RESUMEN
The development and production of secondary metabolites from priceless medicinal plants are restricted by drought stress. Mentha pulegium L. belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is a significant plant grown in the Mediterranean region for its medicinal and aesthetic properties. This study investigated the effects of three polyethylene glycol (PEG) (0, 5, and 10%) as a drought stress inducer and four silicon nanoparticle (SiNP) (0, 25, 50, and 100 ppm) concentrations as an elicitor to overcome the adverse effect of drought stress, on the growth parameters and bioactive chemical composition of M. pulegium L. plants grown in vitro. The experiment was performed as a factorial experiment using a completely randomized design (CRD) consisting of 12 treatments with two factors (3 PEG × 4 SiNPs concentrations), 6 replicates were used for each treatment for a total of 72 experimental units.The percentage of shoot formation was inversely proportional to the PEG concentration; for the highest PEG concentration, the lowest percentage of shoot formation (70.26%) was achieved at 10% PEG. SiNPs at 50 ppm enhanced shoot formation, the number of shoots, shoot height, fresh and dry weight, rosmarinic acid, total phenols, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity. The methanol extract from M. pulegium revealed the presence of significant secondary metabolites using gas chromatographyâmass spectrometry (GC-MS). The principal constituents of the extract were limonene (2.51, 2.99%), linalool (3.84, 4.64%), geraniol (6.49, 8.77%), menthol (59.73, 65.43%), pulegone (3.76, 2.76%) and hexadecanoic acid methyl ester or methyl palmitate (3.2, 4.71%) for the 0 ppm SiNPs, PEG 0% and 50 ppm SiNPs, and PEG 10%, respectively. Most of the chemical components identified by GCâMS in the methanol extract were greater in the 50 ppm SiNP and 10% PEG treatment groups than in the control group. SiNP improves drought tolerance by regulating biosynthesis and accumulating some osmolytes and lessens the negative effects of polyethylene glycol-induced drought stress.Based on the results, the best treatment for most of the parameters was 50 ppm SiNPs combined with 10% PEG, the morphological and chemical characteristics were inversely proportional to the PEG concentration, as the highest PEG concentration (10%) had the lowest results. Most parameters decreased at the highest SiNP concentration (100 ppm), except for the DPPH scavenging percentage, as there was no significant difference between the 50 and 100 ppm SiNPs.
Asunto(s)
Sequías , Mentha pulegium , Nanopartículas , Silicio , Mentha pulegium/química , Mentha pulegium/metabolismo , Nanopartículas/química , Silicio/metabolismo , Silicio/farmacología , Polietilenglicoles/química , Polietilenglicoles/farmacología , Antioxidantes/metabolismo , Estrés Fisiológico , Monoterpenos Acíclicos/metabolismoRESUMEN
The postharvest life of cut flowers is limited, which is a major challenge and varies greatly depending on plant varieties, cut flower stage, flower length of the harvested shoots, and storage conditions including postharvest treatments. As a result, improving the vase life and quality of cut flowers in regulating postharvest characteristics and overcoming these challenges is critical to the horticulture business. Novel engineered nanocomposites were created and tested for possible impacts on flower bud opening, postharvest life extension, longevity regulation, and preservation and enhancement of the strength and appearance of cut flowers. The experiment was conducted as a factorial experiment using a completely randomized design (CRD) with two factors. The first factor was two holding solutions (without or with sucrose at 20 gL-1). The second factor was 12 pulsing treatments for 24 h; distilled water as a control, 75 ppm GA3, multi-walled carbon nanotubes MWCNTs at 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 ppm, and MWCNTs (10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 ppm)/GA3 (75 ppm) composites; each treatment had 3 replicates, for a total of 72 experimental units. In the present study, gibberellic acid (GA3) was synthesized in functionalized (MWCNT/GA3 composites) as a novel antisenescence agent, and their effect on the vase life quality of cut rose flowers Rosa hybrida cv. 'Moonstone' was compared by assaying several parameters critical for vase life. The adsorption of GA3 on MWCNTs was proven by performing FTIR spectroscopy which ensures that the formation of the MWCNTs/GA3 composite preserves the nanostructure and was examined by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). The results revealed that sucrose in the holding solution showed a significant increase in fresh weight, flower diameter, and vase life by 10.5, 10.6, and 3.3% respectively. Applying sucrose with MWCNTs 20 ppm/GA3 75 ppm composites or MWCNTs 20 ppm alone, was critical for the significant increase in flower opening by 39.7 and 28.7%, and longevity by 34.4 and 23.2%, respectively, and significantly increased chlorophyll a, b, total chlorophyll, anthocyanin, total phenolic content, and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity as compared to the control.
Asunto(s)
Giberelinas , Nanotubos de Carbono , Rosa , Clorofila A , SacarosaRESUMEN
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are small subpopulation sharing similar properties like normal stem such as self-renewal and differentiation potential to direct tumor growth. Last few years, scientists considered CSCs as the cause of phenotypic heterogeneity in diverse cancer types. Also, CSCs contribute to cancer metastasis and recurrence. The cellular and molecular regulators influence on the CSCs' phenotype changing their behaviors in different stages of cancer progression. CSC markers play significance roles in cancer diagnosis and characterization. We delineate the cross-talks between CSCs and the tumor microenvironment that supports their intrinsic properties including survival, stemness, quiescence and their cellular and molecular adaptation. An insight into the markers of CSCs specific to organs is described.
Asunto(s)
Neoplasias , Humanos , Neoplasias/genética , Neoplasias/patología , Células Madre Neoplásicas/patología , Diferenciación Celular , Fenotipo , Microambiente Tumoral/genéticaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Intrathecal fentanyl in spinal anesthesia improves intra- and postoperative analgesia. Dexmedetomidine is a fascinating adjuvant with regards to neuraxial anesthesia in children experiencing surgery for abdominal malignancy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: After endorsement by the institutional reviewing board (IRB) and guardians' written informed consent, this research was carried out on 60 pediatric malignancy patients scheduled for major abdominal surgery. Children were randomly distributed into three groups (20 patients each): Group C: given 2 mL of bupivacaine 0.5% (0.4 mg/kg) intrathecally, injected gradually over 20 seconds. Group F: the same as group C, plus fentanyl 0.2 µg/kg. Group D: the same as group C, plus dexmedetomidine 0.2 µg/kg. Pain at zero, two, four, six, 12, 18, and 24 hours postoperatively was evaluated by Face, Legs, Activity, Crying, and Consolability (FLACC) score. First analgesic request and postoperative unfavorable effects were recorded for 24 hours postoperatively. RESULTS: A significant decrease was recognized in the mean FLACC score in groups D and F at six, eight, and 12 hours postoperatively, in contrast to group C (P ≤ 0.05). First analgesic request was significantly prolonged in group D (7.67 ± 0.57 hours), in contrast to groups F and C (5.40 ± 1.09 hours and 4.23 ± 3.27 hours, respectively, P < 0.04). Paracetamol utilization was significantly decreased in group D (316.67 ± 28.86 mg), in contrast to group C (391.00 ± 52.00 mg, P < 0.03), without a significant difference between group F (354.44 ± 46.67 mg) and groups D and C (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Adding dexmedetomidine and fentanyl to intrathecal bupivacaine improved postoperative analgesia following abdominal surgery for cancer in children, with better overall analgesia of dexmedetomidine compared with fentanyl.
Asunto(s)
Dexmedetomidina , Neoplasias , Analgésicos , Anestésicos Locales , Bupivacaína , Niño , Método Doble Ciego , Fentanilo , Humanos , Dolor Postoperatorio/tratamiento farmacológicoRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Online convenience samples are a quick and low-cost way to study health behavior, but the comparability to findings from probability samples is not yet well understood. PURPOSE: We sought to compare convenience and probability samples' findings for experiments, correlates, and prevalence in the context of tobacco control research. METHODS: Participants were a probability sample of 5,014 U.S. adults recruited by phone from September 2014 through May 2015 (cost ~U.S.$620,000) and an online convenience sample of 4,137 U.S. adults recruited through Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) in December 2014 (cost ~U.S.$17,000). Participants completed a survey with experiments, measures of tobacco product use and demographic characteristics. RESULTS: MTurk convenience and probability samples showed the same pattern of statistical significance and direction in almost all experiments (21 of 24 analyses did not differ) and observational studies (19 of 25 associations did not differ). Demographic characteristics of the samples differed substantially (1 of 17 estimates did not differ), with the convenience sample being younger, having more years of education, and including more Whites and Asians. Tobacco product use also differed substantially (1 of 22 prevalence estimates did not differ), with the convenience sample reporting more cigarette and e-cigarette use (median error 19%). CONCLUSIONS: Using MTurk convenience samples can yield generalizable findings for experiments and observational studies. Prevalence estimates from MTurk convenience samples are likely to be over- or underestimates.
Asunto(s)
Métodos Epidemiológicos , Conocimientos, Actitudes y Práctica en Salud , Selección de Paciente , Fumar Tabaco , Adolescente , Adulto , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Muestreo , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
A key marketing strategy used by tobacco companies to lower tobacco product prices is the distribution of tobacco coupons via direct marketing channels such as mail or email. We analyzed data on adult smokers from Wave 1 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study (nâ¯=â¯10,994) to examine the prevalence and correlates of coupon receipt via both channels, and associations with cigarette coupon redemption. Overall, 22% and 32% of smokers received tobacco coupons via email and mail, respectively, and 22% redeemed cigarette coupons. White, 25-44â¯year old, female, sexual minority, and more nicotine dependent smokers were more likely to receive coupons via both channels and to redeem coupons, as were smokers with mid-levels education (GED to associate degree) and those unable to pay important bills (OR email receiptâ¯=â¯1.37, 95% CI 1.22-1.54; OR mail receiptâ¯=â¯1.38, 95% CI 1.24-1.55; and OR coupon redemptionâ¯=â¯1.44, 95% CI 1.26-1.64). Smokers who received coupons via mail only or via both channels, had three times (ORâ¯=â¯2.97, 95% CI 2.31-3.83) and five times (ORâ¯=â¯4.56, 95% CI 3.61-5.76) higher odds to redeem cigarette coupons compared to those who received them via email only. Major demographic and socioeconomic disparities exist in receipt and redemption of direct email\mail tobacco coupons among US smokers. Cigarette coupons received via direct mail are more likely to be redeemed than coupons received via email. Restrictions on tobacco coupon redemption, implemented jointly with increasing access to affordable cessation resources, may incentivize smokers vulnerable to tobacco marketing tactics to quit.
Asunto(s)
Publicidad/métodos , Fumadores/psicología , Fumar/epidemiología , Fumar/psicología , Industria del Tabaco , Adulto , Anciano , Demografía , Correo Electrónico , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Servicios Postales , Factores Socioeconómicos , Industria del Tabaco/economía , Productos de Tabaco/economía , Estados Unidos/epidemiología , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
Introduction: We examined racial disparities in mono, dual, and poly use of tobacco products including whether racial disparities changed over time. Methods: We analyzed data on high school students from the North Carolina Youth Tobacco Survey collected in 2011, 2013, and 2015. Dual and poly use included use of two and three or more tobacco products, respectively, in the past month. Multinomial regression models assessed racial differences and changes over time in mono, dual, and poly use. Data include product combinations most commonly used by youth from different racial groups. Results: In total, 24% (in 2011) and 26% (in 2013 and 2015) of students used tobacco products. No significant changes over time were observed in mono (12%) or dual use (6%). Poly use was 6%, 8%, and 7% in 2011, 2013, and 2015, respectively. Relative to nonuse of tobacco, White students had a higher relative risk than Blacks for mono use. Whites and Hispanics had a higher relative risk than Blacks for dual and poly use. Observed racial differences in tobacco use did not change over time. Types of tobacco products used varied by year and race. In 2015, e-cigarette was the most commonly used product among mono users from all racial groups. Conclusions: Substantial racial variation persists over time in mono and multiple tobacco product use among North Carolina youth, including racial variation in the types of tobacco products used. Research and policy efforts should examine and eliminate factors that drive multiple tobacco use and racial disparities in use among youth. Implications: This study reports on racial disparities in mono and multiple tobacco product use among youth. White and Hispanic youth have higher relative risk for dual and poly use of tobacco products than Black youth. In addition, significant racial variation exists in the types of tobacco products used among youth mono, dual, and poly users, with cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and e-cigarettes being the most commonly used products. Patterns of multiple tobacco product use vary by race and may warrant tailored prevention efforts. Strengthening tobacco control regulations for other tobacco products than cigarettes is critical to reduce multiple tobacco product use among youth.
Asunto(s)
Estudiantes/estadística & datos numéricos , Productos de Tabaco/estadística & datos numéricos , Uso de Tabaco/etnología , Adolescente , Femenino , Disparidades en el Estado de Salud , Encuestas Epidemiológicas , Humanos , Masculino , Grupos Raciales , Estudiantes/psicología , Productos de Tabaco/clasificaciónRESUMEN
PURPOSE: We sought to extend research into the health effects of discrimination to a non-Western context. We examined the associations between interpersonal and institutional ethnic discrimination, and anxiety and depression among Palestinian-Arab minority men citizens of Israel. METHODS: We used data from a nationwide stratified random sample of 964 Arab men in Israel, current or former smokers (age 18-64), who were interviewed as part of a 2012-2013 study on cessation. The questionnaire included an adapted Arabic version of the Experiences of Discrimination scale and a new scale on perceived institutional group discrimination. Logistic regression models estimated the effects of both forms of discrimination on depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale) and anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory), while adjusting for socio-demographic and economic factors. RESULTS: The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 24.7% and anxiety 45.5%. Approximately 42% of men reported experiencing interpersonal discrimination, and 50.8% reported perceived institutional group discrimination. Controlling for covariates, experiencing interpersonal discrimination was associated with higher odds for depressive symptoms [OR = 2.36, 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 1.69-1.57] and anxiety (OR = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.45-2.55). Perceived institutional group discrimination was associated only with anxiety (OR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.32-2.35). Introducing both forms of discrimination into the same model slightly attenuated these associations. CONCLUSIONS: Interpersonal and institutional forms of ethnic discrimination are independently associated with poorer mental health among Arab minority men current and former smokers in Israel. Future research is warranted into both forms of discrimination in the general Arab population in Israel, including women.
Asunto(s)
Ansiedad/etnología , Árabes/psicología , Depresión/etnología , Grupos Minoritarios/psicología , Racismo/etnología , Fumadores/psicología , Adolescente , Adulto , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Ansiedad/psicología , Árabes/estadística & datos numéricos , Depresión/epidemiología , Depresión/psicología , Humanos , Israel/epidemiología , Modelos Logísticos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Grupos Minoritarios/estadística & datos numéricos , Percepción , Prevalencia , Racismo/estadística & datos numéricos , Fumadores/estadística & datos numéricos , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Research suggests that adolescents who use electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), including adolescents not susceptible to smoking cigarettes (ie, those who have never smoked cigarettes and are not attitudinally susceptible to using cigarettes), are more likely to initiate using cigarettes or other combustible tobacco products than adolescents who do not use e-cigarettes. In this study, we examined correlates of e-cigarette use and susceptibility among adolescents not susceptible to future cigarette smoking. METHODS: We used data on high school students from the 2015 North Carolina Youth Tobacco Survey (n = 1,627). SAS logistic regression survey procedures were used to account for the complex survey design and sampling weights. RESULTS: Increasing perceived harm of e-cigarettes was associated with lower odds of susceptibility to using e-cigarettes (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.79; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.65-0.96) and current use of e-cigarettes (AOR = 0.43; 95% CI, 0.25-0.72). Similar patterns were found for perceived harm of secondhand e-cigarette vapor. Exposure to e-cigarette vapor in indoor or outdoor public places was positively associated with susceptibility to using e-cigarettes (AOR = 1.96; 95% CI, 1.33-2.91) and with current e-cigarette use (AOR = 5.69; 95% CI, 2.57-12.61). CONCLUSION: To prevent initiation of e-cigarette use, particularly among adolescents not susceptible to smoking cigarettes, educational campaigns could target harm perceptions associated with e-cigarettes. In addition, regulations that limit adolescents' exposure to e-cigarettes in public places may decrease e-cigarette use by nonsusceptible adolescents.
Asunto(s)
Conducta del Adolescente , Sistemas Electrónicos de Liberación de Nicotina/estadística & datos numéricos , Fumar/epidemiología , Adolescente , Causalidad , Estudios Transversales , Susceptibilidad a Enfermedades , Femenino , Encuestas Epidemiológicas , Humanos , Masculino , North Carolina , Oportunidad Relativa , Estudiantes/estadística & datos numéricosRESUMEN
Health warning labels (HWLs) on cigarette packs that use strong fear appeals may evoke defensive responses including acts of disparaging the warnings. Whether warning disparagement undermines HWL effectiveness remains unclear. We assessed correlates of one type of HWL disparagement and its association with subsequent cessation attempts. Longitudinal data (2012-14) on adult smokers from Australia, Canada, Mexico and the United States (US) were analyzed. HWL disparagement was assessed as the frequency of making fun of HWLs in the past month. Using Generalized Estimating Equation models we estimated correlates of HWL disparagement and whether HWL disparagement predicted subsequent cessation attempts. In each country, across all waves, 24-31% of smokers reported making fun of the warnings at least once in the past month. More frequent disparagement was found among males, younger participants, those with higher education and greater addiction, and those who recently attempted to quit. Attention to, avoidance of and talking to others about HWLs were all positively associated with HWL disparagement. In all countries, except the US, this type of HWL disparagement was an independent predictor of subsequent cessation attempts. HWL disparagement among smokers may indicate greater warning relevance and processing and does not result in counterproductive effects on cessation efforts.
Asunto(s)
Etiquetado de Productos/métodos , Fumadores/psicología , Cese del Hábito de Fumar/métodos , Productos de Tabaco , Adolescente , Adulto , Femenino , Humanos , Estudios Longitudinales , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Estados Unidos , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Canada is the first country in the world to require cigarette manufacturers to enclose package inserts to supplement the exterior pictorial health warning label (HWL). In June 2012, Canada implemented new HWL package inserts that include cessation tips accompanied by a pictorial image. This study aims to assess the extent to which adult smokers report reading the newly mandated HWL inserts and to see whether reading them is associated with making a quit attempt. METHODS: Data were analyzed from an online consumer panel of Canadian adult smokers, aged 18-64 years. Five waves of data were collected between September 2012 and January 2014, separated by 4-months intervals (n = 1,000 at each wave). Logistic generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were estimated to assess correlates of reading inserts and whether doing so is associated with making a quit attempt by the subsequent wave. RESULTS: At each wave, between 26% and 31% of the sample reported having read HWL package inserts at least once in the prior month. Smokers who read them were more likely to be younger, female, have higher income, intend to quit, have recently tried to quit, and thought more frequently about health risks because of warning labels. In models that adjusted for these and other potential confounders, smokers who read the inserts a few times or more in the past month were more likely to make a quit attempt at the subsequent wave compared to smokers who did not read the inserts. CONCLUSIONS: HWL package inserts with cessation-related tips and messages appear to increase quit attempts made by smokers.
Asunto(s)
Política de Salud , Etiquetado de Productos/normas , Embalaje de Productos/normas , Cese del Hábito de Fumar/psicología , Fumar/epidemiología , Fumar/psicología , Productos de Tabaco , Adolescente , Adulto , Canadá/epidemiología , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Etiquetado de Productos/métodos , Embalaje de Productos/métodos , Cese del Hábito de Fumar/métodos , Prevención del Hábito de Fumar , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
OBJECTIVES: Waterpipe tobacco smoking (WTS), a traditional tobacco consumption practice in the Middle East, is gaining popularity worldwide. Estimates of population-level interest in WTS over time are not documented. We assessed the popularity of WTS using World Wide Web search query results across four English-speaking countries. METHODS: We analysed trends in Google search queries related to WTS, comparing these trends with those for electronic cigarettes between 2004 and 2013 in Australia, Canada, the UK and the USA. Weekly search volumes were reported as percentages relative to the week with the highest volume of searches. RESULTS: Web-based searches for WTS have increased steadily since 2004 in all four countries. Search volume for WTS was higher than for e-cigarettes in three of the four nations, with the highest volume in the USA. Online searches were primarily targeted at WTS products for home use, followed by searches for WTS cafés/lounges. CONCLUSIONS: Online demand for information on WTS-related products and venues is large and increasing. Given the rise in WTS popularity, increasing evidence of exposure-related harms, and relatively lax government regulation, WTS is a serious public health concern and could reach epidemic levels in Western societies.
Asunto(s)
Sistemas Electrónicos de Liberación de Nicotina/estadística & datos numéricos , Internet/estadística & datos numéricos , Nicotiana , Fumar/epidemiología , HumanosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: In high-income countries (HICs), higher neighbourhood socioeconomic deprivation is associated with higher levels of smoking. Few studies in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) have investigated the role of the neighbourhood environment on smoking behaviour. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether neighbourhood socioeconomic deprivation is related to smoking intensity, quit attempts, quit success and smoking relapse among a cohort of smokers in Mexico from 2010 to 2012. METHODS: Data were analysed from adult smokers and recent ex-smokers who participated in waves 4-6 of the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Mexico Survey. Data were linked to the Mexican government's composite index of neighbourhood socioeconomic deprivation, which is based on 2010 Mexican Census data. We used generalised estimating equations to determine associations between neighbourhood deprivation and individual smoking behaviours. FINDINGS: Contrary to past findings in HICs, higher neighbourhood socioeconomic deprivation was associated with lower smoking intensity. Quit attempts showed a U-shaped pattern whereby smokers living in high/very high deprivation neighbourhoods and smokers living in very low deprivation neighbourhoods were more likely to make a quit attempt than smokers living in other neighbourhoods. We did not find significant differences in neighbourhood deprivation on relapse or successful quitting, with the possible exception of people living in medium-deprivation neighbourhoods having a higher likelihood of successful quitting than people living in very low deprivation neighbourhoods (p=0.06). CONCLUSIONS: Neighbourhood socioeconomic environments in Mexico appear to operate in an opposing manner to those in HICs. Further research should investigate whether rapid implementation of strong tobacco control policies in LMICs, as occurred in Mexico during the follow-up period, avoids the concentration of tobacco-related disparities among socioeconomically disadvantaged groups.
Asunto(s)
Pobreza/estadística & datos numéricos , Características de la Residencia/estadística & datos numéricos , Cese del Hábito de Fumar/estadística & datos numéricos , Fumar/epidemiología , Adulto , Femenino , Humanos , Estudios Longitudinales , Masculino , México/epidemiología , Recurrencia , Fumar/economía , Cese del Hábito de Fumar/economía , Factores SocioeconómicosRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Health warning labels (HWLs) on tobacco packaging can be used to provide smoking cessation information, but the impact of this information is not well understood. METHODS: Online consumer panels of adult smokers from Canada, Australia and Mexico were surveyed in September 2012, January 2013 and May 2013; replenishment was used to maintain sample sizes of 1000 participants in each country at each wave. Country-stratified logistic Generalised Estimating Equation (GEE) models were estimated to assess correlates of citing HWLs as a source of information on quitlines and cessation websites. GEE models also regressed having called the quitline, and having visited a cessation website, on awareness of these resources because of HWLs. RESULTS: At baseline, citing HWLs as a source of information about quitlines was highest in Canada, followed by Australia and Mexico (33%, 19% and 16%, respectively). Significant increases over time were only evident in Australia and Mexico. In all countries, citing HWLs as a source of quitline information was significantly associated with self-report of having called a quitline. At baseline, citing HWLs as a source of information about cessation websites was higher in Canada than in Australia (14% and 6%, respectively; Mexico was excluded because HWLs do not include website information), but no significant changes over time were found for either country. Citing HWLs as a source of information about cessation websites was significantly associated with having visited a website in both Canada and Australia. CONCLUSIONS: HWLs are an important source of cessation information.
Asunto(s)
Promoción de la Salud , Líneas Directas , Internet , Etiquetado de Productos , Cese del Hábito de Fumar , Prevención del Hábito de Fumar , Productos de Tabaco , Adolescente , Adulto , Australia , Canadá , Recolección de Datos , Etiquetado de Medicamentos , Femenino , Humanos , Difusión de la Información , Estudios Longitudinales , Masculino , México , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Despite advanced smoking prevention and cessation policies in many countries, the prevalence of cigarette smoking among indigenous and some ethnic minorities continues to be high. This study examined the stages of change (SOC) of the readiness to quit smoking among Arab men in Israel shortly after new regulations of free-of-charge smoking cessation workshops and subsidized medications were introduced through primary health care clinics. METHODS: We conducted a countrywide study in Israel between 2012-2013. Participants, 735 current smokers; 18-64 years old; were recruited from a stratified random sample and interviewed face-to-face using a structured questionnaire in Arabic. We used ordered regression to examine the contribution of socio-economic position (SEP), health status, psychosocial attributes, smoking-related factors, and physician advice to the SOC of the readiness to quit smoking (pre-contemplation, contemplation and preparation). RESULTS: Of the current smokers, 61.8% were at the pre-contemplation stage, 23.8% were at the contemplation stage, and only 14.4% were at the preparation stage. In the multinomial analysis, factors significantly (P < 0.05) contributing to contemplation stage compared to pre-contemplation stage included [odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence interval (CI)]: chronic morbidity [0.52, (0.31-0.88)], social support [1.35, (1.07-1.70)], duration of smoking for 11-21 years [1.94, (1.07-3.50)], three or more previous attempts to quit [2.27, (1.26-4.01)], knowledge about smoking hazards [1.75, (1.29-2.35)], positive attitudes toward smoking prevention [1.44, (1.14-1.82)], and physician advice to quit smoking [1.88, (1.19-2.97)]. The factors significantly (P < 0.05) contributing to preparation stage compared to pre-contemplation stage were [OR, (95 % CI)]: chronic morbidity [0.36, (0.20-0.67)], anxiety [1.07, (1.01-1.13)], social support [1.34, (1.01-1.78)], duration of smoking 5 years or less [2.93, (1.14-7.52)], three or more previous attempts to quit [3.16, (1.60-6.26)], knowledge about smoking hazards [1.57, (1.10-2.21)], and positive attitudes toward smoking prevention [1.34, (1.00-1.82)]. CONCLUSIONS: Most Arab men who currently smoke are in the pre-contemplation stage, indicating low readiness to quit smoking. New policies of free-of-charge smoking-cessation group sessions and subsidized medications introduced through primary health care clinics in Israel may be less effective among Arab men. For these policies to promote cessation more successfully, tailored interventions and campaigns may be needed to increase the readiness to quit smoking in this population, especially for those at the pre-contemplation stage.
Asunto(s)
Árabes , Cese del Hábito de Fumar/psicología , Tabaquismo/etnología , Tabaquismo/psicología , Adulto , Consejo , Conocimientos, Actitudes y Práctica en Salud , Humanos , Israel/epidemiología , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Grupos Minoritarios , Prevalencia , Fumar/epidemiología , Apoyo Social , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Factores de Tiempo , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
Postulated Stem/progenitor cells involved in endometrium regeneration are epithelial, mesenchymal, and endothelial. Bone marrow (BM) has been implicated in endometrial stem cells. We aimed at studying gene expression profiling of endometrial mesenchymal stem cells compared to BM MSCS to better understand their nature and functional phenotype. Endometrial tissues were obtained from premenopausal hysterectomies (n = 3), minced and enzymatically digested as well as Normal BM aspirates (n=3). Immunophenotyping, differentiation to mesoderm, and proliferation were studied. The expression profile of 84 genes relevant to mesenchymal stem cells was performed. Fold change calculations were determined with SA Biosciences data analysis software. VEGF, G-CSF, and GM-CSF in cultures supernatants of MSCs were assayed by Luminex immunoassay. Endo MSCs possess properties similar to BM MSCs. Cumulative population doubling was significantly higher in Endo MSCs compared to BM MSCs (p < 0.001). 52 core genes were shared between both generated MSCs including stemness, self-renewal, members of the Notch, TGFB, FGF, and WNT.16 downregulated genes (VCAM, IGF1)and 16 upregulated in Endo MSCs compared to BM (p < 0.05 â fourfolds). They included mostly cytokine and growth factor genes G-CSF, GM-CSF, VWF, IL1b, GDF15, and KDR. VEGF and G-CSF levels were higher in Endo MSCs supernatants (p < 0.0001). Cells sharing MSC and endothelial cell characteristics could be isolated from the human endometrium. Endo MSCs share a core genetic profile with BM MSCs including stemness. They show upregulation of genes involved in vasculogenesis, angiogenesis, cell adhesion, growth proliferation, migration, and differentiation of endothelial cells, all contributing to endometrial function.
Asunto(s)
Células de la Médula Ósea/citología , Citocinas/genética , Endometrio/citología , Perfilación de la Expresión Génica/métodos , Células Madre Mesenquimatosas/citología , Análisis de Secuencia por Matrices de Oligonucleótidos/métodos , Adulto , Células de la Médula Ósea/metabolismo , Diferenciación Celular , Proliferación Celular , Células Cultivadas , Citocinas/metabolismo , Endometrio/metabolismo , Femenino , Humanos , Células Madre Mesenquimatosas/metabolismo , Persona de Mediana Edad , Regulación hacia ArribaRESUMEN
Cytokines in follicular fluid (FF) are important for reproduction as they modulate oocyte maturation and ovulation which influence subsequent fertilization, development of early embryo and potential for implantation. We evaluated FF cytokines in women who underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and their association with fertilized oocytes, embryo quality and pregnancy outcome. FF belonging to 38 patients including 18 polycystic ovary (PCO) and 20 male/unexplained infertility patients were investigated for granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), regulated upon activation normal T cell expressed and presumably secreted (RANTES), tumour necrosis factor (TNFα), interferon gamma (IFNγ) and interleukins (IL-4 and IL-2) by bead-based sandwich immunoassay. Our findings revealed that on the day of oocyte retrieval, G-CSF was positively correlated with the number of fertilized oocytes, while TNFα detection was associated with reduced number of fertilized oocytes. Only G-CSF showed significant positive effect to the pregnancy outcome although the cytokines studied were not associated with embryo quality. PCO as the cause of infertility did not show an association with cytokines in FF. The functions of cytokines in reproduction are likely to be complex, and cytokine evaluation may offer insight to the understanding of the mechanisms leading to success or failure of assisted reproduction.
Asunto(s)
Citocinas/metabolismo , Líquido Folicular/metabolismo , Infertilidad/prevención & control , Oocitos/metabolismo , Inyecciones de Esperma Intracitoplasmáticas , Adulto , Citocinas/inmunología , Femenino , Líquido Folicular/inmunología , Humanos , Infertilidad/inmunología , Masculino , Embarazo , Resultado del Embarazo , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Cognitive dysfunction may be one of the hazardous late effects among survivors of pediatric hematological malignancies. Our study aimed to explore cognitive performance and assess the global and regional brain volume changes in survivors of hematological malignancies. METHODS: This case-control study was conducted on 68 survivors of hematological malignancies, with a median follow-up period of 2 years (ranging from 1 to 6.2 years). Stanford-Binet Test was used for cognitive assessment. A quantitative volumetric assessment of the brain was done using the NeuroQuant Brain Magnetic Resonance. Age and sex-matched 68 children were selected as a comparison group. RESULTS: Cancer survivors showed significantly lower levels of IQ and their subtests than the control group. Global brain atrophy was observed in the majority of the survivors. Many risk factors significantly affected different IQ subtests, such as radiotherapy (RTH), high cumulative doses of methotrexate (MTX), and prednisone. At the same time, low white matter volume (WMV) was observed with higher cumulative doses of MTX and anthracyclines. CONCLUSIONS: Hematological malignancies have a negative impact on cognition. Neurocognitive impairment and related brain changes were evident in those who received RTH, HDMTX, or high cumulative doses of steroids.
RESUMEN
Background: Our objective was to identify non-malignant factors that contribute to mortality in children, adolescents and young adults, aiming to improve patient follow-up and reduce mortality rates to achieve better survival outcomes. Methods: We analyzed 8,239 acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cases diagnosed between 2000 and 2019 in the USA. Using version 8.4.0.1 of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)*Stat software, we calculated the standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each cause of death. Results: Out of the 3,165 deaths observed in the study population, the majority (2,245;70.9%) were attributed to AML itself, followed by non-AML cancers (573; 18.1%) and non-cancerous causes (347; 10.9%). Conclusions: Patients with AML are at a higher risk of developing other types of cancer and granulocyte deficiencies, which increases the risk of death from non-cancerous causes such as infections. Moreover, treatment for AML carries the risk of cardiac problems. AML is commoner in males than females.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Wilms tumor (WT) survival has been affected by the evolution in clinical and biological prognostic factors. Significant differences in survival rates indicate the need for further efforts to reduce these disparities. This study aims to evaluate the clinicopathological data impact on survival among patients after Wilm's diagnosis. METHODS: The study utilized the SEERStat Database to identify Wilms tumor patients, applying SEERStat software version 8.3.9.2 for data extraction. Selection criteria involved specific codes based on the International Classification of Diseases for Oncology (ICDO-3), excluding cases with unknown SEER stage, incomplete survival data, unknown size, or lymph node status. Statistical analyses, including Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox regression models, were conducted using R software version 3.5. Standardized mortality ratios (SMR) were computed with SEER*Stat software, and relative and conditional survival analyses were performed to evaluate long-term survival outcomes. RESULTS: Of 2273 patients diagnosed with Wilms tumor, (1219 patients, 53.6% were females with an average age group of 3-8 years (50.2%). The overall mean survival after five years of diagnosis was 93.6% (2.6-94.7), and the overall mean survival rate was 92.5% (91.3-93.8) after ten years of diagnosis. Renal cancers were identified as the leading cause of death (77.3%), followed by nonrenal cancers (11%) and noncancer causes (11%). Additionally, robust relative survival rates of 98.10%, 92.80%, and 91.3% at one, five, and ten years, respectively, were observed, with corresponding five-year conditional survival rates indicating an increasing likelihood of survival with each additional year post-diagnosis. Univariate Cox regression identified significant prognostic factors: superior CSS for patients below 3 years (cHR 0.48) and poorer CSS for those older than 15 years (cHR 2.72), distant spread (cHR 10.24), regional spread (cHR 3.09), and unknown stage (cHR 4.97). In the multivariate model, age was not a significant predictor, but distant spread (aHR 9.22), regional spread (aHR 2.84), and unknown stage (aHR 4.98) were associated with worse CSS compared to localized tumors. CONCLUSION: This study delving into WT survival dynamics reveals a multifaceted landscape influenced by clinicopathological variables. This comprehensive understanding emphasizes the imperative for ongoing research and personalized interventions to refine survival rates and address nuanced challenges across age, stage, and tumor spread in WT patients.