Concentration of Il-1β, Il-2, Il-6, TNFα in the blood serum in children with generalized epilepsy treated by valproate

BackgroundThe aim of the study was the comparison of concentrations of IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6 and TNFα before and after valproate (VPA) treatment in blood serum in patients with generalized seizures diagnosed and treated in the Department of Developmental Neurology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences from January 2006 to May 2007.MethodsThe analysis was conducted in a group of 21 patients with well controlled, generalized seizures (mean age 7.7 ± 4.7 years) before and after 4–6 months of VPA therapy. Quantitative determination IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6 and TNFα were performed with method of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The serum drug concentration was determined with the use of fluorescence-polarization-immunoassay system (FPIA).ResultsThe concentration of IL-6 in blood serum of patients decreased significantly (p < 0.001) after 4–6 months of VPA therapy, but concentration of IL-1β (p = 0.732), IL-2 (p = 0.865), TNFα (p = 0.079) did not change significantly. The serum concentration of VPA in all of patients was in therapeutic range (mean 77.53 ± 19.71 μg/ml).ConclusionsThe serum level of pro-inflammatory IL-6 in patients with generalized epilepsy decreased in statistically significant way during VPA therapy, so the anti-inflammatory properties of VPA are also important for the effective control of seizure. Due to the incompatibility of reports on the influence of VPA on cytokine system in patients with generalized epilepsy, this problem needs more investigations, especially in the group of children.     

The effect of safranal,a constituent of Crocus sativus (saffron), on tracheal responsiveness,serum levels of cytokines,total NO and nitrite in sensitized guinea pigs

BackgroundThe effect of safranal (one of the constituents of Crocus sativus) on ovalbumin (OVA) sensitized guinea pigs was examined.MethodsOne group of sensitized guinea pigs were given drinking water alone (group S), three groups drinking water containing three concentrations of safranal and one group contain dexamethasone (S + D). Tracheal responses (TR) of the animals to methacholine as effective concentration causing 50% of maximum response (EC₅₀ M), TR to 0.1% OVA, relative to contraction induced by 100 μM methacholine, IL-4, IFN-γ, total NO and nitrite levels in serum were measured.ResultsThe TR to both methacholine and OVA, the level of total NO, nitrite and IL-4 significantly increased but IFN-γ and IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio was decreased in group S compared controls (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). The TR to both methacholine and OVA in treated animals with dexamethasone and all concentrations of safranal were significantly decreased compared to S group (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001). The level of serum IL-4 in treated guinea pigs was significantly decreased but IFN-γ and IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio was increased compared to S group (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001). The levels of total NO and nitrite were significantly decreased in treated groups compared to sensitized group (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001).ConclusionThese results showed a preventive effect for safranal on tracheal responses and serum cytokine, total NO and nitrite levels as well as increased Th1/Th2 balance in sensitized guinea pigs.     

mRNA of cytokines in bone marrow and bone biomarkers in response to propranolol in a nutritional growth retardation model

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to assess mRNA of IL-6, TNFα and IL-10 cytokines in bone marrow, possible mediators involved in altered bone remodeling with detrimental consequences on bone quality in NGR (Nutritional growth retardation) rats.MethodsWeanling male Wistar rats were assigned either to control (C) or experimental group (NGR) (n = 20 each). C and NGR groups were assigned to 2 groups according to receiving saline solution (SS) or propranolol hydrochloride (P): C, C + P (CP), NGR or NGR + P (NGRP). For 4 weeks, NGR and NGRP rats received 80% of the amount of food consumed by C and CP, respectively, the previous day, corrected by body weight. P (7 mg/kg/day) was injected ip 5 days/week, for 4 weeks in CP and NGRP rats. Body weight and length were recorded. After 4 weeks, blood was drawn. Femurs were dissected for RNA isolation from bone marrow and mRNA of cytokines assays.ResultsFood restriction induced a significant negative effect on body growth in NGR and NGRP rats (p < 0.001). P had no effects on zoometric parameters (p > 0.05). CTX-I increased in NGR rats vs. C (p < 0.001), but diminished in NGRP (p < 0.01). Serum osteocalcin, PTH, calcium and phosphate levels remained unchanged between groups (p > 0.05). In NGR, bone marrow IL-6 mRNA and IL-10 mRNA levels were low as compared to other groups (p < 0.05). In contrast, bone marrow TNF-α mRNA levels were significantly high (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThis study provides evidences that NGR outcomes in a bone marrow proinflammatory microenvironment leading to unbalanced bone remodeling by enhancement of bone resorption reverted by propranolol.     

Chronic β-adrenergic activation-induced left ventricular systolic dysfunction is associated with systemic release of TNF-α and IL-1-β in rats

The relationship between systemic cytokine release and chronic β-adrenergic activation-induced left ventricular dysfunction (LVSD) has not been widely reported in the literature. In the present study, we examined changes in the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-l-β, IL-6 and TNF-α) following chronic β-adrenergic activation-induced LVSD. Male Wistar rats were administered isoproterenol (ISO, 5 mg/kg,sc once daily) for 4 weeks (ISO 4) or 12 weeks (ISO 12). Echocardiography was done and serum levels of IL - 1- β, IL-6 and TNF-α were estimated at the end of each protocol. In the ISO 4 group there was a significant increase in relative wall thickness (p < 0.01) and heart weight: body weight ratio (p < 0.001) without any significant changes in fractional shortening (FS) or serum cytokine levels. However, in the ISO 12 group, there was a 32% decrease in FS along with increased serum levels of IL-l-β and TNF-α. The present findings indicate that LVSD induced by chronic β-adrenergic activation in rats is accompanied by increased serum cytokine levels.     

Immunomodulatory effect of diethylcarbamazine citrate plus filarial excretory–secretory product on rat hepatocarcinogenesis

Diethylcarbamazine citrate (DEC) had a significance in anti-filarial chemotherapy, while excretory–secretory product (ES) is released from adult filarial females. The target of the current study was to examine the immunomodulatory effect of DEC, Setaria equina ES or a combination of them on rat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN). In vitro effect of combined DEC and ES or ES alone on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated rat peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was tested through IFN-γ assay in culture supernatants. In addition, single or repeated doses of DEC, ES or DEC + ES have been applied in white albino rats to test the effect on HCC. Levels of IFN-γ and anti-ES IgG antibodies in rat serum were assayed using ELISA. Hemolytic complement activity (CH₅₀) was determined in serum while the concentration of nitric oxide (NO) was assayed in liver tissue. The infiltration of NK cells as well as the expression of MHC Iproliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), inducible NO synthase (iNOS), Bcl2 and p53 were determined using immunohistochemistry. There was a dose-dependent increase in IFN-γ after in vitro exposure to DEC + ES. Repeated ES doses increased NO concentration (p < 0.05) and expression of iNOS but reduced CH₅₀ (p < 0.001), while repeated DEC + ES doses could increase anti-ES IgG (p < 0.01), IFN-γ level (p < 0.05) and NK cell infiltration. The same treatments could also reduce the expression of MHC I expression, PCNA, Bcl2 and p53. This study has shown immunomodulatory and protective effects of DEC + ES repeated doses on rat HCC.     

Th17 response to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus is related to late-phase airway and systemic inflammation in allergic asthma

BackgroundTh17 cells may play a role in the development of late-phase allergen-induced airway and systemic inflammation in allergic asthma, although the mechanisms involved remain to be elucidated.MethodsA total of 36 subjects were enrolled into the study: 15 allergic asthma patients with early asthmatic reaction (n = 7) or dual asthmatic reaction (n = 8) developed to inhaled D. pteronyssinus, 13 patients with allergic rhinitis, and 8 healthy subjects. Peripheral blood and induced sputum were collected 24 h before as well as 7 h and 24 h after a bronchial challenge with D. pteronyssinus. Th17 cells were analyzed by FACS; IL-17 levels were determined by ELISA.ResultsAt baseline, the percentage of peripheral blood Th17 cells and serum and sputum IL-17 levels were significantly higher in all groups of studied patients compared with those of healthy subjects. After the bronchial challenge, there was a significant increase in the percentage of peripheral blood Th17 cells and in serum and sputum IL-17 levels in rhinitis and asthma patients compared with their baseline values, particularly in allergic asthma patients with the dual asthmatic reaction. Positive correlations were found between the percentage of Th17 cells and IL-17 levels in serum (Rs = 0.649; P = 0.009) as well in sputum (Rs = 0.583; P = 0.022) in allergic asthma patients 24 h after the bronchial challenge.ConclusionsThe Th17 response is associated with the development of late-phase airway and systemic inflammation after the inhalation of D. pteronyssinus in patients with allergic asthma.     

Hypotensive effects of omentin-1 related to increased adiponectin and decreased interleukin-6 in intra-thoracic pericardial adipose tissue

BackgroundOmentin is an adipokine expressed in visceral adipose tissue (VAT). In vitro studies demonstrated that omentin induces vasorelaxation in isolated rat mesenteric arteries, and in vivo studies showed inhibition of agonist-induced increases in blood pressure, possibly mediated by nitric oxide (NO)-dependent mechanisms.MethodsWe investigated, in normotensive rats, the effects of subacute omentin-1 administration [8 μg/kg, intraperitoneally (ip), once daily for 14 days] on cardiac activity, blood pressure, plasma concentration of l-citrulline (as a marker of NO production from l-arginine), and the gene expression of adiponectin, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in intra-thoracic pericardial adipose tissue (PAT). Electrocardiography (ECG), heart rate (HR), mean blood pressure (MBP), pulse pressure (PP) were monitored before and after treatment with omentin-1 or vehicle.ResultsWith respect to baseline and vehicle, we found a significant decrease of MBP (p < 0.005) and PP (p < 0.05) after treatment with omentin-1, while ECG and HR were not modified. Omentin-1 significantly increased l-citrulline levels in plasma (p < 0.05), and the gene expression of adiponectin in PAT (p < 0.05). On the other hand, we found decreased gene expression of IL-6 (p < 0.005), while TNF-α mRNA in PAT was not affected.ConclusionWe conclude that the hypotensive effects of omentin-1 could be driven by stimulated production of NO in the vascular system, possibly related to increased adiponectin and decreased IL-6 mRNA in PAT.     

Characterizing and improving HIV/AIDS knowledge among cocaine-dependent outpatients using modified materials

BackgroundOnly 56% of outpatient substance abuse treatment programs in the U.S. provide HIV/AIDS education, likely due to the time required to complete existing educational interventions. This report describes results of a third study in a series to develop a brief educational intervention to increase HIV/AIDS knowledge among cocaine-dependent outpatients.MethodsParticipants (N = 90) were randomized to experimental or control conditions and completed two HIV/AIDS knowledge pre-tests with response formats modified to “true–false–don’t know.” Pre-test results were later compared to historical controls that completed pre-tests in their original “true–false” format. Next, participants in the experimental condition completed an HIV/AIDS educational intervention while participants in the control condition completed a sham intervention. Participants in both conditions then completed knowledge tests a second time. Participants in both conditions were subsequently crossed over, and then completed knowledge tests a third time. Post-intervention analyses were conducted using test data from all participants who completed the educational intervention (N = 56). A subset of these participants (N = 40) completed follow-up tests approximately 9 weeks after completing the educational intervention.ResultsScores on both pre-tests were lower than those observed in historical controls (p < .001). Scores on knowledge tests increased from baseline after participants completed the educational intervention (p < .001), but not after the sham intervention (p > .05). Scores at follow-up remained higher than baseline scores (p < .001).ConclusionsModifying response formats to include a “don’t know” option likely increases identification of baseline knowledge deficits. This brief intervention is effective at increasing HIV/AIDS knowledge among cocaine-dependent outpatients.     

Dietary fatty acid content influences the expression of genes involved in the lipid turnover and inflammation in mouse colon and spleen

BackgroundDietary interventions can improve gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. We determined the effects of fatty acids (FAs) supplementation with medium- and long-chain saturated FAs on mouse GI motility and correlated them with the expression of genes for free FA receptors (FFAR)1-4, FA binding protein 4 (FABP4) and inflammation.MethodsForty-eight BalbC were assigned to: standard diet (STD), diet rich in medium-chain saturated FAs (COCO) and long-chain saturated FAs (HF) (7% by weight). Body weight (BW) and food intake (FI) were monitored for 8-weeks. GI motility was determined by fecal pellet output (FPO) and colon bead expulsion tests. FABP4 inhibitor, BMS309403 (1 mg/kg, ip) was injected to half of each group 2 days/week. mRNA expression of FABP4, (FFAR)1-4, and pro-inflammatory cytokines were measured in colonic and splenic tissues using real-time PCR.ResultsCOCO and HF decreased FI. COCO accelerated overall GI transit (p < 0.05). COCO increased the mRNA expression of FFAR2 (p < 0.001) and TNFα (p < 0.01); HF increased the expression of FABP4 and FFAR4 (p < 0.05), and FFAR2 (p < 0.001) in the colon, and decreased FFAR1 and FFAR4 (p < 0.001), TNFα (p < 0.01) and IL-1β (p < 0.05) in splenic tissues. BMS309403 decreased the FI and delayed colonic transit in STD+BMS and COCO+BMS vs. STD (p < 0.05). HF+BMS increased colonic expression of FFAR3 (p < 0.01), TNFα (p < 0.01), IL-6 (p < 0.01), and reduced FFAR4 (p < 0.05); COCO + BMS decreased TNFα (p < 0.01).ConclusionDiversification in the dietary lipid content affected GI motility in mice and the expression of FFARs and pro-inflammatory cytokines in vivo.     

Atorvastatin calcium in combination with methylprednisolone for the treatment of multiple sclerosis relapse

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of combined atorvastatin calcium and methylprednisolone for the treatment of multiple sclerosis relapse. Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) at the relapse phase were randomized to receive either combined treatment of atorvastatin calcium and methylprednisolone (n = 19) or methylprednisolone alone (n = 19). Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was administered at baseline, 1 week, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after treatment initiation. The number and volume of brain lesions were evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging at baseline and 6 months. The levels of IL-13, IL-35, IFN-γ, and IL-10 in the cerebrospinal fluid were examined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. There was no significant difference in EDSS scores at 1, 2, and 4 weeks. At 3 and 6 months, the combined treatment group showed significantly lower EDSS scores than the monotherapy group (P < 0.05). The number and volume of brain lesions in the combined treatment group were significantly lower than the monotherapy group at 6 months (P < 0.001). The mean time to relapse was significantly extended in the combined treatment group than the monotherapy group (P < 0.001). At 2 and 4 weeks, the combined treatment group had significantly higher levels of IL-13, IL-35, and IL-10 in the cerebrospinal fluid than the monotherapy group (P < 0.05), but significantly lower level of IFN-γ (P < 0.001). The levels of IL-13 and IL-10 in the combined treatment group were positively correlated with EDSS scores (r = 0.632, P = 0.001; r = 0.731, P = 0.002). Combined treatment with atorvastatin calcium and methylprednisolone can improve the outcomes of MS relapse compared with glucocorticosteroid alone.     

Effects of six weeks of electronic cigarette use on smoking rate,CO, cigarette dependence,and motivation to quit smoking: A pilot study

ObjectivesSwitching from combustible tobacco cigarettes to electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) may or may not help smokers to reduce cigarette consumption and toxicant exposure. This pilot study investigated the effects of asking smokers to switch to e-cigs for 6 weeks on smoking, exhaled carbon monoxide (CO) concentration, dependence, and motivation to quit smoking.MethodsNon-treatment seeking daily smokers (n = 18) were given free e-cigs and instructed to use them instead of smoking cigarettes for 6 weeks. Smokers were assessed at baseline, weekly for 6 weeks, and at 8 and 10 weeks for cigarettes/day, e-cig use, CO, cigarette dependence, and Contemplation Ladder.ResultsAll participants completed 6 weeks; 17 completed 10 weeks. At Week 6, cigarettes/day were reduced by two-thirds and CO by 45% from baseline (p's < .001), with reductions maintained at Week 10 (p's < .005). Cigarette dependence scores were a third lower at Weeks 6 (p < .002) and 10 (p < .001) than at baseline. Contemplation Ladder scores were higher at Weeks 6 and 10 (p's < .001) than at baseline. All these statistical effect sizes were large. At Week 6, number of reasons not to use e-cigs increased (p < .011).ConclusionsResults show preliminary evidence for beneficial effects of short-term switching to e-cigs by non-treatment seeking smokers in terms of reduced smoke toxicant exposure and cigarette dependence, and increased motivation to quit, all maintained at least 4 weeks after free e-cigs were no longer provided.     

Sublingual immunotherapy reduces soluble HLA-G and HLA-A,-B,-C serum levels in patients with allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is characterized by Th2 polarized immune response. Soluble HLA (sHLA) molecules play an immunomodulatory activity. Specific immunotherapy is the only causal treatment for AR. So far no study investigated the effect of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) on sHLA molecules.The aim of the study was to evaluate sHLA-G and sHLA-A,-B,-C serum levels in AR patients with pollen allergy before and after a pre-seasonal course of SLIT. Forty AR patients with pollen allergy were enrolled and they assumed a pre-seasonal SLIT course for 3 months. Serum sHLA-G and sHLA-A,-B,-C and IFN-γ and IL-4 levels were determined by ELISA method at baseline and 3 months after the end of the SLIT course. Symptoms severity was assessed by a Visual Analogue Scale.Both sHLA-G and sHLA-A,-B,-C levels significantly diminished (p < 0.0001 for both) after SLIT. Moreover, there was a highly significant relationship between the serum levels of these two soluble molecules (r = 0.84). Significant relationship between symptoms evaluated by VAS and change of sHLA molecules was also evidenced (r = 0.60 and 0.63). Serum cytokines were not affected by SLIT.Therefore, this preliminary study provides the first evidence that both sHLA-G and sHLA-A,-B,-C levels are significantly reduced by SLIT in AR patients with pollen allergy. Therefore, the clinical implication of this study is that these soluble molecules might be interpreted as biomarker of response to SLIT.     

An ounce of prevention: A pre-randomization protocol to improve retention in substance use disorder clinical trials

BackgroundMissing data in substance use disorder (SUD) research pose a significant threat to internal validity. Participants terminate involvement or become less likely to attend intervention and research visits for many reasons, which should be addressed prior to becoming problematic. During a 9-month study targeting stimulant abuse, early dropouts and participant reported attendance barriers led to implementing a structured, pre-randomization protocol with participants about retention and solution-focused strategies (the “Fireside Chat”). Our aim is to outline this approach and present data on intervention participation and research visit attendance after implementation.Methods/designSTimulant Reduction using Dosed Exercise (STRIDE) was a two-arm, multisite randomized clinical trial testing treatment-as-usual for stimulant abuse/dependence augmented by Exercise or Health Education. For both groups, study intervention visits at the site were scheduled 3/week for 12 weeks followed by 1/week for 24 weeks. During The Chat, research staff thoroughly reviewed participants' expectations, and barriers and solutions to retention. Fifteen participants were randomized (to Exercise or Health Education) prior to and fourteen were randomized after Chat implementation. Intervention and monthly follow-up attendance (before and after implementation) were compared at the site (N = 29) that developed and rigorously implemented The Chat.ResultsIndividuals who participated in The Chat (n = 14) attended significantly more intervention visits during weeks 1–12 (p < 0.001) and weeks 13–36 (p < 0.05) and attended more research visits (p < 0.001).DiscussionProactive discussion of expectations and barriers prior to randomization was associated with greater study attendance. SUD researchers should consider tailoring this approach to suit their needs. Further investigation is warranted.     

Improvements in health-related quality of life among methadone maintenance clients in Dar es Salaam,Tanzania

BackgroundInjection of heroin has become widespread in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and is spreading throughout the country. To prevent potential bridging of HIV epidemics, the Tanzanian government established a methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) clinic in February 2011. We assess the effect of MMT on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and examine factors, particularly HIV infection and methadone dose, associated with changes in HRQOL.MethodsThis study utilized routine data on clients enrolling in methadone from February 2011 to April 2012 at Muhimbili National Hospital. Change in physical (PCS) and mental health (MCS) composite scores, as measured by the SF-12 tool, were the primary outcomes. Backward stepwise linear regression, with a criterion of p < 0.2 was used to identify baseline exposure variables for inclusion in multivariable models, while adjusting for baseline scores.ResultsA total of 288 MMT clients received baseline and follow-up assessments. Mean methadone dose administered was 45 mg (SD ± 25) and 76 (27%) were confirmed HIV-positive. Significant improvements were observed in PCS and MCS, with mean increases of 15.7 and 3.3, respectively. In multivariable models, clients who had previous poly-substance use with cocaine [p = 0.040] had a significantly higher mean change in PCS. Clients who were living with HIV [p = 0.002]; satisfied with current marital situation [p = 0.045]; had a history of suicidal thoughts [p = 0.021]; and previously experienced cognitive difficulties [p = 0.012] had significantly lower mean change in PCS. Clients with shorter history of heroin use [p = 0.012] and who received higher methadone doses [p = 0.028] had significantly higher mean change in MCS, compared to their counterparts.ConclusionAspects of mental and physical health, risk behaviors and quality of life among drug users are intertwined and complex. Our research revealed positive short-term effects of MMT on HRQOL and highlights the importance of sustained retention for optimal benefits. Comprehensive supportive services in addition to provision of methadone are needed to address the complex health needs of people who inject drugs.     

Protective effects of Acanthopanax vs. Ulinastatin against severe acute pancreatitis-induced brain injury in rats

ObjectivesTo observe the protecting effects of Acanthopanax and Ulinastatin against severe acute pancreatitis (SAP)-induced brain injury in rats.MethodsSAP-modeled rats were equally randomized into three groups: model group, Acanthopanax-treated group and Ulinastatin-treated group. A sham-operation group was used as negative control. Serum tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-10 levels were assayed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Nuclear factor kappa B p65 (NF-κB p65) activity in the brain tissue was determined by immunohistochemistry. The mortality, pathological changes of the pancreas and brain, and expression of TNF-α mRNA, IL-6 mRNA and IL-10 mRNA in the brain tissue were observed at 6, 12 and 24 h after operations in all groups.ResultsThe mortality of the model group was significantly higher than that of both treatment groups at 24 h (P < 0.01). Serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6, activity of NF-κB p65, expression levels of TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA in the brain tissue, and the pathological scores of the pancreas and brain in the two treatment groups were lower than those in the model group at 12 and 24 h after operation (P < 0.01), while serum IL-10 and IL-10 mRNA expression levels of the brain tissue in the two treatment groups were higher. There was no significant difference in all indexes between Acanthopanax and Ulinastatin groups at all designated time points (P > 0.05).ConclusionsAcanthopanax and Ulinastatin have similar protecting effects against SAP-induced brain injury in rats.     

Reporting of cigar use among adolescent tobacco smokers

IntroductionWith the changing landscape of tobacco products, the divide between cigarettes and cigars is obscured, so understanding adolescent reporting of cigar use is needed to improve best practices for surveillance, screening, and prevention/intervention. This study examined adolescents' reported cigar use and correlates of use.MethodsParticipants (N = 186) were 13–17 year old tobacco users participating in a prospective study of adolescent smoking behaviors. Measurement occurred at baseline and 24-months, and included demographics, nicotine dependence, tobacco use, and quit attempts. Cigar use was assessed as, “have you smoked a cigar in the last 30 days” and by brand specific use in the past 30 days.FindingsCigar use was reported by 51 adolescents (27%), and increased to 76 (41%) when identifying by brand name. African Americans (32%) were more likely to smoke cigars than whites (10%, p < .01), Asian/Pacific Islanders (3%, p = .04), and multiracial participants (24%, p = .05). Cigarette-only users smoked more per day (p = .04) and had higher cotinine levels (p = .05) than cigar users. Number of prior quit attempts (p = .84) did not differ by group. Group differences in addiction were found between cigar users and cigarette only users (p < .01). At 24 months, more baseline cigar users were tobacco abstinent than cigarette only users (16% versus 7%, p < 0.01, respectively).ConclusionsAssessment of brand-specific cigars nearly doubled the reporting among adolescent users. Cigar users differed from cigarette-only users in consumption and likelihood of abstinence at 24-months. For more accurate surveillance and to inform treatment considerations, surveys of adolescent tobacco use should include cigars, including brand names, in the assessment strategy.     

Baseline health status and quality of life after alcohol treatment for women with alcohol dependence

BackgroundResearch suggests that women with alcohol use disorders (AUDs) experience more severe medical and social consequences from alcohol use compared to men, but little is known about health improvements following alcohol treatment.MethodsThis study sought to characterize the pre-treatment health status of 138 alcohol dependent women enrolled in 12 sessions of female-specific group or individual outpatient treatment and examine the degree to which alcohol treatment might promote positive quality of life changes. Quality of life was assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life measure at baseline and 3 months later at the end of treatment.ResultsThe most common health problems at baseline were: smoking cigarettes (34.1%), hypertension (31.2%), obesity (27.5%), arthritis (21.0%), high cholesterol (17.4%), heart problems (8.7%), and a history of cancer (7.2%). Significant improvements across physical, t(117) = 4.67, p < 0.001, d = 0.42; psychological, t(117) = 7.31, p < 0.001, d = 0.62; social, t(117) = 3.18, p = 0.002, d = 0.28; and environmental, t(117) = 2.39, p = 0.018, d = 0.17; quality of life domains were seen after treatment. Percent days abstinent during treatment was positively associated with overall health satisfaction and psychological health at the end of treatment.ConclusionsWomen presenting for outpatient treatment for alcohol use disorders report many comorbid negative health problems. Thus, it is important for both substance use and health care providers to consider the overlap of alcohol use problems and health domains. Furthermore, female-specific cognitive behavioral treatment for alcohol use disorders positively impacted multiple health domains for women, suggesting a potential transdiagnostic intervention to target co-occurring health and substance use problems.     

Psychiatric disorders,suicidal ideation,and sexually transmitted infections among post-deployment veterans who utilize digital social media for sexual partner seeking

IntroductionDigital social media platforms represent outlets through which individuals may find partners for sexual encounters. Using a sample of US post-deployment military veterans, the current study evaluated the prevalence of digital sex seeking as well as clinical correlates of psychopathology, suicidal ideation, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).MethodsUsing data from a baseline telephone interview and follow-up internet-based survey, we examined the prevalence of sexual partnering via digital social media platforms in a national sample of 283 US combat veterans.ResultsAmong veterans, 35.5% of men and 8.5% of women reported having used digital social media to meet someone for sex. Individuals who reported having used digital social media to find sexual partners (DSMSP+) as compared to those who did not (DSMSP-) were more likely to be young, male, and in the Marine Corps. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, DSMSP+ status was associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (OR = 2.26, p = 0.01), insomnia (OR = 1.99, p = 0.02), depression (OR = 1.95, p = 0.03), hypersexuality (OR = 6.16, p < 0.001), suicidal ideation (OR = 3.24, p = 0.04), and treatment for an STI (OR = 1.98, p = 0.04).ConclusionAmong US post-deployment military veterans, DSMSP+ behaviors were prevalent, particularly among men. The association between DSMSP+ behaviors and PTSD, insomnia, depression, hypersexuality, suicidal ideation, and STIs suggest that veterans who engage in DSMSP+ behaviors should be particularly thoroughly screened and evaluated for these psychiatric concerns and counseled on the benefits of safe sexual practices.     

Does social context matter? An ecological momentary assessment study of marijuana use among college students

IntroductionPast research has shown that marijuana use occurs commonly in social situations for young adults, though few studies have examined the association between immediate social context and marijuana use patterns and associated problems. The current study examined the impact of demographics, marijuana use and problem use, alcohol use, craving, and social context on the likelihood of using marijuana with others via ecological momentary assessment (EMA).MethodsCollege-student marijuana users (N = 56) were recruited and completed a baseline assessment and training on the two-week signal-contingent EMA protocol. Participants were sent text messages three times per day randomly for two weeks.ResultsOf the 1131 EMA instances during which participants reported using marijuana, 862 (76.22%) were labeled as being with others. Forty-five participants (80.36%) reported marijuana use with others present during at least half of the times they used marijuana. Findings from a multilevel logistic regression model showed a significant positive association between the probability of using with others and minutes spent using marijuana (b = 0.047, p < 0.001), social facilitation (b = 0.138, p < 0.001), and DSM-IV diagnosis (dependence versus no diagnosis, b = 1.350, p = 0.047).ConclusionsCannabis dependence, more time using marijuana in the moment, and using for social facilitation purposes were positively associated with using marijuana in the context of being with others. Daily users had more variability in terms of the social context of their use. This study illustrates the complex relationship between social context and marijuana use.