Summary
Introduction:
This article presents a study on the puffing topography and nicotine intake of electronic cigarette (EC) users. The study aims to understand EC use and nicotine intake by evaluating EC topography parameters and calculating nicotine intake for each user and brand. The study also validates the Clinical Research Support System (CReSS Pocket) device for EC use.
Key Points:
* The study included 20 EC users who were provided with a fresh Blu and V2 cartomizer.
* The CReSS Pocket device was calibrated and cleaned before each use, and validation tests were performed to determine if the CReSS Pocket accurately measured pressure drop, flow rate, and volume.
* Participants used the EC ad libitum for 10 minutes, followed by a 10-15 minute break, after which they used the second brand for 10 minutes.
* Individual user data were uploaded to a desktop computer with the CReSS Pocket software before recalibrating the device for the second EC brand.
* The nicotine concentration of each brand was determined using high performance liquid chromatography (hPLC).
* Nicotine intake was calculated by subtracting cartomizer weights before and after each study session, determining the fluid density, and dividing the volume consumed by the puff count for that session.
* Statistical analyses were performed using paired and unpaired t-tests to compare Blu Day 1 vs. Blu Day 2, V2 Day 1 vs. V2 Day 2, and Combined Blu vs. Combined V2.
Main Message:
The study found that EC puffing topography was variable among participants, but often similar within an individual between brands or days. Puff duration, inter-puff interval, and puff volume varied from conventional cigarette standards. Data on total puff volume and nicotine intake are consistent with compensatory usage of EC. These data can contribute to the development of a standard protocol for laboratory testing of EC products.
Citation
Behar, Rachel Z., My hua, and Prue Talbot. “Puffing Topography and Nicotine Intake of Electronic Cigarette Users.” Edited by Chris Bullen. PLOS ONE 10, no. 2 (February 9, 2015): e0117222. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0117222.
