Tobacco Products Research Articles

High Prevalence of Tobacco Consumption among Pregnant Women in a Southern European City (Seville): A Challenge for the Health System.

The prevalence of prenatal tobacco exposure remains high in many countries, particularly in southern Europe. The aims of this study were to estimate the prevalence of smoking among pregnant women in a southern Spanish city (Seville) and to identify the associated sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics. In a descriptive, cross-sectional study, a random sample of pregnant women who were scheduled to undergo a morphology scan at their public referral hospital in their 20th week of gestation were interviewed in person. At the start of pregnancy, 38.2% of the pregnant women were smokers. In the twentieth week, 19.1% continued to smoke, and the same percentage had quit. The prevalence of smoking in pregnant women was higher among those with a low level of education (60% among pregnant women with no studies and 30.4% in those with primary education) and among those who had had abortions (38.5%). Pregnant smokers with obesity were the least likely to have given up smoking during pregnancy. Women with a lower educational level should be a prime target for cross-sectoral interventions aimed at preventing prenatal tobacco exposure. Implementation of support measures for providing effective clinical advice in preconception and prenatal care regarding healthy lifestyles is particularly needed.

WO3@MOF heterostructure in-situ transformed and deposited on La-Bi2WO6-BiFeWOx composite with enhanced photocatalytic performance for degradation of harmful and toxic substances produced by tobacco

Nowadays, tobacco is widely cultivated, and there are millions of people who smoke around the world. The cultivation of tobacco, along with the handling of cigarettes and the consumption of tobacco products, can produce numerous harmful and toxic substances. Many researchers are working diligently to eliminate these harmful and toxic substances. However, the results have been minimal. In this paper, we successfully prepared a novel La-Bi2WO6-BiFeWOx-WO3@MOF using hydrothermal and in-situ transformation methods. All samples were thoroughly investigated using various characterization techniques, including XRD, SEM, TEM, XPS, UV–Vis absorption spectra, transient photocurrent responses, and electron spin resonance. Furthermore, La-Bi2WO6-BiFeWOx-WO3@MOF was utilized as a catalyst for the degradation of harmful and toxic substances produced by tobacco, including phenol, nicotine, benzopyrene, and nitrosamines. The results indicate that La-Bi2WO6-BiFeWOx-WO3@MOF exhibits efficient separation and transfer of photo-generated electron-hole pairs under visible light irradiation. La-Bi2WO6-BiFeWOx-WO3@MOF also exhibits excellent photocatalytic activity, efficiently degrading phenol (98.62%), nicotine (92.41%), benzopyrene (81.74%), and nitrosamine (98.23%). Furthermore, the effects of varying catalyst dosage, phenol concentration, and pH values, as well as the degradation of nicotine, benzopyrene, and nitrosamine by La-Bi2WO6-BiFeWOx-WO3@MOF, were also investigated. The main active radicals are ·OH and ·O2– during the degradation process. Finally, a potential degradation mechanism for phenol, nicotine, benzopyrene, and nitrosamine by La-Bi2WO6-BiFeWOx-WO3@MOF is proposed.

Youth e‐cigarette use drops to recent low level: Good news

Half a million fewer U.S. youth reported current use of e‐cigarettes in 2024 compared to 2023, according to new data from the National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS) released today by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The nationally representative data featured in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) includes findings on e‐cigarette and nicotine pouch use among U.S. youth, two categories of tobacco products the FDA and CDC are monitoring closely, particularly regarding youth use and appeal.

Effect of a Novel Food Rich in Miraculin on the Oral Microbiome of Malnourished Oncologic Patients with Dysgeusia

Background/Objectives: Dysgeusia contributes to the derangement of nutritional status in patients with cancer as well as worsening the quality of life. There has been a lack of effective treatments for taste disorders provided by the pharmaceutical industry. Methods: This was a pilot randomized, parallel, triple-blind, and placebo-controlled intervention clinical trial in which 31 malnourished patients with cancer and dysgeusia receiving antineoplastic treatment were randomized into three arms [standard dose of DMB (150 mg DMB/tablet), high dose of DMB (300 mg DMB/tablet) or placebo (300 mg freeze-dried strawberry)] for three months. Patients consumed a DMB or placebo tablet before each main meal. Using the nanopore methodology, we analyzed the oral microbiome of patients with cancer using saliva samples. Results: All patients with cancer and dysgeusia had dysbiosis in terms of lower bacterial diversity and richness. DMB consumption was associated with changes in oral microbiome composition. Neither selected bacteria nor taste perception, type of diet, and cytokine levels were associated with mucositis. Likewise, alcohol and tobacco consumption as well as general and digestive toxicity due to systemic therapy were not associated with specific changes of the oral microbiome, according to logistic binary regression. The standard dose of DMB resulted in a lower abundance of Veillonella compared with the high DMB dose and placebo at 3 months after intervention with DMB. In particular, some species such as Streptococcus parasanguinis, Veillonella parvula, and Streptococcus mutans were less abundant in the DMB standard-dose group. Additionally, the consumption of a standard dose of DMB revealed a negative association between the concentrations of TNF-α and the abundance of species such as Streptococcus thermophilus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus dysgalactiae and Streptococcus agalactiae. Conclusions: Accordingly, regular DMB consumption could modify the oral microbiome in patients with cancer and dysgeusia, which may contribute to maintaining an appropriate immune response. However, as the present pilot study involved a small number of participants, further studies are necessary to draw robust conclusions from the data.

A systematic review and network meta-analysis of population-level interventions to tackle smoking behaviour.

This preregistered systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO: CRD 42022311392) aimed to synthesize the effectiveness of all available population-level tobacco policies on smoking behaviour. Our search across 5 databases and leading organizational websites resulted in 9,925 records, with 476 studies meeting our inclusion criteria. In our narrative summary and both pairwise and network meta-analyses, we identified anti-smoking campaigns, health warnings and tax increases as the most effective tobacco policies for promoting smoking cessation. Flavour bans and free/discounted nicotine replacement therapy also showed statistically significant positive effects on quit rates. The network meta-analysis results further indicated that smoking bans, anti-tobacco campaigns and tax increases effectively reduced smoking prevalence. In addition, flavour bans significantly reduced e-cigarette consumption. Both the narrative summary and the meta-analyses revealed that smoking bans, tax increases and anti-tobacco campaigns were associated with reductions in tobacco consumption and sales. On the basis of the available evidence, anti-tobacco campaigns, smoking bans, health warnings and tax increases are probably the most effective policies for curbing smoking behaviour.

Effects of freebase/protonated nicotine concentration, liquid composition and electrical power on throat hit in direct-to-lung vaping: theory and clinical measurements

BackgroundFor decades, the tobacco industry has engineered the sensory characteristics of combustible tobacco products including the degree of harshness experienced at the back of the throat. Commonly referred to as...

Is e-cigarette advertising associated with e-cigarette use among young people? New survey evidence from Poland.

Young people are routinely exposed to e-cigarettes advertising. We examined the impact of e-cigarette advertising on e-cigarette use in a large representative sample of adolescents. Data came from cross-sectional sample of the nationwide study on the health effects of tobacco products called PolNicoYouth, which included adolescents aged 15-18 years (N = 7,498). Data were collected through a detailed questionnaire recommended by international health organizations for monitoring tobacco use by adolescents. Simple and multiple logistic regression analyzes were conducted, adjusting for sex, age, type of school, place of residence, smoking of traditional cigarettes and parental smoking. Frequencies and proportions for descriptive statistics, and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals for logistic regression models were reported. Approximately, 56% of interviewees had noticed some form of e-cigarettes advertising. Exposure to e-cigarette advertising was significantly associated with ever use of e-cigarettes (OR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.09-1.53). Exposure to e-cigarette advertising via club/pub/disco was significantly associated with current e-cigarette use (OR = 1.58; 95% CI: 1.06-2.36). Adolescents who have ever used e-cigarettes were more likely than never users to report exposure to advertisements on club/pub/disco (OR = 1.57; 95% CI: 1.08-2.30) and internet (OR = 1.22; 95% CI: 1.01-1.47). Despite the applicable advertising restrictions, the majority of young people declared contact with e-cigarette advertising, which shows the urgent need for more global action. The internet and advertisements in clubs, pubs and discos seem to be the key places of exposure. These forms of exposure need to be urgently addressed given their clear link to e-cigarette use.

7192 Description Of Patients With Post-surgical Hypoparathyroidism In Clinical Follow-up In Brazil

Abstract Disclosure: L.D. Santos: None. G. Oliveira Martins: None. L. Costa Figueiredo: None. M. Nascimento de Lemos: None. J.V. Lima: None. L.A. Alvares: None. E.N. Sakane: None. N. Scalissi: None. Post-surgical hypoparathyroidism is an event that may occur, especially after extensive procedures in the cervical region. There are few long-term follow-up studies on individuals who develop permanent post-surgical hypoparathyroidism and its long-term complications. Objective: This study aims to assess the clinical and laboratory characteristics of patients diagnosed with permanent hypoparathyroidism at a tertiary care center in Brazil. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of medical records. Results: We evaluated 27 patients with permanent hypoparathyroidism, with an average age of 53 years (SD=10), where 15% were alcohol and tobacco consumers, and 88% were female. The average time of permanent hypoparathyroidism diagnosis was 9 years and 3 months. Regarding the surgical indication, 35% were due to Graves' disease, 25% for thyroid goiter, 25% for thyroid cancer, and 15% for glottic cancer. Only 15% had a description of the parathyroid glands in the pathology report. As for medications, all patients were using calcium carbonate, with an average dose of 1700 mg daily per individual. 90% of the patients were using calcitriol, with an average dose of 0.64 mcg daily, and 55% were using cholecalciferol, with an average weekly dose of 9700 IU. Hydrochlorothiazide was used by 35% of the patients, with an average daily dose of 34 mg. Regarding postoperative exams 24 hours after surgery, only half had the parathyroid hormone (PTH) test requested or available, with only one patient having PTH >10 pg/mL. Regarding chronic complications, 15% presented with nephrolithiasis, 5% with subcapsular cataract, 5% with prophylaxis for seizures, 15% with a diagnosis of depression, and 10% with arrhythmias. Conclusion: Individuals with permanent hypoparathyroidism require attention due to chronic complications, and proper treatment aims to reduce the chance of developing other diseases associated with permanent post-surgical hypoparathyroidism. Presentation: 6/2/2024

8257 Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor Presenting As Carcinoid Syndrome

Abstract Disclosure: D. Phung: None. Introduction Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are rare tumors that arise in neuroendocrine cells of the pancreas. These tumors secrete a wide array of hormones. Carcinoid syndrome is a result of well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors that secrete biologically active amines and peptides that cause the clinical manifestation of flushing, diarrhea, cardiac involvement, and wheezing. Case Presentation A 57-year-old male presented to the clinic for symptoms of tachycardia, shortness of breath, dizziness, and sweating for the past year. He had past medical history of chronic kidney disease, history of previous cardiac arrest, history of previous myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, hypertension and gastric reflux disease. No history of tobacco, alcohol, or drug consumption. No previous surgeries. Family history with heart disease and prostate cancer in his father. His symptoms began over the course of the past year. Initially began with shortness of breath, chest pain, weight gain which then developed into dizziness with standing, episodes of night time sweating. He had associated headaches that were occurring daily. Vomiting would occur intermittently three to four times weekly. He noted episodes of flushing with rash occurring in the upper chest and bilateral arms. Diarrhea and loose bowel movements would occur occasionally. On examination he had tachycardia with heart rate at 103 BPM. Lung fields clear throughout. Abdomen was soft, nontender, without masses palpated. On biochemical testing chromogranin A was highly elevated and remained elevated upon repeat testing. Initial imaging with CT abdomen and pelvis with contrast was negative. PET scanning confirmed and localized his NET, revealing increased tracer uptake and hypervascularity in the neck of pancreas as well as two regions in the right lower lobe of the liver. Following confirmation and localization of his tumor he was then referred for surgical evaluation and treatment. Discussion In our presented case, the patient presented with symptoms suggestive of carcinoid syndrome which was confirmed biochemically with elevated chromogranin A. Clinical suspicion remains critical in diagnosis of NETs. The patient presented with clinically suspicious carcinoid syndrome, but initial testing with CT scan was negative and required further PET-based tracing to uncover tumors. Our case highlights the importance of clinical examination and acumen in diagnosing neuroendocrine tumors. Presentation: 6/2/2024

8257 Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor Presenting as Carcinoid Syndrome

Abstract Disclosure: D. Phung: None. Introduction Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are rare tumors that arise in neuroendocrine cells of the pancreas. These tumors secrete a wide array of hormones. Carcinoid syndrome is a result of well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors that secrete biologically active amines and peptides that cause the clinical manifestation of flushing, diarrhea, cardiac involvement, and wheezing. Case Presentation A 57-year-old male presented to the clinic for symptoms of tachycardia, shortness of breath, dizziness, and sweating for the past year. He had past medical history of chronic kidney disease, history of previous cardiac arrest, history of previous myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, hypertension and gastric reflux disease. No history of tobacco, alcohol, or drug consumption. No previous surgeries. Family history with heart disease and prostate cancer in his father. His symptoms began over the course of the past year. Initially began with shortness of breath, chest pain, weight gain which then developed into dizziness with standing, episodes of night time sweating. He had associated headaches that were occurring daily. Vomiting would occur intermittently three to four times weekly. He noted episodes of flushing with rash occurring in the upper chest and bilateral arms. Diarrhea and loose bowel movements would occur occasionally. On examination he had tachycardia with heart rate at 103 BPM. Lung fields clear throughout. Abdomen was soft, nontender, without masses palpated. On biochemical testing chromogranin A was highly elevated and remained elevated upon repeat testing. Initial imaging with CT abdomen and pelvis with contrast was negative. PET scanning confirmed and localized his NET, revealing increased tracer uptake and hypervascularity in the neck of pancreas as well as two regions in the right lower lobe of the liver. Following confirmation and localization of his tumor he was then referred for surgical evaluation and treatment. Discussion In our presented case, the patient presented with symptoms suggestive of carcinoid syndrome which was confirmed biochemically with elevated chromogranin A. Clinical suspicion remains critical in diagnosis of NETs. The patient presented with clinically suspicious carcinoid syndrome, but initial testing with CT scan was negative and required further PET-based tracing to uncover tumors. Our case highlights the importance of clinical examination and acumen in diagnosing neuroendocrine tumors. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Crowding-out effect of tobacco consumption on household food expenditures in Cameroon

This study delves into the critical issue of household budgets in Cameroon, specifically focusing on the impact of tobacco expenditure. Tobacco use often represents a significant portion of a household’s financial resources, potentially leading to a phenomenon known as the “crowding-out effect.” This effect describes a situation where increased tobacco spending leads to a decrease in the budget allocated to other essential goods and services. To gain a deeper understanding of this phenomenon, this study employs a quantitative approach. The analysis utilizes data from a nationally representative household survey conducted in Cameroon during 2014 (ECAM4). A two-stage least squares (2SLS) technique is implemented to address a potential statistical issue known as endogeneity, which could otherwise skew the results. The study’s findings reveal a concerning trend: tobacco expenditure has a negative impact on the budget shares allocated to essential goods such as food, clothing, and household equipment. This negative impact appears to be particularly pronounced for male consumers within households. Based on these findings, the study suggested that implementing tobacco control policies could lead to significant improvements in household well-being and overall health status. These policies, by encouraging a reduction in tobacco use, could free up resources that could then be reallocated towards essential goods, ultimately improving household financial stability and health outcomes.

Tobacco consumption influencing the prevalence of hypertension among Indian women aged above 15 years: An in-depth analysis using National Family Health Survey (NFHS - 5), 2019–2021

Objectives: Globally, hypertension associated with tobacco consumption is one of the leading causes of death. The aim of this study is to explore the possible association between tobacco consumption and hypertension among women aged 15 years and above in India. Methods: Data available from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS 5) survey was used for the study. The study examined the relationship between tobacco consumption and hypertension by analysing blood pressure indices among women aged above 15 years in India. The weighted proportion was computed with 95% CI for the cross-tabulations. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the risk factors for hypertension, high mean arterial pressure, and wide pulse pressure. Results: Among 625116 women aged 15 years and above, 41181 (6.6%) of them were tobacco consumers; among them, 3.4% had wide pulse pressure, 6% had hypertension, and 20.2% had high mean arterial pressure. Tobacco consumers were 1.11 times (1.03-1.20) and 1.09 (1.05-1.14) times more likely to have hypertension and high mean arterial pressure respectively, compared to those who didn't consume tobacco. Smokeless tobacco consumers were 1.12 (1.04-1.21) times more likely to develop hypertension. Conclusion: From this study, we found that factors like older age, mixed diet, alcohol use, and obesity have contributed to the risk of hypertension. Smokeless tobacco users were at risk of developing hypertension compared to users of other forms of tobacco.

Archaeometabolomics characterizes phenotypic differences in human cortical bone at a molecular level relating to tobacco use.

Tobacco consumption affects human health, but no studies have investigated its effect on the bone metabolome, or if any changes are traceable after long postmortem intervals. Human osteoarchaeological remains preserve small molecules, making them valuable for studies that aim to examine past conditions. We test if there are molecular differences in the metabolome of cortical bone between archaeological individuals who used tobacco and those who did not, and if these differences are distinct enough to assign tobacco use status to individuals with unknown tobacco use. Cortical bone of 323 known and unknown tobacco users was studied by an untargeted metabolomics assay using a liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry platform. We identified 45 discriminating molecular features that differed between tobacco consumers (15 up-regulated features) and nonconsumers (17 up-regulated features). Tobacco consumption leaves a metabolic record in human bone distinctive enough to identify its use in individuals of unknown tobacco consumption. Future work will validate molecular features relating to tobacco consumption.

Selected lifestyle factors as students transition from secondary school to university in Slovakia.

The study aimed to evaluate self-perceived changes in lifestyle factors, particularly physical activity (PA), following the transition from secondary school to university. A secondary objective was to examine the relationship between lifestyle variables and weekly PA frequency. Key factors assessed included sleep quality, dietary habits, alcohol and tobacco consumption, and PA frequency. The study surveyed 1,665 first-year undergraduate students at Slovak public universities (mean age: 20.73 years, SD ±1.39) using adapted versions of Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire (CEVS-II) and the Brief Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (B-PSQI). Data collection took place between December 2022 and February 2023. Significant declines were observed in most lifestyle variables after students transitioned to university. The proportion of students engaging in irregular, or no PA increased from 37% before university to 46% during their studies (p < 0.01). Reports of tiredness upon waking also rose, from 52 to 64% (p < 0.01). Meal frequency decreased, particularly among males, with the percentage of students eating only 1-2 meals per day rising from 9 to 15% (p < 0.05). Conversely, the regularity of breakfast consumption increased, increasing from 65 to 73% (p < 0.01). No significant changes were observed in tobacco smoking habits. The findings highlight a notable reduction in PA and other lifestyle factors during the transition to university life. These results emphasize the need for targeted interventions to support healthy behaviors during this critical life phase.

Protecting whose welfare? A document analysis of competition regulatory decisions in four jurisdictions across three harmful consumer product industries

Background and methodsCompetition regulation has a strong influence on the relative market power of firms. As such, competition regulation can complement industry-specific measures designed to address harms associated with excessive market power in harmful consumer product industries. This study aimed to examine, through a public health lens, assessments and decisions made by competition authorities in four jurisdictions (Australia, South Africa, the United States (US), and the European Union (EU)) involving three harmful consumer product industries (alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, tobacco). We analysed legal case documents, sourced from online public registers and dating back as far as the online records extended, using a narrative approach. Regulatory decisions and harms described by the authorities were inductively coded, focusing on the affected group(s) (e.g., consumers) and the nature of the harms (e.g., price increases) identified.ResultsWe identified 359 cases published by competition authorities in Australia (n = 202), South Africa (n = 44), the US (n = 27), and the EU (n = 86). Most cases (n = 239) related to mergers and acquisitions (M&As). Competition authorities in Australia, the US, and the EU were found to make many decisions oriented towards increasing the affordability and accessibility of alcohol beverages, soft drinks, and tobacco products. Such decisions were very often made despite the presence of consumption-reduction public health policies. In comparison, South Africa’s competition authorities routinely considered broader issues, including ‘Black Economic Empowerment’ and potential harms to workers.ConclusionMany of the competition regulatory decisions assessed likely facilitated the concentration of market power in the industries we explored. Nevertheless, there appears to be potential for competition regulatory frameworks to play a more prominent role in promoting and protecting the public’s health through tighter regulation of excessive market power in harmful consumer product industries.

Global burden of oral cancer in 2022 attributable to smokeless tobacco and areca nut consumption: a population attributable fraction analysis

Consuming products that contain smokeless tobacco or areca nut increases the risk of oral cancer. We aimed to estimate the burden of oral cancer attributable to smokeless tobacco or areca nut consumption globally and by type of smokeless tobacco or areca nut product in four major consuming countries. We calculated population attributable fractions (PAFs) using prevalence of current use of smokeless tobacco or areca nut products from national surveys and corresponding risks of oral cancer from the literature. We applied PAFs to national estimates of oral cancer incidence in 2022 from the Global Cancer Observatory's Cancer Today database to obtain cases attributable to smokeless tobacco or areca nut consumption. We modelled 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs) using Monte Carlo simulations. Globally, an estimated 120 200 (95% UI 115 300-124 300) cases of oral cancer diagnosed in 2022 were attributable to smokeless tobacco or areca nut consumption, accounting for 30·8% (95% UI 29·6-31·9) of all oral cancer cases (120 200 of 389 800). An estimated 77% of attributable cases were among male patients (92 600 cases, 95% UI 88 000-96 500) and 23% were among female patients (27 600 cases, 26 000-29 000). Regions with the highest PAFs were Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia (78·6%, 95% UI 74·4-80·5), southcentral Asia (57·5%, 54·8-59·5), and southeastern Asia (19·8%, 19·0-20·6). Lower-middle-income countries represented 90·2% of the world total attributable cases (108 400 cases, 95% UI 103 400-112 200). Our findings suggest that one in three cases of oral cancer globally are attributable to smokeless tobacco or areca nut consumption, and could be prevented through smokeless tobacco and areca nut control. Global cancer control efforts must incorporate further measures to reduce smokeless tobacco and areca nut consumption in populations with the largest attributable burden. French National Cancer Institute.

Labour productivity losses from premature death due to alcohol in Spain (2002–2018): Estimation and comparative analysis with tobacco-related estimates

AimTo estimate premature deaths, years of potential labour productivity lost, and productivity losses attributable to alcohol consumption in Spain (2002–2018) and, compare these losses with those from tobacco consumption. MethodsUsing the human capital approach, data on employment, wages and mortality were analysed from national sources. Alcohol-related mortality risks were drawn from the Spanish Ministry of Health. Labour productivity losses were calculated based on working-age mortality (35–64 years), with adjustments for productivity growth and discount rates. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to validate the findings. ResultsBetween 2002 and 2018, premature deaths and productivity losses related to alcohol consumption decreased significantly, with losses declining from 1959 million euros in 2002–936 million euros in 2018, representing a 52.2 % reduction. Although there was also a favourable trend in this area, productivity losses due to tobacco-related deaths amounted to 68.6 %. ConclusionThis study reveals a marked decline in alcohol-related labour productivity losses in Spain over the analysed period. Nevertheless, tobacco and alcohol continue to pose a greater economic burden, highlighting the need for sustained public health efforts targeting both alcohol and tobacco consumption to mitigate productivity losses.

Investigating the Anticancer Potential of Biochanin A in KB Oral Cancer Cells Through the NFκB Pathway.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a malignancy primarily affecting squamous cells. Its development is linked to multiple risk factors, such as alcohol and tobacco consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection. Biochanin A (BCA), a phytoestrogen extracted from red clover, has been extensively researched for its therapeutic properties. It spans antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, neuroprotection, cardioprotection, and anticancer potential in different bodily systems. However, its impact on oral cancer remains unexplored. Therefore, this investigation aims to assess the potential anticancer effects of BCA, specifically on KB oral cancer cells. This study utilized KB cells to evaluate the impact of BCA on various cellular parameters, including cell viability, apoptosis, intracellular ROS production, mitochondrial membrane potential, and cell migration. BCA treatment induced several notable effects on KB cells, including reduced cell viability, altered morphology suggestive of apoptosis, heightened oxidative stress, and alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, BCA treatment demonstrated an inhibitory effect on cell migration. The study further investigated the impact of BCA on antioxidant enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation, revealing decreased antioxidant enzyme activities and increased lipid peroxidation across different BCA concentrations (IC50 and IC90). Immunocytochemistry and qRT-PCR analyses unveiled that BCA treatment at varying doses (IC50 and IC90) downregulated the expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) subunits p50 and p65, pivotal players in cancer progression. In summary, this study sheds light on the promising potential of BCA as an anticancer therapeutic agent for treating oral cancer. Its demonstrated ability to induce apoptosis, perturb cellular functions, and modulate gene expression within cancer cells underscores its significance. Nonetheless, further research, particularly following animal studies, is imperative to comprehensively grasp the breadth of BCA's effects and its viability for clinical applications.

Potential Advantage of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Detecting Thoracic Wall Infiltration in Pleural Mesothelioma. A Retrospective Single Center Analysis

Objective(s)Thoracic wall infiltration in Pleural Mesothelioma (PM) determines the extent of resection and can be an important prognostic factor. Currently, standardized imaging for restaging after neoadjuvant systemic therapy comprises contrast enhanced computed tomography (CT) or positron emission tomography (PET). Additional thoracic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could better discriminate chest wall infiltration preoperatively and increase staging accuracy. For this reason, the added benefit of MRI was evaluated at our center. MethodsA retrospective analysis of the extended imaging protocol was performed from 07/2018 to 03/2024, including descriptive analysis for patient`s sex, age, tobacco consumption, asbestos exposure, histological subtype, TNM-Stage, mRECIST criteria and number of neoadjuvant therapy cycles. Preoperative restaging included routine imaging and MRI. After histological diagnosis of PM, neoadjuvant therapy was conducted, followed by intended macroscopic complete resection, with intraoperative biopsies of suspicious chest wall lesions. CT and MRI results were compared with intraoperative biopsies. ResultsTwenty-six patients (mean age 65.50, 11.50% female) with operable PM were included. Of the 11 patients with histologically proven chest wall infiltration, 10 (90.91%) had a cT-Stage ≥ 3 and 4 (36.36%) and surgery resulted in a R2-Resection. Thoracic MRI showed a high sensitivity (90.91%) for the detection of chest wall infiltration, especially when compared with the CT scan (9.09%). ConclusionWith the adjunctive use of MRI we demonstrated a much higher sensitivity for detection of chest wall infiltration compared with conventional imaging prior to surgery. This may improve patient selection for surgery. Nevertheless, larger studies are required to confirm these results.

Spatial analysis of risk factors related to colorectal cancer in Iran: An ecological study.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide, accounting for 10% of cancer deaths. Therefore, this study was performed with the aim of spatial analysis of risk factors for colorectal cancer in Iran. This study was conducted ecologically using STEPS information (The WHO Stepwise Approach to NCD Risk Factor Surveillance) in Iran. To analyze the data, the researcher used cluster analysis and Geographically Weighted Regression methods with the help of ArcGIS version 10. The results of OLS analysis showed that there was a significant relationship between tobacco consumption (B = 0.571, p-value = 0.044) and smoking (B = 0.772, p-value = 0.010) and the incidence of colon cancer (CC). There was also a significant relationship between abdominal obesity and the incidence of rectal cancer (RC) (B = 0.061, p-value = 0.027). This study showed that (CC) high-risk areas are located in central and northern parts of Iran, and the significant risk factors related to CC and RC were found to be tobacco use, cigarette smoking, and abdominal obesity. These findings are helpful to inform policymakers to plan screening services to reduce CC and RC, especially in high-risk populations.