ClinicalTrials.gg
CompletedNCT03863509Updated Aug 21, 2023Results posted

E-Cigarette Effects on Markers of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Disease

An observational study in Tobacco Use, E-Cigarette Use and Cardiovascular Diseases, sponsored by University of Wisconsin, Madison. Completed at 1 site in United States. Open to participants aged 18 Years and older, including healthy volunteers. Per ClinicalTrials.gov, last updated 2023-08-21.

Sponsored by University of Wisconsin, Madison · Observational

Study type
Observational
Model
Case-control
Time perspective
Prospective
Enrollment
450
Ages
18 Years and older
Sex
All
01

Study summary

This study is designed to enhance the understanding of the possible health effects of e-cigarette use by relating the acute and long-term use of e-cigarettes and conventional cigarettes ("products") to well-validated cardiovascular and pulmonary disease biomarkers. Participants will be enrolled in 3 groups: exclusive e-cigarette users, exclusive cigarette smokers, and a control group of never-users. Participants can expect up to 4 weeks of study participation.

Read the detailed description

E-cigarette use is increasing rapidly in the United States, especially amongst youth, underscoring the vital need to improve understanding of its health risks. Relevant data could inform policy, guide public health and clinical intervention efforts, and inform individuals who might use or who are using this product. This research will significantly enhance the understanding of the possible health effects of e-cigarette use by relating the acute and long-term use of e-cigarettes and conventional cigarettes ("products") to well-validated cardiovascular and pulmonary disease biomarkers. 3 different "use-groups" of participants will be enrolled: exclusive e-cigarette users (n=165), exclusive cigarette smokers (n=165), and a "control" group of never-users (n=110). These groups reflect the primary decisions that people can make regarding their future tobacco use: to continue to smoke cigarettes, to switch to e-cigarettes, or to avoid tobacco use entirely. It is essential that smokers and health care providers have accurate information on the health effect of these choices.

[Additionally, 100 participants will be invited to be part of an epigenetics sub-study (50 E-cig users, 25 smokers and 25 controls), prior to smoking, an additional 16 ml of blood will be collected in Vacutainer cell separation tubes for peripheral blood monocyte (PBMC) Isolation containing sodium citrate.]

Product use will be related to well-validated biomarkers that sensitively and reproducibly reflect mechanisms, injury, and/or future risk related to cardiovascular or pulmonary disease. Biomarkers will be related to: 1) acute product use in the laboratory (exposure challenges), 2) lifetime history of product use, and/or 3) real-time measures of product use in participants' daily lives. The primary cardiovascular biomarkers are brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (a measure of endothelial function) and carotid intima-media thickness, a measure of subclinical arterial injury and atherosclerosis. The primary pulmonary disease biomarkers will be measures of lung volumes and flow rates (Forced Expiatory Volume exhaled in the first second (FEV1), Forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC) obtained by spirometry. Treadmill exercise stress testing will be performed (to assess aerobic fitness), electrocardiography (to measure heart rate variability, HRV), and measure heart rate, blood pressure, lipids, HgbA1c, and inflammation/oxidation markers (leukocyte count, C-reactive protein, urinary F2 isoprostanes and exhaled nitric oxide). This research will show how product use-groups differ in response to acute product use and long-term use as they are related to key cardiovascular and pulmonary biomarkers. Objective measures of product use include exhaled CO and plasma nicotine/cotinine and urinary nicotine/cotinine concentrations. History of product use within use-groups will be related to biomarker status.

The proposed research will yield vital and comprehensive data regarding product use, subclinical arterial injury, atherosclerosis burden, arterial and pulmonary function, cardiac and aerobic fitness, cardiac autonomic regulation, systemic and pulmonary inflammation, and oxidative stress, as well as other key outcomes. These data will serve as a foundation for future longitudinal investigations of e-cigarette health effects and will inform public policy decisions, clinical intervention, and patient guidance regarding e-cigarettes.

02

Conditions studied

  • Tobacco Use
  • E-Cigarette Use
  • Cardiovascular Diseases
  • Pulmonary Disease

Keywords

  • vape
  • E-Cigarette
  • E-cig
03

In context

Tobacco Use

140 studies on the registry are indexed under Tobacco Use; 68 are open to participants now.

Browse Tobacco Use studies →

Lead sponsor

University of Wisconsin, Madison is the lead sponsor of 1,182 studies on the registry; 180 are open to participants now.

Of its 156 completed or terminated interventional studies of FDA-regulated products, 118 (76%) have results posted.

Counted across the registry records on this site, refreshed daily.

04

Who can participate

Ages eligible
18 Years and older
Sexes eligible
All
Accepts healthy volunteers
Yes
Sampling method
Probability sample

Study population

165 exclusive E-cig users, 165 exclusive cigarette smokers, and 110 never-users will be enrolled. Tobacco product use will be examined via time-line follow-back use-history measures, real-time measures, and lab measures. Potential participants will be assessed for eligibility via a phone screen. Because biomarker status may be affected by age and sex, groups will be stratified equally for gender (48/52 male/female) and age (≤35/>35 years).

Go through the criteria one by one — yes, no or not sure — and take the list to your doctor or the study team. Kept in this browser only.

Inclusion criteria

  • able to read and write English
  • no plans to quit smoking and/or e-cig use in the next month
  • not using cigars/smokeless/snus tobacco >/= 1 time per week
  • having a stable pattern of current product use
  • able to walk at least 2 blocks without assistance or stopping
  • Specific to Exclusive Smokers:

    • smokes daily
    • >/= 5 cigs/day for last 6 months
    • \< 3 uses E-cigs in lifetime
    • >/= 5 ppm carbon monoxide (CO)
    • Cotinine > 100 ng/ml
  • Specific to Exclusive E-cig users:

    • \</= 2 days per month cigarette use for last 6 months
    • >/= 5 days per week E-cig use for last 3 months
    • \</= 4 ppm CO
    • Cotinine > 100 ng/ml
  • Specific to Never-users

    • \< 100 cigarettes in a lifetime, none for > 5 years
    • \< 3 E-cig uses in a lifetime
    • \</= 4 ppm CO
    • Cotinine \< 100 ng/ml

Exclusion criteria

Exclusion Criteria:

  • current use of a smoking cessation medication
  • women who are pregnant or plan to get pregnant in the coming month
  • women who might be pregnant
  • incarcerated individuals
  • history of sarcoidosis in past 5 years, or active interstitial lung/pulmonary fibrosis
  • history of positive Coronavirus-19 test
05

Study design

Observational model
Case-control
Time perspective
Prospective
Enrollment
450 participants (actual)
Patient registry
No

Groups and cohorts

  • Exclusive Smokers

    Smokes Daily; \>/= 5 cigarettes/day for last 6 months

    Behavioral: Cigarettes

  • Exclusive E-Cig users

    E-cig usage \>/= 5 days/week for last 3 months

    Behavioral: E-Cigarettes

  • Never users

    \< 100 cigarettes in lifetime, none for \> 5 years; \< 3 E-cig usage in lifetime

Interventions

  • BehavioralCigarettes

    smokes daily

  • BehavioralE-Cigarettes

    E-cigarette usage \>/= 5 days/week

    Also known as: E-cig, Vape

06

What researchers measure

Primary outcomes

  1. Brachial Artery Flow-Mediated Dilation (FMD)- Pre Challenge

    Brachial Artery Flow-Mediated Dilation is a primary cardiovascular biomarker and a measure of endothelial function that will be assessed before and after an acute exposure challenge. These are pre-challenge values. Ultrasound based changes in brachial artery diameter after a forearm cuff occlusion (250mmHg) for 5 minutes. FMD is the percent change in brachial diameter measured 60 to 90 seconds post cuff release compared to its resting diameter. A higher % dilation is an indication of better endothelial function.

    Time frame: V2 up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, fasting

  2. Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1)- Pre Challenge

    FEV1 is a primary measure of pulmonary disease obtained by spirometry that will be assessed before and after an acute exposure challenge. These are per-challenge values

    Time frame: V2 up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit , fasting, pre challenge session

  3. Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (IMT)

    Carotid Intima-Media Thickness is a cardiovascular biomarker and a measure of sub-clinical arterial injury and atherosclerosis as a result of chronic exposure. IMT will be measured via ultrasonography.

    Time frame: V2 up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, only done pre-challenge

  4. Changes in Systolic Blood Pressure Pre- and Post-challenge.

    Visit 2 was scheduled up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, fasting.. They came in the morning after 8 hours of fasting and refraining from nicotine products. Systolic blood pressure (left brachial artery using an oscillometric method) was measured supine, after 10 minutes rest ("Pre") and repeated after they underwent smoking or vaping changes. The "post challenge" blood pressures were recorded 15-20 minutes post end of exposure. For controls, all measurements were repeated in the same order after a 10 minute break.

    Time frame: During Visit 2 (1 - 4 weeks post enrollment) before and after smoking/vaping challenge and for controls after a 10 minute break

  5. Changes in Diastolic Blood Pressure Pre- and Post-challenge.

    Participants returned for V2 up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, fasting. They came in the morning after 8 hours of fasting and refraining from nicotine products. Diastolic blood pressure (left brachial artery using an oscillometric method) was measured supine, after 10 minutes rest ("Pre") and repeated after they underwent smoking or vaping changes. The "post challenge" blood pressures were recorded 15-20 minutes post end of exposure. For controls, all measurements were repeated in the same order after a 10 minute break.

    Time frame: before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)

  6. Changes in Heart Rate Pre- and Post-challenge.

    Visit 2 was scheduled up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, fasting. Participants attended fasting and refraining from nicotine products for at least 8 hours prior. All visits were in the morning. Pre-challenge heart rate measured supine, after 10 minutes rest from blood pressure monitor (dinamap). The post challenge heart rates were recorded 15-20 minutes post end of exposure to smoking or vaping challenge completion or in the case of controls after a 10 minute break.

    Time frame: Before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)

  7. Changes in Brachial Artery Diameter Pre- and Post-challenge

    Visit 2 was scheduled up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit. Participants attended fasting and refraining from nicotine products for at least 8 hours prior. All visits were in the morning. Pre-challenge brachial artery diameter imaged with ultrasound after resting supine for 10 minutes before and repeated 15-20 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge ended. or in the case of controls after a 10 minute break.

    Time frame: before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)

  8. Changes in Brachial Artery Flow Mediated Dilation (FMD) Pre- and Post-challenge

    Visit 2 was scheduled up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit. Participants attended fasting and refraining from nicotine products for at least 8 hours prior. All visits were in the morning. Pre-challenge ultrasound of brachial artery diameter imaged with ultrasound after resting supine for 10 minutes before and repeated 15-20 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge ended. or in the case of controls after a 10 minute break. The FMD protocol includes measuring % change in resting diameter after 60-90 seconds post fore-arm cuff occlusion release.

    Time frame: Testing was done after 10 minutes rest and fasting for pre- and post-challenge. The post challenge FMD were recorded 15-20 minuted after end of exposure (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)

  9. Changes in Percent of Sequential Heart Cycles That Differ by More Than 50 ms From Each Other in Length (PNN50, %) Pre- and Post-challenge

    Expressed as a percentage of beats (supine recordings had be 5 minutes or longer to be valid). We used the SphygmoCor system for these recordings (Atcor medical). Participants attended V2 1-2 weeks after enrollment visit. They came in the morning fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours. Heart rate variability was recorded supine for 10 minutes or more, pre and post smoking/vaping challenge. For controls is was repeated after a 10-minute break.

    Time frame: During V2 (scheduled up to 4 weeks from enrollment) and obtained after 10 minutes of supine rest, before and after smoking/vaping challenge

  10. Changes in Root Mean Square of Successive Differences Between Normal Heart Beats (RMSSD, ms) Pre- and Post-challenge

    Participants attended V2 up to 4 weeks after enrollment visit. They came in the morning fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours. Heart rate variability was recorded supine for 10 minutes or more, pre and post smoking/vaping challenge. For controls it was repeated after a 10 minute break.

    Time frame: heart rate variability recordings of at least 10 minutes per-challenge and 15 minutes post-challenge (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)

  11. Changes in Heart Rate Variability Standing Ratio Pre- and Postchallenge

    We used the SphygmoCor system for these recordings (Atcor medical). Participants attended V2 up to 4 weeks after enrollment visit. They came in the morning fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours. Heart rate variability standing ratio was assessed pre and post smoking/vaping challenge. For controls is was repeated after a 10-minute break. Ratio between maximal heart rate after abrupt standing from a supine position and the subsequent lowest heart rate value within 40 seconds of peak.

    Time frame: Ratio was measured pre- and post- smoking/vaping challenge after completion of the 10 minutes of heart rate variability measures (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)

  12. Changes in Predicted Forced Expiatory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1, %) Pre- and Post-challenge

    maximum amount of air that the subject can forcibly expel during the first second following maximal inhalation, expressed as a percentage of the predicted normal values in the population. Participants attended V2 1-4 weeks after enrollment. They came in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior. Pre-challenge spirometry was performed sitting before all other tests and repeated within 15 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge.

    Time frame: before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit)

  13. Changes in Forced Vital Capacity (FVC, %) Pre- and Post-Challenge.

    Amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled after taking the deepest breath possible expressed as a predicted percentage from the normal population. Participants attended V2 1-4 weeks after enrollment. They came in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior. Pre-challenge spirometry was performed sitting before all other tests and repeated within 15 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge.

    Time frame: before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 Visit 2 which was scheduled 1 to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, fasting

  14. Changes in Ratio Between Predicted Forced Expiatory Volume in First Second and Predicted Total Vital Capacity (FEV1/FVC Ratio) Pre- and Post-challenge

    The post challenge spirometry was recorded \<15 minutes post end of exposure. Participants attended V2 1-4 weeks after enrollment. They came in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior. Pre-challenge spirometry was performed sitting before all other tests and repeated within 15 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge.

    Time frame: before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit)

  15. Changes in Percent Predicted Forced Expiratory Flow at 25 and 75% of the Pulmonary Volume (FEF 25-75, %) Pre and Pos-challenge

    Participants attended Visit 2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit). They came in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior. Pre-challenge spirometry was performed sitting before all other tests and repeated within 15 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge.

    Time frame: Spirometry performed pre-challenge and within 15 minutes post-challenge (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)

  16. Changes in Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO, Ppb) Pre- and Post-challenge

    Participants attended V2 1-4 weeks after enrollment. They came in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior. Pre-challenge FeNO was obtained sitting and repeated within 15 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge.

    Time frame: before and after less than 15 minutes from smoking/ vaping product (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)

Secondary outcomes

  1. Heart Rate (HR)

    Heart Rate pre-acute exposure challenge was obtained after resting supine for 10 minutes during V2 in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior.

    Time frame: Participants attended V2 generally 1-4 weeks after enrollment with a window that allowed up to 4 weeks after enrollment

  2. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) - Pre Product Use Challenge

    Heart Rate Variability PNN50(%) measured before an exposure challenge. Participants attended visit 2 fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours.

    Time frame: V2 two was generally scheduled 1-4 weeks after enrollment visit with a window up to 4 weeks. HRV measures obtained after resting supine for 10 minutes

  3. Systolic Blood Pressure (BP)

    Blood Pressure measured using the oscillometric technique before an acute exposure challenge following standardized protocol. After resting supine for 10 minutes blood pressure was measured on both arms and the average of the last two values was used.

    Time frame: V2 was up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, after resting supine for 10 minutes

  4. Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)

    Forced Vital Capacity is a measure of how much air can be exhaled forcefully obtained by spirometry pre acute exposure challenge.

    Time frame: recordings obtained during V2 in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours. This visit was generally 1-2 weeks after enrollment date with a window up to 4 weeks

  5. Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO)

    Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide is a measure of airway inflammation measured before an acute exposure challenge.

    Time frame: recordings obtained during V2 in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours. This visit was generally 1-2 weeks after enrollment date with a window up to 4 weeks

  6. Autonomic Measures - RMSSD

    Root mean square of standard deviation of rr intervals. Obtained fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure using the Sphymocor system. We used 10 or more minutes of supine data to derive heart rate variability measures.

    Time frame: v2 was generally 1-2 weeks after enrollment visit, with a window up to 4 weeks from V1

  7. Arterial Pulse Wave Analysis (PWA), Augmentation Index (at 75 Bpm, %)

    Analysis of radial pressure wave forms allows for non-invasive estimation of central aortic pressures, accounting for pressure amplification and the amplitude of the arterial pulse wave as it moves through arteries away from the heart. The Atcor Sphygmacor system can derive central aortic pressures from radial tracings using a validated transfer function. This computation is performed using the pulse wave analysis (PWA) mode. Pulse Wave Analysis via radial tonometry was obtained as a measure of chronic exposure.

    Time frame: v2 was generally 1-2 weeks after enrollment visit, with a window up to 4 weeks from V1

  8. Exercise Treadmill Stress Test (ETT)-Peak METS

    An ETT to determine exercise capacity will be completed as a measure of chronic exposure. Peak metabolic equivalents (METs, 1 MET=3.5 ml O2 uptake/kg body weight/minute) were determined at all exercise stages, peak exercise, and 1-minute post-exercise.

    Time frame: Treadmill test done only once at the end of v2 after completion of all other post-challenge assessment tests. V2 was scheduled 1-4 weeks from enrollment vist

  9. Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP)

    During V2, Diastolic Blood Pressure was measured using the oscillometric technique before an acute exposure challenge following a standardized protocol. After resting supine for 10 minutes blood pressure was measured on both arms and the average of the last two values was used. Participants attended v2 in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine products for at least 8 hours.

    Time frame: V2 was generally 1-2 weeks after enrollment with a window up to 4 weeks from V1, recorded after resting supine for 10 minutes

  10. Peak Rate Pressure Product (RPP, Peak Heart Rate Multiplied by Peak Systolic Blood Pressure)

    Peak RPP was calculated by multiplying maximun heart rate during exercise by systolic blood pressure as a reliable assessment of cardiac workload

    Time frame: During V2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit) the treadmill stress test was done last, following Nicotine-containing product challenge (users) or pretend 10 minute exposure for controls

  11. Heart Rate Reserve (%)

    Measure of maximal exercise capacity adjusted for age, calculated as max heart rate during treadmill divided by (220 minus the participant's age in yrs)

    Time frame: During V2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit) the treadmill stress test was done last, following Nicotine-containing product challenge (users) or 10 minute pretend exposure for never-users

  12. 60 Seconds Heart Rate Recovery (Beats Per Minute)

    Difference in heart rate 60 seconds post treadmill minus maximal heart rate during treadmill..

    Time frame: During V2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit) the treadmill stress test was done last, following Nicotine-containing product challenge (users) or pretend 10 minute exposure for controls

07

Results

Posted Aug 21, 2023
Limitations and caveats
Observational study, changes observed with product challenge are not proof of the causal effects.

Participant flow

March 5 2019 started enrollment, ended last visit March 9th 2022. Studies were conducted at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics and the Center for Tobacco Research and Intervention (CTRI) in Madison, WI and for a short period we also at CTRI location in Milwaukee,WI.

Participant flow — Overall Study
MilestoneExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Started139192119
Completed117164114
Not completed22285
Withdrew: Covid-19 shutdown period040
Withdrew: Missed v2 visit- outside protocol window431
Withdrew: Lost to follow-up802
Withdrew: Did not qualify due to comorbidities, positive covid-9, high co, low co, negative nicotine in urine10202
Withdrew: While cleaning datasets, we realized one participant was enrolled twice.010

Outcome measures

PrimaryBrachial Artery Flow-Mediated Dilation (FMD)- Pre Challenge

Brachial Artery Flow-Mediated Dilation is a primary cardiovascular biomarker and a measure of endothelial function that will be assessed before and after an acute exposure challenge. These are pre-challenge values. Ultrasound based changes in brachial artery diameter after a forearm cuff occlusion (250mmHg) for 5 minutes. FMD is the percent change in brachial diameter measured 60 to 90 seconds post cuff release compared to its resting diameter. A higher % dilation is an indication of better endothelial function.

Time frame:
V2 up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, fasting
Reported as:
Mean · Percent change from resting diameter
Brachial Artery Flow-Mediated Dilation (FMD)- Pre Challenge
Percent change from resting diameterExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Brachial Artery Flow-Mediated Dilation (FMD)- Pre Challenge4.25 ± 3.174.89 ± 2.925.31 ± 3.43
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = .494Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 384) = 0.707, p = .494
PrimaryForced Expiratory Volume (FEV1)- Pre Challenge

FEV1 is a primary measure of pulmonary disease obtained by spirometry that will be assessed before and after an acute exposure challenge. These are per-challenge values

Time frame:
V2 up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit , fasting, pre challenge session
Reported as:
Mean · percentage of volume exhaled
Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1)- Pre Challenge
percentage of volume exhaledExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1)- Pre Challenge82.9 ± 18.993.8 ± 13.392.0 ± 13.4
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = 0.001Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference F(2, 381) = 7.409, p = .001
  • Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.822 · Mean difference (final values): -0.420 · 95% CI -4.080 to 3.240Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried.
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.001 · Mean difference (final values): 7.267 · 95% CI 2.974 to 11.559Age, sex, and race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): 7.687 · 95% CI 3.485 to 11.889Age, sex and race were covaried
PrimaryCarotid Intima-Media Thickness (IMT)

Carotid Intima-Media Thickness is a cardiovascular biomarker and a measure of sub-clinical arterial injury and atherosclerosis as a result of chronic exposure. IMT will be measured via ultrasonography.

Time frame:
V2 up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, only done pre-challenge
Reported as:
Mean · mm
Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (IMT)
mmExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (IMT)0.67 ± 0.180.54 ± 0.100.54 ± 0.10
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = .074 (Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 386) = 2.616, p = .074)
PrimaryChanges in Systolic Blood Pressure Pre- and Post-challenge.

Visit 2 was scheduled up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, fasting.. They came in the morning after 8 hours of fasting and refraining from nicotine products. Systolic blood pressure (left brachial artery using an oscillometric method) was measured supine, after 10 minutes rest ("Pre") and repeated after they underwent smoking or vaping changes. The "post challenge" blood pressures were recorded 15-20 minutes post end of exposure. For controls, all measurements were repeated in the same order after a 10 minute break.

Time frame:
During Visit 2 (1 - 4 weeks post enrollment) before and after smoking/vaping challenge and for controls after a 10 minute break
Reported as:
Mean · mmHg
Changes in Systolic Blood Pressure Pre- and Post-challenge.
mmHgNever Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Systolic Blood Pressure Pre- and Post-challenge.118.4 ± 11.72120.25 ± 12.00119.74 ± 11.21125.40 ± 11.54126.43 ± 16.72132.00 ± 16.09
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = .002 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests.) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 6.609F (2, 378.467) = 6.609, p = .002
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.001 · Interaction estimate: 3.30 · 95% CI 1.36 to 5.24fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in systolic blood pressure, adjusting for age, sex, and race. Here presented the Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.002 · Interaction term estimate: 3.29 · 95% CI 1.20 to 5.38fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in systolic blood pressure, adjusting for age, sex, and race. Here presented the Exclusive cigarette smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · ANCOVA · p = .992 · Mean difference (final values): 0.09
PrimaryChanges in Diastolic Blood Pressure Pre- and Post-challenge.

Participants returned for V2 up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, fasting. They came in the morning after 8 hours of fasting and refraining from nicotine products. Diastolic blood pressure (left brachial artery using an oscillometric method) was measured supine, after 10 minutes rest ("Pre") and repeated after they underwent smoking or vaping changes. The "post challenge" blood pressures were recorded 15-20 minutes post end of exposure. For controls, all measurements were repeated in the same order after a 10 minute break.

Time frame:
before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)
Reported as:
Mean · mmHg
Changes in Diastolic Blood Pressure Pre- and Post-challenge.
mmHgNever Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Diastolic Blood Pressure Pre- and Post-challenge.70.40 ± 7.1372.51 ± 7.7371.12 ± 7.5275.31 ± 8.5476.64 ± 10.7281.04 ± 10.78
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.003 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests.) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 5.843F (2, 378.999) = 5.843, p = .003
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = .002 · Interaction term coefficient: 0.03 · 95% CI 0.01 to 0.05fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in diastolic blood pressure, adjusting for age, sex, and race. Here presented the Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = .003 · Interaction term coefficient: 0.03 · 95% CI 0.01 to 0.05fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in diastolic blood pressure, adjusting for age, sex, and race. Here presented the Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = .917 · Interaction term coefficient: 0.00fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in diastolic blood pressure, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
PrimaryChanges in Heart Rate Pre- and Post-challenge.

Visit 2 was scheduled up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, fasting. Participants attended fasting and refraining from nicotine products for at least 8 hours prior. All visits were in the morning. Pre-challenge heart rate measured supine, after 10 minutes rest from blood pressure monitor (dinamap). The post challenge heart rates were recorded 15-20 minutes post end of exposure to smoking or vaping challenge completion or in the case of controls after a 10 minute break.

Time frame:
Before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)
Reported as:
Mean · beats per minute (bpm)
Changes in Heart Rate Pre- and Post-challenge.
beats per minute (bpm)Never Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Heart Rate Pre- and Post-challenge.59.57 ± 8.1958.42 ± 7.8858.34 ± 9.2263.17 ± 10.1365.31 ± 11.6569.15 ± 12.05
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = < .001 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests.) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 49.42F (2, 376.099) = 49.420, p \< .001
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = <0.001 · Interaction term coefficient: 6.06 · 95% CI 4.83 to 7.3fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in Heart Rate, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = <0.001 · Interaction term coefficient: 5.09 · 95% CI 3.76 to 6.42fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in Heart Rate, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.107 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.97fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in Heart Rate, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
PrimaryChanges in Brachial Artery Diameter Pre- and Post-challenge

Visit 2 was scheduled up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit. Participants attended fasting and refraining from nicotine products for at least 8 hours prior. All visits were in the morning. Pre-challenge brachial artery diameter imaged with ultrasound after resting supine for 10 minutes before and repeated 15-20 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge ended. or in the case of controls after a 10 minute break.

Time frame:
before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)
Reported as:
Mean · centimeters (cm)
Changes in Brachial Artery Diameter Pre- and Post-challenge
centimeters (cm)Never Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Brachial Artery Diameter Pre- and Post-challenge0.378 ± 0.0620.370 ± 0.0630.388 ± 0.0640.378 ± 0.0630.410 ± 00730.398 ± 0.068
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.002 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests.) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 6.194F (2,372.971) = 6.194, p = .002
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.003 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.005 · 95% CI -0.01 to -0.002fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in Brachial Artery Diameter, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.001 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.01 · 95% CI -0.01 to -0.002fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in Brachial Artery Diameter, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.582 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.001fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in Brachial Artery Diameter, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
PrimaryChanges in Brachial Artery Flow Mediated Dilation (FMD) Pre- and Post-challenge

Visit 2 was scheduled up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit. Participants attended fasting and refraining from nicotine products for at least 8 hours prior. All visits were in the morning. Pre-challenge ultrasound of brachial artery diameter imaged with ultrasound after resting supine for 10 minutes before and repeated 15-20 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge ended. or in the case of controls after a 10 minute break. The FMD protocol includes measuring % change in resting diameter after 60-90 seconds post fore-arm cuff occlusion release.

Time frame:
Testing was done after 10 minutes rest and fasting for pre- and post-challenge. The post challenge FMD were recorded 15-20 minuted after end of exposure (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)
Reported as:
Mean · percent change
Changes in Brachial Artery Flow Mediated Dilation (FMD) Pre- and Post-challenge
percent changeNever Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Brachial Artery Flow Mediated Dilation (FMD) Pre- and Post-challenge5.31 ± 3.434.22 ± 3.014.89 ± 2.924.62 ± 3.524.25 ± 3.173.57 ± 2.26
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.175 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time e: 1.753FMD responses in e-cigarette users, cigarette users, and never-users controls after adjusting for changes in brachial artery diameter.
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.067 · Interaction term coefficient: 0.75 · 95% CI -0.05 to 1.56fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in Brachial Artery Flow Mediated Dilation, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.464 · Interaction term coefficient: 0.33 · 95% CI -0.55 to 1.20fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in Brachial Artery Flow Mediated Dilation, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.284 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.43fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing effects of group, time, and group x time in FMD, age, sex, race adjusted, for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
PrimaryChanges in Percent of Sequential Heart Cycles That Differ by More Than 50 ms From Each Other in Length (PNN50, %) Pre- and Post-challenge

Expressed as a percentage of beats (supine recordings had be 5 minutes or longer to be valid). We used the SphygmoCor system for these recordings (Atcor medical). Participants attended V2 1-2 weeks after enrollment visit. They came in the morning fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours. Heart rate variability was recorded supine for 10 minutes or more, pre and post smoking/vaping challenge. For controls is was repeated after a 10-minute break.

Time frame:
During V2 (scheduled up to 4 weeks from enrollment) and obtained after 10 minutes of supine rest, before and after smoking/vaping challenge
Reported as:
Mean · percent of sequential intervals
Changes in Percent of Sequential Heart Cycles That Differ by More Than 50 ms From Each Other in Length (PNN50, %) Pre- and Post-challenge
percent of sequential intervalsNever Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Percent of Sequential Heart Cycles That Differ by More Than 50 ms From Each Other in Length (PNN50, %) Pre- and Post-challenge33.64 ± 20.8336.46 ± 21.9634.82 ± 21.8531.02 ± 22.9018.46 ± 19.7215.45 ± 18.61
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = <0.001 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 8.323F (2,342.847) = 8.323, p = \<.001
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = <0.001 · Interaction term coefficient: -6.55 · 95% CI -9.89 to -3.20fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in PNN50, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.001 · Interaction term coefficient: -6.11 · 95% CI -9.71 to -2.52fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in PNN50, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.787 · Interaction term coefficient: 0.44fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in PNN50, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
PrimaryChanges in Root Mean Square of Successive Differences Between Normal Heart Beats (RMSSD, ms) Pre- and Post-challenge

Participants attended V2 up to 4 weeks after enrollment visit. They came in the morning fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours. Heart rate variability was recorded supine for 10 minutes or more, pre and post smoking/vaping challenge. For controls it was repeated after a 10 minute break.

Time frame:
heart rate variability recordings of at least 10 minutes per-challenge and 15 minutes post-challenge (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)
Reported as:
Mean · milliseconds
Changes in Root Mean Square of Successive Differences Between Normal Heart Beats (RMSSD, ms) Pre- and Post-challenge
millisecondsNever Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Root Mean Square of Successive Differences Between Normal Heart Beats (RMSSD, ms) Pre- and Post-challenge66.44 ± 34.4971.10 ± 38.7871.20 ± 44.4264.40 ± 46.3348.29 ± 35.0144.44 ± 38.73
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.001 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 7.26F (2,345.918) = 7.260, p = .001
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.001 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.2 · 95% CI -0.31 to -0.08fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in RMSSD, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.001 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.21 · 95% CI -0.33 to -0.09fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in RMSSD, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.847 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.01fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in RMSSD, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
PrimaryChanges in Heart Rate Variability Standing Ratio Pre- and Postchallenge

We used the SphygmoCor system for these recordings (Atcor medical). Participants attended V2 up to 4 weeks after enrollment visit. They came in the morning fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours. Heart rate variability standing ratio was assessed pre and post smoking/vaping challenge. For controls is was repeated after a 10-minute break. Ratio between maximal heart rate after abrupt standing from a supine position and the subsequent lowest heart rate value within 40 seconds of peak.

Time frame:
Ratio was measured pre- and post- smoking/vaping challenge after completion of the 10 minutes of heart rate variability measures (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)
Reported as:
Mean · ratio (unitless)
Changes in Heart Rate Variability Standing Ratio Pre- and Postchallenge
ratio (unitless)Never Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Heart Rate Variability Standing Ratio Pre- and Postchallenge1.57 ± 0.261.55 ± 0.221.55 ± 0.231.51 ± 0.231.38 ± 0.211.34 ± 0.23
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = .182 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 1.712F (2, 312.081) = 1.712, p = .182
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.07 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.04 · 95% CI -0.09 to 0.004fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in HRV-Standing Ratio, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.196 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.03 · 95% CI -0.09 to 0.02fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in HRV-Standing Ratio adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.69 · Interaction term coefficient: 0.09fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in HRV-Standing Ratio adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
PrimaryChanges in Predicted Forced Expiatory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1, %) Pre- and Post-challenge

maximum amount of air that the subject can forcibly expel during the first second following maximal inhalation, expressed as a percentage of the predicted normal values in the population. Participants attended V2 1-4 weeks after enrollment. They came in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior. Pre-challenge spirometry was performed sitting before all other tests and repeated within 15 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge.

Time frame:
before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit)
Reported as:
Mean · predicted percentage of population
Changes in Predicted Forced Expiatory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1, %) Pre- and Post-challenge
predicted percentage of populationNever Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Predicted Forced Expiatory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1, %) Pre- and Post-challenge92.00 ± 13.4191.12 ± 14.1393.83 ± 13.3289.76 ± 15.6382.91 ± 18.9080.43 ± 18.25
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.017 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests.) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 4.096F (2, 373.239) = 4.096, p = .017
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.005 · Interaction term coefficient: -3.04 · 95% CI -5.18 to -0.91fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FEV1, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.274 · Interaction term coefficient: -1.29 · 95% CI -3.61 to 1.03fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FEV1, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.098 · Interaction term coefficient: 1.75fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FEV1, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
PrimaryChanges in Forced Vital Capacity (FVC, %) Pre- and Post-Challenge.

Amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled after taking the deepest breath possible expressed as a predicted percentage from the normal population. Participants attended V2 1-4 weeks after enrollment. They came in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior. Pre-challenge spirometry was performed sitting before all other tests and repeated within 15 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge.

Time frame:
before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 Visit 2 which was scheduled 1 to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, fasting
Reported as:
Mean · predicted percentile
Changes in Forced Vital Capacity (FVC, %) Pre- and Post-Challenge.
predicted percentileNever Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Forced Vital Capacity (FVC, %) Pre- and Post-Challenge.96.45 ± 15.0695.00 ± 14.1998.25 ± 13.5096.77 ± 15.7990.28 ± 15.9987.88 ± 16.55
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = .771 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 0.26F (2, 373.434) = 0.260, p = .771
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.918 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.12 · 95% CI -2.35 to 2.12fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FVC, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.518 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.8 · 95% CI -3.22 to 1.63fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FVC, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.539 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.68fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FVC, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
PrimaryChanges in Ratio Between Predicted Forced Expiatory Volume in First Second and Predicted Total Vital Capacity (FEV1/FVC Ratio) Pre- and Post-challenge

The post challenge spirometry was recorded \<15 minutes post end of exposure. Participants attended V2 1-4 weeks after enrollment. They came in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior. Pre-challenge spirometry was performed sitting before all other tests and repeated within 15 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge.

Time frame:
before and after smoking/vaping challenge during Visit 2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit)
Reported as:
Mean · ratio (unitless)
Changes in Ratio Between Predicted Forced Expiatory Volume in First Second and Predicted Total Vital Capacity (FEV1/FVC Ratio) Pre- and Post-challenge
ratio (unitless)Never Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Ratio Between Predicted Forced Expiatory Volume in First Second and Predicted Total Vital Capacity (FEV1/FVC Ratio) Pre- and Post-challenge95.74 ± 9.6395.93 ± 8.2895.66 ± 8.9092.23 ± 11.6791.18 ± 12.5690.89 ± 11.12
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.001 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 7.157F (2, 375.412) = 7.157, p = .001
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.001 · Interaction term coefficient: -3.39 · 95% CI -5.43 to -1.35fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FEV1/FVC, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.778 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.32 · 95% CI -2.53 to 1.89fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FEV1/FVC, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.002 · Interaction term coefficient: 3.08fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FEV1/FVC, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
PrimaryChanges in Percent Predicted Forced Expiratory Flow at 25 and 75% of the Pulmonary Volume (FEF 25-75, %) Pre and Pos-challenge

Participants attended Visit 2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit). They came in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior. Pre-challenge spirometry was performed sitting before all other tests and repeated within 15 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge.

Time frame:
Spirometry performed pre-challenge and within 15 minutes post-challenge (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)
Reported as:
Mean · predicted percentile
Changes in Percent Predicted Forced Expiratory Flow at 25 and 75% of the Pulmonary Volume (FEF 25-75, %) Pre and Pos-challenge
predicted percentileNever Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Percent Predicted Forced Expiratory Flow at 25 and 75% of the Pulmonary Volume (FEF 25-75, %) Pre and Pos-challenge86.91 ± 27.3385.17 ± 25.6887.94 ± 23.4580.20 ± 23.3571.09 ± 31.0968.49 ± 27.12
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.014 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests.) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 4.317F (2, 373.170) = 4.317, p = .014
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.016 · Interaction term coefficient: -5.08 · 95% CI -9.21 to -0.95fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FEF 25-75, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.998 · Interaction term coefficient: 0.01 · 95% CI -4.47 to 4.48fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FEF 25-75, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.013 · Interaction term coefficient: 5.09fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FEF 25-75, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
PrimaryChanges in Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO, Ppb) Pre- and Post-challenge

Participants attended V2 1-4 weeks after enrollment. They came in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior. Pre-challenge FeNO was obtained sitting and repeated within 15 minutes after smoking/vaping challenge.

Time frame:
before and after less than 15 minutes from smoking/ vaping product (up to 4 weeks from enrollment)
Reported as:
Mean · parts per billion (ppb)
Changes in Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO, Ppb) Pre- and Post-challenge
parts per billion (ppb)Never Users - PreNever Users-PostExclusive E-cigarette Users Pre ChallengeExclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challengeExclusive Smokers Pre-challengeExclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge
Changes in Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO, Ppb) Pre- and Post-challenge16.17 ± 11.0416.97 ± 12.5214.51 ± 14.7113.64 ± 14.479.67 ± 12.269.93 ± 11.84
Statistical analysis
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.001 (False Discovery Rate correction (Benjamini and Hochberg procedure) applied to a set of 13 Group x Time interaction tests.) · Type iii f-test of fixed group x time ef: 6.694F ((2,376.779) = 6.694, p = .001
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.001 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.09 · 95% CI -0.14 to -0.04fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FeNO, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Never Users - Pre vs Never Users-Post vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.555 · Interaction term coefficient: -0.02 · 95% CI -0.08 to 0.04fixed effects from linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FeNO, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive Smokers x Time vs never users x time as reference
  • Exclusive E-cigarette Users Pre Challenge vs Exclusive E-cigarette Users Post-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers Pre-challenge vs Exclusive Smokers After Smoking Challenge · Mixed Models Analysis · p = 0.007 · Interaction term coefficient: 0.007fixed effects from re-parameterized linear mixed model testing for effects of group, time, and group x time in FeNO, adjusting for age, sex, and race for Exclusive E-cigarette users x Time vs Exclusive Smokers x time as reference
SecondaryHeart Rate (HR)

Heart Rate pre-acute exposure challenge was obtained after resting supine for 10 minutes during V2 in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure for at least 8 hours prior.

Time frame:
Participants attended V2 generally 1-4 weeks after enrollment with a window that allowed up to 4 weeks after enrollment
Reported as:
Mean · beats/minute
Heart Rate (HR)
beats/minuteExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Heart Rate (HR)65.3 ± 11.758.3 ± 9.259.6 ± 8.2
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = < .001 (ANCOVA for group differences)Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 386) = 12.869, p \< .001
  • Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.269 · Mean difference (final values): 1.352 · 95% CI -1.048 to 3.752Age, sex, and race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): -5.575 · 95% CI -8.37 to -2.780Age, sex and race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): -6.927 · 95% CI -9.672 to -4.183Age, sex and race were covaried.
SecondaryHeart Rate Variability (HRV) - Pre Product Use Challenge

Heart Rate Variability PNN50(%) measured before an exposure challenge. Participants attended visit 2 fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours.

Time frame:
V2 two was generally scheduled 1-4 weeks after enrollment visit with a window up to 4 weeks. HRV measures obtained after resting supine for 10 minutes
Reported as:
Median · percentage of intervals
Heart Rate Variability (HRV) - Pre Product Use Challenge
percentage of intervalsExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Heart Rate Variability (HRV) - Pre Product Use Challenge11.4 (2.3 to 27.95)37.1 (15.0 to 51.98)31.0 (16.05 to 48.80)
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = .035Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 361) = 3.392, p = .035
SecondarySystolic Blood Pressure (BP)

Blood Pressure measured using the oscillometric technique before an acute exposure challenge following standardized protocol. After resting supine for 10 minutes blood pressure was measured on both arms and the average of the last two values was used.

Time frame:
V2 was up to 4 weeks from enrollment visit, after resting supine for 10 minutes
Reported as:
Mean · mmHg
Systolic Blood Pressure (BP)
mmHgExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Systolic Blood Pressure (BP)126.4 ± 16.7119.7 ± 11.2118.4 ± 11.7
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = .549Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 386) = 0.601, p = .549
SecondaryForced Vital Capacity (FVC)

Forced Vital Capacity is a measure of how much air can be exhaled forcefully obtained by spirometry pre acute exposure challenge.

Time frame:
recordings obtained during V2 in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours. This visit was generally 1-2 weeks after enrollment date with a window up to 4 weeks
Reported as:
Mean · Percent predicted FVC
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)
Percent predicted FVCExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)90.3 ± 1698.3 ± 13.596.5 ± 15.1
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = .022Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 381) = 3.877, p = .022
  • Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.952Age, sex, and race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.014Age, sex, and race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.011 (Age, sex, and race were covaried)
SecondaryFractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO)

Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide is a measure of airway inflammation measured before an acute exposure challenge.

Time frame:
recordings obtained during V2 in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine for at least 8 hours. This visit was generally 1-2 weeks after enrollment date with a window up to 4 weeks
Reported as:
Mean · ppb
Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO)
ppbExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO)9.7 ± 12.314.5 ± 14.716.2 ± 11
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = < .001Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Outcome variable log-transformed for analysis. Test for group difference: F (2, 381) = 33.442, p \< .001
  • Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.013 · Mean difference (final values): 0.180 · 95% CI 0.039 to 0.322Estimated marginal mean differences (log-transformed scale)
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): 0.679 · 95% CI 0.514 to 0.844Estimated marginal mean differences (log-transformed scale)
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): 0.498 · 95% CI 0.336 to 0.660Estimated marginal mean differences (log-transformed scale)"
SecondaryAutonomic Measures - RMSSD

Root mean square of standard deviation of rr intervals. Obtained fasting and refraining from nicotine exposure using the Sphymocor system. We used 10 or more minutes of supine data to derive heart rate variability measures.

Time frame:
v2 was generally 1-2 weeks after enrollment visit, with a window up to 4 weeks from V1
Reported as:
Median · ms
Autonomic Measures - RMSSD
msExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Autonomic Measures - RMSSD43.6 (25.95 to 56.20)63.3 (40.60 to 89.50)58.3 (41.40 to 82.80)
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = .150Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 361) = 1.904, p = .150
SecondaryArterial Pulse Wave Analysis (PWA), Augmentation Index (at 75 Bpm, %)

Analysis of radial pressure wave forms allows for non-invasive estimation of central aortic pressures, accounting for pressure amplification and the amplitude of the arterial pulse wave as it moves through arteries away from the heart. The Atcor Sphygmacor system can derive central aortic pressures from radial tracings using a validated transfer function. This computation is performed using the pulse wave analysis (PWA) mode. Pulse Wave Analysis via radial tonometry was obtained as a measure of chronic exposure.

Time frame:
v2 was generally 1-2 weeks after enrollment visit, with a window up to 4 weeks from V1
Reported as:
Median · percentage of central pulse pressure
Arterial Pulse Wave Analysis (PWA), Augmentation Index (at 75 Bpm, %)
percentage of central pulse pressureExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Arterial Pulse Wave Analysis (PWA), Augmentation Index (at 75 Bpm, %)19.5 (7.25 to 29.00)0.50 (-8.50 to 12.00)1.00 (-9.00 to 11.13)
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = < .001Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 385) = 17.872, p \< .001
  • Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.003 · Mean difference (final values): -3.632 · 95% CI -6.019 to -1.245Age, sex, and race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): -8.380 · 95% CI -11.14 to -5.62Age, sex, and race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.001 · Mean difference (final values): -4.748 · 95% CI -7.456 to -2.040Age, sex, and race were covaried
SecondaryExercise Treadmill Stress Test (ETT)-Peak METS

An ETT to determine exercise capacity will be completed as a measure of chronic exposure. Peak metabolic equivalents (METs, 1 MET=3.5 ml O2 uptake/kg body weight/minute) were determined at all exercise stages, peak exercise, and 1-minute post-exercise.

Time frame:
Treadmill test done only once at the end of v2 after completion of all other post-challenge assessment tests. V2 was scheduled 1-4 weeks from enrollment vist
Reported as:
Mean · METS
Exercise Treadmill Stress Test (ETT)-Peak METS
METSExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Exercise Treadmill Stress Test (ETT)-Peak METS8.39 ± 3.1910.29 ± 2.0111.06 ± 2.42
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = < .001Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 343) = 17.056, p \< .001
  • Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): 1.279 · 95% CI 0.733 to 1.824age, sex and race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): 1.739 · 95% CI 1.083 to 2.395Age, sex and race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.165 · Mean difference (final values): 0.460 · 95% CI -0.190 to 1.110age, sex and race were covaried
SecondaryDiastolic Blood Pressure (DBP)

During V2, Diastolic Blood Pressure was measured using the oscillometric technique before an acute exposure challenge following a standardized protocol. After resting supine for 10 minutes blood pressure was measured on both arms and the average of the last two values was used. Participants attended v2 in the morning, fasting and refraining from nicotine products for at least 8 hours.

Time frame:
V2 was generally 1-2 weeks after enrollment with a window up to 4 weeks from V1, recorded after resting supine for 10 minutes
Reported as:
Mean · mmHg
Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP)
mmHgExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP)76.6 ± 10.771.1 ± 7.570.4 ± 7.1
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = .199Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 386) = 1.621, p = .199
SecondaryPeak Rate Pressure Product (RPP, Peak Heart Rate Multiplied by Peak Systolic Blood Pressure)

Peak RPP was calculated by multiplying maximun heart rate during exercise by systolic blood pressure as a reliable assessment of cardiac workload

Time frame:
During V2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit) the treadmill stress test was done last, following Nicotine-containing product challenge (users) or pretend 10 minute exposure for controls
Reported as:
Mean · mmHg x bpm
Peak Rate Pressure Product (RPP, Peak Heart Rate Multiplied by Peak Systolic Blood Pressure)
mmHg x bpmExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Peak Rate Pressure Product (RPP, Peak Heart Rate Multiplied by Peak Systolic Blood Pressure)249.99 ± 62.82284.76 ± 51.36290.86 ± 48.61
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = <0.001Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 343) = 17.056, p\< .001
  • Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): 1.279 · 95% CI 0.733 to 1.824Age, sex and race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): 1.739 · 95% CI 1.083 to 2.395age, sex, race covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.165 · Mean difference (final values): 0.460 · 95% CI -0.190 to 1.110Age, sex and race were covaried
SecondaryHeart Rate Reserve (%)

Measure of maximal exercise capacity adjusted for age, calculated as max heart rate during treadmill divided by (220 minus the participant's age in yrs)

Time frame:
During V2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit) the treadmill stress test was done last, following Nicotine-containing product challenge (users) or 10 minute pretend exposure for never-users
Reported as:
Mean · percentage of heart rate reserve
Heart Rate Reserve (%)
percentage of heart rate reserveExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Heart Rate Reserve (%)83.25 ± 11.5887.89 ± 8.8191.72 ± 7.58
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = <0.001Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 343) = 17.056, p\< .001
  • Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): 1.279 · 95% CI 0.733 to 1.824Age, sex, race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Never Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = <0.001 · Mean difference (final values): 1.739 · 95% CI 1.083 to 2.395Age, sex and race were covaried
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users · ANCOVA post-hoc pairwise group compariso · p = 0.165 · Mean difference (final values): 0.460 · 95% CI -0.190 to 1.110Age, sex and race were covaried
Secondary60 Seconds Heart Rate Recovery (Beats Per Minute)

Difference in heart rate 60 seconds post treadmill minus maximal heart rate during treadmill..

Time frame:
During V2 (1-4 weeks after enrollment visit) the treadmill stress test was done last, following Nicotine-containing product challenge (users) or pretend 10 minute exposure for controls
Reported as:
Mean · beats per minute (bpm)
60 Seconds Heart Rate Recovery (Beats Per Minute)
beats per minute (bpm)Exclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
60 Seconds Heart Rate Recovery (Beats Per Minute)19.62 ± 10.3826.74 ± 9.0628.06 ± 8.26
Statistical analysis
  • Exclusive Smokers vs Exclusive E-Cig Users vs Never Users · ANCOVA · p = <0.001Age, sex, and race/ethnicity were covaried. Test for group difference: F (2, 344) = 10.075, p \< .001

Adverse events

Collected over 2 years. Non-serious events are listed at a 0% frequency threshold.

Adverse event summary by group
GroupDeathsSeriousOther
Exclusive Smokers0/117 (0%)0/117 (0%)0/117 (0%)
Exclusive E-Cig Users0/164 (0%)0/164 (0%)1/164 (0.6%)
Never Users0/114 (0%)0/114 (0%)1/114 (0.9%)
Most frequent other events
Most frequent other events
EventExclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever Users
Vasovagal responseGeneral disorders0/1170/1641/114
NauseaGastrointestinal disorders0/1171/1640/114

Baseline characteristics

results are reported for only those participants who completed the final study visit, when outcome data was collected.

Age, Continuous
Age, Continuous(years)Exclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever UsersTotal
Mean42.8 ± 13.827.4 ± 10.630.8 ± 11.932.9 ± 13.6
Sex: Female, Male
Sex: Female, Male(Participants)Exclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever UsersTotal
Female526457173
Male6510057222
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)(Participants)Exclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever UsersTotal
Hispanic or Latino15612
Not Hispanic or Latino115159108382
Unknown or Not Reported1001
Race (NIH/OMB)
Race (NIH/OMB)(Participants)Exclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever UsersTotal
American Indian or Alaska Native1102
Asian792137
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander0000
Black or African American384547
White6514179285
More than one race59923
Unknown or Not Reported1001
Region of Enrollment
Region of Enrollment(participants)Exclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever UsersTotal
United States117164114395
Exhaled CO
Exhaled CO(ppm)Exclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever UsersTotal
Mean16.11 ± 13.72.96 ± 1.892.79 ± 1.736.8 ± 9.7
Serum Nicotine (ng/ml)
Serum Nicotine (ng/ml)(ng/ml)Exclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever UsersTotal
Mean4.48 ± 4.542.95 ± 2.581.99 ± 0.003.07 ± 3.07
Serum Cotinine (ng/ml)
Serum Cotinine (ng/ml)(ng/ml)Exclusive SmokersExclusive E-Cig UsersNever UsersTotal
Mean231.3 ± 127.7193.5 ± 111.72.99 ± 8.88140.4 ± 141.0
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Study locations

1 site
  • University of Wisconsin
    Madison, Wisconsin 53792, United States
09

References and documents

Publications

  • Tattersall MC, Hughey CM, Piasecki TM, Korcarz CE, Hansen KM, Ott NR, Sandbo N, Fiore MC, Baker TB, Stein JH. Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Responses to Acute Use of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems and Combustible Cigarettes in Long-Term Users. Chest. 2023 Sep;164(3):757-769. doi: 10.1016/j.chest.2023.03.047. Epub 2023 Apr 10. PubMed 37044158 ↗

Study documents

  • Protocol and statistical analysis plan · Apr 26, 2021
  • Informed consent form · May 5, 2021

Documents are hosted by the registry — open the source record to download them.

Individual participant data

Plan to share: Yes — Our plan includes the creation of a data archive with coded information in computer-readable form for distribution to the scientific community using the procedures outlined below. The information will include a codebook with definitions of variables, variable field locations, summary statistics and any standard scoring. Final data sets will be stripped of identifiers prior to release for sharing (the release of a limited data set containing one or more specific identifiers would be considered if absolutely required by the researcher and if the request meets all University of Wisconsin -Institutional Review Board and Office of Human Research Protections policies. We will make all key variables available via posting of final data codebook and dataset in suitable archives. All shared variables and datasets will be de-identified and approved for sharing by the University of Wisconsin and Institutional Review Board

Supporting information: Study protocol, Statistical analysis plan

Time frame: After data has been collected and analyzed.

Access criteria: In accord with an Institutional Review Board-approved study consent that will permit sharing of study data sets under University of Wisconsin and Institutional Review Board policies, University of Wisconsin Center for Tobacco Research and Intervention will act under its own auspices as the hub for making data related to these topics available. We will make the final de-identified study dataset available by request from other researchers in accord with NHLBI policy.

Data sharing details ↗ · www.ctri.wisc.edu

10

Timeline

Tracking since Sep 25, 2026
ElapsedEstimatedEstimated, not yet reached

Ran from Mar 2019 to primary completion in Mar 2022, 36 months.

Results were first posted in Aug 2023, 1 year 5 months after primary completion.

How these figures are worked out, and which studies are left out of them.

Registered
Feb 28, 2019
First posted
Mar 5, 2019
StartActual
Mar 5, 2019
Primary completionActual
Mar 9, 2022
CompletionActual
Mar 9, 2022
Results first posted
Aug 21, 2023
Last update
Aug 21, 2023
What these dates mean
Start.
When the first participant enrolled; while estimated, when the study expects to open to recruitment.
Primary completion.
When the last participant was examined or treated to collect data for the study's main question, its primary outcome. A study that stopped early gives the date its data collection stopped.
Completion.
When the last participant's last visit took place, for every outcome, secondary ones and side effects included: the end of the study. Often later than primary completion, sometimes the same day.
Actual and Est.
Actual means the registry says the date has happened. Est. (estimated) is a date the sponsor plans or expects. It can still move, and the sponsor is expected to change it to actual once it has passed.
No changes since tracking began. The registry record was last updated on Aug 21, 2023, before this site started recording changes on Sep 25, 2026. Its history is on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗
11

Registry details

Key details

Study ID
NCT03863509
Responsible party
Sponsor
First posted
Mar 5, 2019
Start date
Mar 5, 2019
Primary completion
Mar 9, 2022
Completion
Mar 9, 2022
Results posted
Aug 21, 2023
Last update
Aug 21, 2023

Study contacts

James H Stein, MD
principal investigator · University of Wisconsin, Madison

Oversight

Data monitoring committee
Yes
FDA-regulated drug
No
FDA-regulated device
No
View the source record on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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