Effects Of Electronic Cigarettes Research Articles

Effect of Electronic Cigarettes on the Change of Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence Scores during 1-Year Follow-up.

The use of e-cigarettes is increasing globally, particularly among young adults. Although several use them to quit smoking, their effects are controversial. The Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) was used to assess nicotine dependence in the smoking cessation process. This study examined changes in FTND scores among young adults using different types of cigarettes over a 1-year period. Prospective cohort data were collected from cigarette users at higher education institutions in the lower northern region of Thailand to analyze changes in FTND scores over a 1-year period. E-cigarette users and combined users were compared with conventional cigarette users. A marginal structural model (MSM) with an inverse probability of weighting (IPW) was used to adjust for time-dependent and time-independent confounders. Of the 133 participants, 58 were e-cigarette users (43.6%), 33 were combined cigarette users (24.8%), and 42 were conventional cigarette users (31.6%). The results revealed that when both time-dependent and time-independent confounders were adjusted using MSM with IPW, e-cigarette users had a 0.20 decrease in the mean FTND score, and combined users had a 0.47 decrease in the mean FTND score compared to conventional cigarette users. However, the difference was not statistically significant. The use of e-cigarettes or combined cigarettes did not significantly affect nicotine dependence levels in young adults over a 1-year period. Consequently, e-cigarettes should not be recommended to reduce nicotine dependence among young adult cigarette users. Further studies are required to determine whether e-cigarettes affect smoking cessation rates.

Effects of E-Cigarettes on Combustible Cigarette Smoking Among Adults with Opioid Use Disorder on Buprenorphine: Single Arm ERASER Pilot Trial.

People with opioid use disorder (OUD) on buprenorphine smoke at high rates and have low cessation rates, even with evidence-based medications. Electronic cigarettes (EC) are a promising harm reduction strategy for combusted cigarette (CC) smokers unable to quit. Unfortunately, people with OUD are underrepresented in EC research. A pilot study assessed the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of EC as a harm reduction tool among CC smokers with OUD on buprenorphine (N=30). Participants were provided with an EC and freebase nicotine liquid (6mg/mL) with a choice of flavor, and a brief training session. Research visits were scheduled in-person at baseline, week 4, and week 8 (follow-up). Daily diary assessments were completed during the 4-week EC period. Most visits (>74%) and 61.4% of daily diary assessments were completed. During the 4-week study period, 90% of participants used the EC at least one day, 66.7% used the EC for at least 16 days, and 43.3% used the EC every day. Significant reductions were observed between baseline and both weeks 4 and 8 in cigarettes smoked per day (CPDbaseline=16.2(8.3), CPDweek4=9.6(9.3), CPDweek8=8.4(8.3)) carbon monoxide (CO) levels (CObaseline=21.5(15.0), COweek4=16.9(9.6), COweek8=15.7(10.0)), and nicotine dependence measured using the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTNDbaseline=5.4(2.5), FTNDweek4=4.2(2.6), FTNDweek8=4.4(2.6))), with all p-values<.05. Implementing an EC protocol in outpatient maintenance treatment programs is feasible and acceptable. Preliminary results suggest that ECs may facilitate reductions in CPD, CO levels, and nicotine dependence. Future research should explore the effect of prolonged EC use on harm reduction and cessation milestones. EC are a potentially promising harm reduction strategy for adult CC smokers with OUD on buprenorphine who are unable to quit using evidence-based medications. However, previous studies have largely overlooked people with OUD on buprenorphine with recent drug use. This study addresses this gap through a pilot trial investigating the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of EC on CC behavior. The brief and standardized nature of the protocol and its implementation in outpatient settings highlights its potential for widespread implementation in facilities providing care to people with OUD on buprenorphine.

INDICATORS OF LOCAL ORAL IMMUNITY IN USERS OF NEW TYPES OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS

Introduction. The organs and structures of the oral cavity are among the first to come into contact with the aerosol when using electronic cigarettes and heated-tobacco products, and some of the aerosol components enter various biological fluids of the mouth, inevitably provoking a response of the body to external influences. One of the markers of the response are immunoglobulins, and their analysis is intended to help in studying the effect of electronic cigarettes and heated-tobacco products on humans. Objective. The aim of the study was to estimate changes in immunoglobulins A, G and M of gingival fluid, oral fluid and saliva among users of new types of tobacco products. Material and methods. The study included 4 groups of 5 people each: regular cigarette smokers, e-cigarette users, users of tobacco heating sys-tems and non-smokers. For laboratory studies, gingival fluid, saliva and oral fluid were taken from the subjects. Results. Various changes in the concentration of immunoglobulins relative to the control group were observed in all groups of smoking patients. Conclusion. The results may indicate inhibition of the function of local immunity both when exposed to tobacco smoke and when exposed to aerosol of heated-tobacco products or electronic cigarettes, which increases the vulnerability of organs and structures of the oral cavity to pathogenic microor-ganisms.

Abstract We072: Effects of electronic cigarettes on mouse cardiac lymphatic vessels after TAC surgery

Introduction: Heart failure is a public health concern worldwide. It is known that tobacco smoking is a risk factor of heart failure. Tobacco smoking also causes inflammation reaction and lymphatic dysfunction in the lung. However, the effects of electronic cigarettes (ECIG), as a new method of smoking, on the heart and cardiac lymphatic vessels (lymphatics) are not clear yet. The lymphatic vessels play an important role in maintaining cardiac function by modulating fluid homeostasis and transporting macromolecules. It has been reported that cardiac lymphatic vessel formation limits pressure overload-induced heart failure in C57Bl/6 but not in Balb/c mice. How cardiac lymphatics might contribute to the pathogenesis induced by ECIG is not known. Research Questions: The roles of cardiac lymphatic vessels in responses to ECIG exposure are not investigated. I hypothesize that the toxic effects of ECIG on the heart are partially caused by damaging the cardiac lymphatic vessels. Aim: To determine the effects of ECIG exposure on cardiac lymphatics after Transverse aortic constriction (TAC). Methods: I perform TAC surgery on mice as a heart hypertrophy and chronic heart failure model. Mice after TAC or Sham surgery are treated with different vaping components from ECIG: ECIG, propylene glycol and glycerin (PGVG) as vehicle, and air. After 4 weeks of treatment, hearts were harvested for histological analyses. The lymphatic vessel coverage percentage and morphology were examined by immunostaining. Results: Prior research suggested that genetic background in mice might affect the responses of cardiac lymphatic vessels to TAC-induced heart failure. I have established the TAC model using CD-1 mice. My results showed that CD-1 mice treated with PGVG after TAC do not show a significant difference in cardiac lymphatic vessel density compared to Sham group (p value=0.5951). ECIG treatment also did not affect the lymphatic density significantly compared to PGVG treated mice after sham operation (p value=0.8937). ECIG treated mice after TAC surgery showed a trend of increased lymphatic coverage and more mice are still being processed and will be presented at the conference. Conclusion: PGVG treated CD-1 mice do not show changes in lymphatic vessel density 4 weeks post TAC. Longer time points and more mouse numbers are needed to compare the effects of PGVG and ECIG after TAC induced hypertrophy and heart failure. This research is supported by California TRDRP grant.

E-cigarettes use and respiratory symptoms in asthmatic and non-asthmatic adolescents – a systematic review

E-cigarettes were initially developed to aid smoking cessation, evolving from basic cigarette-like devices to more advanced versions. However, despite bans and restrictions, they remain easily accessible to young individuals and contribute to addiction. Studies show that early initiation of vaping in adolescents significantly increases the risk of eventually smoking conventional cigarettes, posing a serious public health problem. This review focused on analysing the harmful effects of electronic cigarettes on the respiratory system in adolescents through original articles and case reports. A total of 24 studies that focused on the effects of e-cigarettes on the respiratory system in adolescents were selected. The studies assessed the occurrence of respiratory system disorders, the impact on asthmatic adolescents, and the relationship between e-cigarette use and the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Several studies have demonstrated that adolescents who use e-cigarettes are at an increased risk of experiencing respiratory symptoms. The pandemic has brought about changes in e-cigarette use among teenagers, including reduced use due to health concerns and limited access, as well as increased nicotine levels in response to stress and boredom. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to screen adolescents for e-cigarette use, educate them about the potential harm, and consider e-cigarettes as a possible cause of respiratory symptoms.

P-074 The effect of sperm from male patients who use electronic cigarettes on the euploidy ratio of embryos during in vitro fertilization procedures

Abstract Study question What is the effect of electronic cigarettes as a substitute for regular cigarettes on sperm and subsequent embryo development in IVF patients? Summary answer E-cigarettes are just as harmful to male fertility as regular cigarettes, reduce the euploidy rate of the embryo, and have negative effects on pregnancy. What is known already Many harmful substances from smoking are known to negatively affect sperm development and function. It causes high elevations in sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), which are associated with embryo euploidy rates. Recently, the use of e-cigarettes is increasing as an alternative to regular cigarettes because they are less harmful and safer. However, several animal studies have shown that e-cigarettes are just as harmful as regular cigarettes and can have negative effects on sperm and fertility. Preliminary data showed that SDF increased with e-cigarettes compared to regular cigarettes. Therefore, we would like to find out whether e-cigarettes affect embryo euploidy. Study design, size, duration In this study, from January 2022 to December 2023, 1,725 cycles of PGT-A (PGT for aneuploidy) were analyzed among the patients of IVF. The average ages of men and women were 40.0±4.6 and 38.7±4.0. A total of 4,796 embryos were analyzed (2.8 ± 2.0 per case) for euploidy rates. Participants/materials, setting, methods Blastocyst biopsy and PGT-A were performed, and embryo euploidy rates was confirmed. In male, the number of no smoking IVF cycles was 1061 and the number of embryo biopsies was 2.9 ± 2.1. The number of IVF cycles using regular cigarettes is 370, and the number of embryo biopsies is 2.8 ± 2.1. The number of IVF cycles using e-cigarettes was 294, and the number of embryo biopsies was 2.5 ± 1.6. Main results and the role of chance Based on the total female age, the embryo euploidy rate was nonsmoking (27.3%), regular cigarettes (23.6%), and e-cigarettes (18.8%). Among women under 38 years of age, e-cigarettes (29.9%) had a lower euploidy rate than regular cigarettes (37.4%), and nonsmoking (38.2%) had the highest rate. Among women over 38, the euploidy rate dropped significantly compared to those under 38, including nonsmoking (18.9%), but it was also lower for e-cigarettes (11.6%) than regular cigarettes (17.7%). Based on female age under 38 years old, the embryo euploidy rate among male age under 39 years old was nonsmoking (39.0%), regular cigarettes (38.3%), and e-cigarettes (31.7%). And among men over 40, the group with the lowest embryo euploidy rate was those who used e-cigarettes (no smoking (35.0%), regular cigarettes (32.6%), e-cigarettes (27.7%)). Based on the age of women over 38 years old, the euploidy rate among men under 39 years of age is nonsmoking (23.9%), regular cigarettes (21.6%), and e-cigarettes (12.7%). And the euploidy rate among men over 40 years of age is nonsmoking (16.8%), regular cigarettes (16.5%), and e-cigarettes (11.8%). nonsmoking is essential to maintain a high euploidy rate in embryos, and e-cigarettes may have a more adverse effect on pregnancy than regular cigarettes. Limitations, reasons for caution Because there are various types of e-cigarettes, it is expected that the degree of harmfulness will vary, but the number of patients was not sufficient to conduct research on each type of e-cigarette. Therefore, it is believed that the above problems should be solved through additional research. Wider implications of the findings This study is a study that links the harmful effects of cigarettes and the polyploidy of embryos. Electronic cigarettes, used as an alternative to regular cigarettes, may reduce embryo euploid production and cause recurrent pregnancy failure. Therefore, it is believed that electronic cigarettes should also be managed appropriately. Trial registration number not applicable

Electronic Cigarettes vs Varenicline for Smoking Cessation in Adults

Little is known about the relative effectiveness of nicotine-containing electronic cigarettes (ECs) compared with varenicline as smoking cessation aids. To determine the relative effectiveness of ECs in smoking cessation. This randomized placebo-controlled single-center trial was conducted in northern Finland. Participants aged 25 to 75 years who smoked daily and had volunteered to quit smoking were recruited from August 1, 2018, to February 20, 2020, via local media. The trial included 52 weeks of follow-up. All data analyses were conducted from September 1, 2022, to January 15, 2024. The participants, study nurses, and researchers were masked to group assignment. The participants were assigned by block randomization to receive 18 mg/mL of nicotine-containing ECs together with placebo tablets, varenicline with standard dosing together with nicotine-free ECs, or placebo tablets together with nicotine-free ECs, all combined with a motivational interview, with the intervention phase lasting for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was self-reported 7-day conventional cigarette smoking abstinence as confirmed by the exhaled carbon monoxide level on week 26. The analysis followed the intent-to-treat principle. Of the 561 recruited participants, 458 (81.6%) eligible participants (257 women [56%]; 201 men [44%]; mean [SD] age, 51 [11.6] years) were randomized. The primary outcome occurred in 61 of 152 participants (40.4%) in the EC group, 67 of 153 (43.8%) in the varenicline group, and 30 of 153 (19.7%) in the placebo group (P < .001). In the pairwise comparison, placebo differed statistically significantly from ECs (risk difference [RD], 20.7%; 95% CI, 10.4-30.4; P < .001) and varenicline (RD, 24.1%; 95% CI, 13.7-33.7; P < .001), but the difference was statistically insignificant between ECs and varenicline (RD, 3.4%; 95% CI, -7.6 to 14.3; P = .56). No serious adverse events were reported. This randomized clinical trial found that varenicline and nicotine-containing ECs were both effective in helping individuals in quitting smoking conventional cigarettes for up to 6 months. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03235505.

The cardiovascular implications for exercise intolerance and dyspnoea in electronic cigarette users

Background: Electronic cigarettes (EC) have been proposed as a safe alternative to tobacco smoking, however, several studies have shown adverse health effects of EC. The chronic implications of EC on cardiorespiratory response and exertional dyspnoea are unknown. Aim: To examine the chronic effects of electronic cigarettes (EC) and tobacco cigarettes (TC) on resting vascular function, inflammatory markers, cardiorespiratory responses during exercise and exertional dyspnoea. Methodology: Three groups of young adults (16 each) with normal spirometry (EC users, TC smokers, and never-smokers [NS]) consented to participate in this study following institutional ethics approval. Participants performed spirometry and an incremental cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) 20W/2mins on an electronically braked cycle ergometer with blood lactate (BLa) measurements. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD%) of the brachial artery was assessed using Doppler ultrasonography. Venous blood samples were collected to assess inflammatory biomarkers associated with vascular function. Results: EC and TC groups had a lower peak work rate compared to NS controls (184 ± 30; 185 ± 35 vs. 228 ± 44 W, respectively; P &lt; 0.05). During submaximal exercise, EC and TC groups displayed higher ventilation (VE), higher ratings of dyspnoea and more intense leg fatigue compared to NS controls (e.g. 140 W, VE: 62 ± 10; 64 ± 12 vs. 54 ± 7 L/min, Dyspnoea: 5.0 ± 1.9; 6.1 ± 1.9 vs. 3.4 ± 1.7 Borg units, 6.1 ± 2.05; 7.0 ± 1.9 vs. 4.1 ± 2.1 Borg units, respectively; all P &lt; 0.05). The TC group displayed lower ventilatory efficiency (higher V̇E/V̇CO2) and higher blood lactate compared to NS during submaximal exercise (e.g. 140 W, V̇E/V̇CO2: 31.8 ± 5.6 vs. 28.2 ± 2.41, Blood lactate: 6.5 ± 2.4 vs. 4.3 ± 2.5 mmol/L, respectively; P &lt; 0.05 for both). Like the TC group, the EC group showed a trend for lower ventilatory efficiency and higher BLa during submaximal exercise, but they did not reach statistically significant differences compared to NS controls (P = 0.07 for both). FMD was significantly lower in EC and TC groups compared with NS controls (5.4 ± 2.4; 4.6 ± 2.9 vs. 7.9 ± 3.4%, respectively; P &lt; 0.05) and that was associated with elevated Thrombospondin-1 levels. Conclusion: EC and TC impair vascular function and cardiorespiratory responses to exercise and exertional dyspnoea similarly. EC has a detrimental impact on vascular function and exercise capacity and should not be recommended as a ‘healthier’ alternative to TC.

The Impact of Electronic Cigarettes Smoking on the Health of Adolescents and Young Adults

Introduction: Electronic cigarettes, or electronic nicotine delivery devices, have recently appeared on the global market and become very popular with adolescents and young adults. Manufacturers and distributors of e-cigarettes position them as harmless innovative products that reduce or eliminate exposures to harmful tobacco combustion products and help quit smoking, but this is not true. Objective: To establish health effects of electronic cigarettes and the associated risks for young people by reviewing recent research findings. Material and methods: We have searched eLibrary,PubMed, CyberLeninka databases for publications on the topic using the following keywords: electronic cigarettes, vapes, health effects, adolescents, and youth. Of 328 sources initially selected, we included 38 papers published in 2017 to 2023 and reporting results of prevalence of smoking electronic cigarettes, assessing health risks posed by the use of e-cigarettes in the review. Results: Our study revealed the extensive use of electronic cigarettes, specifics of their health effects in young people, the potential for developing nicotine dependence and a whole number of diseases of the respiratory, cardiovascular and digestive systems and other disorders in e-cigarette smokers. According to our findings, e-cigarettes are widely available and easily accessible to schoolchildren and are used not only at home, but also at school. These devices and chemicals contained in the generated aerosols, many of which are carcinogenic to humans, can induce multiple diseases in users. It also demonstrated that young people are poorly aware of adverse outcomes of using the devices. Conclusions: Electronic cigarettes and the substances contained in vaping liquids, many of which are carcinogenic, can have negative effects on health. In order to ensure the health savings of the child population and youth, strict compliance with the already existing introduced legislative restrictions, the implementation of measures restricting the sale of electronic cigarettes and their advertising, as well as the development and implementation of preventive programs for children, adolescents and youth in educational organizations is necessary. Vaping prevention programs implemented at schools should include information about adverse human health effects of electronic cigarettes and possible consequences in case of non-compliance with restrictive legislative measures.

The paradox of the safer cigarette: understanding the pulmonary effects of electronic cigarettes.

Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use continues to rise globally. E-cigarettes have been presented as safer alternatives to combustion cigarettes that can mitigate the harm associated with tobacco products; however, the degree to which e-cigarette use itself can lead to morbidity and mortality is not fully defined. Herein we describe how e-cigarettes function; discuss the current knowledge of the effects of e-cigarette aerosol on lung cell cytotoxicity, inflammation, anti-pathogen immune response, mucociliary clearance, oxidative stress, DNA damage, carcinogenesis, matrix remodeling, and airway hyperresponsiveness; and summarize the impact on lung diseases, including COPD, respiratory infection, lung cancer, and asthma. We highlight how the inclusion of nicotine or flavoring compounds in e-liquids can impact lung toxicity. Finally, we consider the paradox of the safer cigarette - the toxicities of e-cigarettes that can mitigate their potential to serve as a harm reduction tool in the fight against traditional cigarettes, and we summarize the research needed in this under-investigated area.

Multidimensional assessment of the biological effects of electronic cigarettes on lung bronchial epithelial cells

Cigarette smoke (CS) exposure is known to cause injury to respiratory tract epithelial cells and is a contributing factor in the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer. Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are gaining popularity as a potential substitute for conventional cigarettes due to their potential for aiding smoking cessation. However, the safety of e-cigarettes remains uncertain, and scientific evidence on this topic is still limited. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of CS and e-cigarette smoke (ECS) of different flavors on human lung bronchial epithelial cells. Real-time smoke exposure was carried out using an air–liquid interface system, and cell viability was assessed. RNA-Seq transcriptome analysis was performed to compare the differences between CS and ECS. The transcriptome analysis revealed a significantly higher number of differentially expressed genes in CS than in ECS. Moreover, the impact of mint-flavored e-cigarettes on cells was found to be greater than that of tobacco-flavored e-cigarettes, as evidenced by the greater number of differentially expressed genes. These findings provide a reference for future safety research on traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes, particularly those of different flavors. The use of omics-scale methodologies has improved our ability to understand the biological effects of CS and ECS on human respiratory tract epithelial cells, which can aid in the development of novel approaches for smoking cessation and lung disease prevention.

The Toxicological Effects of e-Cigarette Use in the Upper Airway: A Scoping Review.

While evidence continues to emerge on the negative health effects of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) on the lungs, little is known regarding their deleterious effects on the upper airway. The purpose of this review is to summarize the toxicological effects of e-cigarettes, and their components, on the upper airway. PubMed, SCOPUS, EMBASE databases. Systematic searches were performed in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines from 2003 to 2023. Studies were included if they investigated the toxicological effects of e-cigarette exposure on human or animal upper airway tissue. Two authors independently screened, reviewed, and appraised all included articles. A total of 822 unique articles were identified, of which 53 met inclusion criteria and spanned subsites including the oral cavity (22/53 studies), nasal cavity/nasopharynx (13/53), multiple sites (10/53), larynx (5/53), trachea (2/53), and oropharynx (1/53). The most commonly observed consequences of e-cigarette use on the upper airway included: proinflammatory (15/53 studies), histological (13/53), cytotoxicity (11/53), genotoxicity (11/53), and procarcinogenic (6/53). E-cigarette humectants independently induced toxicity at multiple upper airway subsites, however, effects were generally amplified when flavoring(s) and/or nicotine were added. Across almost all studies, exposure to cigarette smoke exhibited increased toxicity in the upper airway compared with exposure to e-cigarette vapor. Current data suggestthat while e-cigarettes are generally less harmful than traditional cigarettes, they possess a distinct toxicological profile that is enhanced upon the addition of flavoring(s) and/or nicotine. Future investigations into underexamined subsites, such as the oropharynx and hypopharynx, are needed to comprehensively understand the effects of e-cigarettes on the upper airway.

Abstract 105: Sex Difference in Brain Energy Metabolism After Electronic Cigarette Vape Exposure May Contribute to Worsened Stroke Injury in Rats

Introduction: Electronic cigarettes (EC) are battery-powered nicotine delivery devices that have gained popularity as alternatives to tobacco cigarettes for young smokers and smokers trying to cease. Because of its relative novelty, our understanding about the effects of EC vaping on stroke outcome is limited. Here we aim to investigate the effects of EC on energy metabolism in the brain and on stroke outcome in animals of both sexes. Methods: Female and male Sprague-Dawley rats (2-3 months old; n=8) were randomly assigned to either air or EC vapor (5% nicotine Juul pods) exposure for 16 nights using the EcigAero-TM Aerosol Exposure Apparatus. After the exposure period, the rats were divided into two cohorts. The brains were collected from the first cohort of rats for unbiased metabolomic (Metabolon Inc.) or Western blot analysis. The second cohort underwent transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO; 90 min) or sham surgery and was survived for 21 days. During the post-tMCAO/sham survival, cognition was assessed using the Morris water maze followed by brain collection for histopathological analysis. Results: Metabolomic analysis showed substantial changes in glycolytic metabolites in EC-exposed female rats in relation to air controls, implying altered brain energetics. In EC-exposed female animals, a significant increase (p&lt;0.05) in glucose, glucose 6-phosphate, fructose-6-phosphate, and fructose 1-6 diphosphate was noted compared to air controls. However, such changes were not seen in EC-exposed male rats. Quantification of infarct volume demonstrated that, compared to air rats, EC-exposed rats displayed a significantly increased infarct volume in female rats while showing a trend of increase in male rats. In female rats, infarct volumes were 86 ± 19 mm 3 and 151 ± 25 mm 3 for air and EC groups, respectively, a significant difference (p&lt;0.05). In the male rat air group, tMCAO resulted in an infarct volume of 80 ± 37 mm 3 , while EC yielded 130 ± 38 mm 3 . Behavioral testing showed worsened post-stroke cognitive outcome in EC groups compared to air groups in rats of both sexes. Conclusion: EC vape exposure, even for as short as two weeks, impacts glucose metabolism and worsens post-stroke cognitive deficits in female more than male rats.

Vaping and the Brain: Effects of Electronic Cigarettes and E-Liquid Substances.

Vaping and the Brain: Effects of Electronic Cigarettes and E-Liquid Substances.

Direct health implications of e-cigarette use: a systematic scoping review with evidence assessment.

E-cigarettes are often marketed as a less harmful alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes. Despite their popularity, the evidence regarding their effects on human health remains unclear and is filled with complexities. This systematic review aims to elucidate the direct effects of electronic cigarette use on human health, carefully distinguishing between the specific characteristics of the populations studied. Adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases without date restrictions, including articles in both Spanish and English. This approach enabled the identification and analysis of primary studies to understand the direct effect of electronic cigarettes on human health. A total of 33 studies were included that evaluated cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, weight and fertility effects. Only five studies analyzed e-cigarettes in healthy populations and seven studies compared healthy individuals against smokers. The effects evaluated on smokers or former tobacco smokers were apparently positive, however, among healthy individuals, increased heart rate, mean arterial pressure, oxidative stress, alteration of respiratory epithelial cells and increased airflow resistance were found. Smokers or former smokers who switch to e-cigarettes may reduce their exposure to carcinogens and lower their risk of developing severe health issues associated with conventional smoking. However, in healthy individuals who have never smoked traditional cigarettes, the use of e-cigarettes introduces several cardiovascular and respiratory adverse effects. These findings suggest that while e-cigarettes can be a strategic harm reduction tool for smokers, they are not a safe option for non-smokers.

Effectiveness of Electronic Cigarettes in Smoking Cessation

Background: Numerous investigations have been carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of electronic cigarettes in aiding individuals to quit smoking and to ascertain the security and feasibility of utilizing them as an alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes. Research expenditures must be allocated significantly to the product's evaluation in order to perform an exhaustive examination of its usage prevalence, which includes its use as a smoking cessation tool as well as its adoption as a regular smoking behavior. Methods: The current cross-sectional study was conducted at King Abdulaziz University's Faculty of Medicine in the first few months of 2022. There were 263 students that participated in the study in total. In the previous study, the researchers used an anonymous, standardized questionnaire, which they confirmed and put into practice. The concept was assessed and put to the test using statistical analysis using "IBM SPSS Statistics version 20.0." Results: The study included a sample of 263 students, of whom 39.1% were classified as female and 60.9% as male. 49 of the 133 pupils in total were determined to have smoked in the past, while the remaining 86 were smokers currently. Regarding the sort of smoking habit used, it was discovered that 23 people (17.3%) used tobacco cigarettes, whereas 90 people (67.7%) used e-cigarettes or vapes. Furthermore, twenty people (15%) disclosed using other tobacco products. Of those who smoke, 36.1% use electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, to cut back on tobacco use. There was a statistically significant link (P&lt;0.05) found between the individuals' marital status and academic year and their regular use of e-cigarettes or vape. Conclusion: The current study found that among a cohort of medical students who successfully quit smoking through its implementation, the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) or vaping is a contributing factor in their success. Moreover, it is considered a transitional strategy for individuals who want to cut back on their total tobacco consumption.

Does vaping increase the likelihood of SARS-CoV-2 infection? Paradoxically yes and no.

Data on the relationship between electronic cigarettes (ECs) and SARS-CoV-2 infection are limited and contradictory. Our objectives were to investigate the impact of EC aerosols on SARS-CoV-2 infection of human bronchial epithelial cells and identify the causative chemical(s). Fully differentiated human bronchial epithelial tissues (hBETs) were exposed at the air-liquid interface (ALI) to aerosols produced from JUUL "Virginia Tobacco" and BLU ECs, as well as nicotine, propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), and benzoic acid, and infection was then evaluated with SARS-CoV-2 pseudoparticles. Pseudoparticle infection of hBETs increased with aerosols produced from PG/VG, PG/VG plus nicotine, or BLU ECs; however, JUUL EC aerosols did not increase infection compared with controls. Increased infection in PG/VG alone was due to enhanced endocytosis, whereas increased infection in PG/VG plus nicotine or in BLU ECs was caused by nicotine-induced elevation of the aerosol's pH, which correlated with increased transmembrane protease, serine 2 (TMPRSS2) activity. Notably, benzoic acid in JUUL aerosols mitigated the enhanced infection caused by PG/VG or nicotine, offering protection that lasted for at least 48 h after exposure. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that EC aerosols can impact susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection depending on their specific ingredients. PG/VG alone or PG/VG plus nicotine enhanced infection through different mechanisms, whereas benzoic acid in JUUL aerosols mitigated the increased infection caused by certain ingredients. These findings highlight the complex relationship between ECs and SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility, emphasizing the importance of considering the specific aerosol ingredients when evaluating the potential effects of ECs on infection risk.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Data on the relationship between electronic cigarettes (ECs) and SARS-CoV-2 infection are limited and contradictory. We investigated the impact of EC aerosols and their ingredients on SARS-CoV-2 infection of human bronchial epithelial cells. Our data show that specific ingredients in EC aerosols impact the susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Propylene glycol (PG)/vegetable glycerin (VG) alone or PG/VG plus nicotine enhanced infection through different mechanisms, whereas benzoic acid in JUUL aerosols mitigated the increased infection caused by these ingredients.

Electronic cigarette use and respiratory symptoms in the French population-based Constances cohort

BackgroundKnowledge about the consequences of electronic cigarette (EC) use on respiratory health is still limited. We aimed to assess whether EC use is associated with the occurrence of asthma symptoms and chronic bronchitis among the French adult population, with a specific focus on never combustible cigarettes (CC) smokers. We further investigated whether the association differed in men and women. MethodsConstances is a population-based cohort of adults aged 18–69 years at inception. We analyzed baseline data collected in 136,276 participants recruited in 2015–2019. Associations of current and former EC use with respiratory symptoms (asthma symptom score and chronic bronchitis) were assessed, controlling for CC smoking, cannabis use, demographics, education and body mass index (BMI). ResultsIncreased frequencies of respiratory symptoms were observed in both current and former EC users (for the asthma symptom score, adjusted mean score ratio (aMSR): 1.34 [95 % confidence interval: 1.28−1.41] and 1.39 [1.33−1.45], respectively; for chronic bronchitis, adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR): 1.27 [1.19−1.36] and 1.40 [1.32−1.48], respectively). Among never CC smokers, ever EC use was associated with an increased asthma symptom score in both men and women (aMSR = 1.44 [1.09−1.90] and 1.36 [1.01−1.83], respectively), and with a higher prevalence of chronic bronchitis only in women (aPR = 1.97 [1.27−3.05]). ConclusionEC use is associated with symptoms of asthma and chronic bronchitis, independently of CC smoking and cannabis use. The fact that these associations are observed among individuals who have never smoked tobacco adds further evidence of the deleterious effects of EC on respiratory health.

Electronic cigarette vapor disrupts key metabolic pathways in human lung epithelial cells

The steady increase in the use of electronic cigarettes (ECs) has reached an epidemic level, increasing mortality and morbidity, mainly due to pulmonary toxicity. Several mechanisms are involved in EC-induced toxicity, including oxidative stress and increased inflammation. Concurrently, the integrity of cellular metabolism is essential for cellular homeostasis and mitigation of toxic insults. However, the effects of EC on cellular metabolism remain largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the metabolic changes induced by EC in human lung epithelial cells (A549) using an untargeted metabolomics approach. A549 cells were exposed to increasing EC vapor extract concentrations, and cell viability, oxidative stress, and metabolomic changes were assessed. Our findings show that ECs induce cell death and increase oxidative stress in a concentration-dependent manner. Metabolomic studies demonstrated that ECs induce unique metabolic changes in key cellular metabolic pathways. Our results revealed that exposure to ECs induced clear segregation in metabolic responses which is driven significantly by number of essential metabolites such as aminoacids, fatty acids, glutathione, and pyruvate. Interstingly, our metabolomics results showed that each concentration of ECs induced unqiues pattern of metabolic changes, suggesting the complexity of ECs induced cytotoxcity. Disrupted metabolites were linked to essential cellular pathways, such as fatty acid biosynthesis, as well as glutathione, pyruvate, nicotinate and nicotinamide, and amino acid metabolisms. These results highlight the potential adverse effects of ECs on cellular metabolism and emphasize the need for further research to fully understand the long-term consequences of EC use. Overall, this study demonstrates that ECs not only induce cell death and oxidative stress but also disrupt cellular metabolism in A549 lung epithelial cells.

Electronic Cigarettes on Sperm Quality: Review in Animal and Human Study

Electronic cigarettes that are currently popular are used as nicotine replacement therapy. There are several substances contained in electronic cigarette liquid that have carcinogenic effects. These substances can also increase free radicals which in turn can cause oxidative stress. Nicotine, propylene glycol, and glycerin can cause disturbances in male reproductive function. Infertility can occur due to lifestyle factors, one of which is smoking. Nicotine found in cigarettes can reduce sperm quality, including concentration, mobility, viability, and sperm morphology. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of electronic cigarettes on sperm quality. The research method uses a literature review system. The twelve studies that are in accordance with the topic of discussion are experimental studies on mice and rats, two studies on human, and one study on both human and rats. Five journals showed a significant decrease in sperm count and testosterone serum level, three other journals showed a significant decrease in sperm morphology and viability, six journals showed a decrease in sperm motility, seven journals showed a significant impairment of testis histological structure, four journals showed a decrease of steroidogenesis enzymes, and one journal showed a significant increase of DNA fragmentation due to the use of electronic cigarettes. Electronic cigarettes had an effect on sperm quality.