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Prevalence of type 2 diabetes among tribal population of india: a multi-centric cross-sectional study
Prevalence of type 2 diabetes among tribal population of india: a multi-centric cross-sectional study
The perception among healthcare workers is that the Indian tribal (indigenous) population are less affected by diabetes. This paper reports the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and its associated factors among tribal populations from six districts across India.
Tobacco use in currently married pregnant & lactating women in India; key findings from the National Family Health Survey-5
Tobacco use in currently married pregnant & lactating women in India; key findings from the National Family Health Survey-5
Tobacco use among pregnant and lactating women carries dangerous repercussions for women and their children. Limited information is available at the national level on the prevalence and determinants of tobacco use in this vulnerable sub-population of women. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of tobacco use among currently married pregnant and lactating women and its association with demographic, behavioural and regional determinants in India.
Biocompatibility of Brazilian native yeast-derived sophorolipids and Trichoderma harzianum as plant-growth promoting bioformulations
Biocompatibility of Brazilian native yeast-derived sophorolipids and Trichoderma harzianum as plant-growth promoting bioformulations
The replacement of agrochemicals by biomolecules is imperative to mitigate soil contamination and inactivation of its core microbiota. Within this context, this study aimed at the interaction between a biological control agent such as Trichoderma harzianum CCT 2160 (BF-Th) and the biosurfactants (BSs) derived from the native Brazilian yeast Starmerella bombicola UFMG-CM-Y6419. Thereafter, their potential in germination of Oryza sativa L. seeds was tested. Both bioproducts were produced on site and characterized according to their chemical composition by HPLC-MS and GC-MS for BSs and SDS-PAGE gel for BF-Th. The BSs were confirmed to be sophorolipids (SLs) which is a well-studied compound with antimicrobial activity. The biocompatibility was examined by cultivating the fungus with SLs supplementation ranging from 0.1 to 2 g/L in solid and submerged fermentation. In solid state fermentation the supplementation of SLs enhanced spore production, conferring the synergy of both bioproducts. For the germination assays, bioformulations composed of SLs, BF-Th and combined (SLT) were applied in the germination of O. sativa L seeds achieving an improvement of up to 30% in morphological aspects such as root and shoot size as well as the presence of lateral roots. It was hypothesized that SLs were able to regulate phytohormones expression such as auxins and gibberellins during early stage of growth, pointing to their novel plant-growth stimulating properties. Thus, this study has pointed to the potential of hybrid bioformulations composed of biosurfactants and active endophytic fungal spores in order to augment the plant fitness and possibly the control of diseases.
Evaluation of possible role of fluoride in pathogenesis of oral submucous fibrosis: A pilot study
Evaluation of possible role of fluoride in pathogenesis of oral submucous fibrosis: A pilot study
Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a potentially malignant disorder. Although areca nut chewing is an established risk factor, its low prevalence among nut chewers indicates additional factors likely facilitates pathogenesis. We recently demonstrated high fluoride levels in smokeless tobacco products and hypothesized a potential pathological role of fluoride in OSMF. Further exploring this novel role, this study compared fluoride levels in tissue, serum, and saliva samples from OSMF patients and healthy controls.
Integration of a tobacco cessation program into a rural community-based maternal and child health program in India: A stakeholders' perspective on task shifting
Integration of a tobacco cessation program into a rural community-based maternal and child health program in India: A stakeholders' perspective on task shifting
According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey-2, India, 7.5% of pregnant women are tobacco users with a high prevalence of smokeless tobacco use in rural India. Although pregnant women may receive advice to quit tobacco, lack of knowledge on providing cessation support among healthcare workers results in missed opportunities. Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a significant role in maternal and child health (MCH) programs. Thus, task-shifting for providing cessation support by CHWs was planned and the perceptions and attitudes of concerned stakeholders were explored.
Comparative analysis of trace elements in the saliva and serum of patients with oral submucous fibrosis and squamous cell carcinoma
Comparative analysis of trace elements in the saliva and serum of patients with oral submucous fibrosis and squamous cell carcinoma
Of note, one third of oral cancer or oral tissue dysfunction cases are from India, primarily resulting from the consumption of Gutkha, a type of smokeless tobacco prevalent among several Indian populations. Gutkha is a mixture of tobacco, areca nut, slaked lime, catechu, spices, sweeteners and essences. Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), which is linked to the consumption of areca nut products and tobacco, is a chronic, precancerous condition of the submucosal tissues. OSMF transforms into oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) at a rate of 7-13%. Gutkha also contains various trace elements, such as copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se) and molybdenum (Mo). Alterations in trace element levels in the body are associated with cancer progression. The present study aimed to determine the levels of serum and salivary trace elements in patients with OSMF and OSCC. A total of 80 patients were selected for the study and were divided into four groups of 20 patients in each (Group A, gutkha intake without OSMF; group B, gutkha intake with OSMF; group C, OSCC; and group D, control). The level of Cu was found to be increased and the levels of Zn, Se and Mo were decreased in the serum of patients with OSMF and OSCC compared with the controls. The salivary levels of these elements were lower compared with those in the serum. Age and sex had no significant effect on the levels of these trace elements. The results of the present study affirm the fact that serum and salivary trace elements are altered in pre-malignant and malignant lesions as the disease progresses. As the composition of saliva often varies, monitoring serum trace element levels as diagnostic and prognostic markers may aid in the early detection of the disease and in the management of the treatment efficacy.
A novel micropeptide, Slitharin, exerts cardioprotective effects in myocardial infarction
A novel micropeptide, Slitharin, exerts cardioprotective effects in myocardial infarction
Micropeptides are an emerging class of proteins that play critical roles in cell signaling. Here, we describe the discovery of a novel micropeptide, dubbed slitharin (Slt), in conditioned media from Cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs), a therapeutic cardiac stromal cell type.
Non-linear transcriptional responses to gradual modulation of transcription factor dosage
Non-linear transcriptional responses to gradual modulation of transcription factor dosage
Genomic loci associated with common traits and diseases are typically non-coding and likely impact gene expression, sometimes coinciding with rare loss-of-function variants in the target gene. However, our understanding of how gradual changes in gene dosage affect molecular, cellular, and organismal traits is currently limited. To address this gap, we induced gradual changes in gene expression of four genes using CRISPR activation and inactivation. Downstream transcriptional consequences of dosage modulation of three master trans-regulators associated with blood cell traits (GFI1B, NFE2, and MYB) were examined using targeted single-cell multimodal sequencing. We showed that guide tiling around the TSS is the most effective way to modulate gene expression across a wide range of fold-changes, with further effects from chromatin accessibility and histone marks that differ between the inhibition and activation systems. Our single-cell data allowed us to precisely detect subtle to large gene expression changes in dozens of genes, revealing that many responses to dosage changes of these three TFs are non-linear, including non-monotonic behaviours, even when constraining the fold-changes of the master regulators to a copy number gain or loss. We found that the dosage properties are linked to gene constraint and that some of these non-linear responses are enriched for disease and GWAS genes. Overall, our study provides a straightforward and scalable method to precisely modulate gene expression and gain insights into its downstream consequences at high resolution.
Text message-based Cessation Intervention for People who Smoked or Used Smokeless Tobacco in India: a Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial
Text message-based Cessation Intervention for People who Smoked or Used Smokeless Tobacco in India: a Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial
Despite the high burden of tobacco use in India, users do not have access to adequate help. This pilot trial aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a text messaging intervention for tobacco cessation, generate preliminary estimates of its impact, and fine-tune procedures for a definitive trial.
Socioeconomic inequality among smoking and smokeless tobacco uses among males in India: a decomposition analysis
Socioeconomic inequality among smoking and smokeless tobacco uses among males in India: a decomposition analysis
India is the third-largest tobacco manufacturer and its use in India is characterised by a high prevalence of smoking and smokeless (sl) tobacco use. This results in 1 million deaths per year in the country. Given the high burden of tobacco use, this study examines the regional variations and socio-economic correlates of tobacco use in India.
16S rDNA-Based Amplicon Analysis Unveiled a Correlation Between the Bacterial Diversity and Antibiotic Resistance Genes of Bacteriome of Commercial Smokeless Tobacco Products
16S rDNA-Based Amplicon Analysis Unveiled a Correlation Between the Bacterial Diversity and Antibiotic Resistance Genes of Bacteriome of Commercial Smokeless Tobacco Products
The distribution of bacterial-derived antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in smokeless tobacco products is less explored and encourages understanding of the ARG profile of Indian smokeless tobacco products. Therefore, in the present investigation, ten commercial smokeless tobacco products were assessed for their bacterial diversity to understand the correlation between the inhabitant bacteria and predicted ARGs using a 16S rDNA-based metagenome analysis. Overall analysis showed the dominance of two phyla, i.e., Firmicutes (43.07%) and Proteobacteria (8.13%) among the samples, where Bacillus (9.76%), Terribacillus (8.06%), Lysinibacillus (5.8%), Alkalibacterium (5.6%), Oceanobacillus (3.52%), and Dickeya (3.1%) like genera were prevalent among these phyla. The phylogenetic investigation of communities by reconstruction of unobserved states (PICRUSt)-based analysis revealed 217 ARGs which were categorized into nine groups. Cationic antimicrobial polypeptides (CAMP, 33.8%), vancomycin (23.4%), penicillin-binding protein (13.8%), multidrug resistance MDR (10%), and β-lactam (9.3%) were among the top five contributors to ARGs. Staphylococcus, Dickeya, Bacillus, Aerococcus, and Alkalibacterium showed their strong and significant correlation (p value < 0.05) with various antibiotic resistance mechanisms. ARGs of different classes (blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTX, tetX, vanA, aac3-II, mcr-1, intI-1, and intI2) were also successfully amplified in the metagenomes of SMT samples using their specific primers. The prevalence of ARGs in inhabitant bacteria of smokeless tobacco products suggests making steady policies to regulate the hygiene of commercial smokeless tobacco products.
Transformative Multimedia Messages for Smokeless Tobacco Cessation: Tech-Savvy against Tobacco
Transformative Multimedia Messages for Smokeless Tobacco Cessation: Tech-Savvy against Tobacco
The Role of Early Rehabilitation in Better Outcomes in a Rare Presentation of Tuberculous Meningitis With Broca's Aphasia
The Role of Early Rehabilitation in Better Outcomes in a Rare Presentation of Tuberculous Meningitis With Broca's Aphasia
There is a complex link between tuberculous meningitis (TBM) and aphasia, in which a language impairment is caused by an injury to the cortical language centre. The parts of the brain that function for speech and language production are the Wernicke's, Broca's, and arcuate fasciculus regions. This case report mainly highlights the neurological consequences of TBM, and how it affects language and speech functioning. It outlines a comprehensive physiotherapy rehabilitation program that targets a range of issues for the patient, such as verbal output, weakness, motor deficits, articulation issues in speech, and coordination issues. Various treatment modalities can help correct weakness, improve balance and coordination, increase flexibility and range of motion (ROM), and make speech more fluent. The case report emphasizes the necessity of using an integrated approach that combines speech-language therapy (SLT), melodic intonation therapy (MIT), constraint-induced aphasia therapy (CIAT), medication treatments, and physical therapy to address the multifaceted impacts of TBM-induced aphasia on a patient's quality of life (QOL).
Factors associated with transitions in tobacco product use states among young adults aged 18-29 years
Factors associated with transitions in tobacco product use states among young adults aged 18-29 years
This study examined young adults' tobacco use transitions based on their past 30-day use states, and identified factors associated with their transitions.
Classification Algorithm to Distinguish Between Type 1 and Type 2 Myocardial Infarction in Administrative Claims Data
Classification Algorithm to Distinguish Between Type 1 and Type 2 Myocardial Infarction in Administrative Claims Data
Type 2 myocardial infarction (T2MI) and type 1 myocardial infarction (T1MI) differ with respect to demographics, comorbidities, treatments, and clinical outcomes. Reliable quality and outcomes assessment depends on the ability to distinguish between T1MI and T2MI in administrative claims data. As such, we aimed to develop a classification algorithm to distinguish between T1MI and T2MI that could be applied to claims data.
Successful xenotransplantation of testicular cells following fractionated chemotherapy of recipient birds
Successful xenotransplantation of testicular cells following fractionated chemotherapy of recipient birds
An essential step in the success of germ cell transplantation is the preparation of the recipient's testicular environment to increase the availability of stem cell niches. However, most methods for this purpose in birds face serious limitations such as partial germ cell depletion, high toxicity and mortality, or the need to use expensive technologies. Here, we validated a simple and practical technique of transferring quail testicular cells into chicken testes depleted of endogenous spermatozoa by fractioned chemotherapy (20 mg/kg/week busulfan for 5 weeks). This protocol resulted in a very low mortality of the treated day-old chicks and, despite maintenance of androgenic activity, sperm production was decreased by 84.3% at 25 weeks of age. NANOG immunostaining revealed that very few to no germ cells were present following treatment with 20 and 40 mg/kg, respectively. RT-qPCR data also showed that c-MYC and NANOG expression declined in these treatments, but GRFα1 and BID expressions remained unaltered among groups. After xenotransplantation, quail germ cells were immunodetected in chicken testes using a species-specific antibody (QCPN), and quail ovalbumin DNA was found in seminal samples collected from chicken recipients. Together, these data confirm that fractionated administration of busulfan in hatchlings is a practical, effective, and safe protocol to prepare recipient male birds capable of supporting xenogeneic spermatogenesis.
Adherence to the National Tobacco-Free School Policy in Selected Schools of Puducherry District in India: A Cross-Sectional Exploratory Study
Adherence to the National Tobacco-Free School Policy in Selected Schools of Puducherry District in India: A Cross-Sectional Exploratory Study
The objective of this study was to estimate the level of compliance and the factors associated with high adherence to the Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI) guidelines of the Government of India among schools in the district of Puducherry, India.
Remote loading in liposome: a review of current strategies and recent developments
Remote loading in liposome: a review of current strategies and recent developments
Liposomes have gained prominence as nanocarriers in drug delivery, and the number of products in the market is increasing steadily, particularly in cancer therapeutics. Remote loading of drugs in liposomes is a significant step in the translation and commercialization of the first liposomal product. Low drug loading and drug leakage from liposomes is a translational hurdle that was effectively circumvented by the remote loading process. Remote loading or active loading could load nearly 100% of the drug, which was not possible with the passive loading procedure. A major drawback of conventional remote loading is that only a very small percentage of the drugs are amenable to this method. Therefore, methods for drug loading are still a problem for several drugs. The loading of multiple drugs in liposomes to improve the efficacy and safety of nanomedicine has gained prominence recently with the introduction of a marketed formulation (Vyxeos) that improves overall survival in acute myeloid leukemia. Different strategies for modifying the remote loading process to overcome the drawbacks of the conventional method are discussed here. The review aims to discuss the latest developments in remote loading technology and its implications in liposomal drug delivery.
Tobacco product litter as a form of postconsumption marketing: an observational study in India
Tobacco product litter as a form of postconsumption marketing: an observational study in India
Tobacco product litter may be a form of postconsumption marketing if the littered items are branded. We conducted an observational study in India to assess the presence of tobacco product litter and determine the proportion that included branding.
[Curriculum "Tracheostomy management in dysphagia therapy"]
[Curriculum "Tracheostomy management in dysphagia therapy"]
The number of tracheotomized patients with dysphagia and their need for treatment are continuously increasing in clinical and community settings. The revised version of the directive on home care and community-based intensive care of the Federal Joint Committee (G-BA) requires that tracheotomized patients are regularly evaluated with the aim of identifying and promoting the therapeutic potential after hospital discharge. Dysphagia treatment plays a crucial role as without improvement of severe dysphagia there is practically no possibility for decannulation. Tracheotomized patients with dysphagia are treated by speech and language therapists (SLT); however, the contents of tracheostomy management (TM) are not obligatory in the speech and language therapeutic training curricula, so that there is a need for further education and treatment standards must be secured. Therefore, the German Interdisciplinary Society for Dysphagia (DGD) in cooperation with the participating German medical and therapeutic societies developed a postgraduate curriculum for TM. This should serve as the basis for contents in TM and qualification of therapists within the framework of the delegation of medical services. The goals of the TM curriculum are the definition of theoretical and practical contents of TM, the qualification to perform TM according to current standards of care and quality assurance. The curriculum defines two qualification levels (user and trainer), entry requirements, curricular contents, examination and qualification criteria as well as transitional regulations for SLTs already experienced in TM.
Survey of the present health & nutritional status of Shompen tribe of Great Nicobar Island
Survey of the present health & nutritional status of Shompen tribe of Great Nicobar Island
Shompens are one of the two mongoloid tribes of Nicobar district. There is little information about their recent health status since the last survey which was conducted in 1998. Hence, a comprehensive health and nutritional survey was conducted in March 2017 to assess the changes. The survey was carried out by a joint team of various organizations including the ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre and Tribal Welfare and Health Department both located in Port Blair.
Evaluation of fluoride levels in areca nut, tobacco, and commercial smokeless tobacco products: a pilot study
Evaluation of fluoride levels in areca nut, tobacco, and commercial smokeless tobacco products: a pilot study
Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a premalignant condition associated with chewing areca nut and tobacco products. We observed increased fluoride levels in some OSMF-endemic regions,and the observation suggested that fluoride exposure may contribute to its pathogenesis. This study aimed to assess the fluoride content of various smokeless tobacco items as a potential influencing source. Fluoride concentration was analysed in commercial areca nut products, including gutkha, pan masala, and raw areca nut, along with tobacco, slaked lime, and catechu samples from Karnataka, India. Fluoride was measured using alkali fusion and the ion selective electrode method. All products showed high fluoride, with catechu having the highest mean concentration at 51.20 mg/kg, followed by tobacco, gutkha, pan masala, processed areca nut, and raw areca nut. Fluoride was also elevated in soil, but not in water. The findings demonstrate substantial fluoride levels in popular types of smokeless tobacco, and highlight an overlooked source of exposure among consumers of gutkha, pan masala and similar oral tobacco-products. The fluoride content warrants an investigation of potential links with the occurrence and severity of OSMF.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of the Indian government's policies to strengthen health warning labels on smokeless tobacco products: findings from the 2010-2019 Tobacco Control Project India Surveys
Evaluation of the effectiveness of the Indian government's policies to strengthen health warning labels on smokeless tobacco products: findings from the 2010-2019 Tobacco Control Project India Surveys
Smokeless tobacco (SLT) packaging in India had a single symbolic (a scorpion) health warning label (HWL) in 2009 covering 40% of the front surface. In 2011, it was replaced with four pictorial images. In 2016, HWLs were enlarged to 85% on the front and back. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the old (symbolic and smaller images) and larger HWLs.
Rural-urban health differences among aging adults in India
Rural-urban health differences among aging adults in India
The aim of this study was to determine the rural-urban health differences among aging adults in India.
An Exploratory Research Comparing Oral Health, Pattern of Substance Abuse and Nicotine Dependence among LGBT, Female Sex Workers and Heterogenders
An Exploratory Research Comparing Oral Health, Pattern of Substance Abuse and Nicotine Dependence among LGBT, Female Sex Workers and Heterogenders
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ), female sex workers (FSW), and heterogenders are those unconventional groups of the society who are identified with major unacceptance. Thus, the present study is conducted to assess and compare the oral health status, substance abuse pattern and nicotine dependence using Fagerstrom nicotine dependence scale (FNDP) among the LGBTQ, FSW, and heterogender in a defined location of Gautam Buddha Nagar, district in West U.P.
Determinants of awareness on pictorial health warnings on tobacco products in an Eastern state of India
Determinants of awareness on pictorial health warnings on tobacco products in an Eastern state of India
Pictorial health warnings (PHW) are an effective strategy to deter or reduce tobacco use. This study was conducted to determine the level of awareness of PHWs on tobacco products and their correlates among adults attending the outpatient department (OPD) of a tertiary care facility in Eastern India.
Smokeless and combustible tobacco use among 148,944 South Asian adults: a cross-sectional study of South Asia Biobank
Smokeless and combustible tobacco use among 148,944 South Asian adults: a cross-sectional study of South Asia Biobank
Tobacco use, in both smoking and smokeless forms, is highly prevalent among South Asian adults. The aims of the study were twofold: (1) describe patterns of SLT and combustible tobacco product use in four South Asian countries stratified by country and sex, and (2) assess the relationships between SLT and smoking intensity, smoking quit attempts, and smoking cessation among South Asian men.
Exploring participatory health research and its application to speech and language therapy research practices
Exploring participatory health research and its application to speech and language therapy research practices
The role of participatory health research (PHR) is increasingly acknowledged by funding bodies, researchers and civil society globally; however, it continues to be under-represented in the speech and language therapy (SLT) research literature. This collaborative research approach is associated with the increased application of research evidence, and the generation of positive impacts in practice, policy, health systems and society.
Health Warnings on Tobacco Packages: A Compliance Assessment Study Around Educational Institutions in Bhubaneswar, India
Health Warnings on Tobacco Packages: A Compliance Assessment Study Around Educational Institutions in Bhubaneswar, India
Background Graphic health warning labels (HWLs) on tobacco product packaging have been identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a cost-effective policy intervention to warn consumers about the health risks of tobacco. Compliance with HWLs shields young individuals from tobacco marketing influences and exposes users to health warnings. Assessing compliance with health warning labels would provide insights into the state of law implementation. The study assessed health warning labels on tobacco packages as per the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (COTPA) (Packaging and Labelling) Amendment Rules of 2020, specifically assessing their availability around educational institutions in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. Materials and methods From August 2022 to January 2023, a protocol was employed to collect information on the sale of tobacco products around educational institutions including packages of cigarettes, beedis, and smokeless tobacco (SLT) from Bhubaneswar City. Using multistage random sampling 18 schools were selected in Bhubaneswar City. Areas within 100 yards (91.44 meters) of each school were mapped using a map tool. All prospective tobacco vendors within 100 yards of each school were included in the study. The data on compliance with HWLs were summarized using descriptive statistics. The health warnings compliance assessment of the tobacco products available with the vendors was conducted using three major indicators, including analysis of the font content, size and element of the graphics, and textual health warnings. In addition, the surface area occupied by these warnings was measured using a calibrated ruler. Results Within 100 yards of 18 schools in Bhubaneswar city, 57 vendors were found selling tobacco. About 48 distinct brands and 791 unbranded tobacco products were identified from 2135 packets collected from 57 vendors. Out of the 48 branded product packets examined, 25 brands were for smoking (cigarettes, bidis), while 23 were for SLT products such as khaini, gutkha, and pan masala containing tobacco. Only six brands out of 17 cigarette packs complied with HWL provisions. None of the eight unique bidi packs and 302 unbranded bidi packs were compliant with any HWL compliance indicators. Other compliance-related issues included incomplete health warning labels, out-of-rotation pictorial health warnings, distorted printing (blurry, heavy tint, and faded), and split warnings. Conclusion Tobacco products were sold within 100 yards of educational institutions in clear violation of the COTPA Section 6 provisions. Furthermore, the tobacco products sold were also not in compliance with the health warning label laws under section 7 of COTPA. There is an urgent need for strict enforcement of the provisions relating to the ban on sale within 100 yards of educational institutions and health warning label rules in Bhubaneshwar.
Validation of Mobile Messages for an mHealth Intervention for Smokeless Tobacco Cessation in India
Validation of Mobile Messages for an mHealth Intervention for Smokeless Tobacco Cessation in India
With the growth in use of mobile messages for behaviour change, the need to incorporate personal needs and cultural characteristics of target users has been promoted. The study aimed to describe the findings of content validation of mobile messages designed to promote smokeless tobacco cessation in primary care.
Tobacco Imagery in Indian Over-the-Top (OTT) Media and its Compliance with existing Tobacco Laws: A Content Analysis
Tobacco Imagery in Indian Over-the-Top (OTT) Media and its Compliance with existing Tobacco Laws: A Content Analysis
Over-the-Top (OTT) media are internet-based content delivery systems offering media services to the viewers bypassing the traditional broadcasting platforms. The OTT media, with limited regulatory oversight, can serve as a source of exposure to tobacco-promoting content. This study analyzed the depiction of tobacco imagery in Indian OTT programmes and assessed their compliance with existing Indian tobacco control policies.
Smokeless Tobacco Use and Its Association with Type 2 Diabetes: A Case Control Study
Smokeless Tobacco Use and Its Association with Type 2 Diabetes: A Case Control Study
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. Its incidence is increasing globally, with a significant impact on public health. Smokeless tobacco (SLT) is a form of tobacco consumption that has been associated with various health risks, including potential effects on glucose homeostasis. This case-control study aimed to investigate the association between SLT use and T2DM. Additionally, the study aimed to assess the relationship of age, gender, socioeconomic status (SES), body mass index (BMI), family history of diabetes, physical activity, and periodontal status with T2DM participants.
Qualitative Analysis of Opinions and Beliefs Associated with the Use of Tobacco Dentifrice among Individuals Attending a Tobacco Counselling Session
Qualitative Analysis of Opinions and Beliefs Associated with the Use of Tobacco Dentifrice among Individuals Attending a Tobacco Counselling Session
Smokeless tobacco (SLT) use is positively associated with oral, oesophageal, and pancreatic cancers. The tobacco dentifrice is a type of SLT which is applied to the teeth and gums. It is available in different forms which include mishri, gul/gulmanjan, gudhaku, snuff, red tooth powder, and creamy snuff. This qualitative study aims to explore the opinions and beliefs associated with the harmful effects of tobacco dentifrice use.
Characterization of physiochemical parameters & their effect on microbial content of smokeless tobacco products marketed in north India
Characterization of physiochemical parameters & their effect on microbial content of smokeless tobacco products marketed in north India
Smokeless tobacco (SLT) product consumption has profound public health implications for its users. The p H and moisture of SLTs determine the bioavailability of nicotine, the microbial structure dynamics and the amount of microbial conversion of tobacco alkaloids to carcinogenic tobacco-specific nitrosamines. This study aimed to characterize and compare the p H, moisture and alkaloid content of various SLT products.
Tobacco exposure among antenatal women in India: Challenges in tobacco screening & cessation counselling
Tobacco exposure among antenatal women in India: Challenges in tobacco screening & cessation counselling
Links between tobacco use and poor pregnancy outcomes are well established. Despite various tobacco control measures taken by the government, nearly 5-8 per cent of pregnant women consume tobacco in India. Antenatal check-ups are an opportunity to assess and assist women in quitting tobacco during pregnancy. This review highlights the challenges faced in identifying pregnant tobacco users and providing cessation counselling to them in a formal healthcare setup in the Indian context. For this narrative review, open access databases like PubMed and Google Scholar were searched, using the following search terms: challenges, quitting tobacco use, smokeless tobacco, pregnancy and India. Original articles published between 2010 and July 2022 were included in the English language with available free full text. Out of the thirty articles found to be eligible, seven were included in the review. Official websites of the National Health Mission and National Tobacco Control Programme were also searched to retrieve available data on health education and training material for healthcare workers: medical officers, Auxiliary Nurse and Midwives (ANMs), Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and list of tobacco cessation centres. This review identified the factors such as myths surrounding tobacco use, lack of targeted screening, inadequate training of healthcare workers and inaccessibility of cessation services, which are posing as challenges in controlling tobacco use in this vulnerable section of the population. Specific strategies to address these issues at the micro, meso and macro levels can prove to be vital in controlling tobacco use in pregnant women. This review also identified the vital role of gynaecologists and healthcare workers such as ANMs and ASHA in identifying and providing brief tobacco cessation counselling to pregnant users.
Comparative Analysis of Dentition and Periodontal Status in Patients With Unilateral Smokeless Tobacco Pouch Keratosis
Comparative Analysis of Dentition and Periodontal Status in Patients With Unilateral Smokeless Tobacco Pouch Keratosis
The consumption of smokeless tobacco (SLT) and related products has become an epidemic worldwide, especially among young people, as they come into direct contact with the tissues of the oral cavity. Therefore, the present cross-sectional study was conducted to compare the status of dentition and periodontal health of teeth associated with the unilateral SLT pouch keratosis with the unaffected contralateral side.
Smoked tobacco dependence and its correlates among participants attending life skills training and counselling services programme across Karnataka (2017-2022)
Smoked tobacco dependence and its correlates among participants attending life skills training and counselling services programme across Karnataka (2017-2022)
Indian National Mental Health Survey reports an alarming prevalence of 20.9% for tobacco dependence in India. Dependence on smoked tobacco can be prevented by thorough knowledge of the risk factors associated with it.
Behavioural interventions for tobacco cessation in India: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Behavioural interventions for tobacco cessation in India: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Tobacco consumption is an area of public health concern in India. One of the unmet needs of many low-resource countries is to provide cost-effective tobacco cessation interventions for reducing tobacco-related mortality. This article reviews studies on non-pharmacological interventions for tobacco cessation in India. A systematic review by PICO (population, intervention, comparison, outcome) of behavioural intervention-based tobacco cessation studies that met the inclusion criteria, with a minimum 1-month follow-up, reporting outcomes in terms of frequencies or percentages published between 2010 and 2020 was performed. Following the review stages, 16 studies comprising 9,613 participants were included in the review. A pooled estimate was derived using both fixed-effects and random-effects models. The intervention showed good overall efficacy for any tobacco user (relative risk [RR] = 1.73 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.58-1.90) (fixed-effect model)] and (RR = 2.02 [95% CI: 1.64-2.48] [random-effects model]). Behavioural intervention studies targeted towards only smokers (RR of 1.81 [95% CI: 1.55-2.11] and 1.96 [95% CI: 1.52-2.53]) and combined smoking and smokeless tobacco users (RR of 1.69 [95% CI: 1.50-1.90] and 2.12 [95% CI: 1.49-3.01]) were equally efficacious. The review provides the effectiveness of behavioural interventions in quitting tobacco among users of both smoking and smokeless forms of tobacco. The review findings are of particular significance to inform health policy decisions on the integration of cost-effective brief behavioural intervention into existing health care services in resource-constrained countries.
Oral health and nicotine dependence in tobacco users visiting a Dental Institution in North India
Oral health and nicotine dependence in tobacco users visiting a Dental Institution in North India
The cross-sectional study was intended to evaluate the oral health and nicotine dependence among tobacco users.
Oxidant and antioxidant status among tobacco users: A cross-sectional study
Oxidant and antioxidant status among tobacco users: A cross-sectional study
Smokeless and smoking tobacco use results in increased oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, which play a major role in the causation of cancer in tobacco habituates. Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a product of lipid peroxidation, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), the main enzymes in the antioxidant defense system, are assessed among tobacco users. This study gave insight into the relationship between tobacco use, oxidative stress, and antioxidant enzyme activity.
Comparative evaluation of GSH, total protein and albumin levels in patients using smokeless tobacco with oral precancerous and cancerous lesions
Comparative evaluation of GSH, total protein and albumin levels in patients using smokeless tobacco with oral precancerous and cancerous lesions
Smokeless tobacco (SLT) causes the excessive production of reactive oxygen species, leading to oxidative damage and carcinogenesis. The present study aimed to evaluate the levels of biomarkers, such as glutathione (GSH) in the blood, as well as serum albumin and total protein levels in SLT users with oral precancerous and cancerous lesions. A cross-sectional, prospective study was conducted on 240 patients aged 30-60 years, divided into four groups with 60 patients in each group as follows: Group 1, control group, non-tobacco users; group 2, 60 subjects with a history of SLT use and no oral lesions; group 3, SLT users with precancerous oral lesions; and group 4, SLT users with cancerous lesions. GSH levels in the blood, serum albumin levels and total protein levels were evaluated in all groups. ANOVA and Tukey's test post hoc were used to compare the levels of the biomarkers in all groups. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the reliability of the biomarkers, and regression analysis was used to determine the associations between the variables. The use of SLT was predominantly observed in males. The mean GSH and serum albumin levels were lowest in group 4 and highest in the control group (P<0.001). The total serum protein levels were higher in group 4 than in group 3. On the whole, as demonstrated herein, GSH and serum albumin were reliable biomarkers, whereas total protein was a weak biomarker. GSH and serum albumin levels may thus be efficiently used for the early diagnosis and prognosis of oral malignancies in SLT users.
Tobacco use in people with severe mental illness: Findings from a multi-country survey of mental health institutions in South Asia
Tobacco use in people with severe mental illness: Findings from a multi-country survey of mental health institutions in South Asia
People with severe mental illness (SMI) tend to die early due to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, which may be linked to tobacco use. There is limited information on tobacco use in people with SMI in low- and middle-income countries where most tobacco users reside. We present novel data on tobacco use in people with SMI and their access to tobacco cessation advice in South Asia.
Nicotine mediated epithelial modulations: An evidence
Nicotine mediated epithelial modulations: An evidence
Nicotine, the main ingredient in tobacco, acts as a key alkaloid of nearly all tobacco products and has been demonstrated to facilitate tumorigenesis and accelerate metastasis. Further traditional tobacco products have shown to give systemic oral effects such as vasoconstriction, inflammation, and delayed wound healing, however; none of the reports have confirmed the significant knowledge of oral sequel of the effect of nicotine on oral epithelial cells. So, the current study aimed to investigate the effect of nicotine on epithelial transformation to a malignant state.
Production of natural flavor compounds using fermented soybean meal extract and their biological potential: a comprehensive study
Production of natural flavor compounds using fermented soybean meal extract and their biological potential: a comprehensive study
This study aims to investigate the production of natural flavor compounds through the utilization of -fermented soybean meal extract and evaluate their biological potential. The experiment involved a comprehensive investigation to assess the capabilities and effects of the produced flavor compounds. The resulting flavor compounds were subjected to various tests to assess their properties, including cytotoxicity, antioxidant activity, anticancer potential, antiviral activity, and antimicrobial activity. To enhance the fermentation process, soybean meal extract was fortified with a combination of L-Lysine and L-Threonine. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis was conducted on the fermented soybean meal using two strains of , namely and . This analysis revealed the presence of various volatile compounds in all extracts, including Butylated hydroxytoluene. The fermented soybean extract with NRCZ144 (B2) fortified with a combination of 2.5% (w/w) L-Lysine and 2.5% w/w L-threonine (SLT2) exhibited a rich profile of flavor compounds, with Eucalyptol being identified as the predominant compound. The antioxidant activity of the SLT extract was found to be 72.04% at a concentration of 100 μg/mL, indicating significant antioxidant potential. Furthermore, when tested against the human liver cancer cell line HepG2, the extract demonstrated anticancer activity with an IC50 value of 2.26 μg/mL. The extract exhibited potent cytotoxicity, with an IC50 value of 1.02 μg/mL. Importantly, the SLT extract displayed strong antibacterial and antifungal activity, even at very low concentrations. The extract's antimicrobial properties indicate its potential for inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine/Therapy for Tobacco Cessation in India: A Secondary Analysis of GATS-1 and 2
Complementary and Alternative Medicine/Therapy for Tobacco Cessation in India: A Secondary Analysis of GATS-1 and 2
India has nearly 267 million adult tobacco users, with a slowly improving quitting rate. Among the many approaches to quitting the habit, such as counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, nicotine patch or gum, and prescribed allopathic medicines. Complementary and alternative medicine/therapy (CAM), a thousand-year-old practice in India, may also prove to be a potential method in tobacco cessation; however, there is scarce literature on the extent of use of CAM among tobacco users who attempt to quit the habit. Therefore, this study attempts to examine the potential of CAM as a strategy for tobacco control in India.