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Objective: We examined clinical trial knowledge and attitudes, and their relationship with willingness to participate in COVID-19 vaccine trials, and willingness to accept a COVID-19 vaccine among college students. Participants: 331 undergraduates: mean age 25; 72% women; and 78% white. Methods: We administered an online, anonymous survey to undergraduate students in July, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: The mean clinical trial knowledge score was 65% (SD = 16) correct. The mean attitudes toward clinical trials score (1 most negative: 5 most positive) was 3.3 (SD = 0.5). Attitudes toward clinical trials were associated with likelihood of COVID-19 trial participation (positive 76% vs. negative 35%, p = 0.001) and a trend toward likelihood of accepting a COVID-19 vaccine if available (positive 89% vs. negative 67%, p = 0.066). Conclusions: General clinical trial knowledge and attitudes appear to be important targets for educational interventions. Furthermore, fostering positive attitudes may lead to improved COVID-19 trial participation and vaccine uptake.

Cigarette smoking has been identified as the most important source of preventable morbidity and premature mortality worldwide (American Lung Association, 2002). Statistics show that youth who do smoke report having their first cigarette while in middle school, thus this is a critical opportunity for prevention (Eissenburg & Balster, 2000). This project helps expand current knowledge of adolescent smoking prevention programs by demonstrating an understanding of adolescents' preference for and acceptability of the Internet in the delivery of a smoking prevention intervention. A qualitative usability study was conducted among middle school students using focus groups. Results found that the Internet is a good choice for delivery of a prevention program due to its accessibility, including the availability in most schools. Elements of interactivity and expert-trusted guidance were identified as appealing. In addition, the use of pictures and graphics in conjunction with text, can be useful in reaching students with varied learning styles. By using this non-traditional approach, health education and promotion can work in parallel with the schools, parents, and community in the delivery of effective smoking prevention programs delivered via the Internet. [Abstract is provided in both English and Spanish.]

Background: Although there are thousands of health and fitness smartphone apps currently available, little research exists regarding the effects of mobile app technology on physical activity behavior. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to test whether Exergame smartphone applications increase physical activity levels. Methods: This was a 12-week randomized, controlled, parallel group trial. The intervention consisted of the use of Exergame smartphone apps and motivational messaging. Validated instruments were used to measure physical activity, enjoyment, motivation, and competence. Results: Forty subjects were randomized and completed baseline assessments; 39 (97.5%) completed the 12-week follow-up. Median age was 32 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 25, 41.75); 85% were women. No differences between groups were identified in primary or secondary outcomes. Within group, physical activity decreased in the controls and autonomous motivation increased in the intervention group. Discussion: Exploratory findings were interesting regarding the use of Exergames to encourage physical activity. The intervention group showed less of a decline in activity, suggesting a possible attenuation of the observed seasonal fluctuation by the use of the Exergames. Translation to Health Education Practice: Given their popularity, health educators should continue to explore the use of Exergame apps as a tool to facilitate physical activity.

Examined the relationship between depressive feelings and cigarette smoking in Mexican-American adolescents who participated in the 1993 Teenage Attitudes and Practices Survey II. Results suggest a relationship between certain feelings of depression and smoking, beyond that experienced by nonsmokers, which may be more evident in females. Implications are discussed. (EMK)

This study examined the relationships between adolescents' physiological sensations of smoking during initiation and early experience. For a national sample of a birth cohort of 2,043 adolescents, ages 15 to 22 years at the follow-up, variables of interest included measures of smoking behavior and physiological sensations reported from the initial smoking experience. Analysis showed that adolescents experimenting with smoking were more likely to become regular smokers over three years if they indicated that they felt relaxed, felt dizzy, did not feel sick, and did not cough during the initial smoking experience. Antismoking interventions may impede the transition to regular smoking by helping adolescents interpret the physiological sensations as negative and unhealthy.

This study examined developmental influences of beliefs and attitudes on adolescents' smoking. A national sample (N=6,900) of adolescents ages 14 to 18 was selected. Data included measures of smoking behavior, beliefs, and attitudes. Although odds ratios show that attitudes and beliefs are predictive of adolescents' smoking status across the ages of 14 to 18 years, no systematic change of the prediction is evident, which contrasts with the psychological developmental model.

Investigates the family and peer influences on the smoking prevalence among southern adolescents. Use of Bandura's Social Learning Theory; Effect of repeated observation of family representation of the smoking behavior in increasing the likelihood of acquiring such behavior; Related data from surveys conducted.