MedWorm: Infectious Diseases

High survival and treatment success sustained after two and three years of first-line ART for children in Cambodia

Journal of the International AIDS Society — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Good survival, immunological restoration and viral suppression can be sustained after two to three years of ART among children in resource-constrained settings. Increased access to routine virological measurements is needed for timely diagnosis of treatment failure. (Source: Journal of the International AIDS Society)

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Malawi: Ambitious Plans to Prolong Lives

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 17:45:32 +0100

Malawi's government has set itself a major challenge this year, announcing plans to more than double the number of people receiving antiretroviral (ARV) drugs to half a million by the end of 2010. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

BD Diagnostics Launches The BD Protect(TM) Infection Surveillance And Prevention Software Portfolio

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

BD Diagnostics, a segment of BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company), announced the launch of the BD Protect™ Infection Surveillance and Data Management System, a portfolio of healthcare management software solutions that tracks infections and helps prevent their transmission at three levels -- from patient to patient, between patients and healthcare workers, and from communit... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Treating Blood Infections Tops Annual Hospital Cost Increases

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

The hospital costs for treating septicemia increased by an average of nearly 12 percent each year from 1997 to 2007, according to the latest News and Numbers from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Treating this potentially deadly blood infection increased from $4.1 billion in 1997 to $12.3 billion in 2007... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Microbe Detective Seeks Out Germs

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Microorganisms are everywhere and most of them are harmless, but they can do a lot of damage in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals or in tissue transplants. With the aid of a new device, germs can be detected in artificial cartilage within a few hours. We are surrounded by microorganisms. They inhabit our skin, the air we breathe, the surfaces we touch... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Promega Maxwell(R) 16 IVD System CE Marked To The European Union IVD Directive Delivers Combined Solution For Infectious Disease

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 06:00:00 +0100

The Promega Maxwell® 16 IVD System is CE marked in accordance with the requirements of Directive 98/79/EC on in vitro diagnostic medical devices. The CE mark applies to the instrument, the Maxwell® 16 Blood DNA Purification System and the Maxwell® 16 Viral Total Nucleic Acid Purification System... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

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Nuvilex Announces Commencement Of Production Of Reme-Flu™

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 04:00:00 +0100

Nuvilex, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: NVLX), announces today that Legacy Biotechnologies, Inc., its joint venture partner in Reme-Flu™, has commenced production of Reme-Flu™ and expects it to be ready for consumer purchase within the next 30 days. Reme-Flu™ is Legacy Biotechnologies' unique 2-part homeopathic flu remedy designed to help treat symptoms of the flu... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Population-based surveillance for 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus in Guatemala, 2009

Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Please cite this paper as: Reyes et al. (2010) Population-based surveillance for 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus in Guatemala, 2009. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses DOI: 10.1111/j.1750-2659.2010.00138.xBackground In April 2009, 2009 pandemic influenza A H1N1 (2009 H1N1) was first identified in Mexico but did not cause widespread transmission in neighboring Guatemala until several weeks later.Methodology and principle findings Using a population-based surveillance system for hospitalized pneumonia and influenza-like illness ongoing before the 2009 H1N1 pandemic began, we tracked the onset of 2009 H1N1 infection in Guatemala. We identified 239 individuals infected with influenza A (2009 H1N1) between May and December 2009, of whom 76 were hospitalized with pneumonia and 11 die...

Role of interferon-gamma release assays in the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis in patients with advanced HIV infection

BMC Infectious Diseases — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: An ELISPOT-based IGRA detected a high prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection in a hospitalized population of tuberculosis suspects with advanced HIV/AIDS but had limited utility for diagnosis of active tuberculosis in a high prevalence setting. Further research is needed to identify stronger and more specific immune responses in patients with active tuberculosis. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

Effect of simplification from protease inhibitors to boosted atazanavir-based regimens in real-life conditions

HIV Medicine — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Atazanavir (ATV) boosted with ritonavir (ATV/r) is a potent, well-tolerated, once-daily protease inhibitor (PI). Few data are available on this agent as a treatment simplification option for patients taking other PIs. The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness and safety of ATV-containing regimens in patients who have simplified their antiretroviral treatment. SIMPATAZ was a multicentre, prospective, noninterventional study in patients who had undetectable HIV RNA on their current PI-containing therapy and who were switched to an ATV/r-based regimen. Patients underwent a routine physical examination, and data were collected on HIV RNA levels, CD4 cell counts, liver function, lipid parameters, adverse reactions, adherence to treatment and patient satisfaction. A total of 183 pa...

UPDATE: 2009 H1N1 Flu International Situation Update

CDC Swine Flu Updates — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 21:00:00 +0100

This report provides an update to the international situation as of March 19, 2010. The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to report updated 2009 H1N1 flu-associated laboratory-confirmed cases and deaths on its Web page. (Source: CDC Swine Flu Updates)

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Large Particle Hyaluronic Acid for the Treatment of Facial Lipoatrophy in HIV-Positive Patients: 3-Year Follow-Up Study

Medscape Hiv-Aids Headlines — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 20:22:24 +0100

A new formulation of hyaluronic acid proves to be a safe and effective soft-tissue filler for correction of HIV lipoatrophy. HIV Medicine (Source: Medscape Hiv-Aids Headlines)

Swine flu spread by jet-setting private school children, expert claims

The Telegraph : Swine Flu A H1N1 — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 20:14:42 +0100

Swine flu in Britain was partially spread by rich public school children returning from exotic holidays, a leading expert on flu pandemics has claimed. (Source: The Telegraph : Swine Flu A H1N1)

NEW: Everyday Preventive Actions That Can Help Fight Germs, Like Flu

CDC Swine Flu Updates — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 20:04:15 +0100

Flyer summarizing everyday preventive actions that can help slow the spread of germs that cause respiratory illness, like flu. (Source: CDC Swine Flu Updates)

Capacity Building Initiative for Substance Abuse (SA) and HIV Prevention Services for At-Risk Racial/Ethnic Minority Young Adults

AIDS and HIV funding opportunities via the Rural Assistance Center — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 17:52:47 +0100

This program aims to engage colleges, universities and community-level domestic public and private non-profit entities to prevent and reduce the onset of SA and transmission of HIV/AIDS among at-risk racial/ethnic minority young adults, ages 18-24. Geographic coverage: Nationwide -- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (Source: AIDS and HIV funding opportunities via the Rural Assistance Center)

Drug-Resistant TB Killed 150,000 in 2008

Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 17:44:18 +0100

Multiple drug-resistant tuberculosis killed 150,000 people in 2008 and infects between 400,000 and 500,000 people globally, according to World Health Organization estimates released on Thursday. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines)

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U.S. Flu Activity Report - Week Ending March 13, 2010 (Week 10)

CDC Flu updates — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 16:04:04 +0100

Latest information on influenza activity in the United States. (Source: CDC Flu updates)

UPDATE: Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report for Week Ending March 13, 2010

CDC Swine Flu Updates — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 16:04:03 +0100

During week 10 (March 7-13, 2010), influenza activity remained at approximately the same levels as last week in the U.S. 200 (5.6%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza. (Source: CDC Swine Flu Updates)

UPDATE: Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30, 2009 to March 13, 2010

CDC Swine Flu Updates — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 16:00:00 +0100

FluView reports that for the week of March 7-13, 2010, flu activity in the United States was relatively low, with most flu continuing to be caused by 2009 H1N1. Flu activity, caused by either 2009 H1N1 or seasonal flu viruses, may rise and fall, but is expected to continue for weeks. It’s possible that the United States could experience another wave of flu activity caused by either 2009 H1N1 or seasonal influenza. (Source: CDC Swine Flu Updates)

Record Jump In H1N1 Hospitalizations In Georgia

Recombinomics — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 15:35:07 +0100

The commentary discusses the record increase in H1N1 hospitalizations in Georgia in US Region 4. (03/18/10 17:57) (Source: Recombinomics)

PB2 E627K In Experimental H1N1 Raises Concerns

Recombinomics — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 15:35:07 +0100

The commentary discusses the results of experimental PB2 E627K in ferrets. (03/18/10 20:57) (Source: Recombinomics)

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TB Rate in U.S. Lowest Ever

MedPage Today Infectious Disease — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 15:13:07 +0100

After 17 straight years of decline, the number of reported TB cases in the U.S. hit an all-time low in 2009, the CDC said. (Source: MedPage Today Infectious Disease)

The Toll of Pandemic Influenza

Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:39:48 +0100

The first phase 6 global pandemic of the century filled intensive care units around the world. Medscape Critical Care (Source: Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines)

Angola: Health Minister Says War Hindered HIV/Aids Spread in Nation

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:11:42 +0100

The Angolan Health minister José Van-Dúnem said on Wednesday in Lisbon, Portugal, that the 2.1 HIV/AIDS positive prevalence rate in Angola was due to the war that prevented the movement of people from the African countries with high rate of HIV incidence. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Pregnancy May Increase Risk for Critical Illness Related to 2009 H1N1 Influenza

Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:49:26 +0100

In a population-based cohort study, pregnancy was a risk factor for critical illness related to 2009 H1N1 influenza, which causes maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines)

Terrence Higgins Trust launches free sex and relationships guide book for young people, schools and colleges

Terrence Higgins Trust — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 12:52:41 +0100

Young Leaders from HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) have produced a new guide for young people about relationships and sex today. 'Everything you need to know about...Relationships' will be available to order from THT’s web site (www.tht.org.uk/youngleaders) and the first 10,000 copies are free. The guide talks about different kinds of relationships, gives information around sex and sexual health as well as suggestions on where young people can go to get advice and support. The guide is written by young people, as well as teens from across the UK who had the opportunity to contribute to the resource through an online questionnaire. The aim is to give young people a resource which will help them to make informed and healthy decisions around relationship...

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Kenya: Aids Patients Wait for Verdict on Drugs Law

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 12:28:24 +0100

A group of people living with Aids will next month know whether a case they filed in court challenging a law they say denies them access to life-saving drugs will succeed or not. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Opinions: U.S. Foreign Aid Effectiveness; Faith-Based Groups' Work Abroad

HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100

Foreign Aid Is A Smart Investment Although "foreign assistance is a very small proportion of the overall budget, its effectiveness is both measurable and priceless," Sheila Nix, the executive director of ONE, writes in a Roll Call opinion piece... (Source: HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today)

Lawsuit Shows Insurer Targeted HIV Patients For 'Rescission'

HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100

A court case has revealed that the insurer Fortis, now called Assurant Health, automatically targeted customers diagnosed with HIV for fraud investigations geared toward finding reasons to revoke their coverage, Reuters reports... (Source: HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today)

Angola: Authorities Recorded Over 250,000 HIV Positive Cases in 2009

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 11:49:51 +0100

The Angolan health authorities registered in the year 2009 that at least 254,471 citizens are HIV/Aids positive, 149.386 of whom are women. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Angola: Historian for Divulgence of HIV Information in Vernacular Languages

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 11:49:47 +0100

The Angolan historian, Américo Kwononoka, defended last Wednesday in Lisbon the divulgence of information about HIV/AIDS in various Angolan vernacular languages, so as to reduce the propagation of the disease, discrimination and stigma. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

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Idaho, Virginia Gear Up For Fight To Defeat Individual Mandate; NY Law Sets Procedure For Decisions For Unresponsive Patients

HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 11:00:00 +0100

The Associated Press: "Idaho is leading the charge in a states-rights push to defeat a proposal in Congress that would require people to buy health insurance, a key piece of reforms being pushed by President Barack Obama. Republican Gov. C.L... (Source: HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today)

Kenya: ARV Woes Push Universal Access Off-Track

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 10:11:38 +0100

Nicodemus Manyala knows he is HIV-positive and needs life-prolonging antiretroviral therapy (ART) to remain healthy, but fear of treatment interruptions has made him reluctant to start on the drugs. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 - update 92

WHO Swine Flu — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

As of 14 March 2010, worldwide more than 213 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including at least 16813 deaths. (Source: WHO Swine Flu)

South Africa: Province Tackles TB Default Rate

AllAfrica News: Tuberculosis — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:04:13 +0100

The North West has increased its efforts to fight the TB treatment defaulter rate by training almost 800 directly observed therapy (Dot) supporters, who will encourage patients to take their medicine correctly. (Source: AllAfrica News: Tuberculosis)

Incidence of Malignancies in HIV‐Infected Patients and Prognostic Role of Current CD4 Cell Count: Evidence from a Large Italian Cohort Study

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 07:05:02 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 0, Issue 0, Page 000, Latest Articles. The incidence of and predictors of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome–defining malignancies (ADMs) and non‐ADM (NADMs) were evaluated in a large Italian cohort. The incidence of ADM and NADM was 5.0 cases per 1000 person‐years of follow‐up (95% confidence interval, 4.3–5.8 cases per 1000 person‐years of follow‐up) and 2.4 cases per 1000 person‐years of follow‐up (95% confidence interval, 1.9–3.1 cases per 1000 person‐years of follow‐up), respectively. Lower current CD4 cell count was an independent predictor of developing malignancies, with the association being stronger for ADM than for NADM. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

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Prevention of Acupuncture Infection Needs More Focus

MedicineNet HIV General — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Prevention of Acupuncture Infection Needs More FocusCategory: Health NewsCreated: 3/18/2010 8:10:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 3/19/2010 (Source: MedicineNet HIV General)

Growing Number Of Acupuncture-Transmitted Diseases: Experts Call For Infection Control Guidelines

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

In an editorial on bmj.com today, experts are demanding further funding to establish appropriate infection control guidelines to deal with the growing number of acupuncture-transmitted diseases. The number of reported cases is described as "the tip of the iceberg" by Professor Patrick Woo and colleagues from the University of Hong Kong... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Fungi Can Change Quickly, Pass Along Infectious Ability

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Fungi have significant potential for "horizontal" gene transfer, a new study has shown, similar to the mechanisms that allow bacteria to evolve so quickly, become resistant to antibiotics and cause other serious problems... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Barriers to Pharmacy-Based Syringe Purchase Among Injection Drug Users in Tijuana, Mexico: A Mixed Methods Study

AIDS and Behavior — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 06:50:47 +0100

This study examined barriers to over-the-counter (OTC) syringe purchase among IDUs in Tijuana, Mexico. A quantitative survey and subsequent focus groups were used to quantify barriers to purchase, identify their correlates and provide in-depth exploration of syringe purchase experiences. Of 627 IDUs, 81% purchased a syringe in the past 6 months and 16% were refused or overcharged. Factors independently associated with refusal/overcharging were homelessness, receptive syringe sharing, >5 uses per syringe, and number of lifetime abscesses. Few pharmacies sold syringes to IDUs, who adapted by limiting purchase attempts to pharmacies known to sell syringes consistently. Failed purchases occurred when drug withdrawal required purchase at unusual times or locations, often following...

First Same-Sex Partner and the Internet

AIDS and Behavior — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 06:50:46 +0100

Abstract The present study examined the first episode of anal intercourse of young gay and bisexual men (YGBM) who were in the midst of their coming-out. Cross-sectional data regarding the first episode of anal intercourse were extracted from Outcomes, a longitudinal study on coming-out and sexual behavior of YGBM in the Netherlands. Overall, 45% of respondents reported unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) with their first same-sex partner. Rates of UAI did not significantly differ between meeting place (offline vs. online) and partner status (steady, regular or casual). Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ReportDOI 10.1007/s10461-010-9685-0Authors Dirk Franssens, Maastricht University Department of Work and Social Psychology, Faculty of Psychology Maastricht The Nethe...

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West Africa: Stopping the Polio Virus

AllAfrica News: Polio — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 04:47:13 +0100

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and its partners hope to eliminate the circulation of the polio virus in West Africa as soon as June by launching the first round of national synchronised immunisation days against the debilitating disease. (Source: AllAfrica News: Polio)

Co-benefits and 'no regrets' benefits of influenza pandemic planning

Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses)

Clients of sex workers in Switzerland: it makes sense to counsel and propose rapid test for HIV on the street, a preliminary report

BMC Infectious Diseases — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: This pilot study showed that rapid HIV testing in the red light district of Lausanne was feasible, and that the clients of sex workers accepted testing at an unexpectedly high rate. This setting seems particularly appropriate for targeted HIV screening, since more than 40% of the clients had not previously been tested for HIV even though they engaged in sex-related HIV risk behavior. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

Study Suggests Raltegravir (Isentress) Intensification Reduces Immune Activation in HAART-Suppressed Individuals

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

"Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) results in potent and durable suppression of HIV-1 viremia. However, HIV-1 replication resumes if therapy is interrupted. Although it is generally believed that active replication has been halted in individuals on HAART, immune activation and inflammation continue at abnormal levels, suggesting continued, low-level viral replication. To assess whether active replication might be driving immune activation in HAART, we examined the impact of treatment intensification with the integrase inhibitor raltegravir on viral complementary DNA and immune activation parameters. In the presence of raltegravir, linear HIV-1 cDNA is prevented from integrating into chromatin and is subsequently converted to episomal cDNAs. Raltegravir intensification of a three...

Join AIDSinfo in Observing National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

March 20 is National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, a day that serves to increase awareness of HIV/AIDS in the American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities. The 2007 surveillance data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that HIV/AIDS disproportionately affects native communities. In the 34 states with confidential, name-based reporting, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders had the second highest rate of new HIV/AIDS diagnoses and American Indians and Alaska Natives had the fourth highest rate of new HIV/AIDS diagnoses compared to other racial and ethnic groups. AIDSinfo has developed a National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day specialty page that includes information and resources about HIV/AIDS for the American Indian, ...

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Second-line treatment in the Malawi antiretroviral programme: high early mortality, but good outcomes in survivors, despite extensive drug resistance at baseline*

HIV Medicine — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

We report outcomes for patients evaluated and initiated on second-line treatment in Malawi. Patients meeting Malawi immunological or clinical criteria for ART failure in two large urban ART clinics were evaluated for virological failure (viral load >400 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL) and, if failure was confirmed, initiated on second-line ART (zidovudine/lamivudine/tenofovir/lopinavir/ritonavir). Patients were seen monthly and laboratory evaluations were performed quarterly and as needed. We performed logistic regression modelling to identify factors associated with mortality, mortality or new HIV illnesses, and virological suppression at 12 months. Of the 109 patients with confirmed virological failure, five patients died prior to initiation, three declined switching and 101 patients initiated seco...

Diversity in anopheline larval habitats and adult composition during the dry and wet seasons in Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso)

Malaria Journal — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Although only few adults' mosquitoes were actively caught during the driest month, malaria vectors persisted all year long that increases the risk of urban malaria transmission. The distribution of breeding sites and especially the occurrence of malaria vectors were more abundant in the periphery, which is more like that of a rural settlement. The evolution of malaria prevalence and the factors sustaining the risk of transmission in Ouagadougou as well in many African cities during the dry season are discussed. (Source: Malaria Journal)

Effect of smoking on lung function, respiratory symptoms and respiratory diseases amongst HIV-positive subjects: a cross-sectional study

AIDS Research and Therapy — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Cumulative cigarette consumption was associated with worse lung function; however the loss of %FEV1 did not accelerate in HIV-positive population compared to the general population. Current smokers had higher odds of respiratory symptoms than non-smokers, while former smokers had the same odds of respiratory symptoms as non-smokers. Cigarette consumption was likely associated with more COPD cases in HIV-positive population; however more participants and longer follow up would be needed to estimate the effect of smoking on COPD development. Effective smoking cessation strategies are required for HIV-positive subjects. (Source: AIDS Research and Therapy)

Conquering TB: How Genomic Information And Tools Can Lead To New Tuberculosis Therapies That Combat Drug Resistance

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 22:00:00 +0100

Tuberculosis kills nearly 2 million people annually, and kills more adults than malaria, AIDS, and all tropical diseases combined. TB is the cause of one in four avoidable deaths in the Third World... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

The trend of drug-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae from nasopharynx of children

Journal of Infection and Chemotherapy — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 19:30:06 +0100

Abstract We investigated the trend of the carriage of drug-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae in nasopharynx of children. The 202 isolates from pediatric outpatients and their previous antibiotic use was investigated from 2004 to 2006. The total rate of patients medicated with antibiotics was 47.5%, a 6.9% decrease compared with our previous study performed from 2001 to 2003. There were 56 (27.7%) penicillin-susceptible, 83 (41.1%) penicillin-intermediate, and 63 (31.2%) penicillin-resistant strains by the susceptibility breakpoints used during the previous study period. There were 196 (97%) susceptible, 5 (2.5%) intermediate, and 1 (0.5%) resistant strains by breakpoints in this study, which were introduced in 2008 by the Clinical Laboratory and Standards Institute. The ra...

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The Next Era of HCV Antiviral Therapy Finally Begins: Part 2

Current Infectious Disease Reports — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 18:32:42 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical Trial ReportDOI 10.1007/s11908-010-0086-3Authors David Bobak, University Hospital-Case Medical Center Division of Infectious Diseases, Case School of Medicine 11100 Euclid Avenue Cleveland OH 44106 USA Journal Current Infectious Disease ReportsOnline ISSN 1534-3146Print ISSN 1523-3847 (Source: Current Infectious Disease Reports)

Terrence Higgins Trust launches Project Vogue, Dudley’s first lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered youth group

Terrence Higgins Trust — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:53:56 +0100

HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is launching a new group to support lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) young people in the Dudley area. Backed by a grant from the Big Lottery Fund’s Awards for All programme, Project Vogue (www.projectvogue.org.uk) will provide a safe environment for local young people between the ages of 13 and 24 to meet and discuss the issues that matter to them. The group is also designed for young people who are questioning their sexuality.Project Vogue will provide a weekly social space for young people to make new friends, take part in fun activities such as sports outings and art projects, and access confidential information and support on a range of issues including ‘coming out’, substance misuse and sexual health from ...

Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver consensus recommendations on hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatology International — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:40:03 +0100

Abstract Introduction The Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) convened an international working party on the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in December 2008 to develop consensus recommendations. Methods The working party consisted of expert hepatologist, hepatobiliary surgeon, radiologist, and oncologist from Asian-Pacific region, who were requested to make drafts prior to the consensus meeting held at Bali, Indonesia on 4 December 2008. The quality of existing evidence and strength of recommendations were ranked from 1 (highest) to 5 (lowest) and from A (strongest) to D (weakest), respectively, according to the Oxford system of evidence-based approach for developing the consensus statements. Results &...

Secondary bacterial pneumonia due to Staphylococcus aureus complicating 2009 influenza A (H1N1) viral infection

Infection — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:25:05 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory CorrespondenceDOI 10.1007/s15010-010-0009-0Authors C. Tsigrelis, Cooper University Hospital Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 401 Haddon Ave Camden NJ 08103 USAM. Mohammad, Cooper University Hospital Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 401 Haddon Ave Camden NJ 08103 USAH. S. Fraimow, Cooper University Hospital Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 401 Haddon Ave Camden NJ 08103 USAR. P. Dellinger, Cooper University Hospital Division o...

Is domestic tap water a risk for infections in neutropenic patients?

Infection — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 14:15:14 +0100

Conclusion Although the risk of infection from household water-borne pathogens appears low, preventive measures may be considered on an individual basis in patients with long-term immunosuppression as well as in patients with long-term central-vascular catheterization. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical and Epidemiological StudyDOI 10.1007/s15010-010-0005-4Authors H. von Baum, University Hospital of Ulm Section Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene Steinhoevelstr. 9 89075 Ulm GermanyM. Bommer, University Hospital of Ulm Department of Internal Medicine Ulm GermanyA. Forke, University Hospital of Ulm Section Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene Steinhoe...

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The interaction between piperacillin/tazobactam and assays for Aspergillus galactomannan and 1,3-beta-d-glucan in patients without risk factors for invasive fungal infections

Infection — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 14:15:14 +0100

Conclusion No significant interaction was observed between piperacillin/tazobactam administration and Aspergillus GM and BDG assays. Positive results for these tests should be evaluated cautiously in patients at high risk for IFI receiving piperacillin/tazobactam. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Brief ReportDOI 10.1007/s15010-010-0003-6Authors G. Metan, Erciyes University Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine Kat 10, Melikgazi 38039 Kayseri TurkeyÇ. Ağkuş, Erciyes University Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine Kat 10, Melikgazi 38039 Kayseri TurkeyH. Buldu, Erciyes University Department of Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine Kayseri TurkeyA. N. Koç...

Antiseptic Bath Cuts Infection in ICU (CME/CE)

MedPage Today Infectious Disease — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 14:13:08 +0100

Bathing critically ill trauma patients daily with chlorhexidine significantly reduced healthcare-associated infections, researchers said. (Source: MedPage Today Infectious Disease)

South Africa: Motsoaledi Inspects Readiness for Aids Policy

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:38:01 +0100

Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi is in Durban to assess the health sector's readiness to implement government's new AIDS treatment policy. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

South Africa: Business Community Supports HIV Testing Campaign

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:37:58 +0100

The SA Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS (SABCOHA), Anglo American, Aspen Pharmacare, BMW, Discovery Health and Nike have declared their support for government's HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) campaign. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Ghana: GFA Pledges Support to UAM

AllAfrica News: Malaria — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:01:56 +0100

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has pledged its support to the United Against Malaria (UAM), a Non-Governmental Organization Africans Partnership of football teams and heroes, celebrities, health and advocacy organizations to raise global awareness to kick out malaria in Africa. (Source: AllAfrica News: Malaria)

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Africa: Predictable Long-Term Funding Essential For Malaria Aid - Report

AllAfrica News: Malaria — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:00:10 +0100

A new report from the Roll Back Malaria (RBM) Partnership confirms that current investment in malaria control is saving lives and providing far-reaching benefits for countries. But it warns that without sustained and predictable funding, the significant contribution of malaria control toward the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) could be reversed. (Source: AllAfrica News: Malaria)

Uganda: First Lady Counsels Youth on Abstinence

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:10:31 +0100

The First Lady, Janet Museveni, has urged the youth to abstain from sex before marriage as their contribution in the fight against HIV/AIDS. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

World TB Day - Canada's Leading The International Fight Against TB, But More Work Must Be Done In Canada's North

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

While The Canadian Lung Association commends the federal government's recent commitment to international tuberculosis (TB) control, it urges the government to continue working with provincial and territorial partners to reduce alarming rates of TB among Inuit, First Nations and MÃ©tis... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

NIH Partners With PEPFAR To Strengthen Medical Education In Africa

HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

The National Institutes of Health has announced a new initiative to strengthen medical education in Sub-Saharan Africa, in collaboration with the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, known as PEPFAR. The program, called the Medical Education Partnership Initiative, is a joint effort of the Office of the U.S... (Source: HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today)

South Africa: Country Intensifies Aids Case Findings - Living With Aids

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:58:06 +0100

Within a few days, Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, will launch a massive campaign aimed at encouraging millions of South Africans to test for HIV. The campaign will precede the implementation of new treatment protocols for AIDS and TB on April 1. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

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Cases Of Tuberculosis Continue To Increase, UK

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Provisional figures released by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) show that cases of tuberculosis (TB) in the UK have increased by 5.5%, from 8,679 reported in 2008 to 9,153 in 2009... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Angola: Society Told to Give Greater Attention to HIV/Aids Positive

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 08:16:49 +0100

Family and Women Promotion provincial director in Bengo, Joana Pinto, stresses Wednesday in Caxito, the need of societies giving more attention towards HIV/AIDS positive people. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

WPIC Receives Federal Stimulus Funding To Assess The Benefits Of Counseling With HIV Screening

HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Does rapid HIV testing and counseling produce healthier results for those who test negative for the virus than testing alone? That's the question that will be studied by researchers at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic (WPIC) of UPMC and the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Program and Clinic, as part of a $12... (Source: HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today)

The Virologic and Immunologic Effects of Cyclosporine as an Adjunct to Antiretroviral Therapy in Patients Treated during Acute and Early HIV‐1 Infection

The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 07:08:07 +0100

The Journal of Infectious Diseases, Volume 0, Issue 0, Page 000, Latest Articles. Acute human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) infection is characterized by high levels of immune activation. Immunomodulation with cyclosporine combined with antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the setting of acute and early HIV‐1 infection has been reported to result in enhanced immune reconstitution. Fifty‐four individuals with acute and early infection were randomized to receive ART with 4 weeks of cyclosporine versus ART alone. In 48 subjects who completed the study, there were no significant differences between treatment arms in levels of proviral DNA or CD4+ T cell counts. Adjunctive therapy with cyclosporine in this setting does not provide apparent virologic or immunologic benefit. (Sourc...

Prospective Follow‐Up of Patients with Acute Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Brazil

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 07:04:11 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 0, Issue 0, Page 000, Latest Articles. Background. The natural outcome of infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) varies substantially among individuals. However, little is known about host and viral factors associated with a self‐limiting or chronic evolution of HCV infection. Methods. From 1 January 2001 through 31 December 2008, a consecutive series of 65 patients from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with a well‐documented diagnosis of acute HCV infection, acquired via various routes, were enrolled in this study. Patients were prospectively followed up for a median of 40 months after the estimated date of HCV infection with serial measurements of serum alanine aminotransferase, HCV RNA, and anti‐HCV antibodies. Spontaneous viral clearance (S...

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South Africa: Massive HIV Testing Campaign Launches

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 05:54:35 +0100

From April 15, everyone attending a clinic or hospital will be offered an HIV test, regardless of whether they have symptoms of the disease or not. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

'Flying vaccinator': Can genetically engineered mosquitoes provide a new strategy against malaria?

EurekAlert! - Infectious and Emerging Diseases — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 04:00:00 +0100

(Wiley-Blackwell) Mosquitoes transmit infectious diseases to millions of people every year, including malaria for which there is no effective vaccine. New research published in Insect Molecular Biology reveals that mosquito genetic engineering may turn the transmitter into a natural "flying vaccinator," providing a new strategy for biological control over the disease. (Source: EurekAlert! - Infectious and Emerging Diseases)

Effectiveness of the 23-valent polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccine against invasive pneumococcal disease in people 60 years or older.

BMC Infectious Diseases — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: These findings confirm the effectiveness of the 23-valent PPV against IPD, and they also support the benefit of vaccination in preventing invasive infections among high-risk and older people. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

Antibodies against multiple merozoite surface antigens of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum inhibit parasite maturation and red blood cell invasion

Malaria Journal — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The findings reported provide further support for the development of vaccines based on MSP-1/6/7 and AMA-1, which would possibly include a combination of these antigens. (Source: Malaria Journal)

Erratum for Euro Surveill. 2010;15(10)

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Eurosurveillance latest news)

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Authors' correction for Euro Surveill. 2009:14(29)

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Eurosurveillance latest news)

Addendum for Euro Surveill. 2009;14(38)

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Eurosurveillance latest news)

Risk of developing tuberculosis from a school contact: retrospective cohort study, United Kingdom, 2009

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This study included all students and staff (n=1,065) at an inner city secondary school in Birmingham, United Kingdom (UK). Being in the same school year as the index case resulted in a significantly higher risk of being diagnosed with active TB (odds ratio (OR) 6.11) and either active or latent TB (OR 10.52) compared to the risk for pupils in other school years. Neither lower level classroom exposure in tutoring groups nor being a staff member resulted in significantly increased risk of infection. The number of cases detected in the school was significantly higher than compared with the TB notification rate for the respective age groups in the population in the area. This study is consistent with the small body of evidence that already exists suggesting that greater levels of classroom...

Analysis of tuberculosis treatment outcomes in the European Union and European Economic Area: efforts needed towards optimal case management and control

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

An analysis of surveillance data was performed to assess treatment outcomes of patients belonging to selected calendar year cohorts. Twenty-two countries in the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) reported treatment outcome monitoring data for culture-confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) cases reported in 2007. The overall treatment success rate was 73.8% for all culture-confirmed pulmonary cases and 79.5% for new culture-confirmed pulmonary cases. For the cohort of new culture-confirmed TB cases, only three countries achieved the target of 85% success rate. This underachievement appears to be a result of relative high defaulting and unknown outcome information. Case fatality remains high particularly among cases of national origin. This factor appears attributable to adv...

Surveillance of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis in Europe, 2003-2007

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This paper describes the results of second-line drug (SLD) susceptibility tests among multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) cases reported in 20 European countries aiming to identify extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR TB) cases. A project on molecular surveillance of MDR TB cases was conducted by EuroTB and the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) from 2005 to 2007. Information on drug susceptibility testing (DST) was provided to this project and case-based data on MDR TB cases were reported on a quarterly basis by 20 countries of the World Health Organization's European Region, including 15 European Union Member States. Data included SLD susceptibility test results, enabling a retrospective description of XDR TB cases notified between 2003 and 2007...

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Cases of Salmonella Urbana in Finland, the Czech Republic and Latvia, January-February 2010

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

A cluster of 14 cases of Salmonella Urbana cases in Finland, the Czech Republic and Latvia were identified in January-February, 2010. The majority of cases (11) were male and children under 16 years of age. The investigation is currently ongoing and comparison of pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) profiles of the isolates suggests that the cases may have a common source of infection. (Source: Eurosurveillance latest news)

A possible foodborne outbreak of hepatitis A in the Netherlands, January-February 2010

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

As of 1 March 2010, a total of 11 primary cases with onset of symptoms between 31 December 2009 and 10 February 2010, have been identified with identical hepatitis A genotype IB strains in the Netherlands. A relation with Australian and French foodborne outbreaks occurring in 2009 and 2010 is suspected. Ten of the 11 primary cases indicated that they had consumed one or more products containing semi-dried tomatoes during their incubation period. (Source: Eurosurveillance latest news)

Multidrug- and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis: a persistent problem in the European Union European Union and European Economic Area

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Since 2008, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has been collecting data from the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) on resistance to first- and second-line drugs against tuberculosis (TB). In 2008, the proportion of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) was 6.0% of the total case load for 25 countries reporting data. Extensively drug-resistant (XDR TB) reporting has increased since 2007 and was observed in 7.3% of the MDR TB cases in 13 reporting countries. MDR TB remains a threat and XDR TB is now established within the EU/EEA borders. (Source: Eurosurveillance latest news)

Improving tuberculosis surveillance in Europe is key to controlling the disease

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Eurosurveillance latest news)

The receptor preference of influenza viruses

Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Our data suggest that it is not easy to predict receptor usage by influenza viruses. However, direct experimental determination as described here can inform experiments concerned with viral pathogenesis, biology and structure. In principle, the methodology can be used for any virus that binds to a terminal NANA residue. (Source: Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses)

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Comparative in vitro activity of Meropenem, Imipenem and Piperacillin/tazobactam against 1071 clinical isolates using 2 different methods: a French multicentre study

BMC Infectious Diseases — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Compared to imipenem, meropenem displays lower MICs against Enterobacteriaceae, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Except for non fermenters, MICs90 of carbapenems were (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

Solution structure of a Plasmodium falciparum AMA-1/MSP 1 chimeric protein vaccine candidate (PfCP-2.9) for malaria

Malaria Journal — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These data indicate that the fusion of AMA-1(III) and MSP1-19 as chimeric protein did not change their structures, supporting the use of the chimeric protein as a potential malaria vaccine. (Source: Malaria Journal)

South Africa: HIV Testing and Mental Illness

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 20:39:40 +0100

As more HIV-positive people access treatment and live longer, the number of people suffering from HIV-related mental disorders is growing, but mental health remains an ethical, legal and clinical minefield, where many doctors and nurses fear to tread - and fear to test. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Long‐Term Impact of Acyclovir Suppressive Therapy on Genital and Plasma HIV RNA in Tanzanian Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 20:20:15 +0100

Conclusions. Acyclovir administered at a dosage of 400 mg twice daily is unlikely to be a useful long‐term intervention to reduce HIV transmission. The lack of effect on HIV may be attributable to suboptimal adherence or treatment regimen. Clinical trial registration. Current Controlled Trials registration no.: ISRCTN35385041. (Source: The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Adherence in HIV Type 1 Prevention Trials

The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 20:19:57 +0100

The Journal of Infectious Diseases, Volume 0, Issue 0, Page 000, Latest Articles. (Source: The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

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Bird Flu Outbreak in Romania, Near Ukraine

Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:09:54 +0100

Romania has identified an outbreak of bird flu at a poultry farm close to Ukraine and enforced a 20 kilometer-wide surveillance zone around it, the European Union's executive said on Tuesday. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines)

British TB Cases at Highest Since 1980s

Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:09:53 +0100

Cases of tuberculosis (TB) in Britain rose by 5.5% in the past year and are at their highest levels since the 1980s, health authorities said on Tuesday. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines)

ART Equally Effective When HIV Patients Are IV Drug Users

Medscape Hiv-Aids Headlines — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:09:53 +0100

Intravenous drug users with HIV have more advanced disease when they present for treatment than non-users, but they respond just as well to antiretroviral treatment, new research from Indonesia shows. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Hiv-Aids Headlines)

Pharmacologic Advances in the Treatment and Prevention of Respiratory Syncytial Virus

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:21:46 +0100

This article reviews these obstacles and presents the novel development strategies used to overcome many of them. Also discussed are promising new antiviral treatment candidates and their associated mechanism of action, the significant advances made in vaccine development, and exciting, new studies directed at improving outcomes through pharmacologic manipulation of the host response to RSV disease. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Fixing PB2 E627K In Pandemic H1N1

Recombinomics — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:36:50 +0100

The commentary discusses the fixing of PB2 E627K in pandemic H1N1. (03/17/10 02:24) (Source: Recombinomics)

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NAMIBIA: "If You Kiss for Five Minutes You Get It"

IPS Inter Press Service - HIV/AIDS — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:34:42 +0100

WINDHOEK, Mar 16 (IPS) - "At home we have a bar," says grade seven learner David Bravo* (14). "When my mother puts on the music I cannot concentrate on (my) schoolwork anymore. Sometimes, in the middle of the night, I just sit there and watch the people." (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - HIV/AIDS)

Risk for Transmission of Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Virus by Blood Transfusion, C. Matsumoto et al.

Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:00:00 +0100

(Source: Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal)

Patients with Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 in Intensive Care Units, Israel, E. Kopel et al.

Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:00:00 +0100

(Source: Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal)

One Flu for One Health, I. Capua and G. Cattoli

Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:00:00 +0100

(Source: Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal)

Sidibe Calls For A 'Prevention Revolution' To Fight HIV/AIDS

HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100

UNAIDS head Michel Sidibe on Monday called for a "prevention revolution" to fight HIV/AIDS and addressed laws he says make high-risk groups more vulnerable to the disease, the Associated Press reports... (Source: HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today)

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Nigeria: Adequate Information Can Reduce HIV/Aids--Ohakim

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:09:11 +0100

The wife of the Governor of Imo State, Mrs. Chioma Ohakim has said that adequate awareness about HIV/AIDS infection could help in reducing its devastating effect on humanity. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Swiss Condom For Boys Could Be Used In U.S. Sex Education Efforts, Columnist Wetzstein Says

HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:00:00 +0100

Although the recently released "Hotshot" condom in Switzerland "has already launched a thousand jokes," the condom designed specifically for sexually active boys ages 12 to 14 "could become part of the sex-education toolbox," Washington Times columnist Cheryl Wetzstein writes... (Source: HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today)

BioVigil Releases Second Generation Hand Hygiene Monitoring System

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

BioVigil LLC has released the second generation of the BioVigil hand hygiene monitoring system. The innovative system enables hospitals to more effectively combat Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs) by dramatically increasing hand hygiene compliance among healthcare workers... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Angola: TB Cases Decay in Moxico Province

AllAfrica News: Tuberculosis — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:02:40 +0100

Seven new TB cases were diagnosed in February in the Sanatorium of Moxico province, 46 less than in the same period last year, the Hospital Director, Teixeira Bravo, revealed today. (Source: AllAfrica News: Tuberculosis)

Distribution of CFTR Variations in an Indonesian Enteric Fever Cohort

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 07:04:03 +0100

Conclusions. The findings demonstrate that a correlation exists between variations in the CFTR gene and protection from enteric fever. The IVS8CA polymorphism that was identified previously may, however, be the principal functional variation causing the difference in susceptibility. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

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Chemical in Bananas Might Combat HIV Infection

MedicineNet HIV General — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Chemical in Bananas Might Combat HIV InfectionCategory: Health NewsCreated: 3/16/2010 12:10:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 3/17/2010 (Source: MedicineNet HIV General)

Namibia: HIV/Aids, 'If You Kiss for Five Minutes You Get It'

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 06:05:52 +0100

"At home we have a bar," says grade seven learner David Bravo* (14). "When my mother puts on the music I cannot concentrate on (my) schoolwork anymore. Sometimes, in the middle of the night, I just sit there and watch the people." (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Swaziland: Budget Cuts Ahead But More Money for Education And Health

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 06:05:49 +0100

Her swollen feet are a constant reminder to Sanele Matsebula that she needs to take her medication. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Angola: HIV/Aids Fighting Associations Press for Major Governments Aid

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 05:49:43 +0100

The civil associations involved in the fight against Hiv/Aids and Sexually Transmitted Diseases within the Portuguese Speaking Community (CPLP), appealed to their respective governments for major assistance. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

40 percent of surface disinfectants ineffective in eliminating viruses that cause gastroenteritis

EurekAlert! - Infectious and Emerging Diseases — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 04:00:00 +0100

(Université Laval) Some 40 percent of commercial disinfectants used to clean surfaces are believed to be ineffective in eliminating noroviruses, a group of viruses responsible for more than half of all food-borne gastroenteritis outbreaks. According to a recent study published by Université Laval researchers in the Journal of Food Protection, only bleach-based disinfectants drastically reduce the concentration of these viruses. (Source: EurekAlert! - Infectious and Emerging Diseases)

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Efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetic of once-daily boosted saquinavir (1500/100 mg) together with 2 nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitors in real life: a multicentre prospective study.

AIDS Research and Therapy — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggests that SQVr (1500/100 mg) once-daily plus 2 NRTIs is an effective regimen, without severe clinical adverse events or hepatotoxicity, scarce lipid changes, and no interactions with methadone. All these factors and its once-daily administration suggest this regimen as an appropriate option in patients with no SQV resistance-associated mutations. PMID: 20236544 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: AIDS Research and Therapy)

Serologic survey of swine workers for exposure to H2N3 swine influenza A

Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions These data do not support the hypothesis that swine workers were infected with the emergent swine H2N3 influenza A virus. (Source: Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses)

Safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity of an inactivated influenza vaccine in healthy adults: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial over two influenza seasons

BMC Infectious Diseases — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Despite a good immune response, and an average efficacy over two influenza seasons against laboratory-confirmed influenza of 63.2%, the pre-specified target (lower one-sided 97.5% confidence bound for efficacy > 35%) for the primary efficacy endpoint, the prevention of VMCCI, was not met. However, the results should be interpreted with caution in view of the very low attack rates we observed at the study sites in the 2005-2006 and 2006-2007, which corresponded to relatively mild influenza seasons in the US. Overall, the results showed that TIV has an acceptable safety profile and offered clinical benefit that exceeded risk.Trial registration: NCT00216242 (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

Efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetic of once-daily boosted saquinavir (1500/100 mg) together with 2 nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitors in real life: a multicentre prospective study

AIDS Research and Therapy — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Background: Ritonavir-boosted saquinavir (SQVr) is nowadays regarded as an alternative antiretroviral drug probably due to several drawbacks, such as its high pill burden, twice daily dosing and the requirement of 200 mg ritonavir when given at the current standard 1000/100 mg bid dosing. Several once-daily SQVr dosing schemes have been studied with the 200 mg SQV old formulations, trying to overcome some of these disadvantages. SQV 500 mg strength tablets became available at the end of 2005, thus facilitating a once-daily regimen with fewer pills, although there is very limited experience with this formulation yet. Methods: Prospective, multicentre study in which efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of a regimen of once-daily SQVr 1500/100 mg plus 2 NRTIs were evaluated under routine cli...

Influenza and respiratory disease surveillance: the US military's global laboratory-based network

Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This article describes the system, details its contributions and the critical gaps that it is filling, and discusses future plans. (Source: Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses)

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Infectious Diseases Resources for the iPhone

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 20:30:41 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 0, Issue 0, Page 000, Latest Articles. Modern technology has revolutionized the clinician’s ability to have vast information resources available literally at one’s fingertips. The advent of the smartphone—an integration of the mobile phone with an ultraportable computer, web browser, multimedia player, and camera, has given clinicians the capability to merge their information and communication resources into one compact handheld instrument. Apple’s iPhone, and its sister device, the iPod touch, with a combined customer base of more than 50 million users and more than 100,000 downloadable applications, are now the leading handheld platforms for medical personnel to access personal information, medical reference, clinical data, and medically...

Reply to Noymer et al

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:35:27 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page 1203-1204, 15 April 2010. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Questioning the Salicylates and Influenza Pandemic Mortality Hypothesis in 1918–1919

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:35:24 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page 1203, 15 April 2010. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Healthcare Epidemiology: Planning for the Inevitable: Preparing for Epidemic and Pandemic Respiratory Illness in the Shadow of H1N1 Influenza

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:35:22 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page 1145-1154, 15 April 2010. The recent outbreak of novel H1N1 influenza has underscored the importance of hospital preparedness in responding to epidemic and pandemic respiratory illness. Comprehensive planning for the emergence of novel respiratory pathogens should be based on an all‐hazards approach, with the input of key stakeholders. A staged, scalable model allows for a flexible response, and the addition of a medical control chief and a situational assessment chief to the incident command system provides the clinical and epidemiologic expertise essential for effective implementation. Strategies for coordinated and efficient communication both within and outside the institution should be clearly outlined. Furthermore, the ou...

Gross Hematuria in a Young Iraqi Man

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:35:15 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page 1198-1199, 15 April 2010. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

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Vaccines: Japanese Encephalitis: New Options for Active Immunization

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:35:09 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page 1155-1164, 15 April 2010. Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a mosquito‐borne flavivirus infection responsible for significant morbidity and mortality across Asia. Indigenous populations and those who undertake short‐ and long‐term travel to endemic regions are at risk of infection and development of neuroinvasive disease. Effective mouse brain–derived vaccines have been available in select countries, including the United States, for decades. Limited access in Asia and safety concerns with regard to mouse brain products prompted the Chinese to develop a live, attenuated virus vaccine (SA14‐14‐2; Chengdu Institute of Biological Products), which has proven to be safe and efficacious following administration of >300 million d...

Gross Hematuria in a Young Iraqi Man: (Answer on pages 1198–1199)

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:31:35 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page 1144, 15 April 2010. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Efficacy of Tenofovir‐Emtricitabine versus Abacavir‐Lamivudine

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:30:55 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page 1200, 15 April 2010. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

In the Literature

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:30:52 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page iii-iv, 15 April 2010. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Reply to Landman and Soonawala

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:30:29 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page 1200-1201, 15 April 2010. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

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15 April News

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:30:27 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page i-ii, 15 April 2010. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

What Does Preemptive Antifungal Treatment Really Mean?

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:29:59 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page 1201-1202, 15 April 2010. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Reply to Stefani et al

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:29:28 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 50, Issue 8, Page 1202-1203, 15 April 2010. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Swine To Swine Transmission of Pandemic H1N1 In MN IL IA

Recombinomics — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:30:03 +0100

The commentary discusses the spread of pandemic H1N1 between swine herds in the United States. (03/15/10 17:40) (Source: Recombinomics)

H1N1 PB2 E627K In Three Patients In India

Recombinomics — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:30:03 +0100

The commentary discusses the detection of H1N1 PB2 E627K in three patients in India. (03/16/10 5:40) (Source: Recombinomics)

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H1N1 E627K In India Raises Pandemic Concerns

Recombinomics — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:30:03 +0100

The commentary discusses pandemic implications of PB2 E627K in three patients in India. (03/16/10 14:44) (Source: Recombinomics)

MALAWI: Rural Communities Jointly Care for Orphans

IPS Inter Press Service - HIV/AIDS — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:23:29 +0100

LILONGWE, Mar 15 (IPS) - At the age of 66, village headman Kamwala of Dedza district in central Malawi is starting to feel the effects of ageing. He gets tired easily and needs frequent naps but says he cannot afford this luxury. He and his wife are caregivers to a one-year-old orphan. (Source: IPS Inter Press Service - HIV/AIDS)

NEW: Question & Answer: Morbid Obesity as a Risk Factor for Hospitalization and Death due to 2009 H1N1.

CDC Swine Flu Updates — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:04:07 +0100

This document provides updated information on obesity and morbid obesity as risk factors for serious 2009 H1N1-related complications based on findings from recent studies. (Source: CDC Swine Flu Updates)

Multifocal community-acquired necrotizing fasciitis caused by a Panton-Valentine leukocidin-producing methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus

Infection — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:49:44 +0100

We describe a rare case of multifocal necrotizing fasciitis (NF) complicating a single vaccine injection. Injection of hepatitis B vaccine of a 16-year-old immunocompetent woman developed into rapidly spreading multifocal NF of the right arm and the thighs, with septic shock. Treatment with antimicrobial therapy and surgical debridements allowed amputation to be avoided with a favourable outcome. The etiological agent was a methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) isolate harboring the Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) and five enterotoxins. PVL has recently been reported in large series of methicillin-resistant SA cases and has been associated with necrotizing infections. Some strains of MSSA could harbor PVL and enterotoxins. PCR investigation is not frequent but could imp...

Hand Bacteria Study Holds Promise For Forensics Identification

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100

Forensic scientists may soon have a valuable new item in their toolkits -- a way to identify individuals using unique, telltale types of hand bacteria left behind on objects like keyboards and computer mice, says a new University of Colorado at Boulder study... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

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News From The Journal Of Clinical Investigation Online Early: March 15, 2010

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100

PARASITOLOGY: Cancer drug beneficial in models of infectious disease Drugs known as receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (RTKIs) are routinely used to treat several forms of cancer, but whether they could be used to effectively treat infectious diseases has not been determined... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Nigeria: The Nation Records 90 Percent Reduction in Polio Cases

AllAfrica News: Polio — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 11:27:06 +0100

Efforts to meet the health-related Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in the country last weekend received a boost, as the Minister of Health, Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin said that Nigeria has recorded about 90 per cent reduction in wide polio virus infection in the past one year. (Source: AllAfrica News: Polio)

Nigeria: 'Stop Stigmatising People Living With HIV/Aids'

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 10:43:09 +0100

Senate President David Mark has warned against stigmatization and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). He also commended the Institute of Human Virology (IHVN) for its commitment in fighting the pandemic in the country. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Applied Nanoscience Reports Positive H1N1, Rhinovirus Test Results And Strides Toward Commercialization Of NanoFense Protective Face Mask

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

Applied Nanoscience Inc. (ANI) (PINKSHEETS: APNN), a nanotechnology-based filtration company, today announced that it has received extremely positive test results on the effectiveness of the disposable NanoFense™ Protective Face Mask when challenged with the current swine influenza virus (H1N1)... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Experts Discuss PEPFAR Funding In Congressional Hearing

HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

At a recent hearing of the House Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health, "[i]nternational health organisations working to help check the spread of AIDS in Africa said meagre increases in funds from the U.S. government this year would be a step backwards. Some experts also emphasised that prevention must get appropriate attention in any fight against the disease," Inter Press Service reports... (Source: HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today)

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Avian influenza – situation in Viet Nam - update 9

WHO Disease Outbreaks — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

The Ministry of Health has reported a new confirmed case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. This case was confirmed at the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE). (Source: WHO Disease Outbreaks)

New Powerful Microscopy Shows Antimicrobial Proteins Killing Bacteria

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

US researchers have developed a new powerful microscopy technique and used it to show proteins killing bacteria in real time, thus revealing the deadly workings of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), naturally occurring proteins that scientists are pursuing as a new approach to treating bacterial infections... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Cameroon: HIV Treatment - Prof Luc Montagnier Rekindles Hope in Patients

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:57:12 +0100

The renowned scientist visited the "Luc Montagnier pavilion" at the Chantal Biya Foundation last Thursday in Yaounde. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Neurocognitive Impairment and HIV Risk Factors: A Reciprocal Relationship

AIDS and Behavior — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:51:19 +0100

Abstract Cognitive impairment among populations at risk for HIV poses a significant barrier to managing risk behaviors. The impact of HIV and several cofactors, including substance abuse and mental illness, on cognitive function is discussed in the context of HIV risk behaviors, medication adherence, and risk-reduction interventions. Literature suggests that cognitive impairment is intertwined in a close, reciprocal relationship with both risk behaviors and medication adherence. Not only do increased risk behaviors and suboptimal adherence exacerbate cognitive impairment, but cognitive impairment also reduces the effectiveness of interventions aimed at optimizing medication adherence and reducing risk. In order to be effective, risk-reduction interventions must therefore t...

Cumulative Number of Confirmed Human Cases of Avian Influenza A/(H5N1) Reported to WHO

WHO Avian Influenza — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

16 March 2010 (Source: WHO Avian Influenza)

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Scientists Identify Chemical In Bananas As Potent Inhibitor Of HIV Infection

HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

A potent new inhibitor of HIV, derived from bananas, may open the door to new treatments to prevent sexual transmission of HIV, according to a University of Michigan Medical School study published this week. Scientists have an emerging interest in lectins, naturally occurring chemicals in plants, because of their ability to halt the chain of reaction that leads to a variety of infections... (Source: HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today)

The use of a geographic information system to identify a dairy goat farm as the most likely source of an urban Q-fever outbreak

BMC Infectious Diseases — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The study supported the hypothesis that a single dairy goat farm was the source of the human outbreak. GIS-based attack rate analysis is a promising tool for source detection in outbreaks of human Q-fever. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

Current crisis or artifact of surveillance: insights into rebound chlamydia rates from dynamic modelling

BMC Infectious Diseases — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our results highlight the significant impact testing volume can have on observed incidence rates, and that simple explanations for these observed increases appear to have been dismissed in favor of changes to the underlying prevalence. These simple methods not only demonstrate geographic portability, but the results reassure the public health effort towards monitoring and controlling chlamydia. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

Serum lipid profile in highly active antiretroviral therapy-naïve HIV-infected patients in Cameroon: a case–control study

HIV Medicine — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

HIV status has commonly been found to affect the serum lipid profile. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of HIV infection on lipid metabolism; such information may be used to improve the management of HIV-infected patients. Samples were collected from December 2005 to May 2006 at Yaounde University Teaching Hospital, Yaounde, Cameroon. Lipid parameters were obtained using colorimetric enzyme assays, while low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) values were calculated using the formula of Friedewald et al. (1972) and atherogenicity index by total cholesterol (TC)/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) and LDLC/HDLC ratios. HIV infection was most prevalent in subjects aged 31 to 49 years. Most of the HIV-positive patients belonged to Centers for Disease Control and Pre...