Smoke and NOx emission characteristics of in-use construction machinery base on substantial field measurement: A case study in Beijing, China.

To understand the smoke level and NOx emission characteristics of in-use construction machinery in Beijing, we selected 905 construction machines in Beijing from August 2022 to April 2023 to monitor the emission level of smoke and NOx. The exhaust smoke level and excessive emission situation of different machinery types were identified, and their NOx emission levels were monitored according to the free acceleration method. We investigated the correlation of NOx and smoke emission, and proposed suggestions for controlling pollution discharge from construction machinery in the future. The results show that the exhaust smoke level was 0-2.62 m-1, followed a log-normal distribution (µ = -1.73, δ = 1.09, R2 = 0.99), with a 5.64% exceedance rate. Differences were observed among machinery types, with low-power engine forklifts showing higher smoke levels. The NOx emission range was 71-1516 ppm, followed a normal distribution (µ = 565.54, δ = 309.51, R2 = 0.83). Differences among machinery types were relatively small. Engine rated net power had the most significant impact on NOx emissions. Thus, NOx emissions from construction machinery need further attention. Furthermore, we found a weak negative correlation (p < 0.05) between the emission level of smoke and NOx, that is the synergic emission reduction effect is poor, emphasizing the need for NOx emission limits. In the future, the oversight in Beijing should prioritize phasing out China Ⅰ and China Ⅱ machinery, and monitor emissions from high-power engine China Ⅲ machinery.

"To BAL or not to BAL, that is the question": Variations in smoke inhalation injury guidelines from burn units and centres in England, Scotland and Wales.

AIM: To evaluate variations in diagnostic criteria and management recommendations for smoke inhalation injury (SII) amongst the burn networks of England, Scotland, and Wales. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study examining SII guidelines provided by adult burn units and centres in England, Scotland and Wales. RESULTS: All 16 adult burn units and centres responded. Fourteen (87.5 %) had guidelines. Due to sharing of guidelines, ten unique guidelines were assessed. Diagnostic criteria showed variability with no universal criterion shared amongst guidelines. Bronchoscopy was recommended by 90 % of guidelines, but the timing varied. The use of bronchoscopic scoring systems was recommended by four guidelines. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was recommended by four, with considerable variation in frequency and choice of lavage fluid. All guidelines advised at least one nebulised agent: heparin (n = 8); N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) (n = 8); or salbutamol (n = 8). All guidelines included advice on carbon monoxide poisoning; however, carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) cut-off levels for treatment varied (5 % [n-4], 10 % [n = 3], 15 % [n = 1]). All recommended high-flow oxygen. Seven (70 %) guidelines offered guidance on cyanide poisoning. Reduced/altered consciousness was the only consistent diagnostic criterion. Five (50 %) guidelines provided intubation guidance, emphasising the role of a 'senior clinician' as the intubator. Ventilatory guidance appeared in eight guidelines, focusing on lung protective ventilation (n = 8); oxygenation goals (n = 3); and permissive hypercapnia (n = 3). Within lung-protective ventilation, advice on tidal volume (6, or 6-8 ml/kg) and plateau pressures (>30 cmH2O) were presented most commonly (n = 7). CONCLUSION: This study has outlined the substantial variations in guidance for the management of SII. The results underscore the need for a national guideline outlining a standardised approach to the diagnosis and management of SII, within the limitations of the current evidence.

Linear polydichlorophosphazene and Ti3C2Tx MXene nanohybrids: Synthesis and application to epoxy resin to improve the fire safety and mechanical properties.

Enhancing the fire safety of epoxy resins (EPs) typically requires a significant amount of flame retardants, which often results in considerable degradation of their mechanical properties. To address this issue, a novel flame retardant known as PDCP@DPA@MXene was synthesized and integrated into EP to achieve notable improvements in flame retardancy, smoke suppression, and mechanical strength. By incorporating 1.5 wt% PDCP@DPA@MXene, the impact strength, tensile strength, and elongation at break of the resulting PDM-1.5 %/EP composite reached 12.1 kJ/m2, 57.4 MPa, and 13.0, respectively, reflecting enhancements of 63.5 %, 18.4 %, and 17.1 % compared to the pure EP. The enhancement in tensile strength may be attributed to the high rigidity of Ti3C2Tx MXene, which reinforces the EP matrix. Additionally, the intertwined structure of PDCP@DPA@MXene chains effectively mitigates material fracturing and absorbs impact forces, thus toughening the EP. The presence of phosphorus, nitrogen, and titanate in PDCP@DPA@MXene contributes to the formation of a more compact char layer. The PDM-1.5 %/EP sample achieved a V-0 rating in the vertical UL-94 test and exhibited a high limiting oxygen index of 32.0. Furthermore, the sample containing 2 wt% PDCP@DPA@MXene showed a significant reduction in peak heat release rate (p-HRR) and total heat release (THR), recording values of 689 kW/m2 and 71.9 MJ/m2, which are decreases of 45.1 % and 26.9 %, respectively, compared to pure EP. Additionally, the incorporation of PDCP@DPA@MXene led to a reduction in CO production. These flame-retarded EPs demonstrate strong potential for various applications due to their elevated glass transition temperature and robust thermal stability.

Maternal exposure to smoking and wheezing phenotypes in children: a cohort study of the Japan Environment and Children's Study.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that prenatal maternal smoking and maternal secondhand smoke exposure during pregnancy were associated with an increased risk of wheezing and asthma development. However, few studies have examined the influence of different sources of tobacco exposure in different perinatal timeframes (preconception, prenatal, and postnatal) on wheezing phenotypes in children. Using national survey data from Japan, we investigated the effects of exposure to tobacco smoke during pregnancy on wheezing phenotypes in children before the age of 3 years. METHODS: Pregnant women who lived in the 15 regional centers in the Japan Environment and Children's Study were recruited. We obtained information on prenatal and postnatal exposure to active and secondhand smoke (SHS) and wheeze development up to 3 years of age. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association between tobacco smoke exposure and wheezing phenotypes in children. RESULTS: We analyzed 73,057 singleton births and identified four longitudinal wheezing phenotypes: never wheezing; early transient wheezing (wheezing by age 1 year but not thereafter); late-onset wheezing (wheezing by age 2-3 years but not beforehand); and persistent wheezing. Maternal smoking during pregnancy was significantly associated with early transient and persistent wheezing in children compared with no maternal smoking [early transient wheezing: 1-10 cigarettes per day, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23-1.66; ≥ 11 cigarettes per day, aOR 1.67, 95% CI 1.27-2.20; persistent wheezing: 1-10 cigarettes per day, aOR 1.64, 95% CI 1.37-1.97; ≥ 11 cigarettes per day, aOR 2.32, 95% CI 1.70-3.19]. Smoking cessation even before pregnancy was also significantly associated with increased risk of early transient wheezing, late-onset wheezing, and persistent wheezing in children. Moreover, maternal exposure to SHS during pregnancy was significantly associated with increased risk of early transient and persistent wheezing compared with no such exposure. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal smoking before and throughout pregnancy was associated with wheeze development in children up to 3 years of age. It appears that smoking is detrimental compared to never smoking, regardless of whether individuals quit smoking before or after becoming aware of the pregnancy.

The Punicalagin Compound Mitigates Bronchial Epithelial Cell Senescence Induced by Cigarette Smoke Extract through the PAR2/mTOR Pathway.

BACKGROUND: Tobacco smoke is an important inducer of airway epithelial cell aging. Punicalagin(PCG) is a natural anti-aging compound. The effect of PCG on tobacco smoke-induced airway epithelial cell senescence is unknown. OBJECTIVE: Our study investigated whether PCG can treat the human bronchial epithelial cell line (BEAS-2B) aging by inhibiting the protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR2)/m- TOR pathway. METHODS: Bioinformatics techniques were used to analyze the potential biological functions of PAR2. Molecular dynamics evaluated the binding ability of PCG and PAR2. The CCK8 assay was used to detect the cytotoxicity of CSE and PCG. The activity of the PAR2/mTOR pathway and the expression of the characteristic aging markers p16, p21, and SIRT1 are detected by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Cell senescence was observed by Senescence-associated ß-galactosidase (SA-ß-gal) staining. The senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP): concentrations of interleukin IL-6, IL-8, and TNF- α were detected by ELISA. RESULTS: The GSE57148 bioinformatics analysis dataset showed that PAR2 regulates lung senescence through the mTOR signaling pathway. Molecular dynamics results found that PCG and PAR2 had a strong and stable binding force. CSE induces BEAS-2B cell senescence and activates the PAR2/mTOR pathway. Inhibition of PAR2 mitigated the senescence changes. In addition, PCG's pretreatment can significantly alleviate CSE-induced BEAS-2B cell senescence while inhibiting the PAR2/mTOR pathway. CONCLUSION: PCG has a therapeutic effect on the senescence of airway epithelial cells.

Phytochemical Profiling and Wound Healing Activity of Gigantochloa apus Liquid Smoke in Mus Musculus.

Purpose: Rope bamboo (Gigantochloa apus) is traditionally used for medicinal purposes, and extracts from stem leaves and shoots have been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Thus, this study looked at the potential compounds present in and the usefulness of Rope bamboo liquid smoke preparations in the wound healing process in mice. Methods: The fingerprinting of the liquid smoke was done by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. In-vivo experiments were conducted to observe the diameter and percentage of wound healing in mice for 14 days using topical formulations containing liquid smoke concentrations of 100%, 50%, 25%, positive control and negative control. Statistical analyses were conducted using the Kruskal-Wallis test and Spearman correlation. Results: The phytochemical fingerprint showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, vitamins, phenols, and lipids. The 100% undiluted liquid smoke accelerated wound healing faster compared to 50% and 25% dilutions. The differences in wound diameters were statistically significant across treatments having a p-value of 0.020 and dose-dependent (p = 0.029). Conclusion: Liquid smoke acceleration of the wound healing process was dose-dependent compared to controls. This dose-dependency indicates that the wound healing effects were probably due to the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of the elucidated constituents of Rope bamboo liquid smoke.

Exploring spontaneous brain activity changes in high-altitude smokers: Insights from ALFF/fALFF analysis.

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to explore the impact of smoking on intrinsic brain activity among high-altitude (HA) populations. Smoking is associated with various neural alterations, but it remains unclear whether smokers in HA environments exhibit specific neural characteristics. METHODS: We employed ALFF and fALFF methods across different frequency bands to investigate differences in brain functional activity between high-altitude smokers and non-smokers. 31 smokers and 31 non-smokers from HA regions participated, undergoing resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) scans. ALFF/fALFF values were compared between the two groups. Correlation analyses explored relationships between brain activity and clinical data. RESULTS: Smokers showed increased ALFF values in the right superior frontal gyrus (R-SFG), right middle frontal gyrus (R-MFG), right anterior cingulate cortex (R-ACC), right inferior frontal gyrus (R-IFG), right superior/medial frontal gyrus (R-MSFG), and left SFG compared to non-smokers in HA. In sub-frequency bands (0.01-0.027 Hz and 0.027-0.073 Hz), smokers showed increased ALFF values in R-SFG, R-MFG, right middle cingulate cortex (R-MCC), R-MSFG, Right precentral gyrus and L-SFG while decreased fALFF values were noted in the right postcentral and precentral gyrus in the 0.01-0.027 Hz band. Negative correlations were found between ALFF values in the R-SFG and smoking years. CONCLUSION: Our study reveals the neural characteristics of smokers in high-altitude environments, highlighting the potential impact of smoking on brain function. These results provide new insights into the neural mechanisms of high-altitude smoking addiction and may inform the development of relevant intervention measures.

Locus of control and the long-term effects of parental smoking on mental health.

RATIONALE: Few studies take a life course perspective to explain if exposure to second-hand smoke in childhood influences mental health in adulthood. Importantly, no study provides empirical evidence on the pathways through which exposure to second-hand smoke in childhood influences mental health in adulthood. There is also limited evidence on the factors that moderate the relationship between second-hand smoke exposure and mental health. To inform policy, it is important to explore the pathways through which second-hand smoke influences mental health and understand factors that are likely to moderate this relationship. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this paper is to examine if exposure to parental smoking in childhood influences mental health in adulthood. The study examines general health and smoking status in later life as potential channels and if locus of control (LoC), a personality trait developed in childhood and adolescence, moderates the relationship between exposure to parental smoking in childhood and mental health in adulthood. METHODS: Using 21 waves of longitudinal data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA), the study conducts regression analyses that adjust for the potential effects of confounders and other biases. RESULTS: The results show that exposure to parental smoking in childhood is associated with a decline in mental health in later life, and that general health status and smoking status in adulthood are channels through which exposure to parental smoking in childhood influences mental health in adulthood. Specifically, those who are exposed to parental smoking in childhood tend to have poorer general health and a higher probability of being smokers in adulthood, both of which negatively impact mental health. The findings point to the moderating role of LoC, such that being more internal on LoC dampens the negative effects of exposure to parental smoking on mental health. CONCLUSION: The findings from this study lend support to the need to address the long-term implications of behaviours that are harmful to health. The findings also suggest that LoC has implications for an individual's psychological resilience against the negative effects from exposure to parental smoking in childhood.

Evaluating the effectiveness of Smoke-Free Home SafeCare, an integrated intervention, among families at risk for secondhand smoke exposure and child maltreatment in the United States: a study protocol for a hybrid type 1 trial.

BACKGROUND: Secondhand smoke exposure (SHS) and child maltreatment (CM) are preventable yet have negative lifelong impacts on health. When considered together, the risk for negative health outcomes may be compounded, especially for people living in low-resource settings. Evidence-based interventions exist for preventing CM and reducing SHS among families with low resources; however, no programs jointly target SHS exposure and maltreatment risk. METHODS: This study is a hybrid type 1 trial to examine the effectiveness of a systematically braided intervention to target CM risk and SHS in the home. Fifty SafeCare Providers will be randomized to deliver either standard SafeCare (i.e., the SafeCare model alone; active treatment control; n = 25) or Smoke-Free Home SafeCare (SFHSC; treatment condition; n = 25), the braided intervention that includes both SafeCare and the Smoke-Free Homes: Some Things are Better Outside intervention to N = 500 families. Aim 2 is to assess family-level outcomes. The primary outcome is a full home smoking ban, validated by air nicotine monitors; secondary outcomes include parenting and smoking outcomes. Aim 3 is to evaluate process and implementation outcomes, including cost-benefit. We will use multilevel models and ROC analyses to evaluate and validate the primary outcome. We will use tests of non-inferiority to evaluate secondary outcomes. Cost-effectiveness analyses will be used to assess cost-benefit of SFHSC. DISCUSSION: This study will be the first to document the outcomes of a multi-component intervention to address cumulative risk factors that impact cancer risk among children whose parents are at risk or involved in child-protective services. Integrating an evidence-based intervention that targets SHS exposure in the home with a broadly disseminated CM prevention intervention may be a sustainable way to help reduce the compounded effects of SHS in the home and CM. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT05000632. Registered on August 11, 2021.

Investigating antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of liquid smoke and physical-chemical stability of bacon subjected to liquid smoke and conventional smoking.

Liquid smoke, an alternative to traditional wood burning smoking, enhances product value by imparting desirable characteristics such as aroma, flavor, and color. Furthermore, it contains components with inherent antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This study compares the effects of liquid smoke and conventional smoking methods in bacon processing. Over a 90-day storage period at 22°C, physical-chemical stability, sensory attributes, and microbiological characteristics of the bacon were evaluated. The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of liquid smoke were assessed. Liquid smoke exhibited antioxidant activity, with an inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 0.19 mg/mL, indicating the concentration of the extract needed to inhibit 50% of DPPH (2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radicals. Moreover, it demonstrated antimicrobial effects against Escherichia coli, Salmonella choleraesius, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes, with a minimum bactericidal concentration ranging from 7.5% to 10%. Throughout the storage, bacon treated with liquid smoke showed no signs of rancid odor, supported by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values below 0.85 mg MDA/kg (where MDA is malondialdehyde). The utilization of liquid smoke yielded visually attractive bacon with enhanced color attributes, including a distinct yellow and red hue, as well as increased luminosity and brightness, surpassing the effects of traditional smoke. Remarkably, liquid smoke application significantly reduced processing time from 30 h to approximately 5 h, leading to substantial cost savings in the processing phase.

A review of occupational exposures to carcinogens among wildland firefighters.

Wildfires can negatively impact the health and well-being of wildland firefighters through a variety of exposure pathways. Many studies have measured acute health effects from occupational exposure to pollutants in wildfire smoke; however, research specifically examining cancer risks from exposure to carcinogens is limited. This review aimed to better understand cancer risk in this occupation by assessing the existing evidence of exposures and summarizing measured concentrations of carcinogens among wildland firefighters. A systematic search was conducted to identify scientific papers using the following databases: Medline(OVID), Embase(OVID), PsycINFO(OVID), Cochrane Library, CINAHL(EBSCOHost), EconLit(EBSCOHost), Scopus, Agricultural and Environmental Science Collect(ProQuest), and NIOSHTIC-2. Forty-nine papers were identified that met eligibility criteria. Across the papers, 31 carcinogens were identified and quantified using a variety of assessment methods. Papers measured particulate matter (N = 26), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (N = 12), volatile organic compounds (N = 14), crystalline silica (N = 5), black carbon (N = 4), asbestos (N = 3), radionuclides (N = 7), and metals (N = 2). Most papers measured inhalation exposures through traditional air sampling methods, but a subset of exposures to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (N = 8), as well as heavy metals (N = 1), were measured through urinary biomarkers and naphthalene was measured using dermal wipe samples (N = 2). Although the heterogeneity of exposure assessment methods made direct comparison of concentrations difficult, the papers provide consistent evidence that wildland firefighters are regularly exposed to carcinogens. All wildland fire personnel should continue to implement recommended mitigation strategies and support new mitigations to reduce exposure to carcinogens on the job.

Legalization of Smokable Medical Cannabis and Changes in the Dispensed Amount of Δ-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol Per Patient.

Introduction: Florida's medical cannabis (marijuana) program is among the largest in the United States. Smokable cannabis forms were not legally available in this program until 2019, and five years after other forms of cannabis were available. This study assessed changes in Δ-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) dispensed per patient following legalization of smokable cannabis in Florida. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study used data from the Florida Department of Health Office of Medical Marijuana Use Reports on THC dispensing from April 6, 2018, through March 13, 2020. Certified medical cannabis user during the study period was included. The exposure was the dispensed amount of THC from legalized smokable forms of medical cannabis (statute identified as SB182), effective as of March 2019. Changes in level and trend of average milligram (mg) of dispensed THC per certified patient with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), before and after SB182, were calculated by fitting a generalized least squares linear model and allowing a 17-week phase-in period. Results: The number of certified patients increased by 24.8% from 197,107 (March 22, 2019) to 246,079 (July 19, 2019) and to 325,868 by March 13, 2020. Assuming that a 20% THC concentration in smokable products, there was a significant level increase in the mean weekly dispensed THC amount per certified patient of 138.45 mg (95% CI: 102.69-174.20), translating to a 42.18% increase (95% CI: 33.14-50.28), from the pre-policy period. We noted a continuous increase of 5.62 mg per certified patient per week (95% CI: 4.35-6.89) throughout the 35 weeks following the policy, when compared with the period before. Assuming 10% THC concentration in smokable products, we observed a significant level increase of 35.10 mg (95% CI: 5.31-64.88), corresponding to an increase of 10.70% (95% CI: 1.70-18.89), and a trend increase of 2.23 mg per certified patient per week (95% CI: 1.18-3.29). Discussion: The expansion of the Florida medical cannabis program to include smokable cannabis forms was associated with a significant increase in the mean amount of weekly dispensed THC per certified patient. Findings suggest that the dispensed amount of THC after legalization of smokable medical cannabis far exceeds the maximum recommended daily dose, based on extrapolation from oral cannabis product dosing recommendations from one expert consensus statement, raising questions about the safety, and need for consumer education.

Exposure to mixture particulate contaminants in the air and the risk of oral cancer: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis.

The mixture of contaminants in the air (e.g., PM2.5, smoke) is a part of air pollutants that has become a hot environmental issue. Previous epidemiological studies have reported the relationship between wood smoke and PM2.5 exposure and oral cancer, but findings have been inconsistent. Therefore, this work designed to find out the relationship between mixture contaminants in air exposure and oral cancer. Fourteen studies were included through research in three databases before February 2024. Before analysis, the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was applied to examine the quality of all selected studies. Then, the meta-analysis was carried out by meta-regression analysis, sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis. The results showed that exposure to PM2.5 may have a positive association with oral cancer (pooled OR = 1.13, 95 % confidence interval: 1.06, 1.20). In contrast, no significant association was found between indoor air pollution and oral cancer. However, the result of the subgroup analysis indicated there is a significant association of indoor air pollution and oral cancer in developing countries (pooled OR = 2.5, 95 % confidence interval: 1.7, 3.6). In addition, the heterogeneity among studies of indoor air pollution exposure and oral cancer may caused by studies carried out in developed countries according to the subgroup and meta-regression analyses. In conclusion, the studies about indoor air pollution exposure and oral cancer are discrepant. The effects of mixed air contaminants for people's health are not simple and more studies are demanded to find out it in the future.

Inequalities in exposure to second-hand smoke among adolescent boys and girls in 122 countries: Evidence from the Global Youth Tobacco Survey.

BACKGROUND: Secondhand smoke exposure (SHS) is a major modifiable risk factor for morbidity and premature mortality. No study has assessed inequalities by sex in SHS exposure among adolescents globally. This study aims to explore the variations in SHS exposure among adolescents globally based on sex. METHODS: Most recent data from 122 countries and territories that conducted the Global Youth Tobacco Survey between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2020, comprising 557,332 respondents aged 11-17 years, were used to assess the prevalence of SHS exposure at home, in other enclosed public places, and at school. Multivariable Poisson regression models were performed to investigate the association between sex and SHS exposure in each country. RESULTS: A total of 195,299 (35.0 %) adolescents reported exposure to SHS at home, 256,938 (46.1 %) in other enclosed public places, 258,528 (46.4 %) at school, and 399,644 (71.7 %) in any place. There were important inequalities in the prevalence of SHS exposure between countries. More girls than boys reported exposure to SHS at home in 54 countries (vs. one country with prevalence higher in boys than girls) and in other enclosed public places in 50 countries (vs. six countries). In contrast, the prevalence of SHS exposure at school was significantly higher in boys than girls in 25 countries while the opposite was observed in 14 countries. CONCLUSIONS: These findings emphasize the disparities in SHS exposure between adolescent boys and girls and, hence, highlight the urgent need to strengthen smoke-free policies and adopt targeted policies to address them.

Association of magnesium deficiency, tobacco smoke exposure and hypertension in children and adolescents: evidence from the NHANES 2007-2018.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies suggested that the combination of tobacco smoke exposure (TSE) and dietary nutrients intake may be related to a higher or lower risk of hypertension. However, the relationship between dietary magnesium (Mg) intake, TSE and the odds of hypertension remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the association of TSE, dietary Mg intake and the odds of hypertension among children and adolescents. METHOD: Data of this study were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) 2007-2018. Dietary Mg intake was calculated as the average of two days of dietary and supplementations intake. Serum cotinine concertation ≥ 0.05 µg/L or at least one-person smoking in the household was considered as exposing to the tobacco smoke. The weighted univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were utilized to explore the associations of dietary Mg intake, TSE and the odds of hypertension among children and adolescents with the evaluation index of odds ratio (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses based on different age, gender and overweight were further assessed these associations. RESULTS: A total of 7,122 children and adolescents aged 8-17 years old and with the blood pressure measurement were included. Of which, 948 (13.31%) had hypertension. After adjusting all covariates, we observed children and adolescents exposed to tobacco smoke was related to higher odds of hypertension (OR = 1.34, 95%CI: 1.01-1.78); children and adolescents not reached the dietary Mg references intakes was related to higher odds of hypertension (OR = 1.48, (95%CI: 1.11-1.97); compared to children and adolescents non-TSE and reached the DRIs of Mg, those not reached the DRIs of Mg and exposed to tobacco smoke have the highest odds of hypertension (OR = 1.94, 95%CI: 1.30-2.89, P for trend = 0.002). These associations of dietary Mg intake, TSE and hypertension remain robust after the stratified analysis based on age, gender and overweight was conducted. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggested there were a robust association between dietary Mg intake, TSE and hypertension in children and adolescents. Those children and adolescents with deficiency dietary Mg intake and exposed to tobacco smoke may have the high odds of hypertension. More restrictions on smoking as well as Mg supplementation in the prevention and treatment of hypertension among children and adolescents might be justified.

Changes in Prevalence of Childhood Exposure to Secondhand Smoke in India: A Secondary Analysis of GATS Survey (2009-2017).

BACKGROUND: Children are susceptible to early life inequalities stemming from their limited control over their environment and their physical incapability to handle the health and developmental consequences of smoke exposure. Additionally, their lack of awareness regarding the detrimental effects of secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure on their well-being emphasizes the crucial need to comprehend the extent of SHS exposure among the younger population. OBJECTIVE: The study aims to analyze the magnitude and factors influencing SHS exposure among children under 15 years, along with the shifts in SHS exposure in India and its states between 2009-10 and 2016-17. METHODS: The study utilized two rounds of the nationally representative cross-sectional Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) conducted in 2009-10 and 2016-17, respectively. The study included a total of 47,494 households with 108,814 children under 15 years of age for GATS1 and 46,874 households with 1,000,167 children under 15 years of age for GATS2. Bivariate analysis and Multivariable logistic regression was employed. RESULTS: Forty-five percent of children experienced SHS exposure at home. Although most states saw a reduction in exposure rates, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu  exhibited increases between 2009-10 and 2016-17. Multivariate analysis revealed that children from the North-Eastern (OR = 6.51, CI = (5.93-7.15)) and North (OR = 7.51, CI = 6.88-8.19)) regions, rural areas (OR = 1.45, CI = (1.37-1.52)), Scheduled Tribes (OR = 1.76, CI = (1.63-1.90)),  and those with household adults lacking knowledge of SHS's harmful health effects on children (OR = 1.15, CI = (1.04-1.27)) were more likely to be exposed to SHS at home. CONCLUSION: India has made strides in reducing child SHS exposure, yet challenges persist in rural and impoverished homes. Comprehensive tobacco control measures can break the cycle of poverty driven by smoking-related expenses, fostering a tobacco-free generation.

Joint effect of docosahexaenoic acid intake and tobacco smoke exposure on learning disability in children and adolescents: a cross-sectional study from the NHANES database.

BACKGROUND: Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has been reported to be associated with the children's neurodevelopment, who may be exposed to tobacco smoke simultaneously. The evidence about joint effect of DHA intake and tobacco smoke exposure on children and adolescents' learning disabilities (LD) was limited. The objective of this study was to assess the joint effect of DHA intake and tobacco smoke exposure on children and adolescents' LD. METHODS: A cross-sectional analysis of the NHANES 1999-2004 was performed. Children and adolescents aged 6-15 years old were included. The outcome was diagnosed by parental report of ever health professionals or school representative-identified LD. Dietary DHA intake data were obtained by food frequency questionnaire and tobacco smoke exposure levels were evaluated by serum cotinine levels. Weighted univariable and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the joint effect of DHA intake and tobacco smoke exposure on LD in children and adolescents, with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). This joint association was further assessed after stratification by age, gender, body mass index, the history of attention deficit disorder and seen mental health professional. RESULTS: We identified 5,247 children and adolescents in present study, of whom 593 (11.30%) had LD. After adjusting covariates, we observed children and adolescents with DHA intake (OR = 0.76, 95%CI: 0.61-0.96) was related to lower incidence of LD; children who exposure to tobacco smoke was related to higher incidence of LD (OR = 1.54, 95%CI: 1.07-2.23); children and adolescents who exposure to tobacco smoke and without DHA intake were related to highest odds of LD (OR = 2.08, 95%CI: 1.37-3.17, P for trend = 0.042), that was, DHA and tobacco smoke exposure may have a joint effect on the odds of LD in children and adolescents. Subgroup analyses suggested this joint effect was robust especially among children and adolescents with normal & underweight BMI and without the history of attention deficit disorder and seen mental health professional. CONCLUSION: Increasing the DHA intake and reducing tobacco smoke exposure may have a potential role in the prevention of LD in children and adolescents. This joint effect warrants further investigation by large-scale prospective study.

Tobacco in hotels: A study of smoke exposure and resident risk.

Objectives: Extended-stay hotels (ESH) are a reliable and accessible housing option for low-income, minoritized renters, who are disproportionately exposed to secondhand and thirdhand cigarette smoke (SHS and THS). This study explores ESH residents' perceptions of their SHS and THS exposure, harms related to this exposure, their willingness to mitigate these harms, and the contextual factors associated with smoking in hotels. Methods: Eighty ESH renters from the metropolitan Atlanta region were recruited to complete a survey about the perceived harm and persistence of tobacco smoke, exposure experiences, knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and intentions to protect oneself. Eleven of these participants completed semi-structured interviews, during which they discussed their daily SHS and THS exposure at their ESHs in greater detail. Results: Of the survey respondents, 62% reported being bothered by their level of smoke exposure, and 77% said they believed smoke particulates remained in their rooms even after housekeeping cleaned them. Approximately half of survey respondents had attempted to stop smoking in the 3 months prior to the study, and 29 of these individuals were still on their smoking cessation journeys. Most interview participants agreed that SHS and THS exposure exacerbated their existing chronic illnesses and could possibly result in death in the long term. Participants agreed with the benefits of smoke-free policies, but also acknowledged other priorities for ESH living-affordability, safety, and proximity to the workplace-that overshadowed their desires for such policies. Conclusion: Overall, study findings suggest that ESH renters understand the dangers of smoking and SHS/THS and want to decrease their exposure, but the persistence of cultural and contextual factors prevents them from fully engaging with 100% smoke-free policies.

Combination effects of environmental tobacco smoke exposure and nutrients supplement during pregnancy on obesity in Chinese preschool children.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the combination effects of prenatal exposure to environment tobacco smoke (ETS) and nutrients supplement during pregnancy on childhood obesity in preschoolers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 58,814 child-mother dyads from 235 kindergartens in Longhua District of Shenzhen, China in 2021. A self-administered structured questionnaire was completed by mothers to collect socio-demographic characteristics, prenatal ETS exposure, and nutrients supplement in pregnancy, and preschoolers' heights and weights were measured at the same time. After controlling for potential confounding variables, logistic regression models and cross-analyses were used to examine the independent and combination effects of maternal prenatal ETS exposure and nutrients supplementation during pregnancy on obesity in preschool children. Results: The results of our study showed that prenatal ETS exposure increased the risk of childhood obesity (AOR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.11-1.34) in preschoolers. In addition, risk of childhood obesity was significantly higher when mothers didn't take supplements of multivitamins (AOR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.05-1.20), folic acid (AOR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.10-1.37) and iron (AOR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.04-1.19) during pregnancy. The cross-over analysis showed that the combination of prenatal ETS exposure with mothers taking no multivitamins (AOR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.21-1.62), no folic acid (AOR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.12-2.14) and no iron (AOR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.19-1.59) during pregnancy also increased the risk of obesity among Chinese preschoolers. We also discovered additive interactive effects between prenatal ETS exposure and no maternal multivitamin, folic acid and iron supplementation in pregnancy on the risk of obesity in preschoolers. Conclusion: The combination of prenatal exposure to ETS with no supplementation of these nutrients might jointly increase the risk of childhood obesity. Public health interventions are needed to reduce prenatal exposure to ETS and to encourage mothers to take appropriate multivitamin, folic acid and iron supplements during pregnancy.

Protein inhibitor of activated signal transducer and activator of transcription 2 is an oncoprotein in oral squamous cell carcinoma and related to cigarette smoking - An in vitro study.

Background/purpose: Oral cancer is one of the most prevalent malignant tumors in Taiwan. Due to the heterogeneity of oral cancer cells, the five-year survival rate of patients is only 50%. Post-translational modifications contribute to protein diversity and directly influence cell functions. The protein inhibitor of activated signal transducer and activator of transcription 2 (PIAS2) is known to undergo post-translational modifications, yet its impact on oral cancer remains unclear. Materials and methods: PIAS2 expression was modulated by transfecting cells with a PIAS2 expression vector or by knocking down PIAS2 using siRNA with low and high PIAS2 expression, respectively. These cells were subjected to invasion, migration, and proliferation assays to evaluate the effects of PIAS2. Changes in genotype, such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, were also examined. Additionally, the effect of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) on PIAS2 expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells was investigated. Results: Overexpression of PIAS2 significantly increased the malignant behaviors of oral cancer cells. In YD38 and SAS cells with low PIAS2 expression, overexpression of PIAS2 enhanced proliferation, invasion, and migration. PIAS2 overexpression also affected EMT gene expression, suppressing E-cadherin and increasing fibronectin expression. Conversely, PIAS2 knockdown in OECM1 and SCC25 cells suppressed malignant behaviors and reversed EMT markers, increasing E-cadherin and decreasing fibronectin expression. Furthermore, a dose-dependent increase in PIAS2 expression was observed when OSCC cells were treated with CSC. Conclusion: PIAS2 functions as an oncogene in oral cancer, and cigarette smoking induces PIAS2 expression. Increased PIAS2 levels lead to enhanced malignancy in oral cancer.