventing over excessive crystalloid administration—fluid creep) is an integral aspect of burn injury management and there is a need for more objective methods for measurement. Phenotyping patients based on admission cytokine levels employing point of care assays may be a novel aid in predicting resuscitation needs and avoiding fluid creep.

Applicability of Research to Practice

Proper burn resuscitation is an integral aspect in the care of the burn-injured patient. Establishing adjuncts to help estimate fluid requirements or risk of over-resuscitation could be integral in establishing more individualized care.
296 A Pilot Study of Hand Autografts Treated with Autologous Skin Cell Suspension
Authors: Deville Paige , Carter Jeffrey E , Lechtenberg Madeline , Phelan Herbert A
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Our group has previously studied the use of autologous skin cell suspensions in conjunction with meshed autografts for the treatment of hand burns. These studies lacked scar assessments and long-term follow up, however. The aim of this study was to compare the point estimates for prospectively collected scar characteristics in hand burns treated with meshed autograft and an ASCS solution vs split thickness autograft alone (STAG). As these point estimates are unknown, this study was considered to be hypothesis-generating to aid in future power calculations.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted to identify all subjects operated on for deep partial or full thickness hand burns at our ABA-verified burn center between April 2018 to April 2022. Eligible subjects were attempted to be contacted by phone and offered study participation. No financial enticements were offered beyond validating parking. All consenting subjects underwent measurement of scar characteristics by the Patient-Observer Scar Assessment Score (POSAS) by one of two dedicated study personnel. Two cohorts were created: those hands treated with 2:1 meshed autograft plus application of an ASCS solution (MA/ASCS) versus those hands treated with split thickness sheet, piecrust, or 1:1 meshed autograft alone (STAG). Values are reported as median and interquartile range.

Results

90 subjects fit the study criteria overall, with 20 able to be contacted (22%) and 17 of those consenting to participate (18%). The MA/ASCS group (n=8) were seen at 8 [3.75,17.25] months after injury while the STAG group (n=9) presented at 15 [9,21] months from injury. There was no significant difference in age between the two cohorts (35.5 years [29.75, 55.5] vs 51 years [45, 53], p=0.53), but the MA/ASCS group had significantly larger %TBSA burns overall (20% [5%, 10%] vs 2% [1%, 4%], p=0.01). Scar assessments were found to be comparable between the two groups as the POSAS-patient scores were 34.5 [13.5, 51] in MA/ASCS and 37 [14, 40] in STAG, while the POSAS-observer scores were 22 [20.25, 29] in the MA/STAG group and 21 [9, 25] in the STAG group. For a noninferiority trial of ASCS with POSAS-observer as the primary endpoint, an alpha of 0.05, 80% power, and a conservative noninferiority margin M of 10%, a randomized clinical trial would need 184 subjects.

Conclusions

The point estimates for scar assessment of hand burns treated with ASCS and 2:1 meshed autograft are so close to STAG alone, the resources necessary to perform a definitive RCT would require a degree of resources that are probably prohibitive. Alternative endpoints should be considered in judging the performance of ASCS in hand burns, such as the amount of donor skin needed to close the wound.

Applicability of Research to Practice

This study can provide important information in changing clinical practice for the treatment of hand burns.
300 Intraoperative Thresholds for Transfusion During Burn Surgery
Authors: Barrios Evan L
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Burn injury is associated with significant morbidity. Deep partial thickness or full thickness burns require surgical excision and skin grafting. This process results in significant blood loss and frequently requires blood transfusions. There is scarcity in published literature addressing intraoperative blood transfusion requirements. The relationship between blood product volume and patient characteristics has not been clearly defined. The enhanced ability to predict blood transfusion requirements would allow for improved allocation of blood products and safer overall operations.

Methods

This is a retrospective review conducted at a large academic burn center. Inclusion criteria are adult patients admitted between December 2019 and August 2020 with burns requiring surgical excision. Prisoners, children, and non-operative burns were excluded. Operative cases requiring blood product administration were compared to cases that did not require transfusion. Two-tailed student’s t-tests were conducted with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results

There were 103 total patients who underwent a total of 217 operations. Forty-eight percent (n=104) of cases required blood transfusion. As detailed in the table, the transfusion group had significantly increased percent total body surface area (TBSA) burn, along with longer hospital and ICU lengths of stay (LOS). Operatively, this group underwent more tissue excision (approximately 15% TBSA compared to 5%) with longer case lengths, coupled with higher estimated blood loss and a lower preoperative hemoglobin. Interestingly, the median time for the initiation of packed red blood cell transfusion was six minutes after incision.

Conclusions

The average estimated blood loss in cases resulting in transfusion was 907±462mL (with a median of 800mL) compared to 467±398mL estimated blood loss in the non-transfused group. Expected blood loss along with parameters such as planned area of excision (which was approximately three times greater in transfused patients) and severity of burn injury can guide the surgeon in anticipating perioperative administration of blood products. Future directions include stratification of blood volume administration by %TBSA, operative time, LOS, and percent excision.

Applicability of Research to Practice

The ability to predict blood product requirements preoperatively coupled with the incorporation of perioperative parameters can assist in the judicious and appropriate use of blood products during burn operations.
302 A Classification System and Surgical Algorithm for Pediatric Postburn Ear Deformities
Authors: Buta Martin , Bojovic Branko , DePamphilis Matthew , Driscoll Daniel N N , Ehrlichman Richard
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The outward projection of the external ear makes this anatomically complex appendage susceptible to trauma. Notably, up to 40-60% of facial burns involve the ear, frequently impacting function and aesthetics. Significant postburn sensory deficits and changes to the ear’s intricate architecture can markedly impair physical health, psychosocial functioning, and quality of life. Scar tissue and contracture, traumatized cartilage, and compromised blood supply and surrounding soft tissues all influence the reconstructive plan. The authors describe a new classification system and surgical algorithm for pediatric postburn ear deformities informed by both their extensive operative experience on the traumatized ear and a retrospective study of different reconstructive techniques for more severe burn injuries to the pediatric ear.

Methods

To develop the classification system and surgical algorithm, three senior surgeons with over 85 years of combined experience reconstructing ears carried out an iterative joint review of their relevant clinical cases and insights, including their personal approach to assessing postburn ear trauma and developing an operative plan. Particular attention was focused on how the type and extent of soft tissue injury affects available reconstructive options. To inform classification of the most complex ear burn cases, a retrospective review was conducted on patients aged 0 to 21 years who underwent cartilage framework reconstruction between January 2004 to January 2021 at a specialized pediatric burn center. Medical records were screened and 54 patients (61 ears) who met study criteria were identified and patient demographics, procedural characteristics, and outcomes were analyzed.

Results

For postburn ear deformities (Table 1) involving total or near-total preservation of the ear’s anatomical structural elements (Type I and Type II deformities, respectively), scar release, local tissue rearrangement, and/or skin grafting are typically sufficient for optimal reconstruction. For cartilage defects involving less than or more than two-thirds of the helix (Type III and Type IV deformities, respectively), a partial to complete ear scaffold can be successfully reconstructed using a composite graft, conchal transposition flap, costal cartilage graft, or porous polyethylene implant.

Conclusions

The proposed classification system and surgical algorithm (not shown) for postburn ear deformities facilitate a tailored approach that addresses reconstructive course duration, anticipated aesthetic results, complication potential, and patient goals and expectations.

Applicability of Research to Practice

The authors provide a new classification system to pediatric postburn ear deformities that, along with a proposed surgical algorithm, can help guide planning for reconstruction.
305 Increasing Nursing Burn Care Knowledge Through a Podcast Platform
Authors: Weintraub Brianna , Mueller Scott W , Wiktor Arek J
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Various educational methods and platforms have been developed to teach burn care such as Advanced Burn Life Support, Fundamentals of Burn Care, e-platforms, and supplementary lectures. However, there are nuances to each burn centers’ practices that general knowledge courses do not address. This study investigates the usefulness of using a burn unit podcast as a platform to provide educational delivery of clinical explanations aimed at improving nursing staff knowledge and understanding of clinical burn care.

Methods

A seven-episode podcast curriculum was developed at our ABA verified burn center focusing on seven core topic areas: burn evaluation; burn resuscitation; inhalation injury; wound care/pain management; psychology/nutrition; exfoliative/electrical injuries; frostbite. Each podcast ranged from 14-35 minutes led by burn attending moderators. Baseline data was obtained via an 18 question pre-test completed by participants prior to gaining access to the podcast. A post-test was administered after listening to episodes, comprised of different matched questions. Participant feedback survey was also given. A matched pair analysis of pre and post test results was performed utilizing paired t-test to measure significance.

Results

Over the course of two years, 18 nurses (RN) with varying levels of experience participated in the study. Overall post podcast test score averages significantly improved from 0.77 pre to 0.90 post (P< 0.01). Specific knowledge areas of burn evaluation (0.76 pre, 0.93 post), resuscitation (0.38 pre, 0.88 post), and frostbite (0.69 pre to 0.97 post), were all significantly improved post podcast (p< 0.01). Wound care/pain management (0.88 pre, 0.9 post), psychology/nutrition (0.85 pre, 0.88 post) were not significantly improved. Exfoliative/electrical injuries demonstrated non-significant decrease in scores (0.94 pre, 0.83 post). 93% of RNs strongly agreed that the podcast speaker(s) were knowledgeable and engaged. 86.66% of RNs agreed that the interactive teaching strategy enhanced learning. Additional feedback noted that the podcast was, “entertaining,” “a fun way to learn,” and “a great way to introduce new information.”

Conclusions

Unit specific podcast can improve burn knowledge while engaging the adult learner. Analysis of results can help educators focus on areas that need further attention and emphasis. Nursing feedback revealed that a flexible method of electronic content delivery engaged and entertained the learner while increasing the effectiveness of knowledge attained.

Applicability of Research to Practice

Any burn center focused on education for adult learners as an adjunct to traditional means of learning.
307 Reducing Moral Distress in Burn/trauma Intensive Care Unit Nurses
Authors: Miller Mikayla B
Published: August 2023

Introduction

There is minimal research regarding moral distress in Burn/Trauma intensive care unit (ICU) nurses compared to other nursing specialties. However, there is evidence that indicates there are high levels of moral distress in this nursing population which increases the risk for psychological or physical distress, burnout, and high nursing turnover. Identifying and utilizing an effective intervention, such as nursing huddles with clinical ethicists, can help reduce the impact of moral distress in this nursing population.

Methods

An evidenced-based practice project using the IOWA Model was conducted over a six week period on a ten bed Burn/Trauma ICU. Convenience sampling was utilized to capture a total of 24 registered nurses (RN) in the initial survey period. Each of the nurses (n=24) completed the Moral Distress Thermometer (MDT) and the Measure of Moral Distress for Healthcare Providers (MMD-HP) prior to signing up for a nursing huddle with the clinical ethicists. There were five nursing huddles conducted with clinical ethicists on Microsoft Teams over the span of four weeks. Each nurse that participated was required to complete the pre-intervention surveys prior to participating in the nursing huddles and also complete the post MDT evaluation. The MDT pre and post-intervention scores were compared to evaluate the impact of nursing huddles with clinical ethicists on moral distress among RNs working in a Burn/Trauma ICU.

Results

Out of the 24 RNs, 62.5% (n=15) completed the pre-intervention surveys, nursing huddles, and post-intervention surveys. A comparison of the pre-intervention and post-intervention MDT scores showed approximately a 44% decrease in acute moral distress in the Burn/Trauma ICU nurses. In addition, the MMD-HP identified 10 consistent triggers of moral distress in all 24 RNs during the initial survey period. Some reoccurring themes included futile care, false hope, and unnecessary care with benefit to the patient.

Conclusions

Nursing huddles with clinical ethicists considerably reduced the impact of the moral distress identified in Burn/Trauma ICU nurses. These findings support the need for continuous evaluation of moral distress and implementation of interventions to reduce moral distress in this nursing specialty.

Applicability of Research to Practice

Identifying and mitigating moral distress in the Burn/Trauma ICU nurse population is absolutely necessary. The unique ethical dilemmas that arise on a daily basis requires continuous monitoring and implementation of varying interventions to support the nurses and reduce the level of moral distress they may be experiencing. Moral distress does not dissipate on its own. Moral distress needs to be addressed and recognized as a serious and prevalent issue in this nursing population.
309 Reducing the Catheter Associated Infection Rate Within a Burn Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Hill David M , Malbrain Manu , Moll Vanessa , Stanton Kelly P , Velamuri Sai R
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are the most common hospital-onset healthcare-associated infections (HAI) in the United States. HAIs are key quality and safety metrics publicly reported in the acute-care space and linked to hospital reimbursement by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. CAUTIs, represent approximately 9% of all HAIs, and are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and cost in intensive care units (ICUs). CAUTIs are thought to impact patient outcomes and healthcare costs significantly. A recent analysis concluded that CAUTIs accounted for only 0.3% of HAI costs in the United States, or approximately $28 million/year. Per patient, CAUTI costs are described in wide ranges from $876 (for inpatient costs to the hospital for additional diagnostic tests and medications) to $10,197 (for inpatient costs to Medicare for ICU patients). The objective of this study was to analyze CAUTI incidences before and after the introduction of a novel urinary catheter with an integrated active drain line clearance system for continuous urine output in a burn intensive care unit.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study following the implementation of a novel urine output monitoring system with integrated drain line and urine clearance. Data from a 48-month (from January 2015-December 2018) historical control (period 1) were compared to data from a 28-month (from January 2020 to April 2022) post-implementation period (period 2). Pre- and post-implementation CAUTI event incidences were compared. Charts were reviewed to characterize the patients.

Results

A total of 42 CAUTIs in 2243 patients were identified using the National Health and Safety Network (NHSN) definition during the analyzed period. There were 40 CAUTI events in period 1 and two CAUTIs in period 2. The incidence of CAUTI events pre-implementation was 0.030 (mean of 10 CAUTI events per year) compared to 0.002 (mean of 1 CAUTI event per year) post-implementation of an automatic drain line clearing UO monitoring system showing a significant reduction in CAUTI events (P< 0.01, risk ratio novel vs. gravity bladder catheter 0.071, 95% confidence interval: 0.017-0.294).

Conclusions

CAUTIs were reduced in the period following the implementation of a novel urinary catheter system with an integrated active drain line and urine clearance in burn patients.

Applicability of Research to Practice

Implementation of a urinary catheter system with integrated drain line and urine clearance could reduce
Competition among purposes: The Chinese Experience in the Governance of Climate Change and Energy Transition
Authors: Gao Henry , Zhou Weihuan
Published: August 2023

Energy governance at the international level is fraught with difficulties due to the ‘competition among purposes’ between different bodies of international law. In this paper, we extend this thesis to argue that the same tension may be found in domestic energy governance. Drawing from China’s experience in the governance of climate change and energy transition, we analyse how the misalignment of incentives between different actors and the incomplete market reform led to a drastic shift in policy in 2021. We also compare the different approaches in China’s energy governance and trade governance and draw some general lessons on how developing countries might overcome such governance problems.
Utilization of a zoo for mosquito (Diptera: Culicidae) diversity analysis, arboviral surveillance, and blood feeding patterns
Authors: Briggs Cierra , Osman Rayan , Newman Brent C , Fikrig Kara , Danziger Philip R , Mader Emily M , Woc Colburn Margarita , Harrington Laura C , Moncayo Abelardo C
Published: August 2023

Zoos provide a unique opportunity to study mosquito feeding ecology as they represent areas where exotic animals, free-roaming native animals, humans, and mosquito habitats overlap. Therefore, these locations are a concern for arbovirus transmission to both valuable zoo animals and human visitors. We sampled mosquitoes in and around The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere in Tennessee, USA, over 4 months in 2020 using 4 mosquito trap methods and 12 sampling locations. Mosquitoes were identified to species, Culex mosquitoes were analyzed for arboviruses, and all engorged mosquitoes were preserved for host usage analysis. We captured over 9,000 mosquitoes representing 27 different species, including a new species record for Davidson County, TN (Culex nigripalpus Theobald). Minimum infection rates for West Nile virus (WNV) (Flaviviridae: Flavivirus), St. Louis encephalitis virus (Flaviviridae: Flavivirus), and Flanders virus (Hapavirus: Rhabdoviridae) were 0.79, 0, and 4.17, respectively. The collection of 100 engorged mosquitoes was dominated by Culex pipiens pipiens Linnaeus (38%), Culex erraticus Dyar and Knab (23%), and Culex pipiens pipiens–Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus hybrids (10%). Host DNA from 84 engorged mosquitoes was successfully matched to a variety of host species (n = 23), with just 8 species belonging to the zoo. Wild birds were the most frequently fed upon host, in particular northern cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis L. Passeriformes: Cardinalidae), which are competent WNV reservoirs. Taken together, our results demonstrate the utility of zoos as sentinels for emerging pathogens, for studying wildlife and human risk of zoonotic diseases, and for assessing vector diversity.
EPIC-1042 as a potent PTRF/Cavin1–caveolin-1 interaction inhibitor to induce PARP1 autophagic degradation and suppress temozolomide efflux for glioblastoma
Authors: Hong Biao , Yang Eryan , Su Dongyuan , Ju Jiasheng , Cui Xiaoteng , Wang Qixue , Tong Fei , Zhao Jixing , Yang Shixue , Cheng Chunchao , Xin Lei , Xiao Menglin , Yi Kaikai , Zhan Qi , Ding Yaqing , Xu Hanyi , Cui Longtao , Kang Chunsheng
Published: August 2023

Background

Temozolomide (TMZ) treatment efficacy in glioblastoma is determined by various mechanisms such as TMZ efflux, autophagy, base excision repair (BER) pathway, and the level of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT). Here, we reported a novel small-molecular inhibitor (SMI) EPIC-1042 (C20H28N6) with the potential to decrease TMZ efflux and promote PARP1 degradation via autolysosomes in the early stage.

Methods

EPIC-1042 was obtained from receptor-based virtual screening. Co-immunoprecipitation and pull-down assays were applied to verify the blocking effect of EPIC-1042. Western blotting, co-immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence were used to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of EPIC-1042. In vivo experiments were performed to verify the efficacy of EPIC-1042 in sensitizing glioblastoma cells to TMZ.

Results

EPIC-1042 physically interrupted the interaction of PTRF/Cavin1 and caveolin-1, leading to reduced secretion of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) to decrease TMZ efflux. It also induced PARP1 autophagic degradation via increased p62 expression that more p62 bound to PARP1 and specially promoted PARP1 translocation into autolysosomes for degradation in the early stage. Moreover, EPIC-1042 inhibited autophagy flux at last. The application of EPIC-1042 enhanced TMZ efficacy in glioblastoma in vivo.

Conclusion

EPIC-1042 reinforced the effect of TMZ by preventing TMZ efflux, inducing PARP1 degradation via autolysosomes to perturb the BER pathway and recruitment of MGMT, and inhibiting autophagy flux in the later stage. Therefore, this study provided a novel therapeutic strategy using the combination of TMZ with EPIC-1042 for glioblastoma treatment.
Potential benefits of microalgae intake against metabolic diseases: beyond spirulina—a systematic review of animal studies
Authors: Tejero Pérez Adrian , Kapravelou Garyfallia , Porres Foulquie Jesús María , López Jurado Romero de la Cruz María , Martínez Martínez Rosario
Published: August 2023

Context

Microalgae are a diverse source of bioactive molecules, such as polyphenols, carotenoids, and omega-3 fatty acids, with beneficial properties in biomarkers of metabolic diseases. Unlike the rest of the microalgae genera, Arthrospira sp., commonly called spirulina, has been widely studied.

Objective

This review aims to describe the current knowledge about microalgae, besides spirulina, focusing on their beneficial properties against metabolic diseases.

Data Sources

A systematic research of MEDLINE (via PubMed), Cochrane, and Scopus databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published after January 2012. In vivo animal studies including microalgae consumption, except for spirulina, that significantly improved altered biomarkers related to metabolic diseases were included. These biomarkers included body weight/composition, glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, oxidative damage, inflammation markers, and gut microbiota.

Data Extraction

After the literature search and the implementation of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 37 studies were included in the revision out of the 132 results originally obtained after the application of the equation on the different databases.

Data Analysis

Data containing 15 microalgae genera were included reporting on a wide range of beneficial results at different levels, including a decrease in body weight and changes in plasma levels of glucose and lipoproteins due to molecular alterations such as those related to gene expression regulation. The most reported beneficial effects were related to gut microbiota and inflammation followed by lipid and glucose metabolism and body weight/composition.

Conclusions

Microalgae intake improved different altered biomarkers due to metabolic diseases and seem to have potential in the design of enriched foodstuffs or novel nutraceuticals. Nevertheless, to advance to clinical trials, more thorough/detailed studies should be performed on some of the microalgae genera included in this review to collect more information on their molecular mechanisms of action.
Underutilized plants increase biodiversity, improve food and nutrition security, reduce malnutrition, and enhance human health and well-being. Let’s put them back on the plate!
Authors: Knez Marija , Ranić Marija , Gurinović Mirjana
Published: August 2023

The global food system depends on a limited number of plant species. Plants with unsatisfactory nutritional value are overproduced, whereas the wide variety of nutrient-rich plant species used in earlier times remains neglected. Basing our diet on a few crops has wide-ranging negative consequences on nutrition and food security. Although still under-researched, underutilized plants are slowly starting to receive increased recognition. These plants have superior nutritional content and immense potential to contribute to food and nutrition security and increased sustainability. This narrative review provides evidence to encourage the promotion, domestication, and commercialization of underutilized plants. The anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer effects of some of underutilized plants are presented in this review. The outstanding ability of forgotten plants to increase food and nutrition security, boost dietary diversity, reduce malnutrition, and enhance human health and well-being is demonstrated. The main barriers and obstacles to reintroducing underutilized foods are reviewed and recommendations for overcoming nutrition and dietary-related challenges for re-establishing underutilized plants into the global food system are presented. The expansion of underutilized plants for human use is of paramount importance. The exceptional nutritional properties, bioactive potential, and proven health benefits of underutilized plants indicate that increased promotion, domestication, and commercialization of these plants should be strongly supported. Besides health benefits, marginalized plants have the potential to enhance human well-being and improve people’s lives in many ways, retain biodiversity, and develop local economies. Therefore, underutilized plants should be used in the broader context of well-balanced and healthy diets.
Mindful attention is inversely associated with pain via mediation by psychological distress in orthopedic patients
Authors: Lam Chun Nok , Larach Daniel B , Chou Chih-Ping , Black David S
Published: August 2023

Background

Orthopedic patients report pain as their main symptom complaint. Subjective pain experience is correlated with self-reported psychological state, such as distress.

Purpose

This study tests whether scores from a measure of mindful attention are associated with subjective pain levels and whether psychological distress scores function as a mediation path.

Methods

During routine visits to a single orthopedic clinic in East Los Angeles, California, 525 patients were recruited to participate in the study. Participants reported on measures of pain (Universal Pain Assessment Tool [UPAT]), mindful attention (Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire [FFMQ]), and psychological distress (Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale [DASS]). We used Pearson correlations to examine relationships between FFMQ and UPAT scores and mediation analyses to test indirect effects of DASS scores as a mediation path.

Results

The average age of the sample was 54 years (range 18–98 years), 61% were male, and 64% were non-Hispanic White individuals. The locations of injury were the shoulder (72%), elbow (21%), and clavicle or wrist (7%). Ninety-one percent reported mild or greater pain in the prior 2 weeks (mean = 4.2 ± 2.5, range 0–10), and 49% reported mild or more severe distress symptoms (DASS: 13.0 ± 11.5). FFMQ scores inversely predicted UPAT scores (β = –0.22, P < .01), mediated through DASS scores. DASS subscale scores for depression (β = –0.10, P = .02) and stress (β = –0.08, P = .04) but not anxiety (β = –0.03, P = .33) produced significant indirect effects. FFMQ acting-with-awareness and non-judging subscales had the largest effect on depression and stress DASS subscale scores.

Conclusions

We find statistical support to suggest that distress—particularly depressed mood and stress—mediates the association between mindful attention and pain intensity among orthopedic patients. A disposition of mindful attention might counter distress ailments that exacerbate subjective pain, and this has possible implications for mindfulness training interventions offered to orthopedic patients.
Victim opinions of police responses to reports of domestic violence and abuse in Greece
Authors: Kravvariti Vasiliki , Browne Kevin
Published: August 2023

There are no known studies of victim opinions of police responses to domestic violence and abuse (DVA) calls in Greece. This study investigates differences in female and male victim experiences after making a call to the Greek police about DVA. A sample consisting of 104 victims of DVA was recruited from five agencies offering counselling and support. Of this sample, 72% consented to participate and complete a structured questionnaire (N = 75). The study compared 58 female and 17 male victims of similar demographic characteristics. Results showed there was a significant bias towards female victims for the information, help, and advice given, satisfaction with the police interview and arrest but not for children and witnesses, satisfaction with the police report and outcome of the incident. Partial evidence is provided to support the notion that male victims in Greece are discriminated against, as they do not fulfil gender stereotypes expected by police officers.
Examining the Black Gender Gap in Educational Attainment: The Role of Exclusionary School Discipline & Criminal Justice Contact
Authors: Thompson Marissa E
Published: August 2023

Black men and women have different levels of average educational attainment, yet few studies have focused on explaining how and why these patterns develop. One explanation may be inequality in experiences with institutional punishment through exclusionary school discipline and criminal justice exposure. Drawing on intersectional frameworks and theories of social control, I examine the long-term association between punishment and the Black gender gap using data from the Children of the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 cohort (NLSY-C). Decomposition analyses reveal that about one third of the gender gap can be explained by gender differences in experiences with institutional punishments, net of differences in observed behaviors. These measures are predictive at key educational transition points, including finishing high school and earning a 4-year college degree. Though Black boys and girls have similar family backgrounds and grow up in similar neighborhoods, results suggest that Black girls have a persistent advantage in educational attainment due in part to their lower levels of exposure to exclusionary school discipline and the criminal justice system. In addition, I find that gender differences in early achievement, early externalizing behavioral problems, school experiences, and substance use in adolescence and early adulthood are associated with gender differences in educational attainment. Taken together, these results illustrate the importance of punishment disparities in understanding disparate educational outcomes over the life course of Black men and women.
Evaluating lactation performance of multiparous dairy cattle to prepartum and/or postpartum supplementation of fat-embedded calcium gluconate
Authors: Seymour D J , Sanz-Fernandez M V , Daniel J B , Martín-Tereso J , Doelman J
Published: August 2023

Prebiotic compounds may be supplemented in the diet to improve animal health and performance in a variety of ways. In dairy cattle, the transition from pregnancy through parturition and lactation represents a critical life stage with many concurrent stressors. The objectives of this study were to evaluate responses to the provision of a hindgut-targeted prebiotic compound (calcium gluconate; HFCG) when supplemented prepartum and/or postpartum in a 2 × 2 factorial design. One hundred and sixty-four multiparous Holstein cattle were enrolled and followed from approximately 21 d prior to calving until 100 d of lactation. Treatments were administered as a pelleted compound feed offered in the rotary milking parlor once daily prepartum and thrice daily postpartum. Information pertaining to milk production and body weight were automatically recorded by the milking equipment, and information pertaining to reproductive and health performance was recorded by farm staff. Cattle that received HFCG prepartum were confirmed pregnant approximately 21 d earlier (P = 0.024). Cattle that received HFCG both pre- and postpartum had 9% to 10% higher yields of milk protein, fat, and energy-corrected milk (P ≤ 0.037) from weeks 4 to 9 of lactation relative to those that received HFCG exclusively prepartum. Conversely, cattle that received HFCG exclusively postpartum had 9% to 10% higher yields of milk protein, fat, and energy-corrected milk (P ≤ 0.037) from weeks 9 to 14 of lactation relative to those that received exclusively the negative control in both periods. The mechanism underlying these responses remains unclear, however, we hypothesize that these responses are due to localized reductions in inflammation in the gut and/or signaling to extragastrointestinal tissues altering energy partitioning and balance.
Phylogenetics and taxonomy of the Indo-Australian genus Ulonemia sensu Drake (Hemiptera: Tingidae), with the recognition of new genera and species collected from Proteaceae in Australia
Authors: Shofner Ryan , Cassis Gerasimos
Published: August 2023

Tingid classification has been problematic since the recognition of the family. The exaggerated ornamentation of many tingids has caused confusion in morphology-based phylogenies due to convergence. Also, some genera, like Ulonemia, lack exaggerated structures and their diagnoses rely on reduced morphology, making identification difficult. The relationship between these genera is of great interest, as several species of Ulonemia have recently become pests of Macadamia, and several of these genera are found on other Proteaceae.

We used 16S, COI, 18S, and 28S to determine genus-level relationships of Ulonemia and other Australian Tingidae using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference. We also analysed a morphological dataset using maximum parsimony. The parsimony analysis yielded numerous morphological homoplasies, and most deep clades lacked support. The ML and Bayesian analyses had strong support and returned a paraphyletic Ulonemia with three strongly supported clades. Two new genera, Cercotingis gen. nov. and Proteatingis gen. nov., are erected and Ulonemia redescribed to account for the observed phylogenies. Three new species of Cercotingis (C. croajingolong sp. nov., C. namadgi sp. nov., and C. tasmaniensis sp. nov.) and four new species of Proteatingis (Pr. astibosetes sp. nov., Pr. howardi sp. nov., Pr. minuta sp. nov., and Pr. xouthos sp. nov.) are described, with keys to species of Cercotingis and Proteatingis.
Integrative taxonomy of the pseudoscorpion family Chernetidae (Pseudoscorpiones: Cheliferoidea): evidence for new range-restricted species in the Dinaric Karst
Authors: Hlebec Dora , Harms Danilo , Kučinić Mladen , Harvey Mark S
Published: August 2023

Despite the recent advent of molecular data to assess the phylogeny of many invertebrate groups, the systematics of the pseudoscorpion family Chernetidae is unresolved, even though it comprises a quarter of the world’s generic pseudoscorpion diversity. We derive a preliminary molecular phylogeny of chernetids to assess subfamilial and generic monophyly using mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (28S rRNA, 18S rRNA, and H3) markers. Three chernetid subfamilies have previously been recognized and Lamprochernetinae, originally defined based on T-shaped spermathecae, is recovered here but expanded to include the Old-World tropical genus Verrucachernes. In contrast, the genera Conicochernes and Calymmachernes of the subfamily Goniochernetinae are nested within the largest subfamily, Chernetinae. Three new subterranean species of the Palearctic genus Lasiochernes are also described from the Dinaric Karst: L. marinaeHlebec & Harvey, sp. nov., L. jalziciHlebec & Harvey, sp. nov., and L. pavlekaeHlebec & Harvey, sp. nov.. The former two species are single-cave endemics but L. pavlekae sp. nov. is more widespread. The relative lack of genetic structuring in this species, including haplotype sharing between sampling localities, together with a patchy distribution, suggests that its biogeography is probably shaped by multiple vector-mediated dispersal events, rather than geomorphological history. Due to their rarity, we discourage further collecting of Lasiochernes in this subterranean biodiversity hotspot.