Who uses snus? A study of Texas adolescents.

Introduction: Snus, a smokeless tobacco product, was introduced in the United States in 2006. Because it is available in a variety of flavors and is relatively easy to conceal, snus might be particularly attractive to adolescents. Yet, no studies have examined snus use in U.

A feedback model for applied research on tobacco control.

Although the health communication program feedback cycle is frequently referenced, the steps for moving between or within the sections of the model in a public health environment are rarely described. We detail the process by which the Texas Tobacco Research Consortium implemented the stage of "assessing effectiveness and making refinement" and expanded it to include a program assessment feedback model. Tools were developed to move the consortium through five stages of the expanded program assessment feedback model: 1) formulate research questions using logic models to identify key evaluation items, 2) format data displays from multiple data sources to address research questions, 3) use a facilitated group process to present and review research findings, 4) prepare group recommendations, and 5) involve local partners to translate recommendations into practice.

Developmental stages in public health partnerships: a practical perspective.

Health education practitioners often form and provide support to partnerships directed toward public health goals. The authors viewed the start-up of a state health department/multiuniversity partnership for the evaluation of the state's tobacco settlement pilot project using the lens of the Tuckman four-stage model of group development. The four stages--forming, storming, norming, and performing--occurred in sequence but with pronounced overlap.

Keeping the focus on public health: the struggles of a tobacco prevention task force.

This case study examines a nonlegislative task force as it struggled to reach internal consensus despite external political constraints. The study highlights the convergence of politics and science, revealing complex issues likely to be confronted by advocates and public health officials. Three themes capture participants' experiences: context, sizing up the opportunities and constraints; task force process, tacit strategy to operate outside the political context and play the science card; and aftermath, a glass half full.