Nicotine Consumption Research Articles

Exploring the complex relationship between caffeine consumption and schizophrenia: A review of epidemiological and clinical studies.

This review delves into the intricate interplay between caffeine consumption and schizophrenia, examining evidence from epidemiological and clinical studies. While epidemiological research offers conflicting findings regarding the association between coffee intake and schizophrenia risk, clinical studies reveal diverse impacts of caffeine on symptomatology and cognition in individuals with schizophrenia. Some epidemiological studies suggest a potential protective effect of coffee consumption against schizophrenia, whereas others fail to establish a significant correlation. Clinical investigations highlight the complexity of caffeine's influence, with varied effects on symptom severity and cognitive function observed among schizophrenia patients. Notably, caffeine may exacerbate positive symptoms while alleviating negative symptoms and cognitive deficits in this population. However, limitations such as small sample sizes and reliance on self-reported data hinder the generalizability of these findings. Furthermore, genetic factors, prenatal exposure, and substance abuse contribute to the complexity of the relationship between caffeine and schizophrenia. Studies indicate that individuals with a genetic predisposition to schizophrenia may be more vulnerable to the effects of caffeine, while prenatal exposure to caffeine may elevate the risk of schizophrenia in offspring. Additionally, substance abuse, including high caffeine and nicotine consumption, is prevalent among individuals with schizophrenia, exacerbating symptom severity. Future research directions include addressing methodological limitations, such as small sample sizes and reliance on self-reported data, and exploring the effects of caffeine on schizophrenia using larger, more diverse cohorts and controlled methodologies. A deeper understanding of caffeine's impact on schizophrenia is crucial for informing clinical practice and developing personalized interventions for patients. Ultimately, this review underscores the need for further investigation into the complex relationship between caffeine consumption and schizophrenia to improve patient outcomes and inform evidence-based interventions.

Hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of corn silk extract in nicotine-administered male mice.

This study is done to investigate the hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of corn silk extract in nicotine-administered male mice. Nicotine can induce pathophysiological effects in the liver tissue through oxidative stress and damage cells. Corn silk can improve liver function with its antioxidant effects. In this experimental study, 30 male NMRI mice (25-30 gr) were divided into 5 groups: controls, sham, nicotine 2.5 mg/kg, nicotine+aqueous extract of corn silk 400 mg/kg, and nicotine+methanolic extract of corn silk 400 mg/kg for 1 month. One day after the last nicotine and extracts consumption, the serum samples were performed for biochemical measurement, and the supernatant of the homogenized liver was administered for antioxidant variables assessment. There was no significant difference in the body weight of different groups. Liver weight and GSH decreased in the nicotine group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, liver enzymes, and MDA increased in the nicotine group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Also, the expansion of sinusoids, the presence of inflammatory cells, and necrosis of liver cells were observed in the nicotine group compared to the control group. Using aqueous and methanolic extracts of corn silk in mice receiving nicotine led to the improvement of the mentioned variables (P<0.05). The results of this study showed that the use of nicotine can lead to the induction of hepatotoxicity. The use of aqueous and methanolic extracts of corn silk improved them through its antioxidant activity.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of tDCS, TMS and DBS in overcoming tobacco use disorder: an umbrella review

&lt;p&gt;The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of neuromodulation techniques, including transcranial direct current stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and deep brain stimulation, on the treatments of nicotine dependence. Specifically, our objective was to assess the existing evidence by conducting an umbrella review of systematic reviews. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the standardized tools designed to evaluate systematic reviews. The PubMed/MEDLINE database was queried for systematic reviews, and yielded 7 systematic reviews with a substantial sample size (N = 4,252), some of which included meta-analyses. A significant finding across these studies was the effectiveness of neuromodulation techniques to reduce nicotine cravings and consumption, through the evidence remains not yet conclusive. A significant efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation that targeted the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was found, as well as the lateral prefrontal cortex and insula bilaterally, on smoking frequency and craving. Moreover, smoking behaviors may also be positively affected by the use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) targeting the nucleus accumbens. In conclusion, neuromodulation approaches hold promise as effective treatments for tobacco use disorder. Nonetheless, further research is required to comprehensively understand their effectiveness and to determine if combining them with other treatments can aid individuals to successfully quit smoking.&lt;/p&gt;

Varenicline but not cotinine increased the value of a visual stimulus reinforcer in rats: No evidence for synergy of the two compounds

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide, with <7 % of smoking cessation attempts being met with success. Nicotine, the main addictive agent in cigarettes, enhances the reinforcing value of other environmental rewards. Under some circumstances, this reward enhancement maintains nicotine consumption. Varenicline (i.e., cessation aid Chantix™) also has reward-enhancement effects via nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonism (nAChRs) – albeit less robust than nicotine. Cotinine is the major metabolite of nicotine. Recent studies suggest that cotinine is a positive allosteric modulator (PAM) and/or a weak agonist at nAChRs. Thus, cotinine may enhance the behavioral effects of nAChR compounds such as varenicline and/or exert some behavioral effects alone. We used 20 (10M, 10F) Sprague-Dawley rats to assess reward-enhancement within-subjects by examining responding maintained by a reinforcing visual stimulus on a Variable Ratio 2 schedule of reinforcement. To assess the reward-enhancing effects of cotinine, rats received one injection of cotinine (saline, 0.1, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0, 6.0 mg/kg) before each 1 h session. To assess cotinine and varenicline interactions, rats received an injection of cotinine (saline, 0.1, 1.0, or 6.0 mg/kg) and of varenicline (saline, 0.1, 0.3, 1.0, or 3.0 mg/kg) before the session. While we replicated prior work identifying reward-enhancement by 0.1, 0.3, and 1.0 mg/kg varenicline, cotinine alone did not produce reward-enhancement nor augment the reward-enhancing effects of varenicline. Future studies may consider examining the reward-enhancing effects of cotinine with other reinforcers or co-administered with other smoking cessation aids such as bupropion.

An overview of tobacco use in France: Observed trends and new challenges

This article reports changes in tobacco and vaping consumption in France over the last thirty years and the issues they raise for public authorities in terms of prevention and management of the social and health consequences. This report is the result of a joint analysis by Santé publique France (SpF) and the French Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction (OFDT). It shows that there has been a “generational shift” in tobacco consumption and social representations of cigarettes since the mid-2010s, with a sharp decline in tobacco initiation among adolescents, which has become less common and reported at an older age, which was one of the objectives of the national tobacco reduction plans. However, smoking remains fairly stable among adults, predominantly among men, with gaps between men and women persisting since the early 2000s. Beyond the gender gap, social disparities in consumption remain significant, both among youth and adults. However, while the prevalence of smoking is no longer increasing, the prevalence of vaping is rising, which is a public health concern since some of these practices involve nicotine consumption. This also entails the risk of a “renormalization” of the act of smoking, a matter of concern for health authorities in France as in other European countries. The analysis concludes that the statistical information system and qualitative surveys need to be adapted to ensure a reliable monitoring of the situation, taking into account the rapid transformations of the market.

Analysis of wastewater from 2013 to 2021 detected a recent increase in nicotine use in Queensland, Australia

Previous wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) studies have reported decreasing trends of nicotine and tobacco use in Australia before 2017, but there is concern that increasing illicit use of nicotine in vaping products and illicit tobacco could reverse this progress. This study aimed to assess temporal trends of nicotine consumption and specifically tobacco consumption via wastewater analysis in a population in Australia between 2013 and 2021. One week of daily wastewater samples were analyzed every two months from February 2013 to December 2021 in a regional city serving ∼100,000 people. A total of 340 daily samples were analyzed for anabasine (tobacco specific biomarker) and nicotine metabolites, cotinine and hydroxycotinine, using direct injection method by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Daily consumption estimates were calculated from daily flow data, population estimates and previously reported excretion factors. Linear spline regression was performed to identify periods when significant change of slopes occurred and to evaluate the temporal trends. Tobacco use monitored using anabasine as a biomarker, showed a decreasing trend over the whole period with a higher rate of decrease during the first two years (2013-2014, 21 % decrease) compared to the later 7 years (2015-2021, 10 % decrease). Nicotine use, monitored using cotinine and hydroxycotinine, showed a downward trend between 2013 and 2018 (2013‐2014: 18 % decrease, p < 0.05; 2015‐2016: 6 % increase, p = 0.48; Feb-Dec 2017: 15 % decrease, p = 0.39) followed by a significant increase from 2018 to 2021 (40 % increase, p < 0.001). This finding suggests the increasing use of non-tobacco nicotine-based products. Additionally, the tobacco use estimate by wastewater analysis was higher than the tobacco sales data, which suggests the use of illicit tobacco in the catchment.

Long-term adherence to pessary use in women with pelvic organ prolapse: A retrospective cohort study.

Vaginal pessary use is an established, non-surgical treatment option for pelvic organ prolapse. While satisfaction rates are initially high, they seem to decline over time. We aimed to determine the median duration of pessary use among our patients and to evaluate reasons for discontinuation. All patients who were treated with a vaginal pessary for pelvic organ prolapse between 2007 and 2022 at our institution (a maximum observation period of 15years) were included in this retrospective cohort study. Data were collected from the in-house electronic databases and the date of pelvic floor surgery was defined as the primary endpoint. In case of no documented surgery, the date of the last follow-up visit (for patients lost to follow-up or who discontinued pessary use without subsequent surgery) or the date of final data collection (for those with presumed continued pessary use) was used as the primary endpoint. Duration of pessary use is represented by Kaplan-Meier curves. Effects of possible confounders were investigated by Cox regression models. A Cox regression model was evaluated for patients with the three most common types of pessary: ring, cube and shell. A chi-square test was performed to compare therapy adherence according to pessary type. Data of 779 patients could be included in the statistical analysis. The estimated median duration of pessary use was 173weeks (95% CI 104-473) - approximately 3.3years. Overall, 30% of patients opted for surgical therapy and the majority of them did so within 4months of initiation of pessary use (median time: 19weeks, 95% CI 16-26). In 5% of cases a discontinuation of pessary use without subsequent surgery was documented and 18% were lost to follow-up before a planned visit, thus leaving 47% of our patients with presumed continued pessary use. Possible confounding factors for discontinuation of pessary use were tested but were found to be non-significant (body mass index, Pelvic Organ Prolapse - Quantification score, pelvic floor training, age, parity, menopausal status, nicotine consumption, incontinence or size of pessary). Reasons for discontinuation of pessary use were documented in 51% of patients: unspecified patient wish (23%), pessary use tiredness (10%), general dissatisfaction with pessary therapy (7%), unspecified reasons (5%), pessary self-change not possible (1%), erosion, bleeding, pain (2%); none of the pessary types fitted (2%). According to our data, almost half of our patients with pelvic organ prolapse and pessary therapy continued pessary use until a maximum follow-up time of 15years, whereas about one-third of patients finally opted for surgical repair (a majority of these within 4months after pessary therapy initiation). The remaining patients were either lost to follow-up or discontinued pessary use without subsequent surgery. The stated reasons for discontinuation of pessary use were mostly non-specific, but only 1% reported that pessary self-change was not possible. Erosion bleeding or pain was documented in only 2% of cases as reason for discontinuation. This information helps clinicians to inform their patients with pelvic organ prolapse about expected pessary therapy success and strengthens individual counselling. Furthermore, our data indicates vaginal pessary use for pelvic organ prolapse is feasible and safe for all women and that therapy adherence can extend beyond 5years.

Effects of Nicotine on the Central Nervous System and Sleep Quality in Relation to Other Stimulants: A Narrative Review.

Nicotine is used extensively across the globe despite the common awareness of the fact that it might stimulate the neurological system in those who indulge in its consumption. Nicotine can be consumed in a wide number of various forms and can also be delivered in a wide variety of different ways. After it has been heated, it can be smoked, consumed sublingually, or brought into touch with mucosal surfaces, with the buccal mucosa being the most popular one. These three methods of consumption account for the vast majority of its use. It has been demonstrated without a reasonable doubt that people who partake in nicotine do, in fact, experience an increase in their levels of alertness, wakefulness, attention, and focus. The half-life of the substance, in addition to its effects, is highly variable depending on the forms in which it is consumed, viz. cigarettes, tobacco, gums, lozenges, and the manner in which it is administered. This is the case regardless of whether the chemical is administered orally or intravenously. It is common for a person to require multiple "hits" of the chemical throughout the course of the day, though the frequency of these needs and the intervals between them can vary greatly. The time interval between each of these "hits" can range anywhere from a few hours to a few minutes. The user has the potential to develop a tolerance to the neurostimulatory and systemic effects of nicotine, as well as a heightened sensitivity to those effects, and even hereditary predispositions to specific adverse consequences. There is also a possibility that the user will develop an addiction to nicotine. This literature review aims to explore the relationship between nicotine consumption and its effects on the central nervous system, especially on sleep.

Chronic alcohol and nicotine consumption as catalyst for systemic inflammatory storm and bone destruction in apical periodontitis.

To assess the periapical alveolar bone pattern and the serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines, biochemical markers and metabolites in rats subjected to chronic alcohol and nicotine consumption and induced apical periodontitis. Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: Control, Alcohol, Nicotine and Alcohol+Nicotine. The alcohol groups were exposed to self-administration of a 25% alcohol solution, while the other groups were given only filtered water. The nicotine groups received daily intraperitoneal injections of a nicotine solution (0.19 μL of nicotine/mL), whereas the other groups received saline solution. Periapical lesions were induced by exposing the pulps of the left mandibular first molars for 28 days. After euthanasia, the mandibles were removed and the percentage bone volume, bone mineral density, trabecular thickness, trabecular separation and trabecular number of the periapical bone were measured using micro-computed tomography images. Serum samples were collected for analysis of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6 and TNF-α), biochemical and metabolomic analysis. Statistical analysis was performed with a significance level of 5%. Nonparametric data were analysed using the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Dunn's test, while one-way anova followed by Tukey's test was performed for parametric data. The groups exposed to alcohol or nicotine consumption exhibited an altered bone pattern indicating lower bone density and higher levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α compared to the Control group (p < .05). Significant differences were observed among the groups in the levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, creatinine, albumin, uric acid, bilirubin and calcium. Metabolomic analysis revealed significant differences in glycine, phosphocholine, lysine, lactate, valine, pyruvate and lipids (CH2 CH2 CO), n(CH2 ) and n(CH3 ). Most of these parameters were even more altered in the simultaneous consumption of both substances compared to single consumption. Alcohol and nicotine chronic consumption altered several metabolic markers, impaired liver and kidney function, increased the production of systemic proinflammatory mediators and harmed the periapical bone microarchitecture in the presence of apical periodontitis. The simultaneous consumption of alcohol and nicotine intensified these detrimental effects.

Chronic nicotine exposure influences learning and memory in the honey bee

In insects, nicotine activates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, which are expressed throughout the central nervous system. However, little work has been done to investigate the effects of chronic nicotine treatment on learning or other behaviors in non-herbivorous insects. To examine the effects of long term nicotine consumption on learning and memory, honey bees were fed nicotine containing solutions over four days. Bees were able to detect nicotine at 0.1 mM in sucrose solutions, and in a no choice assay, bees reduced food intake when nicotine was 1 mM or higher. Treatment with a low dose of nicotine decreased the proportion of bees able to form an associative memory when bees were conditioned with either a massed or spaced appetitive olfactory training paradigm. On the other hand, higher doses of nicotine increased memory retention and the proportion of bees responding to the odor during 10 min and 24 h recall tests. The reduction in nicotine containing food consumed may also impact response levels during learning and recall tests. These data suggest that long term exposure to nicotine has complex effects on learning and memory.

E-cigarette use-associated lung injury (EVALI).

The prevalence of vaping has overtaken conventional cigarettes as the most frequent form of nicotine consumption among 15-24-year olds. There are currently a large number of both legitimate and illegitimate products and suppliers offering more than 8000 different flavors of vape on the market, whose additives are not tested, studied or regulated and whose safety and toxicity profile remains unknown. In vitro studies have demonstrated a dose-dependent decrease in the viability of normal human bronchial epithelial cells after exposure to vapor from electronic vape devices.Short- and medium-term studies to date indicate that vapor-induced pulmonary lesions are the most serious and commonly reported side effect; such lesions include bilateral ground glass opacities in lung bases with subpleural preservation, bilateral infiltrates, pleural effusion, pneumomediastinum and nodular opacities. Cases of EVALI have been described in patients with daily exposure, as well as in users who reported having been exposed to these substances at least once a month. The most frequently inhaled substances are THC, flavored liquids of unknown content, and nicotine.The clinical manifestations of dyspnea and cough are the most frequent respiratory symptomatology, in addition to constitutional manifestations such as fever and chills, and gastrointestinal manifestations such as vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. To these can be added the presence of tachypnea, tachycardia, elevated blood pressure, hypoxia, leukocytosis with neutrophilia and elevated ESR.

What e-cigarette factors determine oral epithelial DNA damage in consumers?

Study participants were divided equally into three groups being exclusive vapers (never smokers), current exclusive smokers and non-users. Brush biopsy samples of oral epithelial cells were collected. DNA damage quantification was assessed using LA-QPCR, and analysis interrogated a 12.2 kb region of the DNA polymerase beta gene (POLB). An additional gene, hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase 1 (HPRT), was also interrogated for validity. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure plasma cotinine levels. Breath monitoring was measured using Bedfont Micro Smokerlyzer in order to quantify exhaled CO and %COHb levels in participants. 72 subjects, consisting of both males and females of diverse ages, races and ethnicities, were recruited. Comprehensive interviews alongside biochemical studies were used to verify smoking and vaping status. Participants classified as vapers reported a minimum use of e-cigarettes three times weekly for 6 months, with no use of cigarettes or tobacco products in their lifetime. Smokers reported cigarette consumption for a minimum of three times weekly for at least 12 months, less than five vaping sessions ever and no use of other tobacco products in the previous 6 months. Participants reporting no or less than five uses of e-cigarettes or tobacco products were classified as non-users. Former smokers, vapers and those who were dual or poly users of e-cigarettes, cigarettes or tobacco products were excluded. R environment for statistical computing (RStudio), was used for data analysis. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to evaluate the distribution of data. Student's t test allowed comparison of all variables between two groups (vapers and nonusers, smokers and nonusers, or vapers and smokers), specifically DNA damage levels. A one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by a post hoc Tukey HSD test allowed comparison of damage in three or more groups (heavy vapers, light vapers, and nonusers, as well as heavy smokers, light smokers, and nonusers). DNA damage was also analysed in this manner when assessing e-cigarette device type, liquid type or in non-users. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis allowed examination of relationships between different variables. Mean levels of DNA damage in the POLB gene was 2.6-fold higher in vapers (p = 0.005) and 2.2-fold higher in smokers (p = 0.020), when compared to non-users. On comparing POLB gene DNA damage in vapers versus smokers, the results were not statistically significant (p = 0.522). Comparing DNA damage in the HPRT gene, levels were much higher in vapers (p = 0.029) and smokers (p = 0.033) versus non-users. Similarly to the POLB gene, DNA damage levels in the HPRT gene in vapers versus smokers were not statistically significant (p = 0.578). When assessing volume of e-cigarette liquid or smoking pack years, levels of DNA damage in increased in the POLB gene in a dose-dependent manner between 'light' and 'heavy' users versus non-users (F = 4.571, p = 0.0156 | Tukey's HSD p = 0.0195 in vapers, F = 4.368, p = 0.0185 | Tukey's HSD p = 0.0135 in smokers). Vaping device type was investigated showing mean level of DNA damage in the oral cells of pod device users was 3.3-fold higher compared to non-users (F = 3.886, p = 0.0152 | Tukey's HSD p = 0.0216). This was followed by a 2.6-fold increase in oral cell DNA damage in Mod device users, and a 1.6-fold increase in multiple device users. Levels of DNA damage was higher in those who consume sweet-flavoured e-liquid (F = 3.238, p = 0.0146 | Tukey's HSD p < 0.05), followed by vapers of multiple flavours, mint or menthol and tobacco, and fruit flavours. No correlation was found between DNA damage of oral cells and cumulative nicotine consumption in vapers (r = 0.3189, p = 0.1288). Plasma cotinine levels, a validated maker of tobacco in cigarettes and e-cigarettes, were not significantly different between vapers and smokers (p = 0.607), but were significantly higher compared to non-users (p < 0.0001). Whist compared to non-users, vapers had similar levels of CO and %COHb, smokers showed significantly increased levels (p = 0.0005 and p = 0.0002, respectively). Based on the results of this study, there is evidence to support a dose-dependent formation of DNA damage in oral cells in those vapers who have never smoked cigarettes, and in those exclusive cigarette smokers. Additionally, e-cigarette device type and flavour, may also determine levels of DNA damage.

Clinical and radiomics feature-based outcome analysis in lumbar disc herniation surgery

BackgroundLow back pain is a widely prevalent symptom and the foremost cause of disability on a global scale. Although various degenerative imaging findings observed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been linked to low back pain and disc herniation, none of them can be considered pathognomonic for this condition, given the high prevalence of abnormal findings in asymptomatic individuals. Nevertheless, there is a lack of knowledge regarding whether radiomics features in MRI images combined with clinical features can be useful for prediction modeling of treatment success. The objective of this study was to explore the potential of radiomics feature analysis combined with clinical features and artificial intelligence-based techniques (machine learning/deep learning) in identifying MRI predictors for the prediction of outcomes after lumbar disc herniation surgery.MethodsWe included n = 172 patients who underwent discectomy due to disc herniation with preoperative T2-weighted MRI examinations. Extracted clinical features included sex, age, alcohol and nicotine consumption, insurance type, hospital length of stay (LOS), complications, operation time, ASA score, preoperative CRP, surgical technique (microsurgical versus full-endoscopic), and information regarding the experience of the performing surgeon (years of experience with the surgical technique and the number of surgeries performed at the time of surgery). The present study employed a semiautomatic region-growing volumetric segmentation algorithm to segment herniated discs. In addition, 3D-radiomics features, which characterize phenotypic differences based on intensity, shape, and texture, were extracted from the computed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images. Selected features identified by feature importance analyses were utilized for both machine learning and deep learning models (n = 17 models).ResultsThe mean accuracy over all models for training and testing in the combined feature set was 93.31 ± 4.96 and 88.17 ± 2.58. The mean accuracy for training and testing in the clinical feature set was 91.28 ± 4.56 and 87.69 ± 3.62.ConclusionsOur results suggest a minimal but detectable improvement in predictive tasks when radiomics features are included. However, the extent of this advantage should be considered with caution, emphasizing the potential of exploring multimodal data inputs in future predictive modeling.

Prolonged Vaping &amp; Cannabis usage results in a Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI) incident in a Teenager with anxiety disorder: A case report

The recreational use of nicotine vaping and cannabis among teenagers has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, raising concerns about potential health risks. This case report highlights the association between prolonged toxic habits and the occurrence of a rare but severe cardiac event known as Non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) in a teenage individual. A comprehensive review of the patient's medical history, including cannabis and nicotine consumption patterns and cardiovascular risk factors, was conducted. The findings indicate a strong temporal relationship between prolonged cannabis and nicotine vaping usage and the development of an NSTEMI incident in this teenager. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this association are discussed, including the impact of cannabis on cardiovascular function, its potential to induce arterial vasoconstriction, and its prothrombotic effects. Additionally, the role of coexisting risk factors, such as anxiety, is mentioned to elucidate their contribution to the development of NSTEMI. The implications of this case highlight the need for increased awareness among healthcare professionals, educators, and parents regarding the potential cardiovascular risks associated with prolonged cannabis usage in teenagers. Early identification of cannabis use and prompt intervention are crucial to prevent life-threatening cardiac events in susceptible individuals. Further research is warranted to explore the precise mechanisms linking cannabis use and NSTEMI incidents, enabling the development of targeted preventive strategies and evidence-based interventions to mitigate the potential harm caused by cannabis consumption in the adolescent population. Categories: Cardiology; Emergency Medicine; Internal Medicine

Cellular, Behavioral, and Locomotor Effects of Oral Nicotine in Male Rats with Bilateral Lesions in the Ventrolateral Striatum Induced with 6-OHDA

Objective: Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease having a spectrum of non-motor to motor symptoms. Unrelated to motor symptoms of sensory, autonomic, and neuropsychiatric symptoms often appear early in the course of the disease. It is a remarkable observation that patients in the premotor phase can easily quit smoking without help. This study was intended to investigate the interrelation between nicotine and the partial loss of dopaminergic innervation in the ventrolateral striatum induced by 6-OHDA. &#x0D; Methods: We used an experimental premotor parkinsonism model. The oral nicotine preference of rats was investigated with the two-bottle free choice method. The behaviors related to locomotor activity and emotional state were evaluated with a locomotor activity test, elevated plus maze, and forced swimming test. Histopathological evaluation was performed in the striatum by staining techniques using hematoxylin+eosin (H&amp;E) and immunohistochemistry markers (caspase-3, and MAP-2).&#x0D; Results: Bilateral 6-OHDA lesions did not lead to a significant alteration in the total locomotor activity or nicotine preference. Nicotine increased horizontal but decreased vertical movements in addition to increasing anxiolytic but also depressive effects in the OHDA lesion group. The number of apoptotic cells was significantly lower in the lesion group receiving nicotine compared to those not receiving nicotine.&#x0D; Conclusion: Our experimental study points to the role of oral nicotine in male rats with bilateral striatal 6-OHDA lesions in the ventrolateral striatum. Further studies are needed to understand the relationship between loss of dopaminergic innervation in the striatum and nicotine consumption.

Development of Electrochemical Sensor Using Iron (III) Phthalocyanine/Gold Nanoparticle/Graphene Hybrid Film for Highly Selective Determination of Nicotine in Human Salivary Samples.

Nicotine is the one of the major addictive substances; the overdose of nicotine (NIC) consumption causes increasing heart rate, blood pressure, stroke, lung cancer, and respiratory illnesses. In this study, we have developed a precise and sensitive electrochemical sensor for nicotine detection in saliva samples. It was built on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with graphene (Gr), iron (III) phthalocyanine-4,4',4″,4'''-tetrasulfonic acid (Fe(III)Pc), and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs/Fe(III)Pc/Gr/GCE). The AuNPs/Fe(III)Pc/Gr nanocomposite was prepared and characterized by using FE-SEM, EDX, and E-mapping techniques to confirm the composite formation as well as the even distribution of elements. Furthermore, the newly prepared AuNPs/Fe(III)Pc/Gr/GCE-nanocomposite-based sensor was used to detect the nicotine in phosphate-buffered solution (0.1 M PBS, pH 7.4). The AuNPs/Fe(III)Pc/Gr/GCE-based sensor offered a linear response against NIC from 0.5 to 27 µM with a limit of detection (LOD) of 17 nM using the amperometry (i-t curve) technique. This electrochemical sensor demonstrated astounding selectivity and sensitivity during NIC detection in the presence of common interfering molecules in 0.1 M PBS. Moreover, the effect of pH on NIC electro-oxidation was studied, which indicated that PBS with pH 7.4 was the best medium for NIC determination. Finally, the AuNPs/Fe(III)Pc/Gr/GCE sensor was used to accurately determine NIC concentration in human saliva samples, and the recovery percentages were also calculated.

Exploring drug consumption patterns across varying levels of remoteness in Australia

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) relies on representative sampling that is typically achieved with autosamplers that collect time, flow, or volume proportional samples. The expense, resources and operational know-how associated with autosampler operation means they are only typically available at major wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). This results in a lack of data on consumption levels in regional and remote areas, or in countries that lack the financial means. The aim of this study was to estimate and investigate trends in drug consumption across varying levels of remoteness in Australia. Field-calibrated, microporous polyethylene passive samplers were deployed over 2 periods (Aug/Sept 2019 and 2020) at 43 treatment plants covering all five categories of remoteness, as per Australian Bureau of Statistics definitions (Major cities, Inner regional, Outer regional, Remote, and Very remote). The per capita consumption of cocaine, methylamphetamine, nicotine, oxycodone and MDMA were estimated. No spatial trends between remoteness and drug consumption were observed, except for cocaine, where Major cities had a 5-to-10-fold higher consumption compared to the other levels of remoteness in 2019 and 2020, respectively. Outer regional sites had the highest and lowest methylamphetamine consumption. The variance in drug use among sites was much higher in Remote (and Inner/Outer regional) sites when compared with Major cities. A significant and consistent decrease in oxycodone consumption was observed at all sites between 2019 and 2020, possibly related to regulatory changes and the COVID-19 pandemic where elective surgeries were suspended. The majority of sites experienced a decrease in cocaine and methylamphetamine consumption, possibly due to border restrictions or changes in supply and demand dynamics. This was the first extensive passive sampling study to assess drug consumption in urban, regional, and remote locations, demonstrating that passive samplers can facilitate extension of wastewater-based drug monitoring programs to sites where other representative sampling options are very difficult to implement.

Excess after stress-A three-study validation of the salzburg stress drinking scale as a new tool to measure the stress-drinking relationship.

Stress frequently influences a person's propensity to drink alcohol. Inter-individual differences in such stress-related drinking can be assessed through psychometric scales; however, available questionnaires conflate stress- with emotion-related reasons to drink and ignore evidence of decreased alcohol consumption in response to stress. Therefore, we developed a genuine stress-drinking scale (Salzburg Stress Drinking Scale; SSDS), adapted from the Salzburg Stress Eating Scale, and assessed its psychometric properties. In study 1 (n=639), the SSDS was found to have a one-factor structure, excellent internal consistency, and acceptable test-retest reliability. SSDS scores were significantly correlated with other measures assessing emotional drinking, but uncorrelated with general alcohol pathology and other health-relevant consummatory behaviors such as stress-related eating or nicotine consumption. In addition, no significant sex differences arose. In study 2 (n=42) patients with an alcohol use disorder or addiction scored significantly higher on the SSDS compared to healthy controls. In an Ecological Momentary Assessment study 3 (n=67), the SSDS showed partial ecological validity through significant relationships with daily alcohol consumption, but not daily stress-drinking relationships. In sum, the SSDS represents a psychometrically sound tool for the measurement of stress-related drinking and complements a battery of stress-related changes in health-relevant behaviors.

Risk Analysis of Restrictive Factors for Fast-Track Knee Arthroplasty-A Retrospective Study of 1,224 Patients.

With the implementation of a fast-track principle as an interdisciplinary and multimodal concept, an accelerated convalescence and reduction of postoperative complications and a reduction of hospital stay can be achieved. This has been shown not only to increase patient satisfaction but in reduction of hospital cost as well. However, the concept cannot be successfully implemented in all patients. Patients who require an extended length of stay (LOS) after surgery can profit from optimizations of postoperative care and rehabilitation as well. Therefore, early identification of such patients is desirable. This case control study aimed to identify patient characteristics and patient-independent factors that may affect fast-track programs and lead to extended length of stay in knee arthroplasty. From October 2007 to May 2013, 1224 patients were treated at the University Hospital Halle (Saale) with a total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A maximum stay of seven days was defined as the target of the "fast-track arthroplasty" concept. There were 164 patients (13%) that did not reach this timeframe and were assigned to the case group (n=164). Each case group patient was compared to a patient with an inpatient stay of seven days or less who was operated on the same day and by the same surgeon. These patients formed the control group (n=164). In addition to causes for extended LOS, metadata (age, sex, body mass index [BMI]), chronic nicotine and alcohol abuse, American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score, blood transfusion necessity, and comorbidities were determined. The statistical analysis included two sample t-tests, a chi-square test, and logistic regression analyses. Additionally, 95% confidence intervals were calculated (p<0.05). Gender distribution in both groups showed no differences (case group: 40.2% male, 59.8% female vs. control group: 32.3% male, 67.7% female). The ø age in the case group was 69.6 ± 8.7 years, significantly higher than that of the control group with 66.5 ± 9.4 years (p=0.002). Another difference between the groups was seen in the need for red blood cell transfusion (case group 51.2%, control group 39.6%, p=0.03). The need for postoperative antibiotic therapy was associated with a 3.741-fold risk of prolonged hospital stay. ASA score and BMI were identical in both groups. For the patients with positive nicotine abuse, the regression analysis showed a 2.465-fold risk of prolonged length of stay. Alcohol abuse did not appear to play a role in length of stay in our patient cohort. For pre-existing conditions, patients from the case group were more likely to have a cardiac burden than those from the control group (p=0.03). The most common causes of prolonged LOS were elevated CRP followed by effusion and delayed wound healing. The study shows that especially patient age, the presence of cardiac secondary diseases, nicotine consumption, and patient-independent factors like blood loss could have a negative influence on convalescence. Despite constant cost reductions in the healthcare system, the concept of "fast track arthroplasty" should always be adapted to the specifics of each individual patient in view of increasing patient age or critically questioned already preoperatively.

Retrospective and Real-time Measures of the Quantity of E-cigarette Use: An Ecological Momentary Assessment Study.

Quantifying e-cigarette use is challenging because of the wide variety of products and the lack of a clear, objective demarcation of a use event. This study aimed to characterize the difference between retrospective and real-time measures of the quantity of e-cigarette use and identify the covariates that may account for discrepancies between the two types of measures. This study analyzed data from 401 college student e-cigarette users in Indiana and Texas who responded to a web survey (retrospective) and 7-day ecological momentary assessments (EMA) (real-time) on their e-cigarette use behavior, dependence symptomatology, e-cigarette product characteristics, and use contexts from Fall 2019 to Fall 2021. Generalized linear mixed models were used to model the real-time measures of quantity offset by the retrospective average quantity. Although the number of times using e-cigarettes per day seems to be applicable to both retrospective and real-time measures, the number reported via EMA was 8.5 times the retrospective report. E-cigarette users with higher e-cigarette primary dependence motives tended to report more daily nicotine consumption via EMA than their retrospective reports (ie, perceived average consumption). Other covariates that were associated with discrepancies between real-time and retrospective reports included gender, nicotine concentration, using a menthol- or fruit-flavored product, co-use with alcohol, and being with others when vaping. The study found extreme under-reporting of e-cigarette consumption on retrospective surveys. Important covariates identified to be associated with higher than average consumption may be considered as potential targets for future vaping interventions. This is the first study that characterizes the direction and magnitude of the difference between retrospective and real-time measures of the quantity of e-cigarette use among young adults-the population most likely to use e-cigarettes. An average retrospective account of vaping events per day may significantly underestimate e-cigarette use frequency among young adults. The lack of insight into the degree of consumption among users with heavy primary dependence motives illustrates the importance of incorporating self-monitoring into cessation interventions.