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Prior research indicates bisexual individuals have higher smoking and vaping rates and heightened vulnerability to negative health outcomes. Thus, we compared adult bisexual (n = 294) and heterosexual (n = 2412) participants enrolled in a smoking cessation trial on baseline smoking and vaping use behaviors, motivations, and expectancies/beliefs as well as follow-up smoking and vaping status. This is a secondary analysis of a large randomized controlled trial testing a smoking cessation intervention for dual users of combustible and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) in the United States. Self-reported 7-day point prevalence smoking and vaping abstinence were collected at 3-, 12-, and 24-month assessments. Bisexual and heterosexual participants did not differ in sociodemographic variables or baseline smoking and vaping history and behavior. We found significant differences among bisexual and heterosexual individuals in smoking and vaping beliefs/expectancies. Specifically, bisexual participants expressed overall greater positive expectancies regarding smoking and vaping, such as smoking and vaping to reduce negative affect and stress. There were no differences in smoking at any follow-up assessment. Only at 3 months were bisexual individuals more likely to be abstinent from vaping and less likely to be dual users than heterosexual individuals. Despite similar smoking and vaping status over time, bisexual individuals reported greater positive expectancies regarding smoking and vaping. Our findings revealed few targets for tailoring cessation interventions to bisexual individuals; thus, it is possible that there may be greater utility in targeting the disparities in prevalence (i.e., via prevention efforts). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other organizations have produced and disseminated public health campaigns designed to deter youth from vaping. Yet it is unknown how these campaigns affect adult smokers exposed to these messages with respect to their perceptions of e-cigarettes and their motivation to use these products to reduce or quit smoking. Aims and Methods A controlled experimental design was used to investigate the effects of an FDA-distributed youth-targeted anti-vaping public service announcement (PSA), "Vaping is an Epidemic," upon adult smokers. We randomized 161 daily smokers to view either the FDA PSA or a matched video absent of e-cigarette content, and we hypothesized that the PSA would impact variables related to harm reduction usage of e-cigarettes, including cognitive expectancies, perceived harm, smoking cessation effectiveness, and reported likelihood of switching from smoking to vaping. Results The PSA produced increases in both health risk and potency expectancies. Viewing the PSA compared to the control video resulted in overall more negative expectancies about e-cigarettes and all other variables related to harm reduction usage. Those who viewed the PSA rated e-cigarettes as more harmful (p  < .001) and less effective for smoking cessation (p  < .01), and they reported lower switching motivation (p  < .001). Conclusions Findings indicated that adult smokers who viewed the PSA were less likely to consider e-cigarettes for smoking cessation, thus reducing acceptance of a potential cessation aid with growing empirical support. Sensationalized youth-oriented anti-vaping messages may have unintended public health consequences upon adult audiences. Implications This study is the first controlled experiment examining the effects of youth-oriented anti-vaping PSAs upon adult smokers' cognitive expectancies and beliefs about e-cigarettes. Exposure to the PSA resulted in overall more negative expectancies about e-cigarettes, as well as increased perceived harmfulness and reduced effectiveness of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation. Findings showed that these PSAs could deter adult smokers from the utilization of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation or harm reduction strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To identify subpopulations of dual users of combustible and electronic cigarettes using current smoking and vaping behaviors. Design: Secondary analysis of baseline data from a randomized controlled trial testing a smoking cessation intervention for dual users. Finite mixture modeling of frequency, quantity, and dependence on combustible and electronic cigarettes was used to identify classes. Demographics and additional smoking and vaping variables were used to further characterize the classes. Setting: United States. Participants: A total of 2896 adults who smoked weekly for the past year and vaped weekly for the past month. Measurements Self‐report baseline measures assessed demographics and smoking and vaping behaviors and characteristics including days of use per week, frequency of use within a day, time to first use after waking, urges to smoke, smoking cessation motivation, self‐efficacy to abstain from smoking, months since vaping initiation, reasons for initiating and maintaining vaping, and future plans to stop vaping. Findings Eight probabilistic classes were identified and well‐defined (relative entropy = 0.95, Lo–Mendell–Rubin adjusted likelihood ratio test P < 0.0001; class probabilities 0.89–0.97). In general, classes crossed two levels of smoking with four levels of vaping. The largest class (31%) had relatively high levels of smoking (72% daily, 56% 11+ cigarettes per day [CPD], 96% within 30 minutes of waking) and vaping (74% daily, 100% 20+ electronic‐CPD, 74% <30 minutes). The next largest class (27%) had relatively high levels of vaping (93% daily, 100% 20+ electronic‐CPD, 82% <30 minutes) and very low levels of smoking (28% daily, 12% 11+ CPD, 0% <30 minutes). The six smaller classes (3%–13%) also had distinct smoking and vaping behaviors. All eight classes exhibited distinguishing characteristics beyond current smoking and vaping behaviors. Conclusions: Dual users of combustible and electronic cigarettes are not a homogeneous population, having eight well‐defined prospective subpopulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Although some smokers switch to exclusive use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), others become dual users of combustible cigarettes and e-cigarettes. Little is known about how the onset of vaping affects the use of and dependence on combustible cigarettes or total nicotine use and dependence, which may influence health-related and cessation outcomes. Using self-report data of current combustible and e-cigarette use and retrospective recall of pre-vaping smoking in a sample of dual users, the aims of this study were (1) to compare pre- and post-vaping number of cigarettes per day and combustible cigarette dependence; (2) to compare pre- and post-vaping total nicotine use frequency (number of vaping sessions and cigarettes smoked per day), and total nicotine dependence; and (3) to examine predictors of nicotine dependence.Methods: We used baseline data from a smoking cessation trial with 2896 dual users. Nicotine use frequency and the Heaviness of Smoking Index were used as measures of nicotine use and dependence, respectively.Results: Participants decreased cigarettes/day from pre- (M = 19.24, SD = 9.01) to post-vaping (M = 11.15, SD = 8.02, p < .0001) and combustible cigarette dependence declined from pre- (M = 3.55, SD = 1.51) to post-vaping (M = 2.11, SD = 1.60, p < .0001). Total daily nicotine use frequency increased after initiating vaping (M = 19.25, SD = 9.01 vs. M = 29.46, SD = 8.61; p < .0001), as did total nicotine dependence (M = 3.55, SD = 1.51 vs. M = 4.68, SD = 1.38; p < .0001). Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that variables associated with greater overall nicotine dependence included: younger age, lower education, more years smoking, higher pre-vaping nicotine dependence, using e-cigarettes more days per month, more puffs per vaping session, higher e-liquid nicotine concentration, and longer vaping history.Conclusions: Dual use leads to a reduction in the number of combustible cigarettes, but total nicotine use and dependence increases.Implications: In dual users, a reduction in smoking following onset of vaping may offer some harm reduction via reduction in cigarette intake. However, the increase in total nicotine use and dependence could affect the ability to quit either or both products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Electronic (e-)cigarette use has increased in popularity, especially among those attempting to quit smoking. Previous studies evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of e-cigarettes have suggested that non-pharmacologic factors, such as expectancies about nicotine effects, may influence the experienced effects of e-cigarettes.Method: The independent and synergistic influences of drug and expectancies were parsed using a balanced-placebo design, whereby 128 participants (52 dual users) were provided an e-cigarette that either contained nicotine or non-nicotine solution, while told that it did or did not contain nicotine. We hypothesized main effects of nicotine content on physiological, objective outcomes (attention, appetite, aversion, respiratory tract sensations), and main effects of the instructions on more subjective, psychosocial outcomes (affect, reward, satisfaction). Sex was included as a moderator.Results: Results showed that nicotine increased sustained attention, and more so among females. Nicotine delivery was associated with aversion among females, but not males. Among those who were both told and did not receive nicotine, higher enjoyment of respiratory tract sensations was reported. Nicotine with complementary instructions produced the highest reward ratings; additionally, nicotine was rewarding to males but not females.Discussion: Findings demonstrated that both nicotine content and non-pharmacologic factors impact acute outcome effects of e-cigarettes, with moderation by sex in some cases. Results are relevant to the interpretation of clinical trials of e-cigarettes and suggest a more nuanced view of reinforcement pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Most e‐cigarette users who also smoke combustible cigarettes (dual users) begin vaping to quit smoking, yet only a subset succeeds. We hypothesized that reinforcing characteristics of e‐cigarettes (vaping reinforcement) would positively predict smoking cessation propensity (SCP) among dual users. Design Secondary analysis of cross‐sectional baseline data from dual users in an ongoing smoking cessation trial. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA and CFA) created latent variables for vaping reinforcement and SCP. A structural equation modeling (SEM) approach was used to test the hypothesis. Setting: United States. Participants: A national sample of dual users of combustible and electronic cigarettes who smoke and vape at least once per week (n = 2896) were enrolled (63% male; mean age = 29.9 years) into a randomized controlled trial in which they would receive either smoking cessation materials or no smoking cessation materials. Measurements Vaping reinforcement was indexed by vaping frequency (days/week vaping, times/day vaping, puffs/e‐cigarette use), e‐cigarette characteristics [numbers of modifications and tobacco or non‐tobacco flavors, nicotine content (mg) and positive e‐cigarette expectancies]. SCP was measured by items of confidence, commitment to being smoke‐free, cessation motivation (contemplation ladder), change in cigarettes per day since beginning e‐cigarette use and negative smoking expectancies. Findings Four factors emerged from the EFA: vaping propensity (vaping frequency, positive expectancies), vaping enthusiasm (e‐cigarette modifications, using non‐tobacco flavors, puffs per use), nicotine/tobacco flavor (nicotine strength, tobacco flavors) and SCP (negative expectancies about smoking, motivation to quit smoking, reduction in smoking). A CFA upheld the exploratory factor structure [root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.046, CFI = 0.91]. An SEM with the three vaping latent variables directly predicting SCP had good model fit (RMSEA = 0.030, CFI = 0.97) with a positive relationship of vaping propensity (0.509, P < 0.001), and small negative relationships of vaping enthusiasm (−0.158, P = 0.014) and nicotine/tobacco flavor (−0.230, P < 0.001). Conclusions: Among e‐cigarette users who also smoke combustible cigarettes, frequent vaping combined with positive e‐cigarette expectancies appears to predict greater smoking cessation propensity. However, vaping enthusiasm (measured by e‐cigarette modifications, using non‐tobacco flavors and puffs per use), higher nicotine content and use of tobacco flavored solution may reduce cessation propensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electronic cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco products by young adults. Measures of beliefs about outcomes of use (i.e., expectancies) can be helpful in predicting use, as well as informing and evaluating interventions to impact use. We surveyed young adult students (N = 2296, Mean age= 20.0, SD=1.8, 64 % female, 34 % White) from a community college, a historically black university, and a state university. Students answered ENDS expectancy items derived from focus groups and expert panel refinement using Delphi methods. Factor Analysis and Item Response Theory (IRT) methods were used to understand relevant factors and identify useful items. A 5-factor solution [Positive Reinforcement (consists of Stimulation, Sensorimotor, and Taste subthemes, α =.92), Negative Consequences (Health Risks and Stigma, α =.94), Negative Affect Reduction (α =.95), Weight Control (α =.92), and Addiction (α =.87)] fit the data well (CFI=0.95; TLI=0.94; RMSEA=0.05) and was invariant across subgroups. Factors were significantly correlated with relevant vaping measures, including vaping susceptibility and lifetime vaping. Hierarchical linear regression demonstrated factors were significant predictors of lifetime vaping after controlling for demographics, vaping ad exposure, and peer/family vaping. IRT analyses indicated that individual items tended to be related to their underlying constructs (a parameters ranged from 1.26 to 3.18) and covered a relatively wide range of the expectancies continuum (b parameters ranged from −0.72 to 2.47). A novel ENDS expectancy measure appears to be a reliable measure for young adults with promising results in the domains of concurrent validity, incremental validity, and IRT characteristics. This tool may be helpful in predicting use and informing future interventions. Findings provide support for the future development of computerized adaptive testing of vaping beliefs. Expectancies appear to play a role in vaping similar to smoking and other substance use. Public health messaging should target expectancies to modify young adult vaping behavior. • Young adult students from a community college, a historically black university, and a state university answered items assessing e-cigarette vaping beliefs. • Exploratory factor analysis revealed a 5-factor solution fit the data well and was invariant across subgroups. • Beliefs about outcomes ("expectancies") of vaping e-cigarettes can be assessed using the Electronic Nicotine Vaping Outcomes (ENVO) questionnaire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Smoking tobacco cigarettes after a cancer diagnosis increases risk for several serious adverse outcomes. Thus, patients can significantly benefit from quitting smoking. Electronic cigarettes are an increasingly popular cessation method. Providers routinely ask about combustible cigarette use, yet little is known about use and communication surrounding e-cigarettes among patients with cancer. This study aims to describe patterns, beliefs, and communication with oncology providers about e-cigarette use of patients with cancer.Methods: Patients with cancer (N = 121) who currently used e-cigarettes were surveyed in a cross-sectional study about their patterns and reasons for use, beliefs, and perceptions of risk for e-cigarettes, combustible cigarettes, and nicotine replacement therapies. Patient perspectives on provider communication regarding e-cigarettes were also assessed.Results: Most participants identified smoking cessation as the reason for initiating (81%) and continuing (60%) e-cigarette use. However, 51% of patients reported current dual use of combustible cigarettes and e-cigarettes, and most patients reported never having discussed their use of e-cigarettes with their oncology provider (72%). Patients characterized e-cigarettes as less addictive, less expensive, less stigmatizing, and less likely to impact cancer treatment than combustible cigarettes (Ps < .05), and more satisfying, more useful for quitting smoking, and more effective at reducing cancer-related stress than nicotine replacement therapies (Ps < .05).Conclusions: Patients with cancer who use e-cigarettes have positive attitudes toward these devices and use them to aid in smoking cessation. This study also highlights the need for improved patient-provider communication on the safety and efficacy of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Although electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are frequently initiated for smoking cessation, results from the first two clinical trials testing this suggest that the perceived benefits of vaping may be influenced by non-nicotine factors, including cognitive outcome expectancies. The current study investigated the separate and combined effects of nicotine delivery and outcome expectancies on cravings for cigarettes and e-cigarettes using a balanced-placebo experiment. Method: Drug dosage (contains nicotine or not) was crossed with instructional set (told nicotine or non-nicotine) during ad lib e-cigarette use sessions by 128 current e-cigarette users (52 identifying as current cigarette smokers or "dual users"). It was hypothesized that reduction in craving for both cigarettes and e-cigarettes following e-cigarette administration would be driven primarily by the instructional set manipulation, reflecting the influence of outcome expectancies. Results: As hypothesized, among dual users, a main effect of instructional set emerged on reductions in craving to smoke cigarettes, with participants who were told that their e-cigarette contained nicotine reporting greater craving reduction (p = .046). With respect to reduced cravings for e-cigarettes, we found an interaction between drug dose and instructional set (p = .02) such that nicotine e-cigarettes reduced cravings more than non-nicotine e-cigarettes only among participants told to expect nicotine. Conclusions: Findings suggest that cognitive expectancies contribute to the acute effects of e-cigarettes on craving, which may provide guidance for their potential as smoking cessation aids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundThere has been an exponential increase in the prevalence of e-cigarette use, particularly among youth. However, adult use is also rising, and there have been relatively few qualitative studies with adult users to understand their reasons for use and future use intentions. Such information is needed to inform both prevention and cessation approaches.MethodThirty-one e-cigarette users participated in one of several focus groups assessing the appeal of e-cigarettes as well as comparisons to combustible cigarettes and approved smoking cessation aids. We also obtained perspectives on future use intentions and interest in e-cigarette cessation interventions. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed using the constant comparative method.ResultsParticipants reported several aspects of e-cigarette appeal as compared to approved cessation treatment options. These included similarities to combustible cigarettes, fewer side effects, and control of e-cigarettes to suit personal preferences. Participants were split on whether they preferred flavors that mimicked or contrasted with their combustible cigarettes (i.e. tobacco vs. alternative flavors, such as candy). Some participants who were unmotivated to quit smoking reported an unanticipated disinterest in continuing use of combustible cigarettes shortly after initiating e-cigarettes. Despite strong interest in reducing nicotine dosage, the majority did not intend to fully discontinue e-cigarettes.ConclusionsUnderstanding e-cigarette users’ perspectives can inform policy and treatment development. Regulatory and policy initiatives will need to balance the appealing characteristics of e-cigarettes with the potential for negative public health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims Many smokers who have tried electronic cigarettes ('e-cigarettes') continue to smoke, perhaps influenced by their beliefs about the outcomes of using e-cigarettes ('e-cigarette expectancies'). The primary aims of this study were to compare expectancies of dual users to former smokers, and to examine the association between expectancies and intentions to quit or reduce 'vaping' among former smokers. Design and Setting A large cross-sectional online survey of e-cigarette users conducted in the United States. Participants We surveyed current e-cigarette users ( n = 1815), including both current cigarette smokers ('dual users', n = 381) and former smokers ( n = 1434). We further subdivided former smokers into those with ( n = 686) and without ( n = 748) intentions to reduce or quit e-cigarette use. Measurements The primary outcomes were self-reported past-month smoking status and, among former smokers, current intentions to reduce or quit e-cigarette use, both adjusted for potential confounders. E-cigarette expectancy items were derived primarily from a previously validated measure of smoking expectancies. Findings Dual users reported less positive expectancies than former smokers about e-cigarettes, rating e-cigarettes as more physically irritating (β = 0.10, P < 0.001) and addictive (β = 0.06, P = 0.016), as well as less satisfying (β = -0.11, P < 0.001). Former smokers with intentions to quit e-cigarettes also rated e-cigarettes less positively than former smokers without intentions to quit e-cigarettes, rating them more likely to damage health (β = 0.16, P < 0.001) and cause addiction (β = 0.10, P < 0.001), but less likely to taste good (β = -0.08, P = 0.006). Conclusions Positive e-cigarette expectancies among e-cigarette users are associated with a greater likelihood of having quit smoking, but lower likelihood of intention to quit e-cigarette use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Use of e-cigarettes has been increasing exponentially, with the primary motivation reported as smoking cessation. To understand why smokers choose e-cigarettes as an alternative to cigarettes, as well as to US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–approved nicotine replacement therapies (NRT), we compared outcome expectancies (beliefs about the results of drug use) for the three nicotine delivery systems among vapers, i.e., e-cigarette users, who were former smokers. Methods: Vapers (N = 1,434) completed an online survey assessing 14 expectancy domains as well as perceived cost and convenience. We focused on comparisons between e-cigarettes and cigarettes to determine the attraction of e-cigarettes as a smoking alternative and between e-cigarettes and NRT to determine perceived advantages of e-cigarettes over FDA-approved pharmacotherapy. Results: Participants believed that e-cigarettes, in comparison to conventional cigarettes, had fewer health risks; caused less craving, withdrawal, addiction, and negative physical feelings; tasted better; and were more satisfying. In contrast, conventional cigarettes were perceived as better than e-cigarettes for reducing negative affect, controlling weight, providing stimulation, and reducing stress. E-cigarettes, compared to NRT, were perceived to be less risky, cost less, cause fewer negative physical feelings, taste better, provide more satisfaction, and be better at reducing craving, negative affect, and stress. Moderator analyses indicated history with ad libitum forms of NRT was associated with less positive NRT expectancies. Conclusions: The degree to which expectancies for e-cigarettes differed from expectancies for either tobacco cigarettes or NRT offers insight into the motivation of e-cigarette users and provides guidance for public health and clinical interventions to encourage smoking-related behavior change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: "Expectancies," or beliefs about outcomes, robustly correlate with and predict several behaviors including electronic nicotine delivery system ("e-cigarette") use. However, there is limited qualitative research available regarding relevant e-cigarette vaping expectancies. Objectives: The present study used a qualitative approach to derive and refine e-cigarette expectancy themes among young adults. Methods: We conducted 12 focus groups and two individual interviews with young adult nonusers, e-cigarette vapers, cigarette smokers, and dual users to assess beliefs about the effects of e-cigarettes. After a series of open-ended questions, follow-up questions assessed reactions to domains previously examined in expectancy measures for cigarette smoking and e-cigarette vaping. The constant comparative method was used to derive themes from transcripts. Results: Four main themes (Positive Reinforcement, Social Benefits, Negative Affect Reduction, Negative Consequences) emerged from the results. Each theme contained three associated subthemes (Positive Reinforcement : Sensorimotor Experiences, Taste, Stimulation; Social Benefits : Social Facilitation, Influence on Others, Convenience; Negative Affect Reduction : Stress Reduction, Appetite Reduction, Boredom Reduction; and Negative Consequences : Health Risks, Addiction, Secondhand Effects). Conclusions/importance: Previously identified smoking expectancies appear relevant for young adult vaping, with some notable refinements. Positive reinforcement aspects encompassed aerosol clouds, vaping tricks, and unique flavors. Social benefits included influencing others via social media and competitive activity, as well as the convenience of use in a variety of places. Negative affect reduction was controversial among user groups, but vaping was seen as more interesting than smoking and thus more effective at boredom reduction. Young adults were uncertain regarding negative consequences, but appreciated a potential for secondhand effects. Measure refinement via qualitative research and future field testing can enhance our understanding of this relatively new behavior, supporting tobacco control surveillance, marketing/labeling regulations, and counter-advertising development/evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: When considering the clinical efficacy of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation, non-pharmacologic influences, such as conditioned reinforcers (e.g. sensorimotor stimuli), must be considered in addition to nicotine. The present study parsed the influences of nicotine delivery and sensorimotor stimuli (i.e, similarity to smoking) on cravings and other immediate outcomes of e-cigarette use.Method: Participants (N = 127 dual users) completed an experimental ad-lib vaping session in one of 4 conditions: Drug (open label nicotine vs non-nicotine e-cigarettes) crossed with delivery apparatus (normal e-cigarette vs altered sensorimotor apparatus). It was hypothesized that participants who were deprived of the usual vaping stimuli would report less craving reduction via vaping. Nicotine was hypothesized to enhance physiological outcomes.Results: Moderate effects emerged for nicotine, whereas smaller effects were observed for the sensorimotor manipulation upon both cravings to smoke and cravings to vape. Contrary to the hypothesis, participants who vaped using the altered sensorimotor apparatus reported greater craving reduction compared to those who used normal e-cigarettes. Nicotine delivery also had moderate effects on psychological reward. Main effects were not moderated by gender, withdrawal, or dependence.Conclusions: Findings support the role of nicotine in reducing cravings via vaping. They also suggest that sensorimotor similarities to smoking may be less important among experienced vapers or dual users. Indeed, in this sample, the altered sensorimotor apparatus may have reduced craving via distraction or other mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems, also called electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes, have been available for over a decade and use has been increasing dramatically. The primary reported reasons for use are to aid smoking cessation or reduction, yet a significant proportion appear to be long-term users of both products (“dual users”). Dual users may be motivated to quit smoking and might benefit from a behavioral intervention for smoking cessation. This paper describes the intervention development, as well as the design, methods, and data analysis plans for an ongoing randomized controlled trial (RCT). Formative research and learner verification were conducted to create a usable, understandable, and acceptable self-help intervention targeting dual users. The efficacy is being tested in an RCT with current dual users ( N = 2900) recruited nationally and randomized to one of three conditions. The Assessment Only (ASSESS) group only completes assessments. The Generic Self-Help (GENERIC) group receives non-targeted smoking cessation booklets and supplemental materials sent monthly over 18 months. The e-cigarette Targeted Self-Help (eTARGET) group receives the newly developed intervention (targeted booklets and supplemental materials) sent over the same period. All participants complete self-report surveys every 3 months over 2 years. The primary study outcome is self-reported 7-day point prevalence abstinence. Cost-effectiveness metrics for the GENERIC and eTARGET interventions will also be calculated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The emergence of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS, or "e-cigarettes") has resulted in nicotine and tobacco scientists committing increased resources to studying these products. Despite this surge of research on various topics related to e-cigarettes, it is important to characterize the evolving e-cigarette research landscape as a way to identify important future research directions. The purpose of this review was to broadly categorize published scholarly work on e-cigarettes using a structured, multi-level coding scheme.Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted to collect articles on e-cigarettes that were published in peer-reviewed journals from 2006 through 2014. Studies were classified through 3 coding waves. Articles were first divided into research reports, literature reviews and opinions/editorials. Research reports were further categorized to determine the proportion of these studies using human participants. Finally, human studies were classified based on their methodologies: descriptive, predictive, explanatory, and intervention.Results: Research reports (n=224) and opinions/editorials (n=248) were published at similar rates during this time period. All types of articles showed exponential rates of increase in more recent years. 76.4% of human research studies were descriptive in nature, with very little research employing experimental (6.8%) or intervention-based methodologies (5.4%).Conclusions: This review reinforces the idea that e-cigarettes are a disruptive technology exerting substantial influence on nicotine and tobacco science. This review also suggests that opinions on e-cigarettes may be outpacing our scientific understanding of these devices. Our findings highlight the need for more e-cigarette research involving experimental, intervention, and longitudinal designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Given the rapid increase in e-cigarette use, it is important to understand factors that may contribute to their initiation and maintenance. Because gender differences in tobacco use, product preferences, and expectancies are well established, similar gender differences may exist with e-cigarettes. The aim of this study was to identify gender differences among e-cigarette users in patterns of use, reasons for initiation and maintenance, and outcome expectancies regarding e-cigarettes. Methods: Participants (N=1815) completed an online survey from August through November, 2013. We assessed sociodemographics, smoking and e-cigarette history and use, and expectancies about e-cigarettes. Results: We found gender differences in type of e-cigarette used, flavors used, nicotine dosage, source of information about e-cigarettes, place of purchase, and use of e-cigarettes where smoking is prohibited. In addition, males were more likely to report initiating e-cigarette use to quit smoking due to health concerns, whereas females were more likely to report initiation based on recommendations from family and friends. Males reported higher attributions for maintenance of e-cigarette use related to positive reinforcement (enjoyment), whereas females reported higher negative reinforcement attributions (stress reduction or mood management). Males reported more positive expectancies about e-cigarettes, including taste, social facilitation, and energy, whereas women rated e-cigarettes higher for weight control. Males also reported greater addiction-related e-cigarette expectancy than females. Conclusions: Many of the gender differences with e-cigarettes parallel those previously found with traditional cigarette smoking. Although effect sizes associated with these differences were small, the results may help advance research and intervention development with respect to e-cigarette initiation, maintenance and cessation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]