Human Immunodeficiency Virus Research Articles

Epidemiology of HIV infection in penal system institutions

Aim. To assess the medical and statistical indicators of the health status of persons with the disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), among suspects, accused, and convicts held in institutions of the penal system. To develop proposals for improving work in the field of countering the spread of HIV infections. Materials and methods. The structure and dynamics of morbidity and mortality from HIV infection in penal institutions from 2014 to 2022 was analyzed using official statistical data. Calculations were carried out using MS Excel application packages and the R software environment version 3.6.2.Results. The peak HIV incidence in penal system institutions was recorded in 2015, followed by its gradual decrease by 2020. HIV mortality decreased by 52.1% since 2014, amounting to 84.6 per 100,000 people in 2022. The mortality rate of people living with HIV (PLHIV) decreased by 61.5% in 2014. This dynamics showed a decreasing trend starting from 2015. The antiretroviral therapy coverage in this group of patients reached a maximum value of 94.5% by 2022. Conclusions. The HIV mortality and mortality rates during the study period show a downward trend. The antiretroviral therapy coverage in 2022 reached a historic maximum. However, this does not exclude the low adherence of patients to treatment, which indicates the need to develop new methods of sanitary education and therapeutic and preventive work in penal system institutions.

Next-generation 3D printed multipurpose prevention intravaginal ring for prevention of HIV, HSV-2, and unintended pregnancy

Globally, nearly half of all pregnancies are unintended, ~1.3 million new human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections are reported every year, and more than 500 million people are estimated to have a genital herpes simplex virus (HSV-2) infection. Here we report the first 3D printed multipurpose prevention technology (MPT) intravaginal ring (IVR) for prevention of HIV, HSV-2, and unintended pregnancy. The IVRs were fabricated using state-of-the-art Continuous Liquid Interface Production (CLIP™) 3D printing technology using a biocompatible silicone-urethane based resin. Anti-HIV drug (Dapivirine, DPV), anti-herpes drug (Pritelivir, PTV) and a contraceptive drug (Levonorgestrel, LNG) were loaded in a macaque size IVR (25 mm outer diameter, OD; 6.0 mm cross-section, CS) allometrically scaled from the human size (54 mm OD; 7.6 mm CS) IVR analogue. All three active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) were loaded in the IVR using a single-step drug loading process driven by absorption. DPV, PTV, and LNG elicited zero-order release kinetics in vitro in simulated vaginal fluid (SVF) at pH 4 and pH 8 relevant to human and macaque vaginal pH respectively. CLIP 3D printed MPT IVRs remained stable after 6 months of storage at 4 °C with no change in physical, dimensional, or mechanical properties and no change in drug concentration and absence of drug degradation byproducts. The MPT IVRs elicited sustained release of all three APIs in macaques for 28 days with median plasma concentrations of 138 pg/mL (DPV), 18,700 pg/mL (PTV), and 335 pg/mL (LNG). Safety studies demonstrated that the MPT IVRs were safe and well tolerated in the macaques with no observed change or abnormalities in vaginal pH and no significant changes in any of the 22 mucosal cytokines and chemokines tested including pro-inflammatory (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-17, IL-18) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10, IL-12) cytokines while the MPT IVR was in place or after its removal. Additionally, MPT IVRs elicited no observed alterations in systemic CD4+ and CD8+ T cells during the entire study. Collectively, the proposed MPT IVR has potential to expand preventative choices for young women and girls against unintended pregnancy against two highly prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Unveiling the enigmatic roles of basophils in HIV infection: A narrative review.

The intricate interplay between the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the immune system has long been a focal point in understanding disease progression. Among the myriad of immune cells, basophils, often overshadowed, have recently emerged as pivotal contributors to the complex immunological landscape of HIV infection. This paper aims to provide a succinct overview of the enigmatic roles of basophils in HIV pathogenesis, elucidating their multifaceted functions and implications. Basophils, conventionally perceived as minor players in immune responses, exhibit active participation in HIV infection. Their activation triggered by viral antigens, cytokines, and immune complexes orchestrates a cascade of immune events, influencing immune modulation, cytokine release, and the activation of adaptive immune cells. Furthermore, basophils function as antigen-presenting cells, potentially impacting viral dissemination and immune dysregulation. Additionally, basophils serve as crucial regulators in HIV infection through cytokine secretion, notably interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, and IL-3, influencing immune cell differentiation, polarization, and antibody production. Their interactions with various immune cells intricately shape the immune response against HIV, impacting disease progression and immune equilibrium. Moreover, harnessing basophils as potential vaccine targets or immune modulators represents a compelling avenue for future research. In conclusion, the emerging understanding of basophils' multifaceted involvement in HIV infection challenges prior perceptions and underscores their significance in shaping immune responses and disease outcomes. This abstraction highlights the need for continued research to unlock the full potential of basophils, paving the way for novel strategies in combatting HIV/AIDS.

Non-AIDS defining cancers in HIV-infected individuals: a concise review

Non-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-defining cancers (NADCs) present a growing concern in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals, impacting morbidity and mortality rates. This paper synthesizes current epidemiological data and explores the multifaceted relationship between HIV infection and NADC risk. Epidemiological studies indicate a shifting landscape of cancer incidence among HIV-infected populations, with a notable rise in NADCs over recent decades. Factors such as prolonged life expectancy due to effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) and aging of the HIV-infected population contribute to this trend. Despite the overall decline in AIDS-defining cancers, NADCs have emerged as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in HIV-infected individuals. Immunodeficiency, chronic inflammation, and oncogenic viral co-infections, such as human papillomavirus and hepatitis C virus, compound the risk of developing NADCs. Diagnostic challenges persist, with delayed detection and suboptimal management contributing to poor outcomes. Treatment modalities for NADCs in HIV-infected individuals require careful consideration, balancing cancer-directed therapy with potential interactions with ART and immune reconstitution. Prevention strategies, including cancer screening and lifestyle modifications, are crucial in mitigating the burden of NADCs in this population. As the landscape of HIV care continues to evolve, understanding the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of NADCs is imperative for optimizing clinical management and improving outcomes in HIV-infected individuals.

Optimizing rosemary oil nanoemulsion loaded with nelfinavir and epigallocatechin gallate: A Design Expert® endorsed approach for enhanced neuroAIDS management

This study focuses on optimizing the delivery of Nelfinavir (NFV), a vital protease inhibitor in antiretroviral therapy, and Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a potent adjunctive anti- human immunodeficiency virus (anti-HIV) agent found in green tea. The challenge lies in NFV's low intrinsic dissolution rate, significant p-gp efflux, and high hepatic metabolism, necessitating frequent and high-dose administration. Our objective was to develop a nanoemulsion loaded with NFV and EGCG to enhance oral delivery, expediting antiretroviral effects for NeuroAIDS treatment. After meticulous excipient screening, we selected Tween 40 as the surfactant and polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) as the co-surfactant. Employing a Quality by Design (QbD) approach with statistical multivariate methods, we optimized the nanoemulsion that exhibited a droplet size of 83.21 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 2.289, transmittance of 95.20 %, zeta potential of 1.495 mV, pH of 6.95, refractive index of 1.40, viscosity of 24.00 ± 0.42 mPas, and conductivity of 0.162 μS/cm. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated superior in vivo absorption of the optimized nanoemulsion compared to NFV and EGCG suspension. The optimized nanoemulsion showcased higher Cmax of NFV (9.75 ± 1.23 μg/ml) and EGCG (27.7 ± 1.22 μg/ml) in the brain, along with NFV (26.44 ± 1.44 μg/ml) and EGCG (313.20 ± 5.53 μg/ml) in the plasma. This study advocates for the potential of NFV and EGCG-loaded nanoemulsion in combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) for effective NeuroAIDS management.

Hotspots and Trends in Global Antiviral Herbal Basic Research: A Visualization Analysis

Introduction: Viral infections can become public health emergencies due to the possibility of the wide transmission of their associated pathogens and their rapid variation. Moreover, most viruses lack effective therapeutic drugs and vaccines. Herbal medicines have been clinically validated for their broad-spectrum antiviral properties and their ability to leverage their complex compositions to target multiple levels, pathways, and channels. In this study, we seek to assess the current global research landscape and identify current and future directions for research on antiviral herbal medicines to guide future pharmacological developments. Methods: Bibliometric and visualization methods were used to analyze 2134 Chinese-language and 4600 English-language journal articles published between 2017 and 2022 from both Chinese and international databases, and the theme words and foci of highly cited papers were analyzed. Results: It was found that coronaviruses (especially severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, SARS-CoV-2), the influenza virus, the hepatitis B virus, and the human immunodeficiency virus were the primary targets for antiviral herbal medicines. Key herbs included Glycyrrhiza glabra, Lonicera japonica, Scutellaria baicalensis, Ephedra sinica, Forsythia suspensa, Agastache rugosa, Astragalus membranaceus, and Poria cocos. The primary active compounds known to be responsible for these antiviral effects are alkaloids, bioflavonoids, flavonoids, sterols, and polyphenols, including curcumin, quercetin, kaempferol, wogonin, stigmasterol, β-glutosterol, luteolin, coumarins, naringenin, gallic acid, berberine, and andrographolide. These compounds work through mechanisms such as inhibiting viral replication, blocking virus–receptor interactions, destroying viruses, regulating the immune response, oxidative stress induction, and cytokine response suppression. Conclusions: The research foci included the pharmacodynamic foundations, molecular dynamics simulation, and virtual screening of active components in herbs use for the treatment of viral diseases such as SARS-CoV-2 using bioinformatics, macromolecular docking, and network pharmacology. Significant gaps remain in interdisciplinary collaboration, especially regarding herb cultivation, processing, sustainable harvesting, and potential drug interactions.

COVID-19 and severe cutaneous allergic reactions to sulfonamides.

Background: Sulfonamides are associated with severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs). Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) triggers an immune response, which may increase the likelihood of developing a hypersensitivity reaction. Objectives: We sought to explore the impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection on the probability of developing SCARs and/or erythema multiforme (EM) reactions to sulfonamides. Methods: In the propensity score-matched cohort study by using the de-identified TriNetX Research data base, patients who had an exposure to antibiotic or non-antibiotic sulfonamides between March 1, 2020, and January 1, 2023, were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of a previous COVID-19 infection within 6 months of starting the sulfonamide agent. The outcomes studied were the 30-day risk of developing SCARs or EM (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, or EM) within 3 months of sulfonamide exposure. Cohorts were matched based on baseline demographics; malignant lymphoid neoplasms; human immunodeficiency virus; systemic lupus erythematosus; bone marrow transplantation; diabetes; psoriasis; seizures; gout; solid organ or stem cell transplantation; COVID-19 vaccination; and exposure to risk medications, including allopurinol, levetiracetam, carbamazepine, lamotrigine, oxcarbazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, abacavir, nevirapine, piroxicam, tenoxicam, or mexiletine. Results: When comparing 345,119 patients on sulfonamides and with previous COVID-19 to an equal number of sulfonamides users without a previous COVID-19, patients with COVID-19 had a lower risk of developing any form of SCARs (relative risk 0.39 [95% confidence interval, 0.26, 0.58]; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Previous SARS-CoV-2 infection seems to be associated with a lower probability of developing SCARs or EM among patients using sulfonamides.

Cervical cancer screening in high-risk patients: Clinical challenges in primary care.

The risk of developing cervical cancer is not equal across populations-individual health history, economic, political, and societal factors influence cervical cancer risk. Certain health conditions, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, immunosuppression, and history of high-grade cervical dysplasia, are associated with higher cervical cancer risk and warrant distinct screening, surveillance, and management guidelines. It is imperative for clinicians to recognize high-risk groups and apply appropriate corresponding guidelines. However, this can be difficult in practice, as recommendations regularly evolve. This review offers up-to-date guidance in a case-based format on cervical cancer screening, surveillance, and management for high-risk patients.

Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome in HIV Patients Diagnosed with Brain Imaging

Highly active antiretroviral therapy improves immune function in human immunodeficiency virus patients but can lead to progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) due to immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). PML, caused by John Cunningham (JC) virus, affects the central nervous system in immunocompromised individuals. Despite the negative result for JC virus in the cerebrospinal fluid test, we report a rare case of PML-IRIS that was diagnosed based on clinical presentation and brain magnetic resonance imaging findings and showed improvement with steroid therapy.

Navigating the Roadblocks: Progress and Challenges in Cell-Based Therapies for Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

Cell-based therapies represent a major advancement in the treatment and management of HIV/AIDS, with a goal to overcome the limitations of traditional antiretroviral therapy (ART). These innovative approaches not only promise a functional cure by reconstructing the immune landscape but also address the persistent viral reservoirs. For example, stem cell therapies have emerged from the foundational success of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in curing HIV infection in a limited number of cases. B cell therapies make use of genetically modified B cells constitutively expressing broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) against target viral particles and infected cells. Adoptive cell transfer (ACT), including TCR-T therapy, CAR-T cells, NK-CAR cells, and DC-based therapy, is adapted from cancer immunotherapy and repurposed for HIV eradication. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms through which these engineered cells recognize and destroy HIV-infected cells, the modification strategies, and their role in sustaining remission in the absence of ART. The review also addresses the challenges to cell-based therapies against HIV and discusses the recent advancements aimed at overcoming them.

Bayesian hierarchical spatiotemporal modelling of tuberculosis – Human immunodeficiency virus co-infection in Ethiopia

Understanding the epidemiological patterns of tuberculosis-human immunodeficiency virus (TB-HIV) co-infection over space and time is crucial because it assists in identifying areas with high risks that need special control strategies. This article aimed to determine districts in Ethiopia that are most vulnerable to TB-HIV co-infection by examining the spatiotemporal patterns of the co-infection across four years, from 2015 to 2018. The study’s data came from Ethiopia’s Federal Ministry of Health. The data was analysed by applying the Bayesian hierarchical spatiotemporal modelling. We considered four models with different space–time interaction structures via the Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation (INLA) in the R-INLA package. In addition, we have applied the Deviance Information Criterion to select the most suitable model. The mean raw annual TB-HIV relative risk (RR) continuously decreased from 2015 to 2018, and the raw RRs of co-infection varied over districts and years. The spatiotemporal model, which allows for space–time interaction with independent spatial random effect and dependent temporal random effect, was the preferred model for describing the variations in TB-HIV co-infection across different districts over time. The prior variance for the spatial structured random effect had a smaller precision mode than the spatial unstructured random effect. This difference reveals that the former accounted for more spatial autocorrelation than the latter, indicating an information-borrowing effect amongst districts. Furthermore, the findings exhibit that the relative risk of TB-HIV co-infection had significant spatiotemporal variation and clustering. Through this research, further information was obtained regarding the temporal evolution of the geographical spread of TB and HIV co-infection at the district level in the country. It also made it possible to determine districts that should receive priority for control actions because of their high risk of co-infection.

Impact of CCR5Δ32 on the risk of infection, Staphylococcus aureus carriage, and plasma concentrations of chemokines in Danish blood donors

The CC chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) is a suggested receptor for Staphylococcus aureus leukotoxin ED. Homozygosity for the Δ32 deletion (CCR5Δ32) protects against human immunodeficiency virus infection and possibly also against leukotoxin ED. We examined the impact of CCR5Δ32 on the susceptibility to S.aureus infection, all-cause infections, and S.aureus nasal carriage, respectively, and on the concentrations of circulating chemokines in blood donors. We included 95,406 participants from the Danish Blood Donor Study (DBDS) genotyped for >650,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms. The CCR5Δ32 (rs333, MAF: 0.12) was imputed from a reference panel and validated. Infectious outcomes were identified by diagnosis codes and redeemed prescription of antibiotics in national health registers. Data on S.aureus nasal carriage and forty-seven inflammatory biomarkers were available for 6721 and 7811 participants, respectively. Cox, logistic, and linear regression models adjusted for relevant confounders were used to explore said associations. During more than 700,000 person-years of observation, we found that CCR5Δ32 was associated with neither an increased risk of redeemed dicloxacillin, hospital-treated S.aureus-associated infection (replicated in 345,996 Icelanders), redeemed antibiotics, all-cause infection, and nor with S.aureus nasal carriage. We discovered an association between CCR5Δ32 and elevated CCL4 concentrations, which were 1.26-fold higher in Δ32-heterozygotes (95%-CI: 1.23-1.30) and 2.64-fold higher in Δ32-homozygotes (95%-CI: 2.41-2.90) compared with wildtype homozygotes. Conversely, concentrations of CCL2, CXCL-10, and CCL11 were slightly lower among Δ32-heterozygotes. Results from this CCR5Δ32 high-prevalent cohort do not support the idea that CCR5Δ32 affects the risk of S.aureus carriage or infection to any relevant degree, in this northern European context. CCL4 was the main chemokine affected by CCR5Δ32 and was observed in higher concentration among Δ32-carriers. This study cannot rule out that S.aureus is a previous driver of CCR5Δ32 selection. The Health Research Fund of Central Denmark Region, Aarhus University, Danish Administrative Regions, Bio- and Genome Bank Denmark, Danish Blood Donor Research Foundation, Aase & Ejnar Danielsens Foundation, Højmosegård Grant, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and A.P. Møller Foundation for the Advancement of Medical Science.

Non-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome defining malignancies in people living with haemophilia and human immunodeficiency virus after direct-acting antiviral era.

Non-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-defining malignancies (NADMs) are the crucial cause of mortality in people living with haemophilia and human immunodeficiency virus (PLWHH). We aimed to analyse the types and characters of NADMs in PLWHH after approval of direct-acting antivirals (DAA), considering that most PLWHH are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We conducted a nationwide questionnaire mail survey across 395 HIV core facilities in Japan between May 2022 and February 2023. Eight-year data from 64 respondent hospitals (n = 328 PLWHH; 2015-2022) were collected; 35 NADM cases were identified and analysed. Standardised cancer incidence ratios (SCIRs) were calculated. The median age of PLWHH with NADMs was 51 years (interquartile range: 47-62 years); the SCIR was 2.08 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.48-2.90) for all malignancies (including carcinoma in situ). Liver cancer accounted for most NADMs (43% [15/35]). The SCIRs of liver cancer (23.09 [95% CI: 13.92- 38.30]) and papillary thyroid cancer (9.38 [2.35-37.50]) significantly increased after adjusting for general Japanese male sex and age. Among PLWHH with liver cancers, 73% (11/15) achieved HCV-sustained virological response. Notably, for patients aged ≤ 50 years, 47% (7/15) were affected by liver cancers, and 27% (4/15) succumbed to NADMs. This study presents the largest survey of NADMs in PLWHH after DAA approval. Our findings emphasised the elevated risk of malignancies in PLWHH, underscoring the need for early cancer screening and preventive measures, particularly against liver cancers, even in younger PLWHH.

023. Isolated Calvarial Tuberculosis in An Immunocompromised Patient: A Case Report

Background: Isolated Calvarial tuberculosis is a rare occurrence, first reported by Reid in 1842, with majority of cases (75-90%) appearing under the age group of 20-30 years and involving frontal and parietal bones because of the greater amount of cancellous bone with diploic channels. The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection is currently a huge threat to Indonesia, with Tuberculosis (TB) infection is one example of opportunistic infection that can lead to death in People living with HIV. The objective of this article is to report a rare case of Isolated Calvarial Tuberculosis in an Immunocompromised Patient Case: A 26-year-old male, known to be immunocompromised with HIV infection, presented to hospital with chief complaint of a painless lump on the left temple since 1 month prior. Head CT-Scan examination revealed osteolytic appearance in the left frontal area and swelling of the surrounding soft tissue. The patient then underwent surgery with intraoperative findings of a cystic mass filled with yellowish fluid. A craniotomy of the surrounding healthy bone including the dura mater and excision of the overlying soft tissue were performed, and histopathological result revealed a chronic tuberculosis inflammation. Conclusion: Calvarial Tuberculosis is a rare form of skeletal tuberculosis occurring in younger population, but can also present in older patient with immunocompromised state, that present with main complaint of painless swelling or lump in the frontal or parietal area because of its favourable bone structure. Diagnostic including X-ray and CT-Scan with microbiologic findings of multiple epithelioid granulomas with Langerhans type giant cells. Preferred treatment including both surgical and antituberculosis therapy to achieve favourable outcome.

PKG1 promotes the HIV-induced proliferation, migration, and fibrosis of vascular smooth muscle cells of hemorrhoids

BackgroundHemorrhoids are very common in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The risk of postoperative infection is significantly greater in HIV-positive patients than in HIV-negative individuals, and the wound healing time is significantly prolonged. This study aimed to investigate the role of HIV-associated hemorrhoids from the perspective of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) function.MethodsA total of 24 hemorrhoid tissue samples (note: grade IV hemorrhoids were absence) were collected and subjected to Masson staining to evaluate fibrosis in this study. mRNA and protein levels were monitored by qPCR and WB analysis, respectively. Immunofluorescence was conducted to evaluate PKG1 and α-SMA expression. To establish a cell model in vitro, VSMCs were stimulated with envelope glycoprotein (gp) 120, which is a type of HIV envelope protein. Cell proliferation was assessed via a CCK-8 assay and EdU staining. Moreover, a wound healing assay was performed to assess cell migration.ResultsOur data confirmed that fibrosis was present in hemorrhoid tissues from HIV-infected patients and that PKG1 expression was upregulated. Moreover, the administration of HIV gp120 promoted the proliferation and migration of VSMCs. Similarly, fibrosis-related markers (α-SMA, MMP2, MMP3, and TIMP1) were markedly upregulated. However, silencing PKG1 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and expression of fibrosis-related markers in gp120-challenged VSMCs.ConclusionThe present research revealed that PKG1 regulated the proliferation, migration, and fibrosis of VSMCs, thereby exerting detrimental effects on HIV-associated hemorrhoids.

Anti-Streptolysin O in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Patients

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a pathogenic virus that attacks and damages the human immune system so that the body becomes weak in fighting viral or bacterial infections. The purpose of this study was to determine the description of Anti Streptolysin O examination in HIV patients at Imbanagara Health Center. This research method is descriptive, with a sample size of 35 HIV-positive people in Imbanagara. Measurements used qualitative and semi-quantitative procedures with a black background slide instrument. The examination was conducted at the Imbanagara Health Center in June 2023. The results of this study obtained positive results for as many as three people (9%) with an average ASTO level of 400 IU/mL and negative results for as many as 32 people (91%).

The Effects of Viral Structural Proteins on Acidic Phospholipids in Host Membranes

Enveloped viruses rely on host membranes for trafficking and assembly. A substantial body of literature published over the years supports the involvement of cellular membrane lipids in the enveloped virus assembly processes. In particular, the knowledge regarding the relationship between viral structural proteins and acidic phospholipids has been steadily increasing in recent years. In this review, we will briefly review the cellular functions of plasma membrane-associated acidic phospholipids and the mechanisms that regulate their local distribution within this membrane. We will then explore the interplay between viruses and the plasma membrane acidic phospholipids in the context of the assembly process for two enveloped viruses, the influenza A virus (IAV) and the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Among the proteins encoded by these viruses, three viral structural proteins, IAV hemagglutinin (HA), IAV matrix protein-1 (M1), and HIV-1 Gag protein, are known to interact with acidic phospholipids, phosphatidylserine and/or phosphatidylinositol (4,5)-bisphosphate. These interactions regulate the localization of the viral proteins to and/or within the plasma membrane and likely facilitate the clustering of the proteins. On the other hand, these viral proteins, via their ability to multimerize, can also alter the distribution of the lipids and may induce acidic-lipid-enriched membrane domains. We will discuss the potential significance of these interactions in the virus assembly process and the property of the progeny virions. Finally, we will outline key outstanding questions that need to be answered for a better understanding of the relationships between enveloped virus assembly and acidic phospholipids.

Vedic astrological factors for human immunodeficiency virus transmission within male individuals with sexual orientation as homosexual

Background: For almost more than 70 years, the modern science had labeled homosexuality as a mental disorder and was part of DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) until the fifth edition was released in the year 2013 and homosexuality was removed from the mental disorder list. Despite of the removal of homosexuality along with all kind of sexual orientation from mental disorder, it is still being considered taboo in the society. From Sanatana Dharma perspective, homosexuality is very well mentioned in multiple scriptures. In Vedic Astrology as well, this homosexuality along with diseases due to sexual intercourse is being described. In this modern era, one of the most common disease due to sexual intercourse is HIV. Although, HIV is considered relatively new transmission due to its first scientific mention in the late twentieth century, the symptoms and overall nature of this disease is clearly described in Vedic Astrology. Finding: This research paper is an extension of the existing research paper in the field of Vedic Astrology especially in the field of Vedic Astrology focusing on HIV transmission. A total of 314 HIV positive samples was collected from 18 countries selected from Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Africa as well as Australia in order to have a coverage of all the continents. All these HIV positive people belong to LGBT community, to be very specific Gay (homosexuals) and have been identified as HIV transmission due to anal intercourse with another Gay partner. The Astrological Natal Chart were analyzed for all these 314 samples against the KIRAN sutra (5 thumb rules) to find the possibility of HIV based on the sutras i.e. rules. Out of 314 samples, 310 charts fit the criteria (KIRA sutra) mentioned in the KIRAN sutra for HIV transmission. 4 samples were not checked against the criteria (N) due to insufficient Nakshatra-Pada i.e. Constellation-Phase coverage along with the complex nature of the Nakshatra sutra i.e. N sutra of KIRAN sutra. The result indicates that the KIRAN sutra is very effective sutra even to identify the HIV transmission from male-to-male partner with an accuracy of 98.73% (310 cases out of 314 cases) using only 4 sutras i.e. KIRA. Conclusion: The research is an effort to raise awareness and to help males with homosexual orientation to identify whether they are highly prone to HIV or not using their Vedic Astrological Natal Chart so that they can take preventive action. A new yoga i.e. Samalaingika Yauna Sankramaṇa Yoga is being introduced in the field of Medical Astrology focusing on males with sexual orientation as homosexual, commonly known as Gay in LGBT community in order to support Gays living a HIV free life without judging their sexual orientation. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study introduces the application of the KIRAN sutra from Vedic Astrology as a predictive method for assessing HIV transmission risk in homosexual men, achieving an accuracy rate of 98.73%, along with the introduction of a new configuration, Samalaingika Yauna Sankramaṇa Yoga.

Assessing the Economic Feasibility of Needle-Retractable Safety Syringes (NRSS) Adoption in Indian Healthcare Facilities

Description: Globally, sixteen billion injections are given each year, 95.00% of which are for medicinal purposes. This global injection burden is accounted for by India between 24.5% and 31.0%, and alarmingly, over 62.50% of these injections are performed improperly or are repeated. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to assess the increased costs incurred by transitioning from traditional disposable syringes to Needle-Retractable Safety Syringes (NRSS) for beneficial usage in India. Methods: Utilizing a decision tree model, we evaluated the occurrence of needle-stick injuries and syringe reuse among healthcare personnel and patients. We calculated the lifetime costs associated with HIV - Human Immunodeficiency Virus, HBV - Hepatitis B Virus, and HCV - Hepatitis C Virus infections using three Markov models. Results: NRSS offer substantial benefits by reducing needle-stick injuries and preventing blood-borne infections. Among the options analyzed, Reuse Prevention (RUP) syringes emerged as the most cost-effective choice. In contrast, Single-Use Prevention (SIP) and NRSS syringes are currently not deemed cost-effective at their prevailing prices. We recommend prioritizing RUP syringes and exploring strategies to make them more affordable for broader accessibility. Conclusion: Our analysis suggests that, in the Indian context, RUP syringes present an economically viable solution. However, SIP and NRSS syringes do not currently offer cost-effectiveness. To enhance the cost-effectiveness of NRSS, concerted efforts should be directed towards reducing their price. Abbreviations: NRSS, Needle-Retractable Safety Syringes; RUP, Reuse Prevention; SIP, Single-Use Prevention; NSI, Needle Stick Injuries; BBI, Blood-borne Infections; QOL, Quality-of-life; BCC, Behavior Change Communication.

Hypertension guideline implementation and blood pressure control in Matlosana, South Africa.

High systolic blood pressure remains a leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases worldwide and in South Africa (SA). Information about the extent of guideline implementation and blood pressure (BP) control is lacking in Matlosana Sub-district, North West province, SA. The study aimed to assess the implementation of the South African Hypertension Practice Guideline (SAHPG) and BP control in adults attending primary care facilities in Matlosana. Cross-sectional study was conducted, using 523 randomly sampled medical records. Data collected included demographic information, recorded BP readings, anthropometry, screening for target organ damage (TOD), hypertension complications, comorbidities, lifestyle advice and drug therapy. According to the reviewed records the mean age of the participants was 56.77 years with a standard deviation of 12.4 years and 376 (71.9%) records belonged to females. Blood pressure control was documented in 229 (43.8%) of the medical records, with better control recorded in a group with comorbid human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) than in groups with other comorbidities. The study found poor documentation of the SAHPG recommendations among patients with hypertension. According to the patient records BP control was suboptimal, the most common documented comorbid illness was HIV, and screening for TOD was generally poorly documented.Contribution:Programmes that audit and improve the quality of hypertension guideline implementation and BP control in primary care require ongoing support and research.