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Heavy Smokers (heavy + smoker)

Distribution by Scientific Domains

Medical Sciences	90%
Life Sciences	9%

Selected Abstracts

Comparison of intravenous methylprednisolone therapy vs. oral methylprednisolone therapy in patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PRACTICE, Issue 1 2007
. Aktaran
Summary A prospective, randomised and single blind clinical trial was designed to compare intravenous methylprednisolone pulse (IVGC) with oral methylprednisolone (OGC) monotherapy in terms of effectiveness and tolerability in Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO). Fifty-two consecutive patients with untreated, moderately severe and active GO were randomly treated with either IVGC or OGC therapy for 12 weeks. IVGC therapy achieved a more rapid and significant improvement than OGC therapy according to clinical activity score (p < 0.01), proptosis (p < 0.038), lid width (p < 0.0001), extraocular muscle changes (p < 0.02), optic neuropathy. (p < 0.001), intraocular pressure (p < 0.04), visual acuity (p < 0.03), quality of life (p < 0.0001) and treatment response (p < 0.001). Diplopia was significantly improved in two groups but there was no difference between them (p < 0.6). Heavy smokers indicated alteration of ophthalmic signs with increased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)-receptor antibody during the therapy. In conclusion, IVGC therapy was more effective and better tolerated than OGC therapy in the management of GO. [source]

Genetic polymorphism of sulfotransferase 1A1, cigarette smoking, hazardous chemical exposure and urothelial cancer risk in a Taiwanese population

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 12 2008
Yuan-Hung Wang
Objectives: To investigate the association between genetic polymorphism of sulfotransferase1A1 (SULT1A1), cigarette smoking, hazardous chemical exposure and urothelial cancer risk in a Taiwanese population. Methods: In a hospital-based case,control study, a total of 300 urothelial cancer (UC) cases and 300 cancer-free controls frequency-matched by age and gender were recruited from September 1998 to December 2005. The SULT1A1 arginine213histidine (Arg213His) polymorphism was genotyped using a polymerase chain reaction,restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Results: We found that the significantly increased UC risks of ever smokers and heavy smokers (,28 pack-years) were 2.1 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.4,3.3) and 2.2 (95% CI = 1.3,3.6), respectively. An increased UC risk of 1.8 (95% CI = 0.8,3.8) was observed among individuals with more than one item of hazardous chemical exposure, but it was not statistically significant. Compared with study subjects carrying the SULT1A1 Arg/Arg genotype, those with SULT1A1 Arg/His or His/His genotypes have a significantly decreased UC risk (Odds ratio [OR] = 0.5, 95% CI = 0.3,0.8). Heavy smokers carrying the SULT1A1 Arg/Arg genotype have a significantly increased UC risk (OR = 5.2, 95% CI = 2.3,11.6). Individuals who had been exposed to more than one item of hazardous chemicals and who carried the SULT1A1 Arg/Arg genotype have a significantly increased UC risk (OR = 3.7, 95% CI = 1.4,9.7). The highest significant increased UC risk (OR = 16.1, 95% CI = 2.9,87.2) was observed among ever smokers with hazardous chemical exposure and the SULT1A1 Arg/Arg genotype. Conclusions: SULT1A1 Arg213His polymorphism is associated with the development of UC, especially among cigarette smokers exposed to hazardous chemicals. [source]

Association between asbestos exposure, cigarette smoking, myeloperoxidase (MPO) genotypes, and lung cancer risk

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2002
Matthew B. Schabath MS
Abstract Background As observed in tobacco-associated carcinogenesis, genetic factors such as the polymorphic metabolic/oxidative enzyme myeloperoxidase (MPO) could modulate individual susceptibility to asbestos-associated carcinogenesis. Methods RFLP-PCR analysis identified the MPO genotypes in 375 Caucasian lung cancer cases and 378 matched controls. An epidemiological interview elicited detailed information regarding smoking history and occupational history and exposures. Results Asbestos exposure was associated with a significantly elevated risk estimate (OR,=,1.45; 95% CI 1.04,2.02). On stratified analysis, we found the MPO genotypes modified the effect of asbestos exposure on lung cancer risk. Specifically, G/G carriers who were exposed to asbestos had an odds ratio (OR) of 1.72 (95% CI; 1.09,2.66), while A-allele carriers (G/A,+,A/A) exposed to asbestos exhibited a reduced OR of 0.89 (95% CI; 0.56,1.44). The OR was further reduced to 0.73 (0.49,1.06) for A-allele carriers not exposed to asbestos. A similar trend was observed for the joint effects between the MPO genotypes and pack-years smoking. Next, all three risk factors (MPO genotypes, asbestos exposure, and smoking) were analyzed simultaneously for joint effects. Heavy smokers with the G/G genotype and a history of asbestos exposure demonstrated a statistically significant elevated risk estimate (OR,=,2.19; 95% CI 1.16,4.11), while the A-allele carriers with the same exposure profile were at a lower risk for lung cancer (OR,=,1.18; 95% CI 0.58,2.38). The A-allele genotypes demonstrated similar protective effects for the other three exposure profiles. Conclusions For a similar level of exposure to established carcinogens, individuals with the MPO A-allele genotypes appear to have a reduced risk of lung cancer. Am. J. Ind. Med. 42:29,37, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

GENETIC STUDY: BclI glucocorticoid receptor polymorphism and smoking in the general population

ADDICTION BIOLOGY, Issue 3 2009
Satu J. Siiskonen
ABSTRACT We studied the hypothesis that the BclI polymorphism of the glucocorticoid receptor gene is associated with an increased probability of being a (heavy) smoker and a decreased ability to quit smoking. The study cohort consisted of all subjects in the Rotterdam Study, a Dutch population-based cohort of people aged 55 years and older, for whom BclI genotyping and smoking status at baseline were available. In prospective analyses, the smoking status was reassessed during three additional examination rounds. Logistic regression analysis was used to study the association between BclI polymorphism and being a smoker or a heavy smoker at baseline. Furthermore, the relationship between BclI polymorphism and incident smoking cessation was tested with Cox proportional hazards analysis within those who smoked at baseline. In total, 6358 subjects were included in the study. The presence of a G-allele was not associated with current smoking at baseline [odds ratio (OR) = 0.96, 95%confidence interval (CI): 0.85,1.09] or with the incidence of smoking cessation during follow-up [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.98, 95%CI: 0.80,1.19]. Within current smokers, having a G-allele was not significantly associated with the risk of being a heavy smoker when measured by pack-years smoked (OR = 1.07, 95%CI: 0.85,1.35) or daily consumption of tobacco (OR = 1.10, 95%CI: 0.88,1.37). We were not able to replicate the earlier findings indicating that the proportion of current smokers is lower among carriers of the CC-genotype of the BclI glucocorticoid receptor. Furthermore, the BclI glucocorticoid receptor polymorphism did not predict the incidence of smoking cessation in the general elderly population. [source]

Nutrition and pharyngeal cancer: Results from a case-control study in Spain

HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 9 2002
Ana Escribano Uzcudun MD
Abstract Background Oropharyngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer is increasing all over the world, frequently affecting more and more women and younger individuals and not only the typical 50- to 60-year-old heavy smoker and drinking man. In addition, 5-year overall survival rate remains poor (30% to 40% in most series), despite advances in treatment. Therefore, it is crucial to understand as accurately as possible the risk factors for these malignancies to improve primary prevention. Methods We report the results from a case-control study of pharyngeal cancer risk factors conducted in Spain involving 232 consecutive patients who were gender- and age-matched with 232 controls. Data were collected by interviewer-administered personal interview. Results Our results show that low intake of fruit, fruit juice, uncooked vegetables, dietary fiber,containing foods (legume and cereals), fish, milk, and dairy products is an independent risk factor for pharyngeal cancer and that high consumption of meat and fried foods also increases the risk once data are adjusted for tobacco smoking and alcohol drinking. Conclusions Although findings for fruit, juice, and uncooked vegetables are in accordance with those from other authors and can be explained on a biologic basis, the relationship between pharyngeal cancer and dietary excess of saturated fatty acids needs experimental investigation. Findings for milk, dairy products, and fish also warrant more detailed epidemiologic research because of conflicting data reported in the literature and because of the reportedly ambiguous role of retinol in human cancers. No conclusive explanations for the protective effect of dietary fiber,containing foods can be put forward today. Our results are uniquely attributable to oropharyngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers because of the small size of our nasopharyngeal cancer subsample. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 24: 830,840, 2002 [source]

Step-wise treatment of two periodontal-endodontic lesions in a heavy smoker

INTERNATIONAL ENDODONTIC JOURNAL, Issue 11 2008
C. Walter
Abstract Aim, To report a clinical case of two advanced periodontal-endodontic lesions with a focus on treatment issues related to tobacco use. Summary, A 53-year-old Caucasian male was referred to the School of Dentistry, Basel, Switzerland, for periodontal treatment. The major diagnoses were chronic (smoker) periodontitis and advanced combined periodontal-endodontic lesions on the mandibular left lateral incisor and right incisor. Conventional root canal treatment was performed, and subsequently led to reduced radiolucencies around the affected roots after 14 months. The remaining osseous defect was augmented by guided tissue regeneration using bovine bone substitute and resorbable membrane. The follow-up revealed a stable situation from clinical (probing depth 2,4 mm) and radiological points of view 32 months after initiation of treatment. Treatment considerations related to tobacco use are discussed. Key learning points, ,,After conventional root canal treatment, osseous healing should occur before further complementary therapy is taken into account. ,,Issues related to tobacco use have to be considered before treatment is initiated. [source]

Startle cue,reactivity differentiates between light and heavy smokers

ADDICTION, Issue 10 2009
Anne K. Rehme
ABSTRACT Aims It was assumed that the startle amplitude in smokers is reduced while viewing pictures of smoking, suggesting that smoking cues are appetitive. The goal of the present study was to investigate (i) whether smoking scenes induce appetitive cue effects in smokers, and (ii) whether smoking intensity is related to cue,reactivity. Design Smokers and non-smokers participated in a single session. Participants A total of 62 individuals participated: 36 smokers and 26 non-smokers. Measurements Participants took part in an acoustic affective startle experiment using standardized pleasant, neutral and unpleasant scenes from the International Affective Picture System (IAPS), as well as pictures of smoking. The effect of smoking cues was assessed by comparing neutral and smoking scenes (termed cue-related startle suppression, CSS). Findings While there was no overall difference between smokers and non-smokers regarding the CSS, light smokers showed significantly increased cue,reactivity towards smoking-related cues, as compared with heavy smokers and non-smokers. In addition, light smokers also displayed stronger appetitive responses towards positive stimuli. Conclusions These data support recent theories which discriminate between habit-based and incentive-based drug abuse. This distinction may have consequences for the assessment and treatment of drug-addicted subjects. Furthermore, incentive-based light smoking seems to have general effects on the reward system. [source]

Genetic susceptibility to tobacco smoke toxicity and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

GERIATRICS & GERONTOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 1 2002
Shinji Teramoto
Because elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are often overlooked, screening efforts are at the moment directed at higher risk subjects such as heavy smokers with obstructive airways disease. Because only 10,20% of heavy smokers developed symptomatic airflow obstruction, a different genetic susceptibility to cigarette smoke-lung injury is implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Several candidate gene polymorphisms are proposed as the genetic risk for the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The current candidates are the polymorphisms in the 3, non-coding region of the ,1-antitypsin gene, ,1-antichymotrypsin gene, tumor necrosis factor- , gene, microsomal epoxide hydrolase gene, and glutathione S- transferase P1 gene, and microsatellite polymorphism in the heme oxygenase-1 gene promoter. However, the results are variously reported between Japanese and Caucasians. The association studies of the polymorphisms with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease require further confirmation in different ethnic groups by other researchers using a large population. The current strategy and pitfalls of the gene explorations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are discussed. [source]

Genetic polymorphisms in the tobacco smoke carcinogens detoxifying enzyme UGT1A7 and the risk of head and neck cancer

HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 10 2009
Martin Lacko MD
Abstract Background. UGT1A7 is an enzyme involved in the metabolism of (pre)carcinogens present in tobacco smoke. We investigated whether genetic polymorphisms in UGT1A7, with predicted altered enzyme activity, may have a risk-modifying effect on head and neck carcinogenesis. Methods. Blood samples from 427 patients with oral, pharyngeal, and laryngeal carcinoma and 420 healthy control subjects were investigated for UGT1A7 polymorphisms. Based on these polymorphisms, patients and controls were divided according to predicted enzyme activity (low, intermediate, high). Results. Logistic regression analysis showed a significant increased distribution of predicted high activity UGT1A7 polymorphisms among the patients (OR:1.44; 95% CI: 1.07,1.93). Stratified analyses demonstrated that high activity UGT1A7 polymorphisms were even more significantly present in patients with laryngeal cancer, older patients, heavy smokers, and heavy drinkers when compared with the control subjects. Conclusions. Predicted high activity UGT1A7 polymorphisms were significantly associated with an increased risk of head and neck cancer. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009 [source]

Association between smoking during radiotherapy and prognosis in head and neck cancer: A follow-up study ,

HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 12 2002
George P. Browman MD
Abstract Background. The study objective was to confirm a previous finding that patients with stage III/IV squamous head and neck cancer (SHNC) who smoke during radiotherapy (RT) experience reduced survival. Methods. An observational cohort study. Patients' smoking status was assessed weekly by questionnaire plus blood cotinine. Patients were assessed every 3 to 4 months for survival. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards analyses were used to detect the independent contribution of smoking on survival. Results. Of 148 patients, 113 smoked during RT. Blood cotinine and smoking questionnaire responses were highly correlated (Spearman R = .69; p < .0005). Abstainers and very light smokers experienced better survival than light, moderate, and heavy smokers (median, 42 vs 29 months; p = .07). Tumor and nodal status and years smoked were the most important prognostic factors. Smoking during RT was not an independent predictor of survival, but baseline smoking status was (p = .016). Conclusion. Smoking status should be documented in all future trials of RT in SHNC to allow for pooled analyses with sufficient power to address this question. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 24: 1031,1037, 2002 [source]

Human papillomavirus infection and cyclin D1 gene amplification in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma: Biologic function and clinical significance,

HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 6 2002
Giovanni Almadori MD
Abstract Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is suspected to be a risk factor for head and neck, and in particular for laryngeal, carcinogenesis. Cyclin D1 gene (CCND1) overexpression and amplification have been shown to play a role as prognostic factors in many human cancers, among which are head and neck cancers. Methods A literature review of the role in head and neck cancers of HPV infection and CCND1 overexpression and amplification was undertaken. We have evaluated the extent of the current knowledge in this field under the light of recent acquisitions, in particular, about a correlation between HPV infection, a suspected risk factor, and CCND1 amplification, a frequent mutation (about 20% of laryngeal cancers) and a prognostic factor in laryngeal SCC. Results and Discussion The significant correlation between HPV infection and CCND1 amplification supports the hypothesis of the involvement of HPV infection in laryngeal carcinogenesis and suggests that HPV positive laryngeal cancers may constitute a different subset of tumors with a peculiar molecular pattern and thus with a different clinical behavior. HPV infection may be considered a synergistic risk factor with smoking and/or alcohol consumption to be investigated in heavy smokers and drinkers, thus contributing to the identification of patient at high-risk for the development of laryngeal cancer who should undergo strict follow-up and primary and secondary prevention. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 24: 597,604, 2002 [source]

Critical review of epidemiological studies of the association between smoking and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

HEMATOLOGICAL ONCOLOGY, Issue 2 2001
Hedley G. Peach
Abstract Smoking has been suggested to increase the risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) but the results of epidemiological studies have been inconsistent. The aim of this work was to assess whether the findings of individual studies might have arisen by chance, bias or confounding and whether any associations found between smoking and NHL represent cause-and-effect. Reports of the association between smoking and NHL were identified from Medline. Confidence intervals on relative risks and odds ratios, use of multiple comparisons, and information on source, direction, actual existence and size of potential biases and confounding and features of any associations were abstracted. Four out of five cohort studies found no association between current smoking and NHL but three may have been biased against doing so. One found an association with follicular lymphoma but without a convincing exposure,risk gradient. The fifth found a strong association and an exposure,response gradient with ever smoking but excluded living cases from the end-point. Only one study found an association with past smoking which lacked features of causality. Eight out of 14 case,control studies found no association between current and/or past smoking and NHL but five may have been biased against doing so. Of six positive studies, three involved multiple comparisons, the association of one became non-significant after eliminating bias, four did not explore features of causality and one found an association only in heavy smokers, particularly under 45 years old. There are no grounds to reject the null hypothesis but associations should continue to be sought particularly in subgroups of smokers and with NHL subtypes. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

A variant of the Cockayne syndrome B gene ERCC6 confers risk of lung cancer,,

HUMAN MUTATION, Issue 1 2008
Zhongning Lin
Abstract Cockayne syndrome B protein (ERCC6) plays an essential role in DNA repair. However, the Cockayne syndrome caused by the ERCC6 defect has not been linked to cancer predisposition; likely due to the fact that cells with severe disruption of the ERCC6 function are sensitive to lesion-induced apoptosis, thus reducing the chance of tumorigenesis. The biological function and cancer susceptibility of a common variant rs3793784:C>G (c.,6530C>G) in the ERCC6 was examined. We show that the c.,6530C allele has lower binding affinity of Sp1 by EMSA and displays a lower transcriptional activity in vitro and in vivo. We then examined the contribution of this polymorphism to the risk of lung cancer in a case,control study with 1,000 cases and 1,000 controls. The case,control analysis revealed a 1.76-fold (P= × 10,9) excess risk of developing lung cancer for the c.,6530CC carriers compared with noncarriers. The c.,6530CC interacts with smoking to intensify lung cancer risk, with the odds ratio (OR)=9 for developing lung cancer among heavy smokers. Our data constituted strong evidence that ERCC6 rs3793784:C>G alters its transcriptional activity and may confer personalized susceptibility to lung cancer. Hum Mutat 29(1), 113,122, 2008. Published 2007, Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Methylation profile in tumor and sputum samples of lung cancer patients detected by spiral computed tomography: A nested case,control study

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 5 2006
Rosalia Cirincione
Abstract We evaluated the aberrant promoter methylation profile of a panel of 3 genes in DNA from tumor and sputum samples, in view of a complementary approach to spiral computed tomography (CT) for early diagnosis of lung cancer. The aberrant promoter methylation of RAR,2, p16INK4A and RASSF1A genes was evaluated by methylation-specific PCR in tumor samples of 29 CT-detected lung cancer patients, of which 18 had tumor-sputum pairs available for the analysis, and in the sputum samples from 112 cancer-free heavy smokers enrolled in a spiral CT trial. In tumor samples from 29 spiral CT-detected patients, promoter hypermethylation was identified in 19/29 (65.5%) cases for RAR,2, 12/29 (41.4%) for p16INK4A and 15/29 (51.7%) for RASSF1A. Twenty-three of twenty-nine (79.3%) samples of the tumors exhibited methylation in at least 1 gene. In the sputum samples of 18 patients, methylation was detected in 8/18 (44.4%) for RAR,2 and 1/18 (5%) for both RASSF1A and p16INK4A. At least 1 gene was methylated in 9/18 (50%) sputum samples. Promoter hypermethylation in sputum from 112 cancer-free smokers was observed in 58/112 (51.7%) for RAR,2 and 20/112 (17.8%) for p16, whereas methylation of the RASSF1A gene was found in only 1/112 (0.9%) sputum sample. Our study indicates that a high frequency of hypermethylation for RAR,2, p16INK4A and RASSF1A promoters is present in spiral CT-detected tumors, whereas promoter hypermethylation of this panel of genes in uninduced sputum has a limited diagnostic value in early lung cancer detection. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Aberrant methylation of multiple genes in the upper aerodigestive tract epithelium of heavy smokers

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 4 2003
Sabine Zöchbauer-Müller
Abstract An important method for silencing tumor suppressor genes in cancers is by aberrant methylation (referred to as methylation) of CpG islands in gene promoter regions. In lung cancer, methylation of the genes retinoic acid receptor ,-2 (RAR,- 2), CDH13 (H-cadherin), p16INK4a (p16), RASSF1A (RAS association domain family I) is frequent. Thus, we investigated methylation of these genes in 4 different types of specimens (oropharyngeal brushes, sputum samples, bronchial brushes and bronchioloalveolar lavage [BAL] samples) of the upper aerodigestive tract epithelium from heavy smokers without evidence of cancer but with morphometric evidence of sputum atypia and compared the frequencies of methylation in the different types of specimens. In addition, we also analyzed sputum samples from 30 never smokers for methylation of these genes. Our major findings are: (i) At least one gene was methylated in one or more specimens from 48% of the smokers. However, methylation was statistically significant less frequently in never smokers compared to smokers. (ii) In general, methylation occurred more frequently in samples from the central airways (sputum, bronchial brushes) compared to the peripheral airways (BAL) and only occasionally in the oropharynx. (iii) RAR,- 2 was the most frequently methylated gene, whereas the frequency of methylation for the other genes was lower. (iv) Data from sputum samples and bronchial brushes were comparable. Our findings suggest that detection of methylation should be investigated as an intermediate marker for lung cancer risk assessment and response to chemopreventive regimens. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Genetic polymorphism of sulfotransferase 1A1, cigarette smoking, hazardous chemical exposure and urothelial cancer risk in a Taiwanese population

Evaluation of the relationship between smoking during pregnancy and subgingival microbiota

JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PERIODONTOLOGY, Issue 1 2005
Nurcan Buduneli
Abstract Background: Numerous studies have shown that smoking negatively affects periodontal health. Hormonal changes, which occur during pregnancy have also been reported to have adverse effects on the periodontal tissues or indirectly through alterations in the subgingival bacterial flora. At present, no knowledge exists concerning possible effects of smoking on the composition of subgingival plaque in pregnancy. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of smoking during pregnancy on the subgingival plaque bacteria most commonly associated with periodontal disease. Methods: A total number of 181 women were examined within 72 h post-partum. Smoking status was recorded by means of a self-reported questionnaire and the study population was divided into three groups; non-smokers, light smokers, and heavy smokers. In each woman, two subgingival plaque samples were obtained from mesio- or disto-buccal aspect of randomly selected one molar and one incisor tooth by sterile paperpoints. Clinical periodontal recordings comprising presence of dental plaque, bleeding on probing (BOP), and probing pocket depth (PPD) were performed at six sites per each tooth at all teeth. Plaque samples were analysed by checkerboard DNA,DNA hybridization with respect to 12 bacterial species. In all analyses, the individual subject was the computational unit. Thus, mean values for all clinical parameters were calculated and bacterial scores from each individual sample were averaged. Statistical methods included ,2 test, Kruskal,Wallis test and Mann,Whitney U -test. Results: Mean ages were similar in the study groups. Plaque, BOP and PPD recordings were lower in the heavy-smoker group, but the differences were not statistically significant (p>0.05). The detection rates and bacterial loads of the specific subgingival bacteria exhibited no significant differences between the groups. No correlation could be found between smoking status and detection rates and bacterial loads of various bacterial species. Conclusion: The present findings suggest that smoking during pregnancy does not have a significant effect on the composition of subgingival plaque bacteria. [source]

Deletion of the ,7 Nicotinic Receptor Subunit Gene Results in Increased Sensitivity to Several Behavioral Effects Produced by Alcohol

ALCOHOLISM, Issue 3 2005
Barbara J. Bowers
Background: The finding that most people with alcoholism are also heavy smokers prompted several research groups to evaluate the effects of ethanol on neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) function. Data collected in vitro indicate that physiologically relevant concentrations of ethanol inhibit the functional activation of homomeric ,7 nAChRs, which are one of the most abundant nAChR subtypes expressed in the mammalian brain. The studies outlined here used ,7 gene knockout (null mutant) mice to evaluate the potential role of ,7 nAChRs in modulating selected behavioral and physiological effects produced by ethanol. Methods: Current evidence indicates that many responses to ethanol are not genetically correlated. Therefore, the authors measured the effects of acute administration of ethanol on several behaviors that are altered by both ethanol and nicotine: two tests of locomotor activity, acoustic startle, prepulse inhibition of acoustic startle, and body temperature. Ethanol-induced durations of loss of righting reflex and ethanol elimination rates were also determined. These studies used null mutant (,7,/,) and wild-type (,7+/+) mice. Results: Relative to ,7+/+ mice, ,7,/, mice were more sensitive to the activating effects of ethanol on open-field activity, ethanol-induced hypothermia, and duration of loss of the righting response. Deletion of the ,7 gene did not influence the effects of ethanol on Y-maze crossing or rearing activities, acoustic startle, or prepulse inhibition of startle. Gene deletion did not alter ethanol metabolism. Conclusions: These results indicate that some but not all of the behavioral effects of ethanol are mediated in part by effects on nAChRs that include the ,7 subunit and may help to explain the robust association between alcohol consumption and the use of tobacco. [source]

Cigarette smoking and aneuploidy in human sperm

MOLECULAR REPRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT, Issue 4 2001
Qinghua Shi
Abstract Cigarette smoke contains chemicals which are capable of inducing aneuploidy in experimental systems. These chemicals have been shown to reach the male reproductive system, increasing oxidative DNA damage in human sperm and lowering semen quality. We have examined the association between smoking and aneuploid sperm by studying 31 Chinese men with similar demographic characteristics and lifestyle factors except for cigarette smoking. None of the men drank alcohol. These men were divided into three groups: nonsmokers (10 men), light smokers (<,20 cigarettes/day, 11 men), and heavy smokers (,,20 cigarettes/day, 10 men). There were no significant differences in semen parameters or in age across groups. Two multi-color fluorescence in situ hybridizations (FISH) were performed: two-color FISH for chromosomes 13 and 21, and three-color FISH for the sex chromosomes using chromosome 1 as an internal autosomal control for diploidy and lack of hybridization. The mean hybridization efficiency was 99.78%. The frequency of disomy 13 was significantly higher in light and heavy smokers than in non-smokers, while no significant differences in the frequency of disomy 21, X or Y were observed across groups. Significant inter-donor heterogeneity in every category of disomic sperm examined was found in both light and heavy smokers, while in nonsmokers only XY disomy showed significant inter-donor differences. Thus, we conclude that cigarette smoking may increase the risk of aneuploidy only for certain chromosomes and that men may have different susceptibilities to aneuploidy in germ cells induced by cigarette smoking. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 59: 417,421, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Relationship between Cigarette Use and Mood/Anxiety Disorders among Pregnant Methadone-Maintained Patients

THE AMERICAN JOURNAL ON ADDICTIONS, Issue 5 2009
Margaret S. Chisolm MD
This study investigates the association between cigarette use and current mood/anxiety disorders among pregnant opioid-dependent patients. Pregnant methadone-maintained women (N = 122) completed the Addiction Severity Index and Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV. Participants were categorized based on past 30 days cigarette use: no (n = 15) and any smoking (n = 107); this latter group was then subdivided into light (one to ten cigarettes/day; n = 55), and heavy smokers (11+ cigarettes/day; n = 52). Any smoking was significantly associated with any current mood/anxiety disorder (p < 0.001), any current mood disorder (p = 0.007), and any current anxiety disorder (p < 0.001). No significant association was found between specific level of cigarette use and mood/anxiety disorders. This association between smoking and psychiatric disorders has implications for the mental and physical health of methadone-maintained women and their children, and may contribute to the understanding of the physiological mechanisms underlying smoking and nicotine dependence. [source]

Significance of Cigarette Smoking Among Youths with Bipolar Disorder

THE AMERICAN JOURNAL ON ADDICTIONS, Issue 5 2008
Benjamin I. Goldstein MD
Cigarette smoking among adults with bipolar disorder (BP) correlates with psychosis, substance use disorders (SUD), and suicidality. Little is known regarding smoking among youths with BP. Youths with BP (n = 441) were divided into three smoking groups: Never, Ever, and Daily. Twenty-five percent reported any smoking (11% daily, 14% ever). Ever and Daily subjects had significantly greater lifetime prevalence of suicide attempts, physical abuse, conduct disorder, and SUD compared to Never subjects. Daily heavy smokers had greater prevalence of SUD and suicide attempts, and worse depression versus daily light smokers. Smoking among youths with BP is independently associated with suicide attempts and SUD. [source]

Pulmonary Function After Pectoralis Major Myocutaneous Flap Harvest

THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 3 2002
FACS, Yoav P. Talmi MD
Abstract Objective The pectoralis major myocutaneous flap is widely used in the reconstruction of surgical defects in the head and neck region. Pulmonary atelectasis has been reported in patients undergoing these procedures, and many of these patients are heavy smokers and drinkers and have associated cardiopulmonary disorders. Flap harvest and donor site closure may lead to impairment of pulmonary function before and after the use of pectoralis major myocutaneous (PMC) in surgical reconstruction in patients with cancer of the head and neck. Methods Patients undergoing extirpation of head and neck tumors with PMC reconstruction were prospectively evaluated. Patient age, smoking history (pack-years), anesthesia duration, percentage predicted pre- and postoperative FEV1, percentage-predicted pre- and postoperative FVC (forced vital capacity), and preoperative SaO2 (oxygen saturation) were evaluated. Preoperative FEV1/FVC ratio was calculated. Chest x-rays were reviewed. Results Only 11 patients, 5 of whom smoked, could be evaluated postoperatively. Preoperative FEV1/FVC was more than 70 and FEV1 more than 75% predicted in all patients. A decrease in FVC was observed in 7 of the 11 patients, which ranged between 2% and 27% without any clinically obvious respiratory manifestations. A baseline SaO2 of more than 96% was noted in all patients. Four of 9 postoperative chest x-rays demonstrated atelectasis. Conclusions PMC harvest and donor site closure may lead to the recorded decrease in FVC measurements. These changes did not manifest clinically. Nevertheless, alternative methods of surgical defect closure should be considered in patients with severe preexisting pulmonary disorders. [source]

Efficacy of apomorphine and sildenafil in men with nonarteriogenic erectile dysfunction.

ANDROLOGIA, Issue 3 2004
A comparative crossover study
Summary. To compare the efficacy of apomorphine and sildenafil in men with nonarteriogenic erectile dysfunction (ED), 40 men were studied. Post-injection penile peak systolic velocity was greater than 25 cm s,1. Twenty men started on apomorphine 2 mg and 20 on sildenafil 50 mg, the doses titrated up to 3 and 100 mg, respectively, if necessary. After a 1-week washout period each group switched to the other treatment mode. Efficacy was the percentage of attempts resulting in erections firm enough for intercourse, based on an event log data. The majority (85%) of the men had concomitant diseases, risk factors for ED and 95% were heavy smokers. The overall success rate of apomorphine was 62.7%, compared with 73.1% of sildenafil (Yates-corrected chi-square, P < 0.0004). The response to apomorphine 2 mg and sildenafil 50 mg was age related. Sildenafil was statistically more effective than apomorphine in impotent men with normal penile Doppler. Given the contraindication of sildenafil in men taking nitrates and the quick time of action of apomorphine, the two drugs are satisfactory first line therapeutic tools in such individuals and the choice should be based on patient's needs and preferences. [source]

Influence of Heavy Cigarette Smoking on Heart Rate Variability and Heart Rate Turbulence Parameters

ANNALS OF NONINVASIVE ELECTROCARDIOLOGY, Issue 4 2009
Goksel Cagirci M.D.
Background: Cigarette smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular events related with several mechanisms. The most suggested mechanism is increased activity of sympathetic nervous system. Heart rate variability (HRV) and heart rate turbulence (HRT) has been shown to be independent and powerful predictors of mortality in a specific group of cardiac patients. The goal of this study was to assess the effect of heavy cigarette smoking on cardiac autonomic function using HRV and HRT analyses. Methods: Heavy cigarette smoking was defined as more than 20 cigarettes smoked per day. Heavy cigarette smokers, 69 subjects and nonsmokers 74 subjects (control group) were enrolled in this study. HRV and HRT analyses [turbulence onset (TO) and turbulence slope (TS)] were assessed from 24-hour Holter recordings. Results: The values of TO were significantly higher in heavy cigarette smokers than control group (,1.150 ± 4.007 vs ,2.454 ± 2.796, P = 0.025, respectively), but values of TS were not statistically different between two groups (10.352 ± 7.670 vs 9.613 ± 7.245, P = 0.555, respectively). Also, the number of patients who had abnormal TO was significantly higher in heavy cigarette smokers than control group (23 vs 10, P = 0.006). TO was correlated with the number of cigarettes smoked per day (r = 0.235, P = 0.004). While LF and LF/HF ratio were significantly higher, standard deviation of all NN intervals (SDNN), standard deviation of the 5-minute mean RR intervals (SDANN), root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD), and high-frequency (HF) values were significantly lower in heavy smokers. While, there was significant correlation between TO and SDNN, SDANN, RMSSD, LF, and high frequency (HF), only HF was correlated with TS. Conclusion: Heavy cigarette smoking has negative effect on autonomic function. HRT is an appropriate noninvasive method to evaluate the effect of cigarette on autonomic function. Simultaneous abnormal HRT and HRV values may explain increased cardiovascular event risk in heavy cigarette smokers. [source]

The human placenta from heavy smokers: evaluation of vasoactive peptides by immunohistochemistry,

APMIS, Issue 1 2007
H. V. CLAUSEN
The study aimed to demonstrate the expression of nitric oxide converting enzyme, nitric oxide synthase (e-NOS), and endothelin-1 (Et-1) in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded placental tissue, and to demonstrate a difference in staining intensity between heavy smokers and non-smokers. Term placentas from pregnancies from otherwise healthy women smoking 15 or more cigarettes per day (heavy smokers) and term placentas from a matching group of non-smokers were included. The antibodies for Et-1 and e-NOS are recommended for cryostat sections. We evaluated the antibodies on paraffin-embedded tissue combined with the streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase technique. Et-1 and e-NOS were demonstrated in the placental vasculature, the trophoblast, and the amnion. A blinded comparative study showed no reproducible significant differences in the staining intensity of the antigen-antibody reaction to Et-1 and e-NOS between the two groups. [source]

Influence of previous pregnancy outcomes and continued smoking on subsequent pregnancy outcomes: an exploratory study in Australia

BJOG : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS & GYNAECOLOGY, Issue 11 2008
M Mohsin
Objective, To examine the influence of continued smoking and previous pregnancy outcomes on subsequent pregnancy outcomes. Design, Retrospective descriptive epidemiological study. Setting, New South Wales, Australia, 1994,2004. Population, Mothers who delivered two consecutive singleton births. Methods, Bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to explore the influence of continued smoking on subsequent pregnancy outcomes. Main outcome measures, Subsequent preterm birth (PTB), low birthweight (LBW) and perinatal deaths. Results, The findings showed that in addition to maternal and neonatal characteristics, birth outcomes in subsequent pregnancies were affected by poor birth outcomes in previous pregnancy. Previous PTB, short birth interval, antenatal care, gestational diabetes and smoking habits in two successive pregnancies had relatively strong association with a subsequent PTB and LBW. Mothers who continued to smoke in subsequent pregnancies were more likely to have adverse pregnancy outcomes compared with others. A change from smoking in first pregnancy to not smoking in next pregnancy had reduced the chance of a subsequent PTB and LBW. The risk of a subsequent preterm and LBW delivery increased with the amount of smoking during the second pregnancy. For mothers who remain as moderate smokers in subsequent pregnancies, the odds ratios for a PTB and LBW delivery were significantly lower than those who remain as heavy smokers. Conclusions, Effective interventions to help women to stop smoking during pregnancy could reduce the risk of adverse obstetric and pregnancy outcomes. Strategies to reduce the prevalence of smoking during pregnancy may include intense intervention for women who have had smoking-related adverse outcomes in a previous pregnancy. [source]

Cigarette smoking is related to a decrease in semen volume in a population of fertile men

BJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 2 2006
FÁBIO F. PASQUALOTTO
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the semen quality and hormonal levels in fertile men according to their level of cigarette smoking. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We evaluated 889 fertile men who came for a vasectomy for sterilization purposes. The men included 522 non-smokers, 143 mild smokers (<10 cigarettes/day), 154 moderate smokers (11,20/day), and 70 heavy smokers (>20/day). We evaluated sperm concentration, motility, motion variables and hormonal levels in these men. RESULTS There were no significant differences among the groups in sperm concentration or motility, or in levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, or serum total testosterone. Also, sperm motion characteristics did not differ across the groups. Semen volume was the only semen variable which tended to decrease according to the number of cigarettes smoked. CONCLUSIONS Cigarette smoking had no apparent effect on sperm concentration, motility or reproductive hormonal levels, but tended to reduce semen volume. [source]

Impact of IL-1 genotype and smoking status on the prognosis of osseointegrated implants

CLINICAL ORAL IMPLANTS RESEARCH, Issue 4 2004
Boris Gruica
Abstract Aim: This study evaluated the impact of the IL-1 genotype and smoking status on the prognosis and development of complications of osseointegrated implants. Material and methods: The clinical charts of 180 consecutively admitted patients were analyzed with respect to the occurrence of biological complications in conjunction with oral implants. Biologic complications were defined as clinical conditions with suppuration from the peri-implant sulcus, development of a fistula or peri-implantitis with radiologic bone loss. All patients had received one or more ITI® dental implants, which had been in function for at least 8 (range: 8,15) years. This patient population had received 292 implants. From these, 51 implants in 34 patients showed late (infectious) biologic complications, and 241 implants had survived without any biologic complications at all. Results: Of the 180 patients, 53 were smokers, who were subdivided in a series of classes according to their intensity of smoking and 127 were never smokers. Sixty-four of 180 (36%) patients tested positive for the IL-1 genotype polymorphism. This prevalence corresponds to previous reports for the prevalence of European descent populations. The results for the non-smoking group indicated no significant correlation between implant complications and a positive IL-1 genotype. However, there was a clear association for heavy smokers between a positive IL-1 genotype and implant complications. 6 of 12 or half of the heavy smokers and IL-1 genotype-positive patients had either an implant failure, i.e. loss of implant, or a biologic complication during the follow-up period. Conclusions: These findings have led to the conclusion that there is a synergistic effect between a positive IL-1 genotype and smoking that puts dental implants at a significantly higher risk of developing biologic complications during function. Résumé Le but de cette étude a été d'évaluer l'impact du génotype IL-1 du tabagisme sur le pronostic et le développement de complication des implants buccaux ostéoïntégrés. Les dossiers cliniques de 180 patients ont été analysés en ce qui concerne l'arrivée de complications biologiques en association avec les implants buccaux. Des complications biologiques étaient définies en tant que conditions cliniques avec suppuration depuis le sillon paroïmplantaire, le développement d'une fistule ou d'une paroïmplantite avec perte osseuse radiologique. Tous les patients avait reçu un ou plusieurs implants buccaux ITI qui avaient été en fonction pour au moins huit années (de 8 à 15 ans). Les patients avaient reçu 292 implants. Parmi ceux-ci 51 chez 34 patients ont montré des complications biologiques tardives (infectieuses) et 241 avaient survécu sans aucune complication biologique. Des 180 patients, 53 étaient fumeurs qui ont été divisés en une série de classes suivant l'intensité du tabagisme tandis que 127 étaient non-fumeurs. Soixante-quatre des 180 patients (36%) ont été testés positifs pour le polymorphisme du génotype IL-1. Cette fréquence globale correspond au rapport précédent pour la fréquence globale des populations européennes. Les résultats pour le groupe non-fumeur indiquait qu'il n'y avait aucune relation significative entre les complications implantaires et un génotype IL-1 positif. Cependant, il y avait une association évidente pour les gros fumeurs entre le génotype IL-1 positif et des complications implantaires. Six des douze soit la moitié des gros fumeurs et des patients au génotype IL-1 positif avaient soit un échec implantaire (c.-à-d. la perte de l'implant) soit une complication biologique durant le suivi. Ces résultats ont conduit à la conclusion qu'il y a un effet synergétique entre le génotype IL-1 positif et le tabagisme mettant les implants buccaux à un risque beaucoup plus important à développer des complications biologiques durant leur mise en fonction. Zusammenfassung Ziel: Diese Studie untersuchte den Einfluss des IL-1 Genotyps und der Rauchgewohnheiten auf die Prognose und auf die Entwicklung von Komplikationen bei osseointegrierten Implantaten. Material und Methoden: Die Krankengeschichten von 180 aufgenommenen Patienten wurden auf biologische Komplikationen in Zusammenhang mit Zahni Implantaten untersucht. Biologische Komplikationen wurden definiert als klinische Zustände mit Suppuration aus dem periimplantären Sulcus, Entwicklung einer Fistel oder Periimplantitis mit radiologischem Knochenverlust. Alle Patienten waren mit einem oder mehreren ITI® Implantaten versorgt worden, welche für mindestens 8 Jahre (Bandbreite: 8,15 Jahre) in Funktion standen. Diese Patientenpopulation war mit 292 Implantaten versorgt worden. Von diesen 292 Implantaten zeigten 51 Implantate bei 34 Patienten biologische (infektiöse) komplikationen und 241 Implantate hatten ohne biologische Komplikationen überlebt. Resultate: Von den 180 Patienten waren 53 Raucher, welche in Untergruppen gemäss Schweregrad des Rauchens aufgeteilt wurden und 127 waren Nicht-Raucher. 64 der 180 Patienten (36%) zeigten ein positives Testergebnis bezüglich IL-1 Genotyp Polymorphismus. Diese Prävalenz entspricht früheren Berichten über die Prävalenz bei einer Population europäischer Abstammung. Die Resultate der Nicht-Raucher Gruppe zeigten keine signifikanten Korrelationen zwischen Implantatkomplikationen und einem positiven IL-1 Genotyp. Jedoch bestand bei den starken Rauchern eine klare Assoziation zwischen dem positiven IL-1 Genotyp und Implantatkomplikationen. 6 von 12 oder die Hälfte der starken Raucher und IL-1 Genotyp positiven Patienten zeigten entweder einen Implantat Misserfolg, z.B. Verlust des Implantats, oder eine biologische Komplikation während der Beobachtungsperiode. Schlussfolgerung: Die Ergebnisse haben zur Schlussfolgerung geführt, dass ein synergistischer Effekt zwischen einem IL-1 positiven Genotyp und Rauchen besteht, welcher Zahni Implantate einem signifikant höheren Risiko für die Entwicklung von biologischen Misserfolgen während der Funktion aussetzt. Resumen Intención: Este estudio evaluó el impacto del genotipo IL-1 y el estatus de fumador en el pronóstico y desarrollo de complicaciones de implantes orales osteointegrados. Material y métodos: Se analizaron las historias clínicas de 180 pacientes admitidos consecutivamente en lo referente a la ocurrencia de complicaciones biológicas en conjunción implantes orales. Se definieron las complicaciones orales como condiciones clínicas con supuración del surco periimplantario, desarrollo de una fístula o de periimplantitis con pérdida radiológica de hueso. Todos los pacientes recibieron uno o mas implantes orales ITI®, que levaban al menos 8 (rango 8,15) años en función. Esta población de pacientes recibió 292 implantes orales. De estos, 51 implantes de 34 pacientes mostraron (infecciones) complicaciones biológicas tardías, y 241 implantes sobrevivieron sin ninguna complicación biológica. Resultados: De los 180 pacientes, 53 eran fumadores que se subdividieron en una serie de categorías de acuerdo con su intensidad de consumo de tabaco y 127 nunca fueron fumadores. 64 de 180 (36%) dieron positivo al test del polimorfismo genético de la IL-1. Esta prevalencia corresponde con informes previos de prevalencia en poblaciones de origen europeo. Los resultados para el grupo de los no fumadores no indicó relación significativa entre complicaciones de los implantes y genotipo IL-1 positivo. Sin embargo, hubo una asociación clara para los fumadores intensos entre complicaciones de los implantes y un genotipo IL-1 positivo. 6 de 12 o la mitad de los fumadores intensos y los pacientes genotipo IL-1 positivo tuvieron o fracaso del implante i.e. pérdida del implante o una complicación biológica durante el periodo de seguimiento. Conclusiones: Estos hallazgos nos han conducido a la conclusión de que hay un efecto sinérgico entre genotipo IL-1 positivo y tabaquismo que colocan a los implantes orales en un riesgo significativamente mas alto para desarrollar complicaciones biológicas durante la función. [source]