PUBLICATION LIST
From periodontal inflammation to oral cancer: the impact of smokeless tobacco
From periodontal inflammation to oral cancer: the impact of smokeless tobacco
Effects of Smokeless Tobacco Use on the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Mucosa: Gross and Histopathological Changes
Effects of Smokeless Tobacco Use on the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Mucosa: Gross and Histopathological Changes
Tobacco addiction is prevalent in South and Southeast Asia. This study aimed to assess upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract changes in smokeless tobacco (SLT) users through upper GI endoscopy (UGIE).
Sex-specific trends in patterns of tobacco and nicotine use among young people in Denmark from 2020 to 2023: A multigroup latent class analysis
Sex-specific trends in patterns of tobacco and nicotine use among young people in Denmark from 2020 to 2023: A multigroup latent class analysis
Research on tobacco and nicotine use patterns lacks insights into the diverse nature of tobacco and nicotine use across sexes, particularly how use patterns cluster differently over time between males and females. This study examines the changing patterns of tobacco and nicotine use among Danish young people from 2020 to 2023, focusing on sex differences.
Unsupervised Learning of Progress Coordinates during Weighted Ensemble Simulations: Application to NTL9 Protein Folding
Unsupervised Learning of Progress Coordinates during Weighted Ensemble Simulations: Application to NTL9 Protein Folding
A major challenge for many rare-event sampling strategies is the identification of progress coordinates that capture the slowest relevant motions. Machine-learning methods that can identify progress coordinates in an unsupervised manner have therefore been of great interest to the simulation community. Here, we developed a general method for identifying progress coordinates "on-the-fly" during weighted ensemble (WE) rare-event sampling via deep learning (DL) of outliers among sampled conformations. Our method identifies outliers in a latent space model of the system's sampled conformations that is periodically trained using a convolutional variational autoencoder. As a proof of principle, we applied our DL-enhanced WE method to simulate the NTL9 protein folding process. To enable rapid tests, our simulations propagated discrete-state synthetic molecular dynamics trajectories using a generative, fine-grained Markov state model. Results revealed that our on-the-fly DL of outliers enhanced the efficiency of WE by >3-fold in estimating the folding rate constant. Our efforts are a significant step forward in the unsupervised learning of slow coordinates during rare event sampling.
Parenting pathways to friendship: how Self-Control and emotion management skills mediate preschoolers' social lives in China?
Parenting pathways to friendship: how Self-Control and emotion management skills mediate preschoolers' social lives in China?
Parenting styles have been identified as significant factors influencing children's social behaviors, particularly in their peer interactions. However, the specific mechanisms through which different parenting styles affect these behaviors, particularly among children aged 3-6, remain understudied.
Exploring new depths: king penguins break dive records during the austral winter
Exploring new depths: king penguins break dive records during the austral winter
The king penguin is one of the champion avian divers, surpassed only by its larger relative, the emperor penguin. The foraging ecology of king penguins is typically studied during the austral summer, when foraging trips are relatively short (weeks). Consequently, little is known about the autumn-winter period, when birds undertake long foraging trips (months) and the descent of their preferred prey to greater depth might challenge their dive capacity. Investigating the dive behaviour of seven king penguins from the Crozet Islands during autumn-winter, we found that birds conducted deeper and longer dives during this period. Most birds exceeded the previous depth and duration records but the deepest (424.5 m) and longest (10 min) dives were conducted by the same individual. These dives are the deepest and longest yet reported for king penguins and illustrate their ability to respond to seasonal changes by enhancing their dive capacity, likely through gradual acclimatization.
Life within: Unraveling the patterns and correlates of smokeless tobacco use in pregnant women across India
Life within: Unraveling the patterns and correlates of smokeless tobacco use in pregnant women across India
Tobacco use during pregnancy is of significant concern as it is associated with adverse outcomes in expecting mothers and their fetuses. Smokeless tobacco use is widespread among women in India. However, there is a dearth of studies on smokeless tobacco use and its determinants during pregnancy in India. The study examines the prevalence and predictors of smokeless tobacco use, quit attempts, advice from healthcare providers to quit, and intentions to quit among pregnant women in India.
Prevalence of tobacco consumption among pulmonary tuberculosis patients and its correlation with tuberculosis incidence: a systematic review and meta-analysis in the Indian context
Prevalence of tobacco consumption among pulmonary tuberculosis patients and its correlation with tuberculosis incidence: a systematic review and meta-analysis in the Indian context
Tuberculosis (TB) and tobacco use are two intertwined public health challenges that significantly impact low- and middle-income countries, particularly India, which bears the highest global TB burden. Tobacco use exacerbates TB risk, progression, and treatment outcomes. Despite the established association, research on the prevalence of smoking and smokeless tobacco (SLT) use among pulmonary TB (PTB) patients in India remains limited. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to estimate the prevalence of smoking and SLT use among PTB patients in India and evaluate the association between tobacco consumption and TB incidence and treatment outcomes. A systematic search was conducted across four databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus) for studies published up to September 30, 2024, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using random-effects models, and subgroup analyses examined variations by gender and treatment stage. Odds ratios (ORs) were used to assess the association between smoking and PTB. Sensitivity analyses and Egger's test were conducted to evaluate heterogeneity and publication bias. A total of 27 studies (n=9593 subjects) were included. The pooled prevalence of smoking among PTB patients was 31% [95% confidence interval (CI): 25-36%], while SLT use was 19% (95% CI: 13-26%). PTB patients were 2.5 times more likely to be smokers than non-TB controls (OR=2.51, 95% CI: 1.36-4.62). Smoking prevalence was highest among newly diagnosed patients (42%) and predominantly observed among males (38%). High heterogeneity (I²>98%) was observed across studies. To conclude, tobacco use is highly prevalent among Indian PTB patients, significantly contributing to disease burden. Integrating tobacco cessation strategies into India's National TB Elimination Program is critical to improving TB outcomes, reducing transmission, and addressing the dual burden of tobacco and TB.
Interventions for smokeless tobacco use cessation
Interventions for smokeless tobacco use cessation
While combustible tobacco has been the subject of a very large amount of research, smokeless tobacco products receive less attention. Most smokeless tobacco products are very harmful and cause global health inequality. It is therefore important to identify evidence-based cessation aids.
Efficacy of pharmacological intervention for smokeless tobacco cessation in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Efficacy of pharmacological intervention for smokeless tobacco cessation in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Smokeless tobacco (SLT) use is a global burden, and its long-term use can result in health issues like oral cancers, oral potentially malignant disorders, etc. This review assessed the effectiveness of behavioural and pharmacological interventions for SLT cessation, adding new dimensions to the evidence found earlier in the literature, including recent trials.
Distribution and association of depression with tobacco consumption among middle-aged and elderly Indian population: nested multilevel modelling analysis of nationally representative cross-sectional survey
Distribution and association of depression with tobacco consumption among middle-aged and elderly Indian population: nested multilevel modelling analysis of nationally representative cross-sectional survey
Research on the distribution and association of depression with tobacco consumption among young population is commonly prioritised in India, while studies on tobacco use among middle-aged (45-59 years) and elderly (≥ 60 years) adults are noticeably lacking. Thus, we conducted this study with the objectives of estimating the prevalence, distribution and determining the association of depression and tobacco consumption among middle-aged and elderly Indian population; overall and stratified into age group, gender, and geographical location.
Beyond smoke: Status of flavored smokeless tobacco regulation in India
Beyond smoke: Status of flavored smokeless tobacco regulation in India
Did the United States smokeless tobacco industry use cigarette industry strategies to sponsor and manipulate research?
Did the United States smokeless tobacco industry use cigarette industry strategies to sponsor and manipulate research?
The cigarette industry in the United States (US) laid the foundation for sponsoring research to improve public relations and defend against product liability cases. Fewer threats of litigation facing the US smokeless tobacco (SLT) industry may have contributed to the sponsorship of independent research on SLT use and health outcomes. This study aimed to determine whether the SLT industry used cigarette industry strategies to manipulate research on health risks.
Black soldier fly larvae mediate Zinc and Chromium transformation through the ZnuCBA and citric acid cycle system
Black soldier fly larvae mediate Zinc and Chromium transformation through the ZnuCBA and citric acid cycle system
Intestinal microbiota and metal regulatory proteins (MRPs) underlie the transformation of heavy metals (HMs) by the black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), but the mechanisms involved are still not fully defined. Here, using 16S rRNA and metagenomics-assisted tracing, we found that zinc (Zn) and chromium (Cr) stress led to enrichment of Proteobacteria in the BSFL intestine. Support of Proteobacteria also led to increased levels of the Zn transporter proteins ZnuC/B/A and the Zn efflux proteins zntR/A. Meanwhile, the genes MltE, CitT, and SLT, which mediate the citric acid cycle, were also significantly up-regulated and involved in the cellular uptake of Cr. Although Zn and Cr stress affected the expression of antibiotic resistance genes and pathogenic genes, the BSFL intestine tended to form stable microbial communities (MCs) to transform HMs through a mechanism driven by ZupT and chrA. In addition, the expression of SCARB1 and LdcA was significantly down-regulated by acute HMs stimulation, but BSFL were still able to complete the life cycle. Therefore, we determined the protective role of MCs and MRPs on BSFL during the transformation of HMs.
The effect of laryngeal mask combined with bronchial occluder in patients undergoing single lung ventilation in thoracic surgery: A retrospective study
The effect of laryngeal mask combined with bronchial occluder in patients undergoing single lung ventilation in thoracic surgery: A retrospective study
This study evaluates the clinical efficacy of combining a laryngeal mask airway with a bronchial blocker (LMA-BB) in single-lung ventilation (OLV) during thoracic surgery compared to the traditional single-lumen tracheal tube with a bronchial blocker (single-lumen tracheal tube [SLT] + BB). A retrospective analysis was performed on 93 patients undergoing thoracic surgery with OLV from December 2021 to September 2023. After propensity score matching (1:1), 34 patients remained in each group (LMA-BB and SLT + BB). Key outcomes, including airway pressures, ventilation and oxygenation parameters, lung compliance, postoperative recovery, and complications, were compared between groups. After matching, the 2 groups had similar baseline characteristics. The LMA-BB group showed significant advantages in airway pressure management, with lower peak and plateau pressures (P < .05). Ventilation and oxygenation efficiency were superior in the LMA-BB group, including lower end-tidal carbon dioxide (37.8 ± 4.7 vs 39.2 ± 5.1 mm Hg, P = .04) and higher oxygenation index (255 ± 22 vs 245 ± 28, P = .04). Lung compliance was improved (P = .018), and more patients in the LMA-BB group achieved excellent lung collapse (76.5% vs 52.9%, P = .032). Additionally, postoperative recovery was faster, with shorter extubation times (12.4 ± 3.2 vs 14.8 ± 3.6 minutes, P = .003) and fewer complications, including hypoxemia (5.9% vs 23.5%, P = .027) and pulmonary issues (8.8% vs 20.6%, P = .046). The LMA-BB technique offers significant clinical benefits over the traditional SLT + BB method in thoracic OLV, including improved airway management, ventilation efficiency, lung compliance, and faster recovery. It also reduces postoperative complications, making it a promising alternative for thoracic surgery.
Socioecological Determinants of Speech Evaluation and Treatment Among Children Who Stutter
Socioecological Determinants of Speech Evaluation and Treatment Among Children Who Stutter
While there is no cure for stuttering, therapy can help children who stutter (CWS) reduce the adverse effects imposed by stuttering. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) guarantees "special education and related services" at no cost to all children with disabilities. However, a potential interplay of variables may influence service provision for CWS. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify some of the determinants of receiving (a) an evaluation and (b) speech-language therapy (SLT) among a nationally representative sample of CWS.
Smokeless Tobacco Is a Major Risk Factor for Oral Cancer in South and Southeast Asia
A Community-based Assessment of Exposure to Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship (TAPS) among Adults Residing in an Urbanized Village in Delhi, India
A Community-based Assessment of Exposure to Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship (TAPS) among Adults Residing in an Urbanized Village in Delhi, India
A comprehensive ban on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship (TAPS) is known to significantly reduce tobacco consumption and has been incorporated into the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control since 2003. Though Indian legislation also comprehensively bans TAPS, existing literature indicates poor and non-uniform implementation across the country. This study aims to assess the exposure to TAPS among adults residing in an urbanised village in South Delhi.
A comprehensive review: role of smokeless tobacco consumption as a risk factor for diabetes mellitus
A comprehensive review: role of smokeless tobacco consumption as a risk factor for diabetes mellitus
The extensive use of smokeless tobacco and the worldwide occurrence of diabetes mellitus (DM) poses significant public health obstacles. A comprehensive review of the literature was undertaken to assess epidemiological research, clinical trials, and meta-analyses that examine the link between smokeless tobacco use and DM. The key results indicate that the biological constituents of smokeless tobacco may interfere with the process of glucose metabolism and lead to an increase in insulin resistance. An association between consumption levels and diabetes risk is evident, with higher levels of usage being positively correlated with an increased chance of developing diabetes. Smokeless tobacco usage is identified as a significant risk factor for DM. This highlights the need to implement focused public health initiatives and policies aimed at decreasing the usage of smokeless tobacco and its influence on the incidence of diabetes. Future research should prioritize elucidating the processes behind this correlation and developing efficacious preventative methods to mitigate the worldwide burden of diabetes.
Smokeless, not harmless: Understanding Naswar's cardiovascular risks in the northwestern Pakistan
Smokeless, not harmless: Understanding Naswar's cardiovascular risks in the northwestern Pakistan
Tobacco use has a major impact on mortality from coronary artery disease (CAD). Naswar, a smokeless tobacco (SLT) product predominantly used in the northwestern part of Pakistan, has not been explored for its association with CAD. World Health Organization also expresses the need for further studies to thoroughly understand effects of different SLT products on CAD across various populations. This study explores the association between Naswar use and CAD in Peshawar, Pakistan.
Sex Disparities in Smoked and Smokeless Tobacco Use Among Displaced Populations in Mizoram, India: A Cross-Sectional Study
Sex Disparities in Smoked and Smokeless Tobacco Use Among Displaced Populations in Mizoram, India: A Cross-Sectional Study
Displaced populations face an elevated risk for tobacco use, especially smokeless tobacco (SLT), due to its affordability and acceptability in regions like Mizoram State (India) and Chin State (Myanmar). Despite this, limited research exists on tobacco use patterns and contributing factors among displaced populations. This study aimed to examine smoked tobacco and SLT use among displaced communities in Mizoram, India. We collected data across nine villages using mobile health technology. We conducted logistic regression models to examine the cross-sectional associations between sex and tobacco use. Age was explored as a potential moderator. The analytic sample consisted of 2226 participants, with a mean age of 43 (±16.2) years, 63.1% of whom were women. Approximately 70% of the participants reported using tobacco, with SLT being the most common form (46.3%). Women were 57% less likely to use tobacco than men, but women aged 55 and older had twice the odds of using tobacco compared to men in the same age group. Additionally, women had nearly 71 times higher odds of using SLT compared to smoked tobacco than men. The findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive interventions targeting SLT use among women. Future research should explore the drivers of this disparity to guide public health strategies.
Smokeless tobacco excise taxes in the US: Standardizing the measurement for empirical analysis
Smokeless tobacco excise taxes in the US: Standardizing the measurement for empirical analysis
The effect of smokeless tobacco (SLT) taxes on SLT use has received relatively little research attention in the US compared to the extensive focus on cigarette and e-cigarette taxation. The scarcity of SLT literature is partially due to the complexities of SLT taxes and the lack of standardized taxes. While some states imposed specific taxes based on the weight of the products, others imposed taxes. These two types of tax schemas are not directly comparable, further complicating analysis.
Do the recorded cases of oral cancer correspond to the actual numbers in India: The necessity of properly designed screening and surveying initiatives
Do the recorded cases of oral cancer correspond to the actual numbers in India: The necessity of properly designed screening and surveying initiatives
To evaluate whether recorded cases of oral cancer in India align with actual prevalence, identify gaps in screening efforts, and propose strategies for effective nationwide screening and surveying initiatives.
Improvement of engineering properties and environmental impact of fired clay bricks utilizing industry sludge waste
Improvement of engineering properties and environmental impact of fired clay bricks utilizing industry sludge waste
The increasing generation of industrial waste sludge poses a serious worldwide problem with detrimental effects on the environment and the economy. Effective utilization of waste sludge in sustainable construction practices offers a universal solution to mitigate environmental impacts. As the mining industry continues to extract clay from clay mines, the demand for sustainable practices in both clay mineral extraction and brick production is growing. Bricks are fundamental in masonry construction, and current research is exploring the integration of industrial waste materials into fired clay bricks to enhance their properties and mitigate environmental impacts. This study investigates the incorporation of waste sludge in brick manufacturing to assess its potential for reducing environmental burdens while maintaining technical performance. X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry (XRF) analysis reveals that both clay soil and mosaic sludge contain high levels of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), supporting their suitability as partial substitutes for clay soil. Incorporating up to 30% of body mill sludge (BS) and polishing sludge (PS) into the brick mix significantly enhances physical and mechanical properties, resulting in reduced shrinkage, increased porosity, and improved compressive strength, reaching up to 25 N/mm². Initial rate of suction tests shows values below 5 g/mm², indicating optimal water absorption characteristics. Various leachability assessments, including the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure (SPLP), and Static Leachate Test (SLT), confirm that bricks containing up to 30% BS and PS comply with United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPAV) standards for heavy metals, making them environmentally safe for use. Additionally, indoor air quality assessments confirm that these bricks meet Industry Codes of Practice on Indoor Air Quality (ICOP-IAQ) guidelines. This study demonstrates that using BS and PS as alternative raw materials offers a sustainable, cost-effective solution aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting cleaner production practices in brick manufacturing.
A minimal gene set characterizes TIL specific for diverse tumor antigens across different cancer types
A minimal gene set characterizes TIL specific for diverse tumor antigens across different cancer types
Identifying tumor-specific T cell clones that mediate immunotherapy responses remains challenging. Mutation-associated neoantigen (MANA) -specific CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) have been shown to express high levels of CXCL13 and CD39 (ENTPD1), and low IL-7 receptor (IL7R) levels in many cancer types, but their collective relevance to T cell functionality has not been established. Here we present an integrative tool to identify MANA-specific TIL using weighted expression levels of these three genes in lung cancer and melanoma single-cell RNAseq datasets. Our three-gene "MANAscore" algorithm outperforms other RNAseq-based algorithms in identifying validated neoantigen-specific CD8+ clones, and accurately identifies TILs that recognize other classes of tumor antigens, including cancer testis antigens, endogenous retroviruses and viral oncogenes. Most of these TIL are characterized by a tissue resident memory gene expression program. Putative tumor-reactive cells (pTRC) identified via MANAscore in anti-PD-1-treated lung tumors had higher expression of checkpoint and cytotoxicity-related genes relative to putative non-tumor-reactive cells. pTRC in pathologically responding tumors showed distinguished gene expression patterns and trajectories. Collectively, we show that MANAscore is a robust tool that can greatly enrich candidate tumor-specific T cells and be used to understand the functional programming of tumor-reactive TIL.
Multi-Omics Analysis for Identifying Cell-Type-Specific Druggable Targets in Alzheimer's Disease
Multi-Omics Analysis for Identifying Cell-Type-Specific Druggable Targets in Alzheimer's Disease
Analyzing disease-linked genetic variants via expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) is important for identifying potential disease-causing genes. Previous research prioritized genes by integrating Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) results with tissue-level eQTLs. Recent studies have explored brain cell type-specific eQTLs, but they lack a systematic analysis across various Alzheimer's disease (AD) GWAS datasets, nor did they compare effects between tissue and cell type levels or across different cell type-specific eQTL datasets. In this study, we integrated brain cell type-specific eQTL datasets with AD GWAS datasets to identify potential causal genes at the cell type level.
A prospective study on diagnostic accuracy of technology-enabled early detection of oral cancer and epidemiology of tobacco and other substances use in rural India
A prospective study on diagnostic accuracy of technology-enabled early detection of oral cancer and epidemiology of tobacco and other substances use in rural India
Lip and oral cavity cancer is leading cause of cancer mortality among Indian men. This study evaluated diagnostic accuracy of mobile health (mHealth) enabled screening for early detection of oral premalignant lesions or oral cancer (OPML/OC). It also described epidemiology of tobacco and other substance use and associated oral lesions in rural northern India.
A Real-World Study on the Quality of Life of Consumers with Dentine Hypersensitivity and the Benefits of Hypersensitivity Toothpaste Use
A Real-World Study on the Quality of Life of Consumers with Dentine Hypersensitivity and the Benefits of Hypersensitivity Toothpaste Use
Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) causes pain from exposed dentine, triggered by external stimuli. Limited evidence exists on its impact on quality of life (QoL), the effectiveness of hypersensitivity toothpaste (HT) and the dental behaviors of DH sufferers. This study therefore aimed to generate evidence to address these evidence gaps and validate the existing science behind the effectiveness of HT. An observational retrospective cross-sectional survey was conducted in Indonesia, which included the Dentine Hypersensitivity Experience Questionnaire-15 (DHEQ-15), items related to the perceived effectiveness of HT and self-reported dental health behaviors. A total of 511 respondents completed the survey. The mean (standard deviation) DHEQ score of participants was 82.44 (14.41), showing the substantial impact of DH on QoL. Nearly all HT users (97.7%) reported relief from DH, with additional benefits like long-lasting fresh breath (96.4%) and cleaner teeth (97.1%), with regular HT users experiencing greater benefits such as improvements in DH (R-HT users [4.65 (0.55)] vs. E-HT users [4.46 (0.65)], < 0.01). Compared to HT users, mainstream toothpaste (MT) users were significantly less likely to brush their teeth at least three times a day (HT users [41.9%], MT users [18.7%], < 0.05) and to have had a dental check-up within the past year (HT users [82.5%], MT users [47.3%], < 0.05). This study found that DH significantly impacts QoL, and that HT effectively relieves DH symptoms, particularly for regular users, who also show better dental health behaviors than users of mainstream toothpaste. The preliminary results indicate that educating users about dental products, like hypersensitivity toothpaste, can improve oral health behaviors and outcomes.
Smokeless tobacco: knowledge, attitudes and usage in Pakistan
Smokeless tobacco: knowledge, attitudes and usage in Pakistan
Smokeless tobacco (SLT) encompasses products that are not burnt but instead consumed orally or nasally. One-third of tobacco is consumed in the smokeless form in South Asia. Despite its widespread usage, there has been limited empirical research on the prevalence and factors influencing SLT consumption in Pakistan. This study aimed to provide an assessment of SLT knowledge, attitudes, and usage in Pakistan.
Tobacco Use, Body Mass Index, Potentially Malignant Disorder and Attitude towards Passive Smoking in a Primary Health Centre - A Cross-Sectional Study
Tobacco Use, Body Mass Index, Potentially Malignant Disorder and Attitude towards Passive Smoking in a Primary Health Centre - A Cross-Sectional Study
Primary health center (PHC) settings offer opportunities for tobacco use screening and brief cessation advice. The purpose of this study was to ascertain how thoroughly participants were screened for premalignant lesions associated with smoking and smokeless tobacco use, as well as how closely these lesions correlated with body mass index (BMI).
Impact of Tobacco Use on Oral Cancer Incidence among Women in Urban Slums: A Case-Control Study
Impact of Tobacco Use on Oral Cancer Incidence among Women in Urban Slums: A Case-Control Study
Oral cancer represents a significant global health burden, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations in developing countries like India. Urban slums, characterized by socioeconomic challenges and limited access to healthcare, are particularly susceptible. This study aimed to examine the association between tobacco use, a well-established risk factor, and the incidence of oral cancer among women residing in these underserved communities.
Relationship among Tobacco Habits, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Infection, p53 Polymorphism/Mutation, and the Risk of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Relationship among Tobacco Habits, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Infection, p53 Polymorphism/Mutation, and the Risk of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a multifactorial malignancy influenced by various genetic and environmental factors. Tobacco habits, human papilloma virus (HPV) infection, and p53 polymorphisms or mutations have been implicated in its etiology. Understanding their interplay can provide insights into OSCC risk assessment.
Association between Oral Cancer and Smokeless Tobacco Use in Rural Indian Men: A Prospective Cohort Study
Association between Oral Cancer and Smokeless Tobacco Use in Rural Indian Men: A Prospective Cohort Study
Smokeless tobacco (SLT) use, particularly gutka and khaini, is a significant public health concern in India, mainly in rural areas. This prospective cohort study aimed to investigate the association between SLT use and oral cancer incidence among rural Indian men.
Prevalence of Trismus in Head and Neck Cancer Patients in Kerala, South India
Prevalence of Trismus in Head and Neck Cancer Patients in Kerala, South India
Trismus is a common complication of head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. Understanding its prevalence and its risk factors is vital for enhancing clinical outcomes and the overall quality of life of these patients.
The hidden crisis: Health impacts of tobacco and nicotine products on Indian women
The hidden crisis: Health impacts of tobacco and nicotine products on Indian women
Tobacco use among women in India is becoming a critical public health issue. Once viewed predominantly as a male habit, tobacco consumption among Indian women has seen a rising trend. This shift is driven by factors such as evolving societal norms, aggressive marketing by the tobacco industry, and increasing urbanization. Women are now using a variety of tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). The health effects are particularly alarming, with elevated risks for cancers, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory conditions, and reproductive health problems. Despite these concerns, public health initiatives and policies often fail to address the specific needs of women. editorial examines the social and cultural drivers of tobacco use among Indian women, outlines the severe health risks, and calls for immediate action through gender-sensitive tobacco control policies. It provides recommendations, including robust regulation, community involvement, and specialized cessation programs to reduce the growing tobacco use among women.
Economic Burden of Multimorbidity and Polypharmacy Among Geriatric Patients: A Single-Center Experience From Odisha, India
Economic Burden of Multimorbidity and Polypharmacy Among Geriatric Patients: A Single-Center Experience From Odisha, India
Background Multimorbidity and polypharmacy are common in older adults and pose a considerable challenge to the health and social care system. They are complex and interrelated concepts in geriatric care that require early detection and patient-centered shared decision-making by multidisciplinary, team-led comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) across all health and social care settings. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the economic burden of multimorbidity and polypharmacy among geriatric patients. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2021 to June 2022 involving a total of 470 male and female respondents aged more than 60 years. Five different departments of Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla were selected for the study. Data were collected by interviewing and clinically examining 470 randomly selected geriatric patients who came to different outpatient departments of VIMSAR, Burla. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS software version 21.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). P-values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results Of the 470 study participants, farming (126, 26.8%)and other (149, 31.7%) occupations were the maximum. Overall, 97 (20.6%) respondents belonged to the upper socioeconomic class, 148 (31.5%) to the upper middle class, 131 (27.9%) to the lower middle class, and 94 (20%) to the lower socioeconomic class. A single chronic disease was higher in respondents from the upper class at 87 (89.69%) and upper middle class at 128 (86.48%). Multimorbidity diseases were higher in the lower middle (28, 21.37%) and lower (24, 25.53%) income group patients. Diabetes was more common in males at 110 (30.81%) in comparison to females at 7 (6.19%). Hypertension was also higher in males at 90 (25.21%) compared to females at 21 (2.65%). Chronic kidney disease was seen in 41 (28.01%) males and 13 (11.50%) females. People with a smokeless tobacco habit (165, 35.11%) and a family history of diabetes (99, 21.06%) and hypertension (117, 24.89%) were suffering from single chronic diseases. Conclusions Multimorbidity has a high incidence in old age. It is associated with substantially higher healthcare utilization and social care costs among older adults in Odisha. With the incidence of multimorbidity rising, especially as the population ages, we require healthcare systems that are developing to deal with the rising challenges related to multimorbidity and the relevant healthcare and societal costs.
Prevalence of Oral Lesions in Relation to Tobacco and Alcohol Habits Using VELscope - A Retrospective Study
Prevalence of Oral Lesions in Relation to Tobacco and Alcohol Habits Using VELscope - A Retrospective Study
Tobacco consumption, in its various forms, is a primary cause of significant health conditions such as oral premalignant disorders and oral cavity carcinoma. This study investigates the current prevalence of oral lesions in the region, utilizing modern techniques to analyze the impact of tobacco on oral health.
Indigenous Smokeless Tobacco - Analysing pH, Moisture, Nicotine Levels, and Warning Labels - An In Vitro Study
Indigenous Smokeless Tobacco - Analysing pH, Moisture, Nicotine Levels, and Warning Labels - An In Vitro Study
Smokeless tobacco (SLT) use is a major public health problem in many parts of the world, including India. Despite this, smokeless tobacco often doesn't receive enough attention. The aim of this study was to assess the pH, moisture, nicotine levels, and warning labels on smokeless tobacco products sold in Pondicherry, India.
Socioeconomic and behavioral factors of hypertension among Indian tribal population: Evidence from national family health survey 5
Socioeconomic and behavioral factors of hypertension among Indian tribal population: Evidence from national family health survey 5
All Indian ethnic groups are experiencing an upsurge in the prevalence of hypertension. The objective of the present study was to explore the association between socioeconomic and behavioral factors of hypertension among the tribal population of India.
Molecular and cell phenotype programs in oral epithelial cells directed by co-exposure to arsenic and smokeless tobacco
Molecular and cell phenotype programs in oral epithelial cells directed by co-exposure to arsenic and smokeless tobacco
Chronic exposure to arsenic can lead to various health issues, including cancer. Concerns have been mounting about the enhancement of arsenic toxicity through co-exposure to various prevalent lifestyle habits. Smokeless tobacco (SLT) products are commonly consumed in South Asian countries, where their use frequently co-occurs with exposure to arsenic from contaminated groundwater. To decipher the in vitro molecular and cellular responses to arsenic and/or smokeless tobacco, we performed temporal multi-omics analysis of the transcriptome and DNA methylome remodeling in exposed hTERT-immortalized human normal oral keratinocytes (NOK), as well as arsenic and/or smokeless tobacco genotoxicity and mutagenicity investigations in NOK cells and in human p53 knock-in murine embryonic fibroblasts (Hupki MEF). RNAseq results from acute exposures of NOK cell to arsenic alone and in combination with smokeless tobacco extract revealed upregulation of genes with roles in cell cycle changes, apoptosis and inflammatory responses. This was in keeping with global DNA hypomethylation affecting genes involved in the same processes after chronic treatment. At the phenotypic level, we observed a dose-dependent decrease in NOK cell viability, induction of DNA damage, cell cycle changes and increased apoptosis, with the most pronounced effects observed under arsenic and SLT co-exposure conditions. Live-cell imaging experiments indicated that the DNA damage likely resulted from induction of apoptosis, an observation validated by a lack of exome-wide mutagenesis in response to chronic exposure to arsenic and/or smokeless tobacco. In sum, our integrative omics study provides novel insights into the acute and chronic responses to arsenic and smokeless tobacco (co-)exposure, with both types of responses converging on several key mechanisms associated with cancer hallmark processes. The resulting rich catalogue of molecular programs in oral cells regulated by arsenic and smokeless tobacco (co-)exposure may provide bases for future development of biomarkers for use in molecular cancer epidemiology studies of exposed populations at risk.
Effect of varying tobacco habits on salivary flow rate, pH and taste perception
Effect of varying tobacco habits on salivary flow rate, pH and taste perception
Smoking and smokeless form of tobacco consumption is highly prevalent among the adult population worldwide. Tobacco use has an adverse effect on oral health. It may contribute to an impaired salivary flow rate and influence salivary pH and taste perception.
The impact of endolymphatic hydrops on wideband acoustic immittance and otoacoustic emissions in guinea pigs
The impact of endolymphatic hydrops on wideband acoustic immittance and otoacoustic emissions in guinea pigs
Inner ear disorders, such as EH, commonly lead to hearing loss and vestibular dysfunction. EH is particularly prevalent in various inner ear diseases, including Meniere's disease. We aimed to evaluate the effects of EH on WAI and OAEs.
Behavioral modification strategies for tobacco cessation: A scoping review
Behavioral modification strategies for tobacco cessation: A scoping review
Tobacco use remains a global public health challenge, with numerous associated health risks. Behavioral modification strategies have played a pivotal role in helping individuals achieve and maintain tobacco cessation. This scoping review aims to compare different behavioral modifications for tobacco cessation counseling. A literature search was performed in PubMed Central, Embase, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library up to 2023 to identify appropriate studies. Full text of original research articles, studies, randomized control trials, and observational studies were only included in the study. Eighteen articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria and articles were available through the electronic database. Tobacco cessation counseling depends heavily on behavioral modification, which provides individuals with an organized and evidence-based approach to quitting smoking. Various behavior change theories and models, such as the Transtheoretical Model, Social Cognition Model, and Theory of Planned Behavior, have been used to help people effectively stop smoking. Most studies used the Transtheoretical model for tobacco cessation since it assisted in quitting both smoking and smokeless tobacco users and can be beneficial in persuading individuals to quit tobacco usage. This scoping review reveals that Behavioral modification strategies have demonstrated their efficacy in facilitating tobacco cessation, providing valuable insights into the diverse approaches available to support individuals in quitting tobacco use.
Travoprost Intracameral Implant in Eyes with Glaucoma or Ocular Hypertension: Early Short-Term Real-World Outcomes
Travoprost Intracameral Implant in Eyes with Glaucoma or Ocular Hypertension: Early Short-Term Real-World Outcomes
To assess real-world efficacy and safety of standalone travoprost intracameral implant (iDose TR) implantation by a US glaucoma surgeon in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT).
Effectiveness of teacher's training program for tobacco control in schools of Lucknow: A Quasi-experimental study
Effectiveness of teacher's training program for tobacco control in schools of Lucknow: A Quasi-experimental study
Teachers play a crucial role in influencing the attitudes and behaviors of their students. Their knowledge, attitude, and practice towards tobacco use, have a direct impact on strict implementation of School Tobacco Control Policies. The present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the teacher's training program, for tobacco control measures in schools of Lucknow.