Demographic Patterns Research Articles

Digesting danger: A two-decade study exploring the association between food processing and colon cancer.

87 Background: Dietary patterns play a significant role in cancer prevention and progression, yet the specific association of food processing with colon cancer remains largely under-investigated. The NOVA classification system categorizes foods by their level of processing, providing a unique way to examine this relationship. Colon cancer remains a leading global health concern, and emerging evidence points to diet as potential contributors. This study explores associations between NOVA-classified foods and colon cancer, offering new insights into the role of food processing in cancer development. Methods: Survey data from the NHANES database (from 1999 to 2018) was probed for demographic and clinically relevant data, and day one food journals were converted into NOVA classifications. Participants aged 20 and older were included for analysis, including those with and without colon cancer (n=339 and 47615, respectively). Independent two-sample t-tests were conducted to compare the mean proportion of daily energy consumption of various NOVA food categories between the two groups, and a Benjamini-Hochberg correction was applied to adjust for multiple comparisons at p<0.05. Sensitivity analyses were performed using total grams and percent total caloric intake as inputs. Subgroup analyses were conducted via a logistic regression model including BMI, age, ethnicity, gender, education, country of birth, and military service. Results: Individuals with colon cancer had higher intake of ham and salted meats (NOVA 3, adjusted p=0.028) compared to those without cancer. Conversely, individuals without cancer consumed more legumes (NOVA 1, adjusted p=0.028), oils (NOVA 2, adjusted p=0.023), and “other processed foods” that did not fall into a specific processed food category (NOVA 3, adjusted p=0.038). Subgroups analyses revealed a greater association with colon cancer for age greater than 50 and non-hispanic White ethnicity. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the only study at this scale that evaluates colon cancer prevalence in the context of dietary behaviors stratified by level of industrial processing. The significant associations between ham and salted meats consumption, age greater than 50, and non-Hispanic White ethnicity with increased cancer prevalence highlight the impact of dietary and demographic patterns on colorectal carcinogenesis. Additional studies are needed to confirm these hypotheses in the prospective setting.

Social demographic patterns and participation in the Gariep Dam fishery, South Africa, during the Covid-19 pandemic

Social demographic patterns and participation in the Gariep Dam fishery, South Africa, during the Covid-19 pandemic

Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential and clinical characteristics in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Abstract Background Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic disorder that is commonly diagnosed at a young age, often in individuals in their 20s. However, with increasing life expectancy and advancements in diagnostic techniques, the incidence of HCM being diagnosed in older individuals is rising. Clonal Hematopoiesis of Indeterminate Potential (CHIP) is a common age-related condition resulting from the expansion of hematopoietic stem cells due to mutations. Purpose In this study, we analyzed the correlation between HCM and CHIP and their clinical characteristics. Methods A study was conducted on 66 HCM patients recruited from a tertiary hospital in Korea, from November 2021 to January 2024. The patients' demographic data, echocardiographic parameters and HCMP patterns were collected. The HCM patterns were analyzed based on Helmy's classification, and Pattern 4 was classified as Pure apical. Furthermore, the genomic DNA related to HCM in those patients was extracted and sequenced. Analysis for Clonal Hematopoiesis of Indeterminate Potential (CHIP) mutation was also conducted. Results CHIP mutation analysis was performed on 66 patients, and mutation was detected in 31 of them. The most common variant was DNMT3A(33%), followed by TET2 and ASXL. Compared to CHIP (-) patients, CHIP (+) patients were significantly older on average (60.31±10.3 vs 67.1±9.3, P-value=0.07) and had a significantly higher average age at diagnosis(55.49±12.1 vs 61.06±10.1, P-value=0.049). Additionally, they had a significantly lower BMI(26.1±3.2 vs 24.5±3.0, p value=0.037) and higher prior stroke(5.7% vs 25.8%, P-value=0.037). In echocardiographic findings, the deceleration time(DT) was significantly shorter(223.7±59.8 vs 193.9±44.4, P-value=0.027) in CHIP (+) patients. Although a higher proportion of CHIP (+) patients had the Pure apical type compared to CHIP (-) patients, this difference was not statistically significant (34.3% vs 54.8%, P-value 0.093). Based on genomic DNA analysis, patients were divided into those with Pathogenic/Likely Pathogenic (P/LP) variants and those without. Among P/LP(-) patients, groups were further divided based on the presence or absence of CHIP mutation. Analyzing age and age at diagnosis among these three groups revealed no significant differences. Conclusions CHIP mutations exhibit a prevalence of approximately 10% in individuals over the age of 70. In our pilot study, CHIP (+) was found in 31 out of 66 patients (47%), which is a higher proportion than in the general population. The CHIP (+) group was, on average, older and had an older age at diagnosis. They also had a higher incidence of stroke, shorter Deceleration Time, and lower BMI. While the analysis of HCM patterns showed that the Pure apical type was more common in the CHIP (+) group, this difference was not statistically significant. Characteristics of HCM patients

Long-term genetic and demographic surveys reveal the impact of population history, habitat change, and conservation efforts on the globally endangered Turdus helleri (Taita Thrush)

Abstract Predicting the fate of threatened populations remains a challenge in conservation biology. The study of genetic and demographic time series is crucial to unravel the role of population history, anthropogenic disturbance and conservation actions on current demographic and genetic patterns. However, such studies are still rare in threatened species. In this study, we integrate a quarter century of population demographic (capture–mark–recapture) and genetic (microsatellites) data for the globally endangered Turdus helleri (Taita Thrush), a songbird endemic to the fragmented cloud forest of the Taita Hills, southeast Kenya. We found that the two largest remaining populations are prone to high demographic and genetic stochasticity. Furthermore, despite relatively high genetic diversity, the increase in inbreeding in recent years suggests vulnerability to extinction. Moreover, while the smallest population was close to extinction, assisted gene flow midway through the study led to a demographic rescue. We conclude that habitat protection, continued monitoring and conservation efforts are required for long-term survival of the endangered T. helleri, as the species may be prone to an extinction debt.

National Trends in Non-Accidental Pediatric Craniofacial Fractures Requiring Inpatient Admission.

Pediatric craniofacial trauma, particularly from non-accidental trauma (NAT), is a significant cause of injury with enduring physical and psychological impacts. This study analyzes demographic patterns, injury characteristics, and trends in NAT-related craniofacial injuries to inform early identification, intervention, and prevention efforts. Analysis of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kids' Inpatient Database was performed for the years 2009 to 2019. Patients aged 0 to 17 with craniofacial injuries and a diagnosis of non-accidental trauma were identified based on current procedural codes; demographic and temporal trends were analyzed. Overall, 306,115 patients with craniofacial injuries and 20,540 patients with non-accidental trauma (NAT) were identified. Patients with NAT represented 2.6% of all craniofacial injuries, with a greater proportion of males affected. On average, 39% of all NAT cases involved a craniofacial injury. The most common injury patterns were intracranial (50.1%), superficial head injuries (37.7%), and craniofacial fractures (31.9%. Isolated facial fractures were rare, comprising <1% of all cases. Although the average in-hospital mortality was 6.78%, temporal analysis demonstrated significant reductions in in-hospital mortality and length of hospitalization (P<0.001). Pediatric craniofacial injuries from NAT remain a significant public health concern. However, the observed decrease in both hospitalization length and in-hospital deaths suggests improvements in early intervention and treatment outcomes. Continued efforts to refine diagnostic strategies, enhance provider awareness, and strengthen prevention initiatives are essential to mitigate the devastating impacts of NAT in the pediatric population.

Patterns of febrile seizures: analysing seasonal, diurnal and socioeconomic correlations in Bangladesh

Background: Febrile seizures (FS) are a common neurological disorder in children, often triggered by fever without evidence of central nervous system infections. This study explores the demographic, seasonal, diurnal and socioeconomic patterns of febrile seizures among children in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 298 children aged 5 months to 5 years admitted with febrile seizures at a tertiary care hospital. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, comorbidities, seizure patterns and socioeconomic status and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The majority of febrile seizures occurred in children aged 13–18 months (35.57%) with a male predominance (72.48%). Seizures were brief, with 50.34% lasting≤1 minute and most occurred within 6 hours of fever onset (51.01%). Diurnal variation showed the highest incidence between noon and evening (51.68%). A bimodal seasonal distribution was observed, with peaks in January (12.08%) and July (11.07%). Bronchiolitis (37.92%) and diarrhea (27.18%) were the most common comorbidities. Firstborn children (86.58%) and those with normal nutritional status (93.29%) were predominantly affected. Conclusions: Febrile seizures in the study population showed distinct demographic, temporal and socioeconomic patterns, aligning with global trends. The findings underscore the importance of early fever management, targeted interventions during seasonal peaks and caregiver education to reduce seizure-related morbidity.

Use of Job Exposure Matrices to Inform COVID-19 Vaccine Promotion among Non-Health care Workers in Chicago, Illinois

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Occupation, a risk factor for SARS-CoV-2 exposure, is excluded from immunization records. Identifying under-vaccinated workers could optimize interventions to protect vulnerable populations. METHODS We analyzed health department case interviews (June 2021-May 2022) to describe 3,763 non-health care workers with COVID-19 in Chicago. Job exposure matrices categorized SARS-CoV-2 exposure risk through frequency of indoor work, proximity to the public and to coworkers. Logistic regression quantified associations between occupational risk and vaccination status. RESULTS Pre-Omicron vaccination rates were lower among high-risk vs. lower-risk workers (41% vs. 49%). Post-Omicron rates did not differ (75%). Under-vaccinated groups had disproportionately high occupational risk: 66% of Black-non-Latinx, 57% of 18–29-year-olds. Demographically-adjusted models found no associations between occupational risk and vaccination. CONCLUSIONS Given demographic patterns of employment, workplace-based COVID-19 vaccine promotion can help reach under-vaccinated communities. To inform interventions, immunization records must include occupation.

The Impact of Age Differences and Injury Severity on Pedestrian Traffic Crashes: An Analysis of Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes

Background/Objectives: The incidence of pedestrian traffic injuries is an escalating concern for public health worldwide. Particularly in fast-developing nations, such as Saudi Arabia, these injuries form a significant portion of trauma-related healthcare challenges. This study aims to explore age-specific differences in trends, seasonal variations, and the overall impact of pedestrian traffic injuries in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with a focus on injury characteristics and clinical outcomes. Methods: The study conducted a retrospective analysis using data from the Saudi Trauma Registry (STAR) covering the period between August 2017 and December 2022. It employed descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable linear regression analyses to explore demographic trends, characteristics of injuries, and hospital-based outcomes. Results: This study analyzed data from 1062 pedestrian injury cases, revealing key demographic and clinical patterns. Most incidents occurred on weekdays (71.9%) and during nighttime hours (63.3%), with seasonal peaks observed from April to June (30.4%). The lower extremities (27.5%) and head (21.3%) were the most frequently injured body regions. ICU admissions were more common among individuals aged 30–40, females, and those with head or chest trauma, while higher in-hospital mortality was associated with patients over 60 years old, transport by private or police vehicles, and extended ICU and hospital stays. Approximately 25.6% of cases required ICU care, with an overall in-hospital mortality rate of 4.9%. Conclusions: This study provides an in-depth analysis of pedestrian traffic injuries treated at a trauma center in Riyadh, highlighting significant demographic, temporal, and clinical patterns. Understanding these trends is essential for optimizing resource allocation and improving emergency care outcomes. Furthermore, the identified age-specific risk factors and seasonal variations underscore the critical need for targeted interventions and policy enhancements to improve road safety and reduce the burden of pedestrian injuries.

Demographic patterns in horseback riding head and neck injuries within the United States: A NEISS database study.

Our primary objective was to identify and describe demographic trends in head and neck injuries incurred while participating in horseback riding. Cross-sectional analysis. National Database. Head and neck injuries related to horseback riding over a ten-year period (2014-2023) were analyzed using data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS). A total of 3,177 cases were identified. Inclusion criteria encompassed injuries to the head, neck, face, mouth, or ear. Variables included age, gender, injury type, anatomical location, and patient disposition. Chi-squared analyses were employed to compare the aforementioned injury variables. Among the 3,177 reported injuries of males and females, females (mean age 27.51 years, SD = 19.04) were more likely to be treated and released (83.29 %, n= 2023), while males (mean age 34.65 years, SD = 22.58) were more likely to be hospitalized. There was a significant association between gender and concussion diagnosis (p<.001), with females more likely to be diagnosed with concussions (n = 687) compared to males (n = 129). Females experienced more head and face injuries compared to males. Age distribution varied significantly across disposition categories, indicating different management practices for various age groups. The dataset indicates that the average age of females (27.51 years) is notably lower than that of males (34.65 years), suggesting a younger demographic among females overall. The study highlights a significant gender disparity in horseback riding-related head and neck injuries, with females more likely to be treated and released and males more often requiring hospitalization.

Demographic and Clinicopathological Patterns of Colorectal Cancer at a Tertiary Care Hospital of Chattogram

Background: Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. Colorectal carcinoma is one of the most frequent malignancy in the world. The purpose of the present study was to see the demographic and clinicopathological patterns of colorectal cancer among patients attended at a tertiary care hospital of Chattogram. Materials and methods: The study was a retrospective, single centre, observational type, carried out in the Department of Medical Oncology &amp; Radiotherapy of Chattagram Maa Shishu-O-General Hospital. Baseline data were collected in a semi structured questionnaire and all reports were documented from pathology or from medical record departments. Results: A total of 70 cases of colorectal cancer patient’s ages ranges from 16 to 73 years where 30% of the patients were within 46-55 years and both sexes were included in the study. Majority of them were male 44 (62.85%) and from rural area (60%). 50% of patients were from the middle class group. Among all 70 cases, rectal site was in 37 (52.85%) patients and most of the patients 44 (62.85%) were histopathologically found in stage IV. Among 70 cases Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was done only 14.28% and histopathological types of colorectal carcinoma showed majority adenocarcinomas 90%. Conclusion: In conclusion, middle-aged and middle-class male patients are most vulnerable to colorectal cancer, and most of them are diagnosed at stage IV. Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.23 (1); January 2024; Page 73-77

P1260 Demographics and Clinical Characteristics of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the Middle East and North Africa : A Multi-Nation Cross-sectional (MIRAGE) Study

Abstract Background Although inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is more prevalent in Western countries, its incidence and prevalence have risen markedly in Asia and the Middle East [1,2]. Data on IBD patients from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region remain limited. This study aims to evaluate the demographic, clinical, and treatment patterns of IBD patients in the MENA region through the Middle East and North Africa IBD Research and Geographic Epidemiology (MIRAGE) study. Methods A cross-sectional, multi-national study was conducted at 10 IBD centers across six countries in the MENA region from January 1, 2022, to July 1, 2024. The primary objective was to assess IBD demographics, prevalence, and subtypes according to the Montreal classification. The secondary objective was to evaluate current IBD treatment strategies in the region. Categorical variable differences were analyzed using the Chi-squared test or Fisher’s exact test as appropriate. Results A total of 5,540 patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) were included in the study. Of these, 2,824 (50.9%) were diagnosed with ulcerative colitis (UC), 2,602 (46.9%) with Crohn’s disease (CD), and 114 (2.0%) with IBD unclassified (IBD-U). In terms of gender distribution, 2,663 (48.1%) were male, and 2,877 (51.9%) were female. A total of 481 patients (8.7%) reported being smokers. Among the UC patients, disease extent was categorized as follows: 517 (18.3%) had E1 (proctitis), 1,123 (39.8%) had E2 (left-sided colitis), and 1,190 (42.1%) had E3 (pancolitis). For CD patients, disease location was distributed as: L1 (ileal) in 784 patients (30.13%), L2 (colonic) in 287 patients (11.02%), and L3 (ileocolonic) in 1,210 patients (46.50%). Disease behavior among CD patients included B1 (non-stricturing, non-penetrating) in 1,324 patients (50.9%), B2 (stricturing) in 693 patients (26.6%), and B3 (penetrating) in 647 patients (24.9%). Perianal disease was present in 708 CD patients (27.2%). Across the entire IBD cohort, 1,018 patients (18.38%) had undergone prior IBD-related surgeries, and 1,960 patients (35.38%) had experience with biologic therapies. (Table 1). The highest CD-to-UC ratio was observed in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (63% CD/35% UC), while the lowest ratio was seen in Oman (18% CD/80% UC) (Figure 1). Conclusion This study offers valuable insights into the demographic characteristics, clinical profiles, and treatment approaches for IBD patients in the MENA region, highlighting the rising prevalence of IBD in the region and the increasing utilization of advanced therapies.

Modelling age at death reveals Nordic Corded Ware paleodemography

Drawing on modelling of age at death in skeletal remains, this article unveils hitherto unrecognized demographic patterns in the Nordic Corded Ware complex. This population formed part of the European Corded Ware complex that has been linked to disruption observed in the archaeological and genetic record. The newly developed methods of transition analysis 3 (TA3) and death rate ratio (DRR) were used to process skeletal data from 67 individuals deriving from single, double, and multiple graves in Scandinavia. The results disclose a high proportion of immature individuals aged less than twenty years. Attrition, however, complies with a demography with high age-nonspecific mortality, and this may connect to stressors such as epidemic diseases and endemic warfare. Compared to the partly contemporaneous Pitted Ware complex and the succeeding Late Neolithic–earliest Bronze Age period, the Nordic Corded Ware burials overall point to robust population growth, especially in the later period. This in turn aligns with a sedentary lifestyle rather than a mobile pastoral economy. Short-distance seasonal movements could fit in but cannot yet be measured. Recent genetics have demonstrated biological input in the female line from populations such as Funnel Beaker, Pitted Ware, and herders of the steppe forest zone: the remarkable tallness of Nordic Corded Ware individuals may well be an effect of such admixture. The burials moreover evidence a distinct adult male sex bias, which diminishes over time along with the growth in the number of buried females and young individuals. Judging from investment in graves and grave goods, immatures were highly valued. The scale of social status operates independently of age. Alongside the revealed Nordic Corded Ware demography and the burial and material record more broadly, this could indicate social inequality based on kinship and warrior values.

Frankenstein matrices: Among-population life history variation affects the reliability and predictions of demographic models.

Population matrix models are routinely used to study the demography of wild populations and to guide management choices. When vital rates are unknown for a specific population or life history stage, researchers often replace them with estimates from other populations of the same species. Such 'hybrid' matrices might ignore among-population life history variation and lead to incorrect inferences. In this study, we examined the real-world effect of using hybrid matrices on demographic inference and management decisions, using a large dataset on yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata) populations, an amphibian species whose life history depends on human land use. We estimated stage-specific survival and recruitment for 18 populations across different habitat types. We then assessed how estimated population growth rates and elasticities changed when population-specific vital rates were replaced by estimates from other populations, chosen randomly or based on habitat, demographic or geographic proximity. The use of hybrid matrices mixing demographic estimates from different populations and habitats biased predictions. The mean bias was relatively minor even when sampling randomly across all populations, because our large dataset represented the whole range of life histories and errors cancelled out on average. However, borrowing estimates from geographically close or demographically similar populations substantially reduced the risk of extreme errors. Borrowing from populations from similar habitat types could also reduce bias, but results varied depending on the exact habitat types concerned. Our study illustrates how habitat-specific among-population variation in life history affects the reliability of population matrices commonly used in evolutionary demography, ecology and conservation. When the use of hybrid population matrices cannot be avoided, their creation can be informed by additional information about ecological or demographic patterns, helping reduce bias. When such information is not available, we recommend that studies should consider the whole space of parameter estimates (the complete range of estimates available), thus transparently describing the true uncertainty surrounding demographic estimates.

Exploring Traditional Knowledge and Potential Uses of Local Freshwater Algae and Aquatic Plants in Thai Wetland Communities

This study explored the ecological and cultural significance of Thailand’s wetlands, particularly the Nong Bong Kai Non-Hunting Area and the Lower Songkhram River. These areas were essential for biodiversity, flood prevention, and supporting local livelihoods, serving as food sources, biofertilizers, and natural water purifiers. However, these wetlands faced mounting threats from pollution, habitat loss, and climate change, jeopardising their ecological health and biodiversity. Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted to assess regional and demographic patterns in using and recognising algae and aquatic plants. The collected data highlighted traditional ecological knowledge held primarily by older community members. Principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to analyse generational differences in knowledge and utilisation, focusing on the potential generational knowledge gap due to migration trends among younger individuals. The study revealed significant biodiversity differences between the wetland areas, with Nong Bong Kai exhibiting greater diversity in aquatic plant species. Older residents demonstrated higher recognition and use of algae and aquatic plants for sustainable practices, though a generational knowledge gap was evident. This gap suggested that local ecological knowledge may be at risk as younger residents migrate to urban areas. This research underscored the need for conservation and educational initiatives to bridge generational gaps and engage younger generations in resource management. By integrating local cultural practices and focusing on high-impact species like Lemna perpusilla Torr. and Hydrilla verticillate (L.f.) Royle, region-specific conservation efforts could enhance wetland sustainability, preserve biodiversity, and support ecosystem health in Thailand’s wetland regions.

The population dynamics of clustered consumer–resource spatial patterns: Insights from the demographics of a Turing mechanism

In ecology, Alan Turing's proposed activation-inhibition mechanism has been abstracted as corresponding to several ecological interaction types to explain pattern formation in ecosystems. Consumer-resource interactions have strong theoretical arguments linking them to both the Turing mechanism and pattern formation, but there is little empirical support to demonstrate these claims. Here, we connect several lines of evidence to support the proposition that consumer-resource interactions can create empirically observed spatial patterns through a mechanism similar to Turing's theory. We propose the existence of a fine-scale demographic spatial pattern (DSP), in which the youngest resources are located at the periphery and oldest in the center of clusters. We find evidence of a DSP in the spatially clustered distribution of arboreal ant nests, whose large-scale spatial patterning has previously been hypothesized to be driven by ant parasitoids. Through a combination of field surveys and analysis of demographic trends, we demonstrate how the DSP structures the interactions between the ant and its parasitoid. To explore the implications of DSP for consumer-resource pattern forming systems generally, we use a spatially explicit consumer-resource model to show how relative diffusion rates of the system shape multiscale spatial patterns that structure the demographic trends of the resource population in predictable ways. This work provides both empirical support for consumer-resource spatial patterns as well as a multiscale approach to understand their spatially explicit population dynamics.

Clinical Profile of Dengue Patients Presenting to Cumilla General Hospital: A Cross-sectional Study of 100 Cases

Background: Dengue fever continues to pose a significant public health challenge in Bangladesh, with evolving patterns of presentation and geographic distribution. Understanding local clinical patterns and demographic characteristics is crucial for effective disease management and control. Objective: To analyze the clinical profile, demographic patterns, and laboratory findings of dengue patients presenting to Cumilla General Hospital, a Secondary care center in eastern Bangladesh. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study examined 100 consecutive dengue cases. Patient data including demographics, clinical manifestations, travel history, and laboratory findings were collected using a structured proforma. Diagnosis was confirmed through NS1 antigen and dengue-specific antibody testing. Results: The study population showed a predominance of young adults aged 21-30 years (38%) and a striking female majority (84.8%). Service holders constituted the largest occupational group (49%). Clinical manifestations were dominated by headache (86%), body ache (78%), and vomiting (70%). Most patients experienced moderate weakness (64%), with gastrointestinal bleeding observed in 4% of cases. NS1 antigen testing showed high positivity (88.6%). There was an equal distribution between urban (52%) and rural (53%) populations, with 53% reporting recent travel to Dhaka. The majority of patients (59%) presented with fever lasting 1-5 days. Conclusion: This study reveals distinct patterns in dengue presentation at Cumilla General Hospital, including a unique gender distribution, high prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms, and significant rural representation. The findings highlight the expanding geographic reach of dengue beyond urban centers and the importance of travel history in disease transmission. The high sensitivity of NS1 testing supports its utility in early diagnosis. These insights contribute to understanding local disease patterns and can inform targeted ...

Exploring lifestyle and dietary pattern shifts among Saudi adults during COVID-19 pandemic: insights from a cross-sectional examination.

Since the emergence of COVID-19 and the subsequent imposition of lockdown and movement restrictions, the world has witnessed fundamental lifestyle changes including alterations in dietary patterns and food consumption habits. Here, we investigated how the COVID-19 lockdown impacted dietary patterns and eating behaviors in the Saudi population. This cross-sectional study enrolled 427 participants aged 18 years or more, with 258 of them completing the survey. The survey included questions about demographic and dietary patterns during the COVID-19 lockdown. Data were collected and dietary behaviors before and during the lockdown in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, were analyzed. The number of participants who considered lunch as their primary meal significantly decreased (p < 0.001) during the COVID-19 lockdown (74%), compared to before it (86%). By contrast, the number of participants who considered dinner as their primary meal remained almost unchanged (p = 0.079) during (79.1%) and before (84.1%) the lockdown. However, snack consumption significantly increased (p < 0.001) while fast-food consumption significantly decreased (p < 0.01) during the lockdown period. Our results also revealed a significant increase (p < 0.01) in water and coffee intake during the lockdown, with a significant rise in dessert consumption (p < 0.01). Our results demonstrate that the COVID-19 lockdown caused a marked shift in dietary patterns and eating behaviors among the Saudi population. Notable changes were observed in overall food preferences after the lockdowns were imposed, with reduced consumption of fast foods and increased fluid intake.

Adjuvant Immunotherapy After Resected Melanoma: Survival Outcomes, Prognostic Factors and Patterns of Relapse.

Anti-PD-1-based immunotherapy has improved outcomes in stage IIB to IV resected melanoma patients in clinical trials. However, little is known about real-world outcomes, prognostic factors and patterns of relapse. This is a retrospective multicenter observational study including patients with resected melanoma treated with subsequent anti-PD-1-based adjuvant immunotherapy. Data on clinical and demographic characteristics, delivered treatment, prognostic factors, time and pattern of relapse were collected. We included 245 patients from eight centers; 4% of patients were at stage IIB-C, 80% at stage IIIA-D and 16% at stage IV. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates at 18 and 36 months were 60% and 48%, respectively, with a median RFS of 33.7 months. Prognostic factors associated with recurrence were melanoma primary site (HR 2.64, 95% CI 1.15-6.01) and starting adjuvant therapy more than 12 weeks after the last resection (HR 1.68, 95% CI 1.13-2.5); presence of serious immune-related adverse events was associated with better RFS (HR 0.4, 95% CI 0.19-0.87). Early relapses accounted for 63% of the total recurrences, with a higher number of metastatic sites (18%); in contrast, late relapses presented more frequently with brain metastases (20%). In our patients with resected melanoma who underwent anti-PD-1-based adjuvant immunotherapy, survival outcomes were worse than those reported in clinical trials. Primary melanoma site and time interval between the last resection and the start of adjuvant therapy were associated with survival.

The Biorepository and Integrative Genomics resource for inclusive genomics: insights from a diverse pediatric and admixed cohort.

The Biorepository and Integrative Genomics (BIG) Initiative in Tennessee has developed a pioneering resource to address gaps in genomic research by linking genomic, phenotypic, and environmental data from a diverse Mid-South population, including underrepresented groups. We analyzed 13,152 genomes from BIG and found significant genetic diversity, with 50% of participants inferred to have non-European or several types of admixed ancestry. Ancestry within the BIG cohort is stratified, with distinct geographic and demographic patterns, as African ancestry is more common in urban areas, while European ancestry is more common in suburban regions. We observe ancestry-specific rates of novel genetic variants, which are enriched for functional or clinical relevance. Disease prevalence analysis linked ancestry and environmental factors, showing higher odds ratios for asthma and obesity in minority groups, particularly in the urban area. Finally, we observe discrepancies between self-reported race and genetic ancestry, with related individuals self-identifying in differing racial categories. These findings underscore the limitations of race as a biomedical variable. BIG has proven to be an effective model for community-centered precision medicine. We integrated genomics education, and fostered great trust among the contributing communities. Future goals include cohort expansion, and enhanced genomic analysis, to ensure equitable healthcare outcomes.

Comparative analysis of injuries related to self-harm, assault, and intimate partner violence: insights from U.S. Emergency Departments (2005–2021)

BackgroundEmergency departments are on the front lines of non-fatal self-harm injury (SHI). This study identifies patterns in patients presenting to emergency departments with SHI compared with patients presenting with assault...