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Background: Cigarette smoking is one of the leading causes of morbidity in the world. Virtual reality (VR) has been used to encourage and support quit attempts. However, interest in VR may differ according to sociodemographic characteristics. This study aimed to estimate the proportion and associated characteristics of smokers in Great Britain who were interested in using VR for smoking cessation. Methods: Data were collected from 6,858 adults between February to April 2023, from the Smoking Toolkit Study—a monthly, nationally representative, cross-sectional survey of adults in Great Britain. Of these, 873 were smokers (unweighted). Prevalence of interest was assessed descriptively and associations between interest and sociodemographic and smoking characteristics were analysed with weighted logistic regression models. Results: Of 905 (weighted) smokers, 34.6% (95% Confidence Interval (CI):31.0%-38.5%) were interested in using VR for smoking cessation. Smokers had greater odds of reporting interest in VR for smoking cessation who were: highly motivated to quit (Odds Ratio (OR):2.41, 95% CI:1.59–3.65), had made a quit attempt in the past year (OR:1.95, 95% CI:1.37–2.77), currently trying to cut down (OR:1.90, 95% CI:1.34–2.67) and interested in VR generally (OR:10.42, 95% CI:6.97–15.57). Those ≥ 65 years old (OR:0.29, 95% CI:0.15–0.57) and women (OR:0.69, 95% CI:0.49–0.97) were less likely to report interest. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that up to a third of adult smokers may be interested in using VR to support a quit attempt. However, the potential reach of a VR smoking cessation intervention may be lower in certain subgroups such as women, adults 65 years or older, and adults less motivated to quit. From a health equity perspective, it is recommended that non-digital but effective interventions should be made readily available for adults at risk of digital exclusion due to lack of interest. However, as VR grows in popularity and its technological potential becomes fully realised, future research could also focus on strategies to reduce digital exclusion and increase interest. For example, by involving these subgroups in co-design activities and using novel dissemination strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

E-cigarettes, once touted as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes for adult smokers, have rapidly gained popularity among a younger demographic - children and adolescents. The allure of sleek designs, enticing flavors, and perceived social acceptance has made these electronic devices like a snake in the grass, silently creeping into the hands of youth across the globe. However, this burgeoning trend comes with a host of concerning implications, from the potential health risks associated with vaping at a young age to the insidious marketing tactics employed to target this vulnerable population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cigarette smoking is incredibly harmful, even for people who do not smoke every day. This study aimed to estimate trends in non-daily smoking in England between 2006 and 2024, how these differed across population subgroups, and to explore changes in the profile of non-daily smokers in terms of their sociodemographic and smoking characteristics and vaping and alcohol consumption. Methods: Data were collected monthly between November 2006 and April 2024 as part of a nationally representative, repeat cross-sectional survey of adults (≥ 18 years; n = 353,711). We used logistic regression to estimate associations between survey wave and non-daily smoking and used descriptive statistics to characterise the profile of non-daily smokers across 3-year periods. Results: The proportion who smoked non-daily was relatively stable between November 2006 and November 2013, at an average of 10.5% [10.1–10.9%] of cigarette smokers, then increased to 27.2% [26.0–28.4%] of cigarette smokers (4.0% [3.7–4.2%] of adults) by April 2024. This increase was particularly pronounced among younger adults (e.g. reaching 52.8%, 20.4%, and 14.4% of 18-, 45-, and 65-year-old cigarette smokers by April 2024) and those who vape (reaching 34.2% among vapers vs. 23.1% among non-vapers). Over time, there were reductions in non-daily smokers' mean weekly cigarette consumption (from 34.3 in 2006–2009 to 21.1 in 2021–2024), urges to smoke (e.g. the proportion reporting no urges increased from 29.2 to 38.0%), and motivation to stop smoking (e.g. the proportion highly motivated to quit within the next 3 months decreased from 30.8 to 21.0%). Conclusions: An increasing proportion of adults in England who smoke cigarettes do not smoke every day, particularly younger adults. Although non-daily smokers report smoking fewer cigarettes and weaker urges to smoke than they used to, which may make it easier for them to stop smoking, they appear to be decreasingly motivated to quit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Heated tobacco products (HTPs) have emerged as alternatives to conventional cigarettes. However, their health effects remain largely unknown. This study aimed to prospectively explore the association between the use of cigarettes and HTPs and the risk of hypertension. Methods This cohort study analysed data from 30 152 workers (82.0% men, mean age 42.9 ± 11.0 years) who were initially free of hypertension, participating in the Japan Epidemiology Collaboration on Occupational Health Study. Participants were categorized into five groups based on their self-reported tobacco product use: never smokers, past smokers, exclusive cigarette smokers, exclusive HTP users and dual users of cigarettes and HTPs. Hypertension cases were identified using three data points from annual health checkup data collected between 2019 and 2021. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to investigate the association between tobacco product use and hypertension. Results During a mean follow-up of 2.6 years (range: 0.1–4.0 years), 3656 new cases of hypertension were identified. Compared with never smokers, the risk of hypertension was higher among exclusive cigarette smokers [hazard ratio (HR) 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13–1.41] and exclusive HTP users (HR 1.19, 95% CI 1.06–1.34). There was also a suggestion of increased risk of hypertension among dual users (HR 1.16, 95% CI 0.98–1.38). Furthermore, the risk of hypertension increased with the intensity of cigarette/HTP use in all tobacco product users. Conclusions Similarly, both cigarette smoking and HTP use elevate the risk of hypertension. HTPs should not be regarded as less harmful alternatives to traditional cigarettes for preventing hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Providing access to a vape shop-based smoking cessation intervention may simultaneously increase e-cigarette use and increase the effectiveness of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation. The aim of this study was to identify the most important elements of vape shop-based smoking intervention to stakeholders who would be involved in delivering or accessing such an intervention. Aims and Methods We conducted a three-round Delphi study of vape shop staff (n  = 40), stop smoking professionals and tobacco control leads (n  = 30), and smokers, vapers, and dual users (n  = 30) in the United Kingdom in May–August 2021. In each round participants were asked whether they agreed or disagreed with statements related to vape shop-based interventions. Results Forty-six of 95 statements reached consensus in round 1, 29 out of 49 in round 2, and 8 out of 20 in round 3. There was support for a vape shop-based intervention across stakeholder groups (96%). There was consensus that the service should comprise both product (98%) and behavioral support (97%), and that quitting vaping should not be a goal of the service (79%). Although there was consensus that there should be some free product provision, there was less consensus as to what this should involve. Views were mostly consistent across stakeholder groups. Conclusions There was broad consensus on how to deliver a vape shop-based smoking cessation intervention, providing a strong basis for future intervention development and implementation. Challenges around misuse of the service and misperceptions about vaping would need to be addressed for such an intervention to be feasible and effective. Implications Many smokers who make a quit attempt using e-cigarettes purchase their vaping products in vape shops. Delivering vape-shop-based smoking cessation interventions could help to maximize the effectiveness of e-cigarettes for quitting smoking. This study used a Delphi approach to identify the most important elements of a vape shop-based intervention among stakeholders. The findings could be used to help develop future interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During dental school, students may encounter stressful events that contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression; in response to these factors, some students use vaping or electronic cigarettes. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between electronic cigarettes use and stress, anxiety, and depression among dental students. Methods: A cross-sectional study included 142 dental students in their preclinical, clinical, or internship year was conducted. The 142 participants were split evenly between two groups: smokers and nonsmokers. The average age of the study's male and female participants was 21.6 years. Using the DASS 21 scale, participants were instructed to complete an electronic questionnaire assessing the association between electronic cigarettes use and stress, anxiety, and depression in smokers and nonsmokers. Results: According to the findings of this study, stress, anxiety, and depression were significantly associated with electronic cigarette use. Compared to non-smokers, electronic cigarette smokers reported higher levels of severe/extremely severe depression (OR: 10.34, 95% CI: [4.23–24.1]), anxiety (OR: 13.8, 95% CI: [5.4–30.1]) and stress (OR: 27.6, 95% CI: [8.9–85.8]). Compared to males, females were 2.5 times (95% CI: [1.02–6.1]) more likely to report severe/extremely severe anxiety (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This study demonstrates a significant correlation between the use of electronic cigarettes and elevated levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among dental students in the UAE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smoking is associated with elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. However, the accuracies of the Friedewald, Sampson, and Martin LDL-C-estimating equations based on smoking status are unclear. We analyzed the accuracy of LDL-C levels estimated using these three equations based on tobacco and electronic cigarette smoking status. Data on LDL-C and other lipid components were obtained from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from January 2009 to December 2021. Direct LDL-C (dLDL-C) levels and smoking data of 12,325 participants were evaluated. Current smokers had higher triglyceride levels than never smokers. Electronic cigarette smokers had higher triglyceride and dLDL-C levels than never smokers. The Martin equation yielded more accurate mean absolute deviations than the other equations for the group with triglyceride levels <400 mg/dL as well as more accurate median absolute deviation values, except for the group with dLDL-C levels <40 mg/dL. Similar estimates were derived from the equations when the triglyceride levels were <150 mg/dL. However, the Martin equation may lead to the overestimation of LDL-C levels. In conclusion, the Martin equation is suitable for triglyceride levels <400 mg/dL regardless of the electronic cigarette/tobacco smoking status; if the triglyceride level is <150 mg, the Friedewald equation could also be considered, regardless of the electronic cigarette/tobacco smoking status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the prevalence of tobacco and electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use among adolescents has raised significant public health concerns worldwide. This study aimed to investigate respiratory symptoms among Polish adolescents. We conducted an online survey among Polish school students from all provinces, collecting data over two months in spring 2021. Students voluntarily complete the anonymous survey, answering questions about respiratory symptoms, smoking habits (both traditional and electronic cigarettes), and demographic information. The analysis focused on four subgroups, namely non-tobacco users, traditional cigarette smokers, e-cigarette users, and dual users, totaling 10,388 pupils aged 12–18 years, predominantly attending secondary technical and comprehensive schools. A total of 10,388 pupils participated in the study, 55.6% (5778) of whom were girls and 44.4% (4610) boys. Adolescents who admitted using both e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes experienced more frequent episodes of cough during the day (39.70%) and at night (18.40%) compared to their peers in other groups. Chest discomfort, including pain and pressure, was also reported more often by adolescents who used e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes concurrently (27.60%) compared to their peers in other groups. Chest pressure was experienced less commonly by non-smoking adolescents (14.40%) than by smokers (18.90%). Higher severity of cough during the day and at night was observed in the group of adolescents using traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes concurrently compared to the other groups. The adolescents in the dual-user group experienced more severe dyspnea and wheezing compared to the other groups included in the comparison. The results of this study confirm the correlation between the occurrence of respiratory symptoms in adolescents who smoke cigarettes, adolescents who use e-cigarettes, and adolescents who are dual users. The respiratory symptoms occur most frequently and are the most severe in the group of adolescents who use e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Earlier studies suggested a potential association between tobacco smoking and nickel sensitization, but little is known about other contact allergens. Objectives: To investigate the association of smoking status and contact sensitizations as well as subtypes of dermatitis, and to analyse the sensitization profiles of tobacco smokers. Patients and Methods: Within the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK), we performed a cross‐sectional multicentre pilot study comprising 1091 patch‐tested patients from 9 departments, comparing 541 patients with a history of cigarette smoking (281 current and 260 former smokers) with 550 never‐smokers. Results: We could not confirm the previously reported association between nickel sensitization and tobacco smoking. Moreover, sensitizations to other allergens, including colophony, fragrance mix I, Myroxylon pereirae and formaldehyde, were not increased in cigarette smokers compared with never smokers. Hand dermatitis (50.6% vs. 33.6%) and occupational cause (36.2% vs. 22.5%) were significantly more frequent among cigarette smokers compared with never‐smokers as shown by non‐overlapping 95% confidence intervals. Conclusions: Although our study does not allow a firm conclusion on whether smoking status contributes to certain contact sensitizations, it confirms an association of smoking with hand dermatitis and occupational cause. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tobacco use significantly impacts health and economic sectors. In the Maldives, 4 out of 10 men smoke daily, despite anti-tobacco policies. The Maldives Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) shows fluctuating cigarette smoking prevalence among secondary school students: 6.9% (2004), 3.8% (2007), 4.3% (2011), and 4.7% (2019). No studies have investigated smoking prevalence and attitudes toward anti-smoking policies among higher-secondary students in Addu City. This study examines smoking habits, susceptibility, and attitudes toward anti-smoking regulations to support policy development. Methods: We conducted an observational cross-sectional study using a self-administered survey based on the GYTS and the Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CSTADS), involving 335 high school students in Addu City. Variables included sociodemographic factors, ever-smokers, current smokers, age at first cigarette, smoking dependency, use of other tobacco products, smoking susceptibility, willingness to quit, and reasons to quit or not smoke. Results with p-values < 0.05 were statistically significant. Results: 22.8% of the students had tried smoking, with 4.74% currently smoking, predominantly males. Additionally, 32.2% had tried e-cigarettes. Smoking susceptibility was 44.2%. Seven students showed smoking dependency, with a significant gender difference (75.4% boys vs 33.3% girls, p < 0.05). Among smokers, 20% wanted to quit, and 70% cited cost as a deterrent. Only 20% of smokers supported a total ban on smoking in media compared to 49.8% of non-smokers (p = 0.03). Non-smokers significantly supported anti-smoking measures (73% vs 12.5% of smokers). Conclusion: Cigarette smoking among high school students in Addu is below the national average, but the high number of ever-smokers and interest in smoking and e-cigarettes suggest potential future increases. Policymakers should enact stronger legislation, enforce age restrictions, raise tobacco taxes, and implement comprehensive smoking cessation programs to address tobacco use effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the concentrations of heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb) in the two groups of cigarette smokers and non-smokers in five age range groups were measured. Heavy metal concentrations were collected in participants' urine samples and analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). The results showed that the concentrations of these metals in the urine of smokers were higher than in non-smoker subjects. The mean concentration of Cd, Cr, and Pb for smokers were 1.188 ± 0.931, 1.929 ± 0.940, and 0.069 ± 0.023, respectively, while the mean concentration of Cd, Cr, and Pb for non-smokers were 0.151 ± 0.165, 0.203 ± 0.218, and 0.037 ± 0.030, respectively. The results revealed statistically significant differences when comparing the samples of smokers to the control group in all heavy metals in the present study. Also, the results revealed statistically significant differences in Cd, Cr, and Pb when comparing the samples of smokers to age groups. The trend of metals in urine samples in two groups (smokers and non-smokers) is as follows: Cd > Cr > Pb. The concentration of Cd, Cr, and Pb in all samples of the present study was higher than the biological limit, according to ACGIH. Therefore, Cd, Cr, and Pb were the most critical metals accumulated in the urine of cigarette smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Risk perception is a crucial component in evaluating the rationality of smoking decisions, but there are few studies that have examined its effect on the smoking of smuggled cigarettes. The purpose of this article is to empirically investigate whether risk perceptions affect the smoking of smuggled cigarettes in Taiwan in the context of socio-economic status. Since risk perception may be endogenous with regard to smoking smuggled cigarettes, the endogenous switching model is utilised to evaluate the effect of risk perception in relation to the smoker's being concerned with health risks and tobacco quality. Our empirical results indicate that smokers with higher degrees of risk perception are less likely to smoke smuggled cigarettes. In addition, the relevant characteristics of the socio-economic status of smokers, such as weekly cigarette expenditure, gender, age, and whether or not they reside in the southern region of Taiwan, are also statistically significant in terms of smoking smuggled cigarettes. Therefore, the public health authorities in Taiwan should actively broadcast information on the fatal consequences of smoking smuggled cigarettes, thereby enhancing the smoker's risk perceptions in regard to smuggled cigarettes. JEL Classifications : I12, I18, D81, C25 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeMethodsResultsConclusionTo systematically assess the association between cigarette smoking and development of Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) in the general adult population. Heterogeneity will be explored appropriately.Outcomes of glaucoma, OAG and POAG were explored in adults who were current, former, and never cigarette smokers. An additional category of ‘smokers with “any” smoking status’ was used where former smokers were not clearly distinguished from current and never smokers and in smokers whose form of smoking was not defined. All studies were observational and there was no limit to time period. Databases used were MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health and Web of Science. Study quality was assessed using the JBI critical appraisal tool. The DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model and weighting method was applied for meta-analysis with subgroup and sensitivity analyses along with meta-regression.Four cohort, six cross-sectional and nine case–control studies were included. Only one cohort study attained a low risk of bias (RoB), two cohort studies were of medium RoB and the rest of the studies were of high RoB. There was no evidence for an association between smoking statuses: current smoking: OR 0.96, 95%CI (0.76,1.21), former smoking: OR 0.96, 95%CI (0.83,1.11), smoking (any): OR 1.48, 95%CI (0.96, 2.29) and glaucoma. Sensitivity analyses did not have a material impact on findings. Heterogeneity was not explained by smoking status, study quality, smoking exposure, and glaucoma outcome criteria.This review suggests no evidence for an association between cigarette smoking and the development of POAG. There was no evidence that current, former, and general smoking increased the risk of glaucoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The number of patients diagnosed with Warthin tumors (WTs) has increased significantly in recent years. The association of obesity as measured by body mass index (BMI) with the incidence of WTs remains unclear. This retrospective study aims to compare the BMI and other clinical factors of patients diagnosed with WTs to those with other benign epithelial parotid gland tumors. Methods: Over a 24-year period, 465 cases of benign epithelial parotid gland tumors were treated in our department. Of these, 155 (33.3%) were diagnosed as WTs. The results of the WT group were compared with those of another benign epithelial parotid gland tumor. Results: The mean BMI of WT patients was 27.3, which was significantly higher than in other benign tumors (25.52; p < 0.001). Furthermore, statistically significant correlations were observed, including a higher incidence of WT in males (p < 0.001), in the elderly (p < 0.001), and in cigarette smokers (p < 0.001). Additionally, a higher prevalence of other head and neck cancers was confirmed in patients with WTs (p = 0.004); Conclusions: This study supports the multifactorial etiology of WT development. Among these factors, smoking, advanced age, and obesity have been identified as factors associated with the development of WT, which might be due to chronic inflammation linked to obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectivesMethodsResultsConclusionThis study, aimed to determine and compare DNA damage in e-cigarette and HTP (IQOS) users by assessing DNA-adducts, which are biomarkers of various DNA alkylation and oxidation.For the evaluation of DNA alkylation, N3-Ethyladenine (N3-EtA) and N3-Methyladenine (N3-MeA) adducts were used. DNA oxidation was assessed using, 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine(8-OHdG). The urinary cotinine, N3-MeA, N3-EtA, and 8-OHdG concentrations of the cigarette smokers (n:39), e-cigarette users (n:28), IQOS users (n:20), passive smokers (n:32), and nonsmokers(n:41) who lived Ankara, Turkiye were determined using, liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS).In light of the detected 8-OHdG levels, e-cigarette (3.19 ng/g creatinine) and IQOS (4.38 ng/g creatinine) users had higher oxidative DNA damage than healthy nonsmokers (2.51 ng/g creatinine). Alkylated DNA-adducts were identified in the urine of e-cigarette (N3-MeA: 3.92 ng/g creatinine; N3-EtA: 0.23 ng/g creatinine) and IQOS (N3-MeA: 7.54 ng/g creatinine; N3-EtA: 0.29 ng/g creatinine) users. In the generation of N3-MeA adducts, a significant difference was found between IQOS users and e-cigarette users (p < 0.05). Also, DNA alkylation in flavored e-cigarette users (N3-MeA: 4.51 ng/g creatinine; N3-EtA: 0.27 ng/g creatinine) was higher than in non-flavored e-cigarette users (N3-MeA: 2.27 ng/g creatinine; N3-EtA: 0.06 ng/g creatinine). The highest cotinine levels were found in cigarette smokers (16.1316 ng/g creatinine). No significant difference was found when e-cigarette (1163.02 ng/g creatinine) and IQOS smokers were compared (1088.3 ng/g creatinine).People who use e-cigarettes and IQOS may be at higher risk of genotoxicity than those who do not use and are not exposed to any tobacco products. Furthermore, the usage of flavoring additives in e-cigarettes contributed to additional genotoxic damage risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractResearch on dual combustible and electronic nicotine use among Latinx persons is needed to better understand patterns of use because this group is an established tobacco disparities population. Negative emotional symptoms and related processes (e.g., reactive transdiagnostic vulnerabilities) have been among the most prominent factors linked to the onset, maintenance, and relapse of smoking. As such, the current study sought to compare levels of mental health symptoms among combustible users compared to dual combustible and electronic users among Latinx persons who smoke. The current sample consisted of 297 adult Latinx daily cigarette smokers (Mage = 35.90 years; SD = 8.87; age range 18–61; 36.4% female), of which 92 reported current dual use of an e-cigarette (Mage = 33.34 years; SD = 7.75; age range 19–60; 28.3% female). Differences in anxiety, depression, anxiety sensitivity, emotion dysregulation, and distress tolerance were examined, and we hypothesized that dual users would showcase higher mental health problems. Results indicated that adult Latinx dual users evidenced greater levels of anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, anxiety sensitivity, and lower levels of distress tolerance compared to combustible users. The current study sheds light on the clinical importance of affective differences among dual versus combustible Latinx smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the clinical efficacy of “treatment of winter diseases in summer” for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), so as to provide valuable evidence-based basis for the prevention and treatment of COPD and clinical application of “treatment of winter diseases in summer”. METHODS: CNKI, Wanfang Data, VIP, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were retrieved (the retrieval time was from the establishment of the database to Aug. 2023) to collect the high-quality clinical randomized controlled trial of “treatment of winter diseases in summer” for COPD (the control group received conventional therapy, such as bronchodilator, inhaled glucocorticoid, oxygen therapy, and smoking cessation; the study group received “treatment of winter diseases in summer” on the basis of the control group or simply received “treatment of winter diseases in summer”). Data were extracted and Meta-analysis was performed by using RevMan 5. 4. 1 software. RESULTS: Totally 65 randomized controlled trials were enrolled, including 5 736 patients (with 2 880 cases in study group and 2 856 cases in control group). Meta-analysis showed that compared with conventional therapy, “ treatment of winter diseases in summer” could improve the total effective rate of COPD (OR = 3. 97,95%CI = 3. 32-4. 74,P<0. 000 01), increase the percentage of forced expiratory volume in one second to forced vital capacity (MD= 3. 76,95%CI = 2. 66- 4. 85,P<0. 000 01), decrease the score of St George’ s respiratory questionnaire (MD = - 4. 83,95% CI = - 6. 39--3. 27,P<0. 000 01), the differences were statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Existing evidence suggests that for COPD patients, the treatment effect is better if the traditional Chinese medicine “ treating winter disease in summer” or “treating winter disease in summer” is added on the basis of conventional therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors affecting the use of electronic cigarettes among university students. This cross-sectional study included 987 participants. The prevalence of electronic cigarette use among students was 5.4%, and the prevalence of trying electronic cigarettes at least once was 26.3%. Nicotine dependence levels of students who smoked electronic cigarettes were significantly high. Everyday electronic cigarette smokers commonly perceive traditional cigarettes to be more harmful. The rates of electronic cigarette use were significantly higher in males, those with high household income, those with a family history of traditional or electronic cigarette smoking, those who had smoked traditional cigarettes at least once in their lives, and those who were everyday cigarette smokers. Male sex and family history of electronic cigarette use were direct and effective predictors of everyday electronic cigarette use. The risk of everyday electronic cigarette use increased 7.91 times in the presence of electronic or traditional cigarette smokers in the family and 4.66 times in the presence of e-cigarette users in the family. The rates of electronic cigarette use and attempted electronic cigarette use were found to be high among university students. Awareness training and increased inspections and sanctions on the places where electronic cigarettes were purchased might prevent the growth of this problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundMethodsResultsConclusionsTobacco use presents increased risks for individuals with weakened immune systems (WIS). We investigated the association between cigarette and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS or e-cigarettes) use and WIS in US adults using data from the 2021–2022 National Health Interview Survey.Data from 57,133 adults were analyzed, focusing on WIS prevalence due to health conditions, prescriptions, or both. Cigarette and ENDS use were categorized as never, former, or current. Weighted multivariable regression models adjusted for demographics and other health conditions to assess associations between tobacco use and WIS.Among US adults, 4.3% had prescription-related WIS, 4.6% had health condition-related WIS, and 7% had WIS due to either reason. Adjusted results from multivariable regression models indicated that adults with WIS due to health conditions were more likely to be current (AOR = 1.21, 95%CI: 1.05–1.40) and former (AOR = 1.25, 95%CI: 1.11–1.39) cigarette smokers compared to counterparts without WIS. Adults with WIS due to prescriptions were more likely to be former cigarette smokers (AOR = 1.19, 95%CI: 1.06–1.34). Those with WIS for any reason were more likely to be current (AOR = 1.19, 95%CI: 1.05–1.35) and former (AOR = 1.24, 95%CI: 1.13–1.36) cigarette smokers. Adults with WIS due to health conditions (AOR = 1.23, 95%CI: 1.06–1.41) or any reasons (AOR = 1.19, 95%CI:1.05–1.34) were more likely to be former ENDS users compared to those without WIS.In this nationally representative study, we found a notable link between cigarette and ENDS use with WIS, particularly among those with health condition-related or prescription-related WIS, underscoring the importance of addressing tobacco use in this vulnerable population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Smoking rationalisation beliefs are a huge barrier to quitting smoking. What types of rationalisations should be emphasised in smoking cessation interventions? Although past literature has confirmed the negative relationship between those beliefs and motivation to stop smoking, little is known regarding the importance and performance of those beliefs on motivation with varying cigarette dependence. The study aimed to ascertain rationalisations that are highly important for motivation yet perform poorly in different cigarette dependence groups. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted from November 19 to December 9, 2023 in Guiyang City, China. Adult male current smokers were enrolled. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was used to test the hypothesis. The multi-group analysis was used to determine the moderating effect of cigarette dependence, and the importance-performance map analysis was utilised to assess the importance and performance of rationalisations. Results: A total of 616 adult male current smokers were analysed, and they were divided into the low cigarette dependence group (n = 297) and the high cigarette dependence group (n = 319). Except for risk generalisation beliefs, smoking functional beliefs (H1: -β = 0.131, P < 0.01), social acceptability beliefs (H3: β = -0.258, P < 0.001), safe smoking beliefs (H4: β = -0.078, P < 0.05), self-exempting beliefs (H5: β = -0.244, P < 0.001), and quitting is harmful beliefs (H6: β = -0.148, P < 0.01) all had a significant positive influence on motivation. Cigarette dependence moderated the correlation between rationalisations and motivation. In the high-dependence group, the social acceptability beliefs and smoking functional beliefs were located in the "Concentrate Here" area. In the low-dependence group, the social acceptability beliefs were also situated in there. Conclusions: Social acceptability beliefs and smoking functional beliefs showed great potential and value for improvement among high-dependence smokers, while only social acceptability beliefs had great potential and value for improvement among low-dependence smokers. Addressing these beliefs will be helpful for smoking cessation. The multi-group analysis and the importance-performance map analysis technique have practical implications and can be expanded to other domains of health education and intervention practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) is a battery powered device which imitates the feel and experiences of smoking a conventional cigarette. Recently, Malaysian government has banned the selling of e-cigarette and the nicotine-containing e-liquid. The decision may be influenced by studies from overseas. However, in-depth studies on the effectiveness of e-cigarette are needed especially in Malaysian setting. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the cost effectiveness of using e-cigarette, the reduction in pack-year after using e-cigarette, % of users who completely changed from conventional cigarette to e-cigarette and to assess the general lung function of e-cigarette users using peak flow analysis in e-cigarette users in Klang Valley, Malaysia. This study was conducted at an e-cigarette stall in Kuala Lumpur Downtown Night Market, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Questionnaires were given to 73 e-cigarette users who met both inclusion and exclusion criteria. After answering the questionnaires, a peak flow meter test was carried out. The peak flow meter test was also carried out on conventional cigarette smokers for comparison. Findings from this study suggested that e-cigarette is a cost-effective device which showed a significant reduction of average monthly expenditure. In addition, results also showed that e-cigarette helped in the reduction of pack-year. The peak flow readings of the e-cigarette users are also significantly higher compared to the conventional cigarette smokers suggesting better general lung function in those who uses e-cigarette. In conclusion, e-cigarettes could serve as a viable alternative to nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) for traditional cigarette smokers seeking to quit. Nonetheless, it is imperative to conduct long-term studies on the potential side effects of e-cigarettes to thoroughly evaluate their benefits against potential risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our study, blood concentrations of lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd) and urine concentrations of thallium (Tl) were measured together with related symptoms of heavy metal poisoning in cigarette smoking volunteers diagnosed with schizophrenia, in cigarette smokers not diagnosed with schizophrenia, and in the control group of non-smokers and not diagnosed with schizophrenia volunteers. Our study was performed on 171 volunteers divided into the following subgroups: patients diagnosed with schizophrenia with at least 1 year of continuous cigarette smoking experience (56 participants), cigarette smokers not diagnosed with schizophrenia with at least one year of continuous smoking experience (58), and control group (not diagnosed with schizophrenia and non-smoking volunteers) (57). Smoking durations of cigarette smokers diagnosed with schizophrenia and cigarette smokers not diagnosed with schizophrenia are not similar (p = 0.431). Blood Pb, As, and Cd concentrations and urine Tl concentrations were the highest in the subgroup of cigarette smokers not diagnosed with schizophrenia, followed by the subgroup of cigarette smokers diagnosed with schizophrenia, and the control group. Only blood Pb concentrations were significantly higher (probability value p < 0.05) in the group of cigarette smokers not diagnosed with schizophrenia (5.16 μg/dL), comparing to the group of cigarette smokers diagnosed with schizophrenia (3.83 μg/dL) and to the control group (3.43 μg/dL). Blood Cd and As concentrations and urine Tl concentrations were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in cigarette smokers not diagnosed with schizophrenia than in the control group. The results revealed a statistically significant positive correlation (p < 0.001) in the cigarette smokers in the schizophrenia diagnosed group between blood Pb, blood As, and urine Tl concentrations and the duration of cigarette smoking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction This study aimed to determine the sex-specific effects of active and passive cigarette smoking on the full spectrum of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among a sizeable adult population. Methods This study was conducted within the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS) framework. Participants included 7478 adults in the last examination of the TLGS. We used a quantile regression model to compare sex-specific HRQoL distributions among non-, current, and passive smokers. Two-step cluster analysis was used to consider the synergic effects of confounder variables. Results In men, current smoking was negatively associated with only mental HRQoL in all percentiles of its distribution with a decrease in absolute estimation values from the lowest (5th: β = −6.59, p  < .001) to the highest (90th: β=−0.93, p  = .027). Also, passive smoking was negatively associated with men's physical HRQoL in the upper percentiles of its distribution (75th: β = −1.12, p  = .010; 90th: β = −1.26, p  = .016). In women, the current (β = −4.17 to −4.45 for 25th to 90th percentiles) and passive smokers (β = −2.05 to −4.25 for 10th to 90th percentiles) had lower mental HRQoL in the mentioned percentiles. Also, the current smoking had a negative association with the 5th percentile (β = −2.04, p  = .008), and a positive association with the 50th (β = 1.94, p  < .008) and 75th percentile of physical HRQoL (β = 2.25, p  = .004). Conclusions The present study showed the harmful effect of smoking on mental HRQol in all participants. In contrast, the physical effect of smoking was only observed in female active smokers and at the extreme levels of the physical HRQoL spectrum. Implications According to the harmful effect of smoking on HRQoL, understanding active and passive smokers' perceptions of how smoking impacts their health is critical for tobacco control programs. Since most previous studies of smoking and HRQoL have mainly focused on the extreme parts or central values of the HRQoL distribution, the use of a multiple regression approach enables the evaluation of other parts of the conditional distribution of the outcome variable. This study demonstrated the prominent effect of smoking on the mental HRQoL as well as the more serious public health burden of passive smoking in women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Much research has been conducted on the acute effects of nicotine on human cognitive performance, demonstrating both enhancing and impairing cognitive effects. With the relatively recent introduction of electronic cigarettes ('e-cigarettes') as a smoking cessation device, little is known about the cognitive effects of e-cigarettes specifically, either as a nicotine replacement device or in the absence of nicotine. The purpose of this review was to present an overview of evidence from empirical studies on the effect of e-cigarettes on cognitive function. Approach: Guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews guidelines (PRISMA-ScR), SCOPUS, PubMed, and EBSCOhost were searched from 2006, the year e-cigarettes were introduced, to June 2023 for relevant papers, along with reference lists checked for additional papers. Key findings: Seven experimental and four cross-sectional survey studies were identified and included. The majority of the studies only include regular and current cigarette smokers and primarily assessed the acute cognitive effect of e-cigarettes relative to nicotine. While the findings primarily suggest either no or positive effect of e-cigarettes on cognition in cigarette smokers, associations between e-cigarettes and cognitive impairments in memory, concentration and decision making were reported in both cigarette smokers and never-smokers. Implications and conclusions: The acute cognitive effect of e-cigarettes on regular cigarette smokers appears minimal. However, long-term cognitive effect and their effects on never-smokers are unclear. Given that the increased numbers of e-cigarette users are non-smokers and/or adolescents, research with those naïve to nicotine and a developmentally vulnerable adolescent population on its long-term effect is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Psychological Science is the property of Psychological Science Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Tobacco-free nicotine pouches are new nicotine products for oral consumption. They can contain very high nicotine amounts that have not been addressed with clinical studies yet. Thus, nicotine delivery, effects on craving, and side effects were assessed using pouches with up to 30 mg nicotine. In this single-center, five-arm, crossover study, 15 regular cigarette smokers consumed tobacco-free nicotine pouches from different brands with 6, 20, and 30 mg for 20 min. Comparators were nicotine-free pouches and tobacco cigarettes. At baseline and predefined time points over a study period of 240 min, plasma nicotine concentrations, effects on cigarette craving, and side effects were assessed. Cardiovascular parameters including arterial stiffness were measured using a MobilOGraph. Consumption of 30 mg nicotine pouches has led to a higher nicotine uptake compared with the cigarette (Cmax: 29.4 vs 15.2 ng/mL; AUC: 45.7 vs 22.1 ng/mL × h). Nicotine uptake in the acute phase was rapid during use of the 30 mg pouch and cigarette. Extraction rate of nicotine differed between pouches. Use of all products has reduced acute cigarette craving, even the nicotine-free pouch. During consumption of the cigarette and the pouches with 20 and 30 mg, heart rate increased about 27, 12, and 25 bpm, respectively. Parameters for arterial stiffness were elevated and all pouches have induced mouth irritations. The pouches with 30 mg nicotine had overall the strongest side effects and may induce addiction. As craving was also reduced by products with less nicotine, it is questionable whether such high nicotine contents should be allowed on the market. A limit of nicotine content is warranted. The nicotine release rate varies across products and needs to be known to estimate the nicotine delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the relationship between the chemical composition of tobacco leaves of non-flue-cured tobacco varieties and the sensory quality of heated cigarettes made from them, the conventional chemical composition of four types of non-flue-cured tobacco leaf samples such as oriental tobacco, air/sun-cured tobacco, burley tobacco and cigar tobacco samples were detected. Volatile metabolite profiles were analyzed by metabolomic technique, the differential volatile metabolites in different tobacco leaves were screened by orthogonal partial least square discriminant analysis, and the correlation between them and sensory quality of heated tobacco leaves was analyzed. The results showed that the contents of total sugar and reducing sugar were higher in oriental tobacco leaves, and the contents of alkaloid and nitrogen were higher in burley tobacco, air/sun-cured tobacco and cigar tobacco leaves. The characteristics of volatile metabolites of burley tobacco, air/sun-cured tobacco and cigar tobacco were similar, but different from those of oriental tobacco. A total of 130 differential volatile metabolites were obtained from different tobacco types, mainly esters, ketones, heterocycles and terpenoids. The differential volatile metabolites were positively correlated with the attributes of the smoothness of smoke, irritancy, dry sensation and cleanliness, and negatively correlated with the attributes of unpleasant odor and strength. The results provide a reference for the formulation of heated cigarette products from non-flue-cured tobacco leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Nicotine is a principal psychoactive agent in tobacco, contributing to tobacco's addictive potential. Preclinical studies on the effects of voluntary nicotine intake typically use self-administration procedures that provide continuous nicotine access during each self-administration session. However, many smokers consume cigarettes intermittently rather than continuously throughout each day. For drugs including cocaine and opioids, research in laboratory rats shows that intermittent intake can be more effective than continuous intake in producing patterns of drug use relevant to addiction. Objective: We determined how intermittent versus continuous nicotine self-administration influences nicotine seeking and taking behaviours. Methods: Female and male rats had continuous (i.e., Long Access; LgA, 6 h/day) or intermittent (IntA; 12 min ON, 60 min OFF, for 6 h/day) access to intravenous nicotine (15 µg/kg/infusion), for 12 daily sessions. We then assessed intake, responding for nicotine under a progressive ratio schedule of drug reinforcement and cue- and nicotine-induced reinstatement of drug seeking. We also estimated nicotine pharmacokinetic parameters during LgA and IntA self-administration. Results: Overall, LgA rats took twice more nicotine than did IntA rats, yielding more sustained increases in estimated brain concentrations of the drug. However, the two groups showed similar motivation to seek and take nicotine, as measured using reinstatement and progressive ratio procedures, respectively. Conclusions: Intermittent nicotine use is just as effective as continuous use in producing addiction-relevant behaviours, despite significantly less nicotine exposure. This has implications for modeling nicotine self-administration patterns in human smokers and resulting effects on brain and behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, a growing number of studies have documented more severe COVID-19 symptoms and worse outcomes among smokers compared to non-smokers. The aim of this research is to understand the views, risk perceptions, and behaviors of Lebanese adult smokers during the pandemic. METHODS We conducted 18 qualitative online structured interviews with adults who smoke cigarettes and waterpipe tobacco residing in Lebanon from November 2020 through April 2021. Participants were recruited predominantly via paid social media ads. Interviews were audio-recorded using Zoom software then transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed thematically. RESULTS The findings showed three main themes: changes to smoking behaviors, concerns over the susceptibility and severity of COVID-19, and using coping methods to protect smokers from COVID-19. Although there was an increased risk perception of COVID-19 in relation to smoking, most participants reported an increase in smoking. Instead of being encouraged to quit, participants developed coping strategies against COVID-19 while smoking. CONCLUSIONS Smoking behavior did not seem to decrease during the COVID-19 pandemic. To support cessation initiatives and raise awareness, effective health messaging aimed at smokers is pivotal. Smoking cessation programs need to be better equipped at supporting people who smoke in finding healthier coping mechanisms during a pandemic. Moreover, policies to regulate the propagation of misinformation are required to prevent the development of a false sense of safety and protection from COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of smoking on the labor market performance of college graduates, utilizing representative data from South Korea. To mitigate endogeneity concerns, we employ the average cigarette price during participants' college years as an instrumental variable for smoking behaviors. The findings reveal a detrimental effect of smoking on the labor market outcomes of college students. Smokers are significantly less likely to secure employment, and if employed, they tend to earn lower salaries. Notably, these adverse effects are more pronounced among female students. Through a behavioral and human capital lens, we discern the mechanism by which smoking impairs labor market performance. While smoking may initially contribute to positive aspects such as enhanced social activities, subjective mental health, and psychological stability among college students, it is concurrently associated with lower academic achievement, impeding human capital accumulation. These results suggest that although smoking may yield short-term benefits, it undermines long-term human capital development. The implications advocate for governmental intervention to mitigate the negative consequences of youth smoking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial discusses the increase in cases of acute necrotising ulcerating gingivitis (ANUG) in Liverpool and explores the potential connection to the use of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS or e-cigarettes) and social media. It highlights the rising prevalence of vaping among young people in the UK and globally, as well as the concerns about the health impact of e-cigarettes and their potential to lead to tobacco smoking. The editorial also discusses the oral health impact of vaping, including increased rates of periodontitis and caries risk. It raises the question of whether orthodontists should incorporate screening for e-cigarette use and provide advice about the risks and quitting in their clinics and practices. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: The present study assessed the efficacy of 0.12% chlorhexidine (CHX) and Salvadora persica-based mouthwashes (SPM) in reducing oral Candida carriage (OCC) and periodontal inflammation in cigarette smokers and non-smokers after non-surgical periodontal treatment (NSPT). Materials and Methods: Self-reported cigarette smokers and non-smokers with periodontal inflammation as well as nonsmokers with a healthy periodontal status were included. NSPT was performed in all participants. Based on the type of mouthwash, participants were randomly divided into three groups as follows: group 1: CHX; group 2: SPM; and group 3: distilled water (ddH2O) with mint flavour (control group). Clinical attachment loss (CAL), plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), and marginal bone loss (MBL) were measured. Clinical periodontal parameters were re-assessed at a 6-week follow-up. Oral yeast samples were collected and identified using a concentrated oral-rinse culture technique and PCR, respectively. Clinical and laboratory-based investigations were done at baseline and after six weeks. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: At baseline, PI, MBL, PD and CAL were comparable in all participants. None of the patients had periodontitis at baseline. Post-operatively, CHX and SPM were more effective in reducing PI (p < 0.01), GI (p < 0.01) and PD (p < 0.01) in nonsmokers than in the control group. The OCC was statistically significantly higher among smokers compared with nonsmokers at baseline. At the 6-month follow-up, CHX was more effective than SPM in reducing OCC in non-smokers (p < 0.01). At the 6-week follow-up, there was no difference in OCC among cigarette smokers regardless of the type of mouthwash prescribed postoperatively. Conclusion: In cigarette smokers and non-smokers, CHX and SPM are effective in reducing periodontal soft-tissue inflammation after NSPT. Post-operative use of CHX is more effective than SPM in reducing OCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Insular subdivisions show distinct patterns of resting state functional connectivity with specific brain regions, each with different functional significance in chronic cigarette smokers. This study aimed to explore the altered dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) of distinct insular subdivisions in smokers. Methods: Resting-state BOLD data of 31 smokers with nicotine dependence and 27 age-matched non-smokers were collected. Three bilateral insular regions of interest (dorsal, ventral, and posterior) were set as seeds for analyses. Sliding windows method was used to acquire the dFC metrics of different insular seeds. Support vector machine based on abnormal insular dFC was applied to classify smokers from non-smokers. Results: We found that smokers showed lower dFC variance between the left ventral anterior insula and both the right superior parietal cortex and the left inferior parietal cortex, as well as greater dFC variance the right ventral anterior insula with the right middle cingulum cortex relative to non-smokers. Moreover, compared to non-smokers, it is found that smokers demonstrated altered dFC variance of the right dorsal insula and the right middle temporal gyrus. Correlation analysis showed the higher dFC between the right dorsal insula and the right middle temporal gyrus was associated with longer years of smoking. The altered insular subdivision dFC can classify smokers from non-smokers with an accuracy of 89.66%, a sensitivity of 96.30% and a specify of 83.87%. Conclusions: Our findings highlighted the abnormal patterns of fluctuating connectivity of insular subdivision circuits in smokers and suggested that these abnormalities may play a significant role in the mechanisms underlying nicotine addiction and could potentially serve as a neural biomarker for addiction treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To assess police officers' health beliefs about testicular cancer and their level of knowledge about testicular self-examination (TSE). Materials and Methods: The data for the study were collected from 120 volunteer police officers using a questionnaire asking for their introductory information and the Champion's Health Belief Model Scale on Testicular Cancer and Screening. Results: 84.2% of the participants were married, 14.2% had a family history of cancer, 36.7% had never heard of testicular cancer, 81.7% had never heard of TSE and 87.5% had never performed TSE. The rate of those who do not know how to perform TSE is 80.8%. While 40.8% of police officers said that a palpable mass in the testicle was a sign of testicular cancer, 51.7% said that pain in the testicle, 29.1% swelling in the testicle, 47.5% pain or tenderness in the groin, 23.3% redness in the testicle and 20% weight loss would be signs of testicular cancer. Smokers had higher perceptions of the seriousness, benefits and barriers of TSE (p=0.048, p=0.002, p=0.031, respectively). Those with a family history of cancer and those with testicular problems had higher perceptions of sensitivity (p=0.010, p=0.003, respectively). Conclusion: It was found that there was a lack of knowledge about testicular cancer and TSE among police officers. It is recommended that health training is planned to provide information and to put the acquired knowledge into practice, and that qualitative public health studies are carried out on larger samples to identify the factors that prevent the implementation of TSE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The smoke produced by wildfires can travel great distances and lead to respiratory and/or cardiovascular health impacts through inhalation. Individuals can reduce exposure by implementing smoke mitigation measures in their homes and beyond. In this article, we examine household level survey data (n = 543) on wildfire smoke mitigation in response to the September 2020 wildfires that occurred in the state of Oregon (and beyond). The air quality was hazardous for about 10 days in many affected regions. This study assessed the implementation of six commonly referenced approaches to reducing exposure to smoke: staying indoors; keeping doors and windows closed, turning on HVAC; using air purifiers; replacing air filters, and wearing face masks. We found high levels of implementation of staying indoors and keeping doors and windows closed; however, statistical analysis of socioeconomic demographics suggests that respondents vary in the implementation of the other measures. Income, number of exposure days, and access to information on smoke mitigation were positively associated with the implementation. Given the importance of information access for implementation for three of the measures, we also present data on how different age groups prefer to be contacted about air quality and smoke mitigation. For example, participants above 65 years of age prefer local TV as opposed to social media, whereas text messages were favored by all age groups. These survey results will help to inform the design of campaigns to engage community members differentially and potentially affect best communication practices and other assistance/preparation for smoke mitigation across demographics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this 3-stage study is to reveal the smoking rate after the exclusion criteria was applied in patients who presented to the emergency department and to assess if smoking has any effect on their hemogram test results. And at last, the opinions of those included in the study are sought regarding whether establishing a smoking cessation center in the emergency department would be beneficial or not. Methods: After exclusion criteria were applied, a total of 2000 patients presenting to the emergency department were included in the study. The study was carried out in 3 stages. In the first stage, the smoking rate of 2000 patients was investigated. In the second stage, in addition to the exclusion criteria at the beginning of the study, in order to reduce the possible impact on blood parameters, those with any comorbidities (n = 747) were excluded, and hemogram parameters were compared in the remaining patients (n = 1263). Then hemogram levels were compared both in male and female in smokers and non-smokers since the normality limit of some of these values differs for both genders. In the third stage, establishing a smoking cessation center in the emergency department would be beneficial or not was statistically researched. Results: In total, 50% of the patients were male and 50% were female. The mean age was 51.57 ± 20.29 years. Of the patients, 28.26% (n = 566) were smokers. In total, 38.7% (n = 385) of men and 17.1% (n = 178) of women were smokers. The smoking rate was 30.7% in those without comorbidities, which was higher. The rate we obtained, although not directly comparable to the results of other studies due to differences in inclusion and exclusion criteria, was similar to the rate in the general population. There were significant differences in white blood cell (WBC), erythrocyte (RBC), and hemoglobin counts, as well as mean corpuscular volume (MCV) between the 2 groups. No significant difference was found in platelet count. White blood cell count was 12% higher, erythrocyte count was 3.13% higher, MCV was 1.5% higher, and eosinophil count was 24.1% higher in smokers. Hemoglobin level was 7.8% higher in smokers. When men and women without comorbidities were analyzed separately as smokers and non-smokers, hemoglobin, WBC, and eosinophil counts were higher in male smokers; hemoglobin, WBC, MCV, and eosinophil counts were higher in female smokers. Mean corpuscular volume and RBC count in men, and RBC count in women were higher in the smoker group, although it was not statistically significant. Only 33.7% of patients stated that it would be beneficial to establish a smoking cessation unit in the emergency department. Conclusion: Cigarette smoking has severe adverse effects on hematological parameters that might be associated with a greater risk of developing chronic diseases. The rate of smoking among the patients in the emergency department is similar to the general population. Making the necessary arrangements for emergency departments to become primary centers for smoking cessation and including this topic as part of residency training could be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is the range of sexually, psychologically and physically coercive acts used against adult and adolescent women by a current or former male partner. It is a major public health problem globally. This study determined the prevalence, patterns and predictors of IPV amongst female undergraduates in Abia State. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January - February 2022 amongst 306 female undergraduates in Abia State. A mixed method of an online structured questionnaire created on Google forms & onsite self-administered questionnaire were deployed for data collection. Descriptive, bivariate and multivariate analyses were done using IBM SPSS Version 26.0. The level of significance was set at 5%. Results: A total of 306 respondents participated in the survey. The overall prevalence of IPV amongst female undergraduates was 51.2% (95% CI: 44.8-57.6%). Emotional abuse was the most common form of abuse 78.9%, followed by Physical abuse 42.0% and Sexual abuse 30.8%. Predictors of IPV reported include female earning/receiving more than their partner monthly (aOR = 2.30; 95% CI: 1.20–4.41); male (partner) alcohol consumption (aOR = 5.17; 95% CI: 2.46–10.88), being a smoker of cigarette/marijuana (aOR = 11.01; 95% CI: 1.26–96.25) and having witnessed domestic violence as a child (aOR = 3.55; 95% CI: I.56-8.07). Adverse effects such as unwanted pregnancies (12%), miscarriages (10%), eating/sleeping disorders (21%) and bruises (23%) amongst others were noted in some of the victims. Conclusion: Over half of all female undergraduates in Abia State have experienced IPV with emotional abuse being the commonest. Some Individual and relationship factors were identified as predictors of IPV. We recommend intensifying primary prevention campaigns against risk factors identified like smoking and alcohol consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The variety of available flavors in e-cigarettes may be a driver for young people to start using these products. The objectives of our study were to examine the relationship between sensation-seeking behavior and e-cigarette use, and to identify the predictors of flavor use patterns among adolescents in Indonesia. Methods: Students aged 15 to 24 years participated from randomly selected high schools and universities in Indonesia. Participants answered questions about their demographic data, e-cigarette use, conventional cigarette use, and sensation-seeking. Flavor preferences were identified from eight different flavor categories. Multivariate multinomial regression analysis was employed to predict conventional cigarette and e-cigarette use among students. A latent class analysis was conducted to determine the number of latent classes of flavor use. Results: One thousand six hundred high school and university students, with a mean age of 18.2 years (SD 2.19), were recruited between March and August, 2023. Conventional cigarette use in the past 30 days was higher (16.3%) compared to e-cigarette use (13.3%, p = 0.017), with approximately 8.5% of students were being dual users. Higher levels of sensation-seeking significantly increased the odds of being a current e-cigarette user (OR = 2.54, 95%CI 1.99–3.25) and a current conventional cigarette smoker (OR = 2.38, 95%CI 1.85–3.07). Three groups of flavor classes were identified: 1) primarily menthol flavor users (14%), who had a strong association with current conventional cigarette use; 2) experimenters, who mostly preferred fruit-flavored e-cigarettes (76%); and 3) the multi-flavor user group (10%), who had a higher sensation-seeking tendency. Conclusions: Flavors, especially menthol and fruit flavors, attract youth, broaden the e-cigarette audience and are particularly appealing to high sensation-seekers. Banning these flavors could significantly deter e-cigarette initiation among youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smoking has detrimental effects on periodontal health, including poor gingival response toward bacterial plaque accumulation and delayed wound healing after periodontal therapy. Recently, an alternative product called Combustion-Free Nicotine Delivery System (C-FNDS) has been widely recognized among cigarette smokers as an aid to reducing or quitting smoking, and it has been marketed as a healthier, cost-effective, and more socially acceptable alternative to traditional cigarettes. However, the impact of using the product on gingival response is still unclear. We aimed to systematically review the impact of combustion-free nicotine delivery systems on gingival response. This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA guidelines). Studies were evaluated using the PICO strategy. The search was conducted with Pubmed, Scopus, Science Direct, EBSCOHost, Google Scholar, and manual search up to March 2024. The quality of the methodology of each study was evaluated using The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool. The initial search resulted in 345 articles, after being screened for duplication and criteria, 10 articles were included. The term CF-NDS in searches predominantly brought up Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems, e-cigarettes, or vaping. In terms of bleeding on probing and gingival conditions, the gingival response was suppressed in cigarette smokers compared with individuals using e-cigs and never-smokers. At the same time, the outcome of periodontal therapy was slightly compromised in e-cigarette users but more favorable compared to the results in smokers. Under the limitation of the study, the present review suggests that CF-NDS users demonstrated different gingival responses compared to smokers, and it merits further study to explore how switching from traditional cigarettes or combustible products to CF-NDS may affect the periodontal condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a study on the effects of different types of smoking on salivary pH, stimulated saliva quantity, and saliva buffering capacity. The study included non-smokers, conventional cigarette smokers, and electronic cigarette smokers. The results showed that salivary pH values varied slightly among the three groups but did not differ significantly. The stimulated saliva quantity was within normal limits for all groups. However, the saliva buffering capacity was lower in both conventional and electronic cigarette smokers compared to non-smokers. The study also examined the effects of using CBD-containing electronic cigarettes on these parameters and found minor changes in salivary pH and buffering capacity. Overall, the study provides insights into the impact of smoking on saliva composition. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: Women's health status is better than men but the opposite is true for female smokers who usually have poorer long-health outcomes than male smokers. The objectives of this study were to thoroughly reviewed and analyzed relevant literature and to propose a hypothesis that may explain this paradox phenomenon. Methods: We conducted a search of literature from three English databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar) from inception to 13 November 2023. A combination of key words and/or subject headings in English was applied, including relevant terms for cigarette smoking, sex/gender, pregnancy, and health indicators. We then performed analysis of the searched literature. Results: Based on this review/analysis of literature, we proposed a hypothesis that may explain this paradox phenomenon: female smokers have worse long-term health outcomes than male smokers because some of them smoke during pregnancy, and the adverse effects of cigarette smoking during pregnancy is much stronger than cigarette smoking during non-pregnancy periods. Conclusion: Approval of our pregnancy-amplification theory could provide additional evidence on the adverse effect on women's long-term health outcomes for cigarette smoking during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/Objectives: The aim of this cross-sectional observational study was to investigate cytogenetic damage to the buccal mucosa in non-smokers and consumers of traditional combustible tobacco products and non-combustible alternatives. Methods: A total of 160 participants were divided into four groups according to the type of product used, including non-smokers, users of conventional combustible tobacco (cigarettes), heated tobacco, and electronic, tobacco-free vapor products (e-cigarettes). Buccal mucosa samples were analyzed using the micronucleus cytome assay to assess cytotoxic and genotoxic damage. Results: E-cigarette users showed significantly higher values for all tested parameters in the micronucleus test compared to non-smokers (p < 0.05). Similarly, users of tobacco heating products showed an increase in all parameters (p < 0.05), with the exception of the number of cells with micronuclei. Conventional cigarette smokers showed a notable increase in the number of binucleated cells and cells with karyorrhexis and karyolysis (p ≤ 0.05). When assessing the differences between users of traditional combustible tobacco products and non-combustible alternatives, these did not appear to be significant, except for e-cigarette users, who had significantly more cells with condensed chromatin (p ≤ 0.001), while users of tobacco heating products had more pyknotic cells (p ≤ 0.001). Conclusion: The results of this study underscore the heightened occurrence of cytotoxic and genotoxic damage in users of both conventional combustible tobacco products and non-combustible alternatives compared to non-smokers, emphasizing the detrimental impact of these products on the oral mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The tobacco industry has actively advocated for electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and heated tobacco products (HTPs) as harm-reduction alternatives to traditional cigarettes. Around 40% of smoking physicians have adopted HTPs. This study aimed to uncover the motivations behind Japanese physicians' e-cigarette and HTP use while analyzing the associations between product use, physician demographics, lifestyles, and smoking preferences. Methods: A mail-based survey was conducted in 2020, targeting 6000 male and 1500 female physicians. From the 5492 survey participants, 346 physicians aged 28 to 98 who were current smokers were selected. The survey assessed their usage of e-cigarettes and HTPs and explored the reasons for initial adoption. A multivariate logistic regression analysis examined the relationships between product use, physician characteristics, and behaviors. Results: Approximately 33.8% of smoking physicians had experimented with e-cigarettes and HTPs. E-cigarette and HTP use correlated with youthfulness, nicotine addiction, and a history of medical treatment. The primary drivers for adopting e-cigarettes and HTPs were reduced odor (74.4%), perceived harm reduction (48.7%), and decreased exposure to secondhand smoke (29.1%). Conclusions: Physicians, when transitioning from conventional cigarettes to HTPs or e-cigarettes, are primarily motivated by a desire to reduce the odor of conventional cigarettes rather than health-related concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction IQOS was authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a modified-risk tobacco product. We conducted a pharmacokinetic study evaluating the nicotine delivery and subjective effects of IQOS use among current menthol cigarette smokers to better understand if IQOS is an acceptable cigarette alternative in light of the proposed menthol cigarette ban. Aims and Methods Participants were adult smokers of >4 menthol cigarettes per day. After 14-hour nicotine abstinence, participants were provided an IQOS device and menthol heatstick to puff every 20 seconds for a total of 14 puffs. Blood samples were collected at baseline and during active use to calculate nicotine boost from baseline to peak concentration. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms were collected before and after IQOS use. In addition, a modified Product Evaluation Scale for IQOS was collected after use. Results Participants (n = 8) were a mean age of 43.9 years, 63% were female, 88% identified as White, and they smoked a mean of 17.1 menthol cigarettes per day. After IQOS use, the mean nicotine boost obtained was 15.96 ng/mL (SD = 6.91) (range 9.31 to 30.55 ng/mL). Most (75%) participants reported enjoying use of the product "a lot" or greater and more than half (62.5%) reported reduced cigarette cravings. Most participants reported no side effects after use; however, two experienced dry mouth, three experienced dizziness, one experienced throat irritation, and one experienced headache. Conclusion We found that directed use (14 puffs) of menthol IQOS delivered a mean nicotine boost of 15.96 ng/mL which reduced craving for a cigarette. The majority of participants enjoyed use of IQOS and reported mild side effects. Implications Menthol IQOS delivered a sufficient dose of nicotine perceived as satisfying by menthol cigarette smokers and it reduced craving with mild side effects. Menthol IQOS has potential to serve as a less harmful alternative for menthol cigarette smokers. The availability of modified risk products like IQOS should be considered by FDA's Comprehensive Plan for Tobacco and Nicotine Regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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"Capitalism and the Senses" is a book that examines the relationship between capitalism and the senses, focusing on twentieth-century America. The book features an introduction and twelve chapters written by historians, anthropologists, and a geographer. It covers various topics in business, marketing, and consumption history, drawing from primary sources to provide insights into the role of the senses in capitalist societies. The chapters explore themes such as whiskey marketing, supersonic transport, and the olfactory experience of shopping in Edwardian London. The article also discusses the historiography of smell and the changing perceptions of smell over time, as well as the role of marketing in shaping sensory experiences. It acknowledges the importance of touch in consumer preferences and advertising, while also recognizing the limitations of studying sensory business history. The article encourages readers to critically consider the impact of marketing and consumption on society and suggests further research in this area. [Extracted from the article]

We analyze the role of maternal endowments and investments in delivering small for gestational age babies. We estimate the effect of maternal endowments on birth outcomes and decompose it into a direct, "biological" effect and a "choice" effect mediated by maternal behaviors. We estimate the causal effects of maternal education and prenatal smoking and whether women with different traits have different returns. The findings highlight the importance of maternal cognition, personality traits, and physical fitness in influencing birth outcomes, with significant heterogeneity in the effects of education and smoking across different maternal physical traits, suggesting targeted prenatal interventions for less healthy women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]