Human Immunodeficiency Virus And Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Research Articles

A systematic review and meta-analysis of HIV transmission risk behaviors, genetic variations, and antiretroviral (ARV) resistance in LGBT populations.

Currently, human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) has become one of the major health problems worldwide, including Indonesia. East Java is one of the provinces in Indonesia with the highest prevalence of HIV infection. One of the causes of HIV infection transmission is lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) practice. Furthermore, the treatment using antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in HIV-1 patients can fail due to the presence of HIV drug resistance. The aim of this study is to identify the behavior at risk of HIV transmission among LGBT, patterns of genetic variation and antiretroviral (ARV) resistance. A systematic review and meta-analysis based on the PRISMA guidelines was conducted. We searched three databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google scholar for studies investigating the non-heterosexual behavior as risk factor of HIV infection and antiretroviral resistance. Only studies published in English are considered. The adjusted estimates of the risk were carried out using best-adjusted OR with 95% confidence interval (CI) and significant p value < 0.05. In the quantitative analysis of HIV infection risk factors, a total of 13 studies were included, which investigated non-heterosexual behavior as a potential factor. The studies involved a total of 37,129 participants, comprising 10,449 individuals in the non-heterosexual behavior group (LGBTQ+) and 26,680 individuals in the heterosexual group. The majority of the participants in this study were from the USA, Japan, China, and Brazil, and the main HIV subgenotypes were B and CRF. Additionally, the antiretroviral resistance of HIV patients was examined, involving a total of 3062 individuals, with 1296 individuals in the non-heterosexual behavior group and 1766 individuals in the heterosexual group. Our calculation showed that non-heterosexual behavior was significant as risk factor of HIV infection (OR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.94-2.43, p < 0.001) and antiretroviral resistance (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.00-1.71, p = 0.05). This study concludes that non heterosexual behavior is significant risk factor of HIV infection. A quite prevalent of antiretroviral resistance were found among non heterosexual behavior. The main subgenotype of HIV are B and CRF.

Spectrum of Opportunistic Infections in People Living with HIV: A Tertiary Care Center Experience from North India

: Patients with human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) are proneto opportunistic infections (OIs) given their immunosuppressed state. OIs continue to cause morbidity and mortality in HIV/AIDS patients even after highly-active antiretroviral therapy (HAART); hence, attainment of the goals on health care programs,particularly in resource-poor countries, is hard to achieve. The prevalence of specific OIs varies in different countries and evenin different areas within the same country. Little information is available about the prevalence of OI in HIV patients fromdeveloping countries, especially India. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment contribute to increased life expectancy amonginfected patients delaying progression to AIDS. Hence, the present study was carried out to elucidate current frequencies andspectrum of OIs in HIV seropositive adult patients in Haryana and to evaluate the associated risk factors for OIs. Materialsand methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out at the Dept. of General Medicine in a tertiary care hospital in NorthIndia. Basic demographic details, anthropometric measurements, symptoms of HIV/OI, clinical examination, biochemicalinvestigations and treatment details were recorded. Patients aged 18 to 70 years and HIV seropositive subjects were includedin the study. Results: The study found that about 53.21% of HIV/AIDS patients on ART had one or more OIs. Tuberculosis(TB) was the predominant OI identified, with a prevalence of 25.71%. Candidiasis and herpes zoster were the second and thethird most prevalent OIs at 13.8% (101/731) and 7.25% (53/731), respectively. Age (43.4 ± 10.7 years), low income, illiteracy,low socioeconomic status, initial 4 months since initiation of ART, CD4 count &lt;200/mm3, body mass index of &lt;18.5 kg/m², poorART adherence, hemoglobin, albumin were strongly associated with OIs. Conclusion: The present study shows that TB is thecommonest OI in adults and the overall population of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Haryana and proves that OIs acrossdifferent patient groups vary significantly. Various factors like adherence to HAART, socioeconomic and education status ofpatients can influence the occurrence and outcome of these deadly infections.

Predictors of underweight among adult patients receiving antiretroviral therapy in Bishoftu general hospital, central Ethiopia: Case-control study.

Underweight affects the overall clinical outcome and quality of life and increases the risk of mortalities in Human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) patients. Though studies have examined the various determinants of being underweight in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV), scanty evidence exists about the influence of dietary diversity scores and dietary counseling on underweight HIV patients in Ethiopia. This study aimed to identify the determinants of being underweight among adult patients receiving antiretroviral therapy at Bishoftu General Hospital, central Ethiopia. An institution-based unmatched case-control study was conducted among 279 participants (93 cases and 186 controls) from April to May 2022. Cases were selected consecutively as they occur, and then two subsequent controls that visited the antiretroviral therapy(ART) clinic were interviewed until the sample size was attained. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire and involved patient interviews and chart review. Bivariate and Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify determinants of underweight. The presence of statistically significant association was declared with p-value <0.05, and a 95% confidence interval was used to show the precision in the measure of the strength of association. The response rate of participants was 91.2% for each of the cases and controls. Monthly income of patients ≤2000 birr (AOR = 6.63, 95% CI: 2.96-14.85), absence of support giver (AOR = 3.22, 95% CI: 1.38-7.50), being having an eating problem (AOR = 14.48, 95% CI: 5.06-41.40), dietary diversity score of four to five (AOR = 2.36, 95% CI: 1.92, 6.08), not getting dietary counseling support and advice (AOR = 2.53, 95% CI: 1.11, 5.72) and chewing khat (AOR = 3.36, 95% CI: 1.99,11.33) were determinants of underweight in adult HIV patients. This study revealed that household dietary diversity, counseling and education on nutrition, monthly income, eating problems, support giver, and khat chewing were predictors of being underweight in HIV patients. This inquires an integrated nutritional intervention including income-generating activities, counseling and education on nutrition and bad habits, and regular monitoring of the nutritional status during clinic visits.

The effects of social determinants of health on acquired immune deficiency syndrome in a low-income population of Brazil: a retrospective cohort study of 28.3 million individuals

Social determinants of health (SDH) include factors such as income, education, and race, that could significantly affect the human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS). Studies on the effects of SDH on HIV/AIDS are limited, and do not yet provide a systematic understanding of how the various SDH act on important indicators of HIV/AIDS progression. We aimed to evaluate the effects of SDH on AIDS morbidity and mortality. A retrospective cohort of 28.3 million individuals was evaluated over a 9-year period (from 2007 to 2015). Multivariable Poisson regression, with a hierarchical approach, was used to estimate the effects of SDH-at the individual and familial level-on AIDS incidence, mortality, and case-fatality rates. A total of 28,318,532 individuals, representing the low-income Brazilian population, were assessed, who had a mean age of 36.18 (SD: 16.96) years, 52.69% (14,920,049) were female, 57.52% (15,360,569) were pardos, 34.13% (9,113,222) were white/Asian, 7.77% (2,075,977) were black, and 0.58% (154,146) were indigenous. Specific socioeconomic, household, and geographic factors were significantly associated with AIDS-related outcomes. Less wealth was strongly associated with a higher AIDS incidence (rate ratios-RR: 1.55; 95% confidence interval-CI: 1.43-1.68) and mortality (RR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.70-2.34). Lower educational attainment was also greatly associated with higher AIDS incidence (RR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.26-1.68), mortality (RR: 2.76; 95% CI: 1.99-3.82) and case-fatality rates (RR: 2.30; 95% CI: 1.31-4.01). Being black was associated with a higher AIDS incidence (RR: 1.53; 95% CI: 1.45-1.61), mortality (RR: 1.69; 95% CI: 1.57-1.83) and case-fatality rates (RR: 1.16; 95% CI: 1.03-1.32). Overall, also considering the other SDH, individuals experiencing greater levels of socioeconomic deprivation were, by far, more likely to acquire AIDS, and to die from it. In the population studied, SDH related to poverty and social vulnerability are strongly associated with a higher burden of HIV/AIDS, most notably less wealth, illiteracy, and being black. In the absence of relevant social protection policies, the current worldwide increase in poverty and inequalities-due to the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the effects of war in the Ukraine-could reverse progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NAIDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), US Grant Number: 1R01AI152938.

How do caregivers of children living with HIV/AIDS cope, and where do they get support?: A qualitative study in Ghana

AbstractBackgroundCaring for children living with human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is challenging and has a tremendous impact on the physical and psychological health of caregivers. Caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS need to adopt coping mechanisms to navigate these complexities as it influences the quality of care provided. The literature on coping strategies and support (formal and informal) available to caregivers of children living with HIV/AIDS is scant. This study aimed to explore the coping strategies and support systems for caregivers of children living with HIV/AIDS.MethodsA phenomenological study design was adopted. A total of nine participants across three hospitals in the Tamale metropolis were interviewed using purposive sampling. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Colaizzi's approach.ResultsFour main themes emerged from the analyses: (1) coping strategies, (2) types of support activities, (3) support from informal institutions and (4) support from formal institutions. The caregivers navigated the caring process with much spiritual coping. The caregivers had little or no support from informal institutions such as immediate family, faith and community leaders. Non‐governmental organizations were not visible in support, and there were no support groups for caregivers.ConclusionSupport for caregivers and the active involvement of the immediate family in paediatric HIV care is imperative.

Knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission modes and attitudes toward HIV/AIDS infected people and the level of HIV/AIDS awareness among the general population in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

IntroductionThe human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) are worldwide public health issues. Since Saudi Arabia is growing more accessible to the outside world, it is critical to analyze the general population's knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission modes and attitudes toward HIV/AIDS infected people, and the level of HIV/AIDS awareness. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission modes and attitudes toward HIV/AIDS infected people, as well as the level of HIV/AIDS awareness among the general population in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.MethodsThe current online community-based cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among the general population of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia using a self-administrated electronic questionnaire between October 2017 and February 2018. A score <3 was considered a negative response. In contrast, scores of 3 and 4 were considered positive responses. The sum score of each outcome was evaluated according to Bloom's cutoff point. The scores for knowledge and attitude were transformed into mean percentage scores by dividing the sum scores obtained by the respondents by the number of items multiplied by 100. Consequently, the overall mean percentage of scores for each category of knowledge and attitude at 60% and above was considered a good level, whereas <60% was deemed a poor level.ResultsA total of 2,081 subjects residing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia participated in this survey. The mean score of the participant's responses to knowledge items on HIV/AIDS transmission modes was 84.2 ± 15.8%. The mean score of the participant's responses to attitude items toward HIV/AIDS infected people was 50.1 ± 49.9%. The mean score of the participant's responses to attitude items toward the level of HIV/AIDS awareness in Saudi Arabia was 55.7 ± 3.6%. Many socio-demographic variables were significantly associated with mean scores of knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission modes, mean scores of attitude toward HIV/AIDS infected people, and mean scores of attitude toward the level of HIV/AIDS awareness (P-value ≤ 0.05). The Spearman rank correlation explained significant negative linear correlations between knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission modes-attitudes toward HIV/AIDS infected people and knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission modes-attitudes toward the level of HIV/AIDS awareness of r = −0.040 and r = −0.070, respectively (P-value ≤ 0.05). Otherwise, there was a positive linear correlation between attitudes toward HIV/AIDS infected people-attitudes toward the level of HIV/AIDS awareness (r = 0.080, P-value = 0.072).ConclusionsThe study showed that a high percentage of the respondents had good knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission modes. However, a low rate of the study respondents had positive attitudes toward HIV/AIDS infected people and the level of HIV/AIDS awareness among the general population in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, there is a dire need for advocacy campaigns and policies to help reduce HIV stigmatization levels.

CRISPR-Based Programmable Nucleic Acid-Binding Protein Technology Can Specifically Detect Fatal Tropical Disease-Causing Pathogens.

Diagnostic approaches capable of ultrasensitive pathogen detection from low-volume clinical samples, running without any sophisticated instrument and laboratory setup, are easily field-deployable, inexpensive, and rapid, and are considered ideal for monitoring disease progression and surveillance. However, standard pathogen detection methods, including culture and microscopic observation, antibody-based serologic tests, and primarily polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-oriented nucleic acid screening techniques, have shortcomings that limit their widespread use in responding to outbreaks and regular diagnosis, especially in remote resource-limited settings (RLSs). Recently, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based programmable technology has emerged to challenge the unmet criteria of conventional methods. It consists of CRISPR-associated proteins (Cas) capable of targeting virtually any specific RNA or DNA genome based on the guide RNA (gRNA) sequence. Furthermore, the discovery of programmable trans-cleavage Cas proteins like Cas12a and Cas13 that can collaterally damage reporter-containing single-stranded DNA or RNA upon formation of target Cas-gRNA complex has strengthened this technology with enhanced sensitivity. Current advances, including automated multiplexing, ultrasensitive single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based screening, inexpensive paper-based lateral flow readouts, and ease of use in remote global settings, have attracted the scientific community to introduce this technology in nucleic acid-based precise detection of bacterial and viral pathogens at the point of care (POC). This review highlights CRISPR-Cas-based molecular technologies in diagnosing several tropical diseases, namely malaria, zika, chikungunya, human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV-AIDS), tuberculosis (TB), and rabies.

Factors influencing treatment adherence in hypertension and HIV management in South Africa: A comparative literature review.

Hypertension (HTN) is the most significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in South Africa (SA), with one in three people over the age of 25 suffering from HTN. Whilst human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) are the leading causes of death in South Africa, CVD is in the top 10 causes of death, demonstrating the importance of detecting and controlling blood pressure early on. This study aimed to review adherence factors to antihypertensive medication and antiretroviral therapy (ART) and evaluate the resulting factors influencing adherence discrepancies within the South African population. A comprehensive literature review was carried out. PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane and Embase were searched for English publications between 2000 and 2021. A total of 50 articles covering quantitative and qualitative studies were included. Many studies identified poor adherence levels to antihypertensive treatment, reaching a substandard adherence rate of 41.9%, whilst most studies on the HIV-positive population reported good levels of adherence, with adherence rates of more than 90%. Being of the male gender, advanced age, low socioeconomic status and a low level of education were associated with unsatisfactory adherence rates in both groups. Within the HIV group, more participants had better knowledge concerning the extent of their disease and its required treatments. The results present substandard adherence levels to antihypertensives compared with antiretroviral (ARV) adherence, despite the influence of more non-adherence factors in the HIV group. The authors recommend better adherence counselling for patients with HTN during every clinic visit, regular healthcare worker training and the implementation of ART adherence programmes in patients with hypertension.

Brain antioxidants and hippocampal microanatomical alterations following the administration of Efavirenz/Lamivudine/Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and Lamivudine/Nevirapine/Zidovudine in adult male Wistar rats.

Highly active antiretroviral therapies (HAARTs) are used for the management of human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS). The present study was designed to characterize the neurotoxicity profile of two popular HAARTs on the brains’ antioxidants and hippocampal microanatomical alterations in an in vivo model. Fifteen adults male Wistar rats, were assigned to three groups (n = 5); group I the normal control (NC) received distilled water (5 mL/kg b.wt), groups II administered with oral therapeutic doses of Efavirenz/ Lamivudine/ Tenofovir disproxil fumerate (TLE 17.14 mg/kg b.wt), and group III with Lamivudine/ Nevirapine/ Zidovudine (LNZ 9.28 mg/kg b.wt), respectively which were available for use in University of Uyo Teaching Hospital Nigeria at the time of this experiment. After a 30-day administration, biochemical parameters (catalase, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, glutathione S-transferase, malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase, vitamins A, C and E) were determined via serum from blood of ketamine (100 mg/kg, i.p) anesthetized rats. Brains were carefully removed and post-fixed for tissue processing employing hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), cresyl fast violet (CFV) stains, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) antibody expression. Results revealed significantly (p < 0.05) decreased antioxidant concentrations and increase in oxidative markers in HAART-administered groups. Normal histoarchitecture was shown in NC, but TLE-administered group demonstrated some neuronal atrophy, and degeneration of pyramidal neurons, with milder distortions in LNZ. TLE-administered group demonstrated intense Nissl substances with chromatolysis compared to LNZ and NC, while GFAP was strongly expressed in TLE-administered group compared to LNZ. In conclusion, TLE is more neurotoxic compared with LNZ.

Assessing Trade-Offs and Optimal Ranges of Density for Life Expectancy and 12 Causes of Mortality in Metro Vancouver, Canada, 1990-2016.

Background: Understanding and managing the impacts of population growth and densification are important steps for sustainable development. This study sought to evaluate the health trade-offs associated with increasing densification and to identify the optimal balance of neighbourhood densification for health. Methods: We linked population density with a 27-year mortality dataset in Metro Vancouver that includes census-tract levels of life expectancy (LE), cause-specific mortalities, and area-level deprivation. We applied two methods: (1) difference-in-differences (DID) models to study the impacts of densification changes from the early 1990s on changes in mortality over a 27-year period; and (2) smoothed cubic splines to identify thresholds of densification at which mortality rates accelerated. Results: At densities above ~9400 persons per km2, LE began to decrease more rapidly. By cause, densification was linked to decreased mortality for major causes of mortality in the region, such as cardiovascular diseases, neoplasms, and diabetes. Greater inequality with increasing density was observed for causes such as human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS), sexually transmitted infections, and self-harm and interpersonal violence. Conclusions: Areas with higher population densities generally have lower rates of mortality from the major causes, but these environments are also associated with higher relative inequality from largely preventable causes of death.

Ocular manifestations of HIV and AIDS patients on antiretroviral therapy in a tertiary hospital in South Africa

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) causes impairment to the immune system, which then leads to immunocompromised conditions, and allows for opportunistic infection to invade many organs of the human body. Ocular involvement is very common; the various ocular complications may be asymptomatic and they may be the initial manifestations of the underlying diseases.Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and the type of ocular manifestations that occur in HIV and AIDS patients.Setting: The study was conducted on ART (antiretroviral treatment) clinic patients in the Department of Ophthalmology at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria.Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on HIV and AIDS patients referred from the ART clinic for complete ophthalmological evaluation, irrespective of the immune system status and presence or absence of symptoms. All the participants underwent an ophthalmologic evaluation, which included case history and ocular examinations of both anterior and posterior segments.Results: Out of the 177 participants, 72.3% had visual acuity of between 6/3 to 6/18, 10% had poor vision, 7% had lost one eye to ocular complications and 5% were blind. The most common anterior segment manifestations were uveitis and dry eye, whilst HIV-related retinopathy and papilledema were the most prevalent conditions in the posterior segment. Only three participants had third cranial nerve palsy.Conclusion: The prevalence of ocular manifestations was significantly higher with lower CD4+ cell counts, which could be regarded as predictors for the occurrence of ocular morbidity in HIV and AIDS patients.

Prevalence and Predisposing Factors of Intestinal Parasitic Infections Among HIV Positive Patients Visiting Nekemte Specialized Hospital, Western Ethiopia.

BackgroundIntestinal parasites are endemic in many regions of the world where Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) patients are prevalent. This study aimed to assess the extent of intestinal parasitic infection (IPI) and predisposing factors among HIV positive patients visiting Nekemte Specialized Hospital, Western Ethiopia.MethodsA hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV positive patients and HIV negative controls who visited Nekemte Specialized Hospital from April to August 2020. A structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic and risk-factor data. Stool samples and blood were collected and tested. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsThe occurrence of IPIs was considerably higher (73.3%) among HIV positive subjects compared to HIV negative controls (22.7%). Rate of infection with IPI was higher in individuals with CD4+ T cell count < 200 cells/μL. The species-specific distribution of parasites among HIV positive was higher for Giardia lamblia 35% followed by Entamoeba histolytica, 16% and hookworm 17.5%. Among the risk factors; age, educational status and occupation were significantly related with IPI (P<0.05). Habit of washing hands (OR=1.146, 95% CI: 0.189–1.936) and contact with animals (OR=2.926, 95% CI: 1.955–4.380) were expressively associated with IPI. Furthermore, eating raw meat, lack of safe water sources and usage were meaningfully connected with IPIs with OR=1.203, 95% CI: 0.590–2.454 and OR=0.172, 95% CI: 0.112–0.263, respectively.ConclusionHIV positive individuals were highly affected by IPI than HIV negative controls. The spreading of intestinal parasites was critically affected by reduced CD4+ T cell counts. Consistent screening and treatment of IPIs and awareness creation is very vital in improving the overall quality life of HIV/AIDS patients.

Histopathological changes in Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters, 1852) ovaries after a chronic exposure to a mixture of the HIV drug nevirapine and the antibiotics sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim

The burden of the human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) infection has transformed the African continent into a major consumer of antiretrovirals (ARVs) drugs. In addition to HIV burden, the African continent has also a high incidence of tuberculosis (TB) and has been experiencing recurring outbreaks of several other viral, bacterial, and parasitic epidemic diseases. The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2 or Covid-19) pandemic outbreak is adding to the continent’s infectious diseases burden as experts are predicting that it will be here for a long time. One of the consequences of these infectious diseases is that antiviral and antibiotic compounds have become some of the most consumed pharmaceuticals on the continent. Many of these drugs have been frequently detected in surface waters across Africa. There is limited information available on the adverse effects of the mixtures of different types of pharmaceuticals in African aquatic environments on fish reproduction. The present study investigated the effects of the ARV drug nevirapine (NVP - 1.48 and 3.74 μg/L) and its mixture with the antibiotic sulfamethoxazole (3.68 μg/L) and trimethoprim (0.87 μg/L) on O. mossambicus gonads using histopathological endpoints as biomarkers. The fish (n = 52) were exposed for 30 days in a static renewal system. Female O. mossambicus exposed to nevirapine (3.74 μg/L) and to NVP – antibiotic mixture recorded higher ovary indices. Statistically significant differences were found in female ovary indices between the fish exposed to NVP (3.74 μg/L) and the control fish (p = 0.002) as well as between the fish exposed to the NVP - antibiotic mixture and the control fish (p = 0.009). The main observed histopathological changes in the ovaries were increased vitellogenic oocyte atresia and vacuolation of the interstitial tissue in the fish exposed to NVP - antibiotic mixture. It is evident that the presence of NVP - antibiotics mixture in water triggered the observed histopathology in female fish ovaries. The detected abnormal high rate of atretic oocytes could result in impaired fish reproduction.

Development of a pseudovirus assay and evaluation to screen natural products for inhibition of HIV-1 subtype C reverse transcriptase

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMedicinal plants are used in the management of Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) in many developing country settings where HIV-1 subtype C drives the epidemic. Efforts to identify plant derived molecules with anti-HIV properties require reproducible assay systems for routine screening of selected plant compounds. Although a number of standardized HIV-1 pseudoviruses have been generated to assess infectivity, replicability or reproducibility, HIV-1 subtype C (HIV-1-C) pseudoviruses have not been comprehensively characterized to identify inhibitory plant substances. Aim of the studyThe current study aimed at developing an HIV-1-C pseudovirus assay, and evaluate plant substances targeting reverse transcriptase (RT) activity. Materials and methodsHIV-1 subtype C pseudoviruses containing a luciferase reporter gene were generated by transfection of human 293T cells. HIV-1 subtype B (HIV-1-B) wild type pseudoviruses and mutants resistant to nucleoside and non-nucleoside RT inhibitors were also generated and used as controls. Selected plant substances and the RT inhibitors Zidovudine (AZT) and Nevirapine (NVP), were used to evaluate inhibition. Pseudovirus infectivity was determined by luciferase measurement in CF2/CD4+/CCR5 cells, and cytotoxicity was determined using the MTT assay. AZT and NVP inhibited wild type pseudoviruses in a dose dependent manner, with IC50 values in the nanomolar range. ResultsPseudoviruses harbouring RT drug resistance mutations were poorly suppressed by AZT and NVP. Catechin, obtained from Peltophorum africanum inhibited HIV-1-C and HIV-1-B pseudoviruses with selective indices of 6304 μM (IC50: 0.49 μM, CC50: 3089 μM) and 1343 μM (IC50: 2.3 μM, CC50: 3089 μM), respectively; while the methanol root crude extract of Elaeodendron transvaalense gave IC50 values of 11.11 μg/ml and 16.86 μg/ml, respectively. ConclusionThe developed HIV-1-C pseudovirus assay can be used to screen plant substances for RT inhibition, and may have utility in settings with limited access to high level biosafety facilities.

Self-care of elderly people after the diagnosis of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

to characterize the seropositive elderly for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) in their socio-demographic aspects; to understand how the elderly take care of themselves from the diagnosis of HIV/AIDS. Qualitative, descriptive, exploratory research conducted at a Voluntary Counseling and Testing Center with 10 elderly people receiving treatment for HIV/AIDS. The data were analyzed according to the content analysis. Data show the elderly people's lack of knowledge about HIV/AIDS transmission, the experience of being elderly and having HIV/AIDS, caring for oneself and life after diagnosis of HIV/AIDS in their daily lives. Final considerations: The diagnosis of HIV/AIDS seropositivity in the elderly generates a blend of feelings and fears that lead to food changes, adherence to treatment and the renunciation of daily and social habits, manifested as ways of self-care.

Prevalence and factors associated with the use of traditional medicines among human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients in Sokoto, Nigeria.

Background:In resource-scarce settings like Nigeria, access to conventional drugs and antiretroviral therapy (ART) is highly limited, hence the resort to use of traditional herbal medicine by a significant number of people living with human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) (PLWHAs). Traditional medicine (TM) continues to provide health coverage for most of the people in developing countries, and it is equally becoming increasingly popular in western countries.Aim:This study aims to present the status and use of TM and determine the factors associated with its use among patients with HIV/AIDS on highly active ART in a tertiary health institution in Sokoto, Northwest Nigeria.Methodology:This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study involving HIV/AIDS patients attending antiretroviral treatment center of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto, Nigeria. The study population comprised PLWHAs attending the ART clinic of the hospital (UDUTH). A total of 271 respondents were recruited into the study and administered a set of pretested structured questionnaire. Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the ethical committee of the teaching hospital.Results:Only 11 (4.2%) of the respondents had used TM before, of whom 9 (5%) were females and 2 (2.7%) were males with P = 0.399. Only one of the respondents had side effects following the use of TM, and the most common reason for the use of TM was as a result of too much weight loss.Conclusion:Although the use of TM among the study participants in Sokoto was low, there is need to educate PLWHAs about the possible risks of interactions following the concurrent use of TM and ART.

E-Application in Awareness Generation of HIV/AIDS at Dakshina Kannada District

In Human Immuno-deficiency Virus and Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS), the HIV virus attacks the immune system, which defends the human body against pathogens. When there is balance against the immune system, the people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) become more susceptible to opportunistic infections (OIs). The District of Dakshina Kannada is not exceptional from the above mentioned burning problems of HIV/AIDS infections. Due to its larger rate of national and international migration drastic change in the lifestyle of the people, improvement in industrialization and urbanization directly or indirectly contributing to transmission of virus. In this paper, the researcher had made an attempt to examine the Technology and e-applications, its effects on the people in creating awareness with regard to HIV/AIDS. The researcher’s main aim is to know both the traditional methods and the present Technologies, and its effect in creating awareness and prevention of HIV/AIDS. The target audiences are general public-youth between the age group of 19- 29 years. By adopting field survey and interview researcher collected 25 samples, studied in depth and analyzed them systematically

Social Perception on HIV Positive People in Dakshina Kannada

Human Immuno-deficiency Virus and Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is one of the most effective diseases which is associated with different terms and concept like labeling, stereo typing, separating and discriminating the people who are positive. Even though, there is a reason, causes and preventive measures of HIV/AIDS society has considered the positive people are very dangerous and treated them as useless, as social evil and God’s curse etc and also discriminate them. This different attitude of publics have made them to keep themselves isolate from family, community and society. Due to this strong social stigma the positive people try the maximum part of their life in maintaining the secrecy. The present paper deals with demographic status of HIV/AIDS positive people i Dakshina Kannada and their degree of interaction in the family, community and society and also the problems they going to face in their day to day life. The researcher had collected information from various centers, hospitals, agencies and support group. The methodology is used in this study is field survey, interview and case studies method. 25 cases have been studied in depth. The main objectives are to know the impact of HIV on the people, family and in society, and to find out perception of peoples attitude, stigma and discrimination towards the HIV positive people.

Changing Scenario of Health Problems due to HIV Infection

In Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) epidemic, today has become not only a public health issue but also one that is seriously affecting the dynamics of the social, cultural, economic and developmental pace of the society. India has a population of 1.2 billion people, around half of whom are adults in the sexually active age group. The first AIDS case in India was detected in 1986 and since then HIV infection has been reported in all states and union territories. Estimated number of people living with HIV/AIDS, 2009 People living with HIV/AIDS is 2.39 million. Adult (15 years or above) HIV prevalence is 0.31%. Previously it was thought that around 5 million people were living with HIV in India - more than in any other country. Better data, including the results of a national household survey conducted in 2005-2006, led to a major revision of the prevalence estimate in July 2007. It is now thought that around 2.39 million people in India are living with HIV. Of these, an estimated 39% are female and 4 % are children. HIV prevalence in India may have declined slightly in recent years, though the epidemic is still growing in some regions and population groups. AIDS the killer diseases of the century is spreading with enormous rapidly and has now emerged as serious socio-economic and public health problems. The aim of the study is to find out changing scenario of Health Problems due to HIV infection. The objectives are to find out the socio-economic background of the respondents and to know the health issues of the positive people. The fifty samples 25 male and 25 female were selected from ART centre of Dakshina Kannada Districts at Karnataka State, India for this study

Health of Urban Women with Respect of HIV Infection: A Case Study in Dakshina Kannada

In Human Immuno-deficiency Virus and Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS), the HIV virus attacks the immune system, which defends the human body against pathogens. When there is balance against the immune system, the people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) become more susceptible to opportunistic infections (OIs). With the bodies immune system is not capable of defending itself against Opportunistic Infections, the PLHA ultimately submit to them. In developed countries, the cost of antiretroviral (ARVs) has been borne completely by the state; as a result, there has been a decrease in the number of deaths on account of HIV in the past 15 years. On the other hand, the number of deaths in developing countries due to HIV continues. In this paper, the researchers have made an attempt to examine the status of health of women in urban areas with respect to HIV infection. With this specific aim tried to know the reasons for the HIV/AIDs infection and its effect, consequence on women health particularly. By adopting field survey, interview and case studies methods, 50 samples have been taken and analyzed them systematically