Gene/Protein Disease Symptom Drug Enzyme Compound
Pivot Concepts:   Target Concepts:
Query: UMLS:C0019693 (HIV)
 170,526 document(s) hit in 31,850,051 MEDLINE articles (0.00 seconds)

The short-term detection and variability of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) RNA level was assessed in the blood plasma and genital tracts of 55 HIV-1-infected women. Specimens were collected weekly for 8 weeks from the endocervical canal with wicks and cytobrushes and from the ectocervix and vagina with cervicovaginal lavage. In all, 48 women (87.3%) had detectable genital tract HIV-1 RNA at > or =1 collection times. HIV-1 RNA levels varied least in specimens from endocervical canal wick and most in cervicovaginal lavage samples. The within-subject variation for genital-tract virus level was greater than that for blood. Overall, the odds for viral RNA detection in the genital tract approximately tripled for each 10-fold increase in plasma viral RNA concentration (P<.001) or with concomitant genital tract infection (P=.003). Endocervical canal wicks should be considered as an adjunct to cervicovaginal lavage, to improve the sensitivity and precision of HIV-1 RNA detection.
 ...
PMID:Variation of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 viral RNA levels in the female genital tract: implications for applying measurements to individual women. 1159 43

The objective of this study was to identify the knowledge about sexuality (including STD/HIV/AIDS), the sexual practices more frequents and sexuality education sources in a group of students with visual impairments. A self administered questionnaire was utilized in 50 students with visual impairment. Descriptive statistics were utilized. Seventy six percent (76.0%) of the participants presented a high knowledge about sexuality and 22.0% presented moderated knowledge. The no penetrative sexual practice more frequent was corporal caress (82.0%) and the penetrative was penis-vagina (74.0%). The source of sexuality education most common was the conferences (83.9%). Although, in general, the knowledge about sexuality was high, there are "gaps" in them. There is the need to develop educational materials adapted to the needs of the studied population.
 ...
PMID:[Knowledge about sexuality and sex behavior in university students with visual impairment: need of educational materials]. 1177 30

OBJECTIVE: To explain the high frequency of heterosexual transmission of AIDS in subSaharan countries, by investigating post-intercourse semen retention in the vagina for local pH neutralization as a possible interference factor with acidic inactivation of HIV virions. METHODS: Two semen markers, prostate-specific antigen and prostatic acid phosphatase, were measured and compared with the pH values in the vaginal washes of 69 women from the Central African Republic. The capacity of semen to raise the vaginal pH was also investigated in vitro. RESULTS: Of 61 non-menstrual specimens, 74% contained at least one semen marker. The specimens with high levels of markers (group I) displayed an almost neutral pH (median 6.1), at variance with the semen-free group II (median: 3.7, P<0.003), and with group III (median: 4.0) corresponding to low or past semen retention. The in vitro study confirmed the high neutralization capacity of semen. CONCLUSIONS: It is expected that post-intercourse neutralization of pH will both favor male-to-female transmission and prevent the acidity-associated loss of infectivity of the female-derived virions, thus allowing female-to-male transmission during further sexual contact.
 ...
PMID:Vaginal pH neutralization by semen as a cofactor of HIV transmission. 1186 71

In the developed world, antiretroviral therapy (ART) administered to the mother during pregnancy and intrapartum and to the infant in the neonatal period has resulted in a reduction of the overall risk of vertical transmission of HIV-1 to approximately 8%. In some settings, ART combined with cesarean section and a reduction in duration of ruptured membranes has resulted in a further lessening of risk to levels < or = 2 percent. A number of less expensive and greatly abbreviated ART regimens, useful for application in resource poor settings, also have resulted in reductions of mother-to-infant transmission of HIV-1 by 33 to 50% compared to baseline. A multitude of studies have shown these drugs to be safe for mothers, fetuses, and newborns. Breastfeeding seems to represent a risk factor that adds to the risk of vertical transmission, especially in infants who are fed a combination of breastmilk and other liquids and solids. Studies designed to assess the possible benefits of treating genital ulcer disease, chorioamnionitis, mastitis, and malnutrition in HIV-infected women, and of applying antiseptic washes to the cervix and vagina during labor, are in progress.
 ...
PMID:Transmission of HIV-1 from mother to infant. 1188 Jul 39

Antibodies can be delivered topically to the vagina to protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, but the acidity of vaginal secretions (pH 3.5-4.5) might inactivate them. To address this question, both experimental and computational methods were used to evaluate the effects of pH on human monoclonal antibody (MAb) stability and activity. To determine the acid-sensitivity of their antigen binding sites, human MAbs against human sperm (H6-3C4) and gp120 of HIV (1511) were tested by ELISA for binding to human sperm and recombinant gp120, respectively, at pH 3.0-7.0, after storing them for 1 or 20 h at the same pH. Binding was unaltered by acidic pH> or =4 even after 20 h, and at pH 3.5 both MAbs retained > or =40% antigen binding activity. A humanized MAb against HSV-2 glycoprotein B expressed both in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and in soybean cells was incubated for 1 or 24 h at pH 3.5-7.6, brought to neutral pH, and tested for ability to block HSV-2 infection of foreskin fibroblast cells. Loss in blocking activity occurred only when antibodies were incubated at pH 3.5 for 24 h and was independent of the expression cell type. Using empirical structure-based methods, net charge, Z, and electrostatic contributions to free energy, DeltaDeltaG(el), were calculated as a function of pH for 1 human and 8 murine F(ab)s. The calculations indicate that Z changes slowly between pH 5.0 and 9.0 and that DeltaDeltaG(el) is nearly constant between pH 4.0 and 10 for all the F(ab)s and, therefore, human antibodies should remain stable in this pH range. Taken together, our data and empirical calculations suggest that vaginally applied human MAbs are likely to remain stable and active throughout the duration they are likely to reside in the vagina.
 ...
PMID:Human monoclonal antibody stability and activity at vaginal pH. 1210 84

Quantitative research methods and epidemiological models dominate research into the understanding of risk behaviors related to HIV/AIDS. While clearly important to understanding AIDS and finding some answers for its prevention and control, quantitative and epidemiologic approaches do not shed much light on how people think. One must also try to understand the thought patterns behind behaviors which we are trying to influence. The author became aware of a mode of thought after 18 months of anthropological fieldwork with traditional healers in Rwanda which has implications for the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS. He described in a previous article a cosmological system based upon the flows and/or interruptions in the movement of liquid substances. Pathological states are provoked or characterized by perceived abnormalities in fluid movement, either excessive flows or blockages. Hypotheses concerning this system were later reinforced when he returned to the culturo-historical literature on Rwanda and discovered that the rituals of kingship were also a rich example of flow/blockage imagery. Tens years after his first fieldwork in Rwanda, the author reports finding ongoing evidence of that cosmological system. While some people in Rwanda who ascribe to the fluid flow/blockage ideology may understand condom use to be a necessary preventive measure against AIDS, they are concerned about the overall effect of condoms upon individual health. Mechanically, concern is expressed that the condom may remain lodged in the vagina and harm the woman or that it will interfere with a Rwandan form of lovemaking called kunyaza. With regard to the prevailing ideology, however, condoms block the flow of fluid. As such, concern also exists that blocking the release of semen from the penis will negatively affect male health. A notion also exists that a gas exits the penis at the moment of ejaculation. Interfering with the escape of such gas, condom use may cause the gas to re-enter the man's body and harm his kidneys. Rwanda is not the only place in sub-Saharan Africa where these beliefs are held. It is important that program planners and implementers understand how Rwandans think about the body and sickness, and tailor communication messages and interventions accordingly.
 ...
PMID:Cosmology and change in Rwanda. 1217 67

As the AIDS epidemic continues growing in countries around the world, women are increasingly in need of ways to protect themselves from infection with HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STD). Although no conclusive data exists on whether spermicides used alone or with condoms effectively protect against STDs, use of vaginal spermicides should be considered a viable alternative for protection against both pregnancy and some STDs, especially among women whose partners refuse to use condoms. Despite some of the advantages and ease of using spermicides for family planning, only 3% of contraceptive users worldwide use this as their primary method. This low level of use may largely stem from perceptions of spermicides' comparative ineffectiveness among other contraceptive methods. As for preventing the spread of STDs, spermicides place a chemical barrier between infected fluids and vulnerable tissue. Lab studies demonstrate spermicides' ability to inactivate most STD pathogens, and additional data are building on human use. No published reports exist on whether spermicide use protects women against HIV infection, though anecdotal reports and unpublished findings suggest that inadequate protection may be rendered in actual field use. Speculation even exists over the potential role of frequent spermicide use in causing irritation of genital tissue. While women have complained of some spermicides' failure to properly disperse in the vagina, and vulva or penis irritation, spermicides are, however, generally acceptable to users. The gel capsule and film were particularly liked in 1 research study. In sum, spermicide use should be encouraged as appropriate especially for those with irregular sexual activity, those with partners refusing to use condoms, and those contraindicated to other methods. Even though data is lacking on method effectiveness, using this acceptable method of potentially moderate effectiveness is by far preferable to not using one which is more effective. Further research is, however, needed to assess the level of protection provided.
 ...
PMID:Spermicides for family planning and disease protection: an update. 1228 58

The lone-awaited female condom, Femidom, is to be launched at the end of September by manufacturers Chartex. It is being welcomed by the FPA [Family Planning Association] and other family planning experts as a valuable addition to the existing range of contraceptive methods and as an alternative to the male condom in offering effective protection against sexually transmitted diseases including HIV. A lubricated, loose-fitting polyurethane sheath, Femidom is inserted into the vagina at any time before sex. An inner ring holds the condom in place beyond the pubic bone and an outer ring lies flat against the vulva. In addition to extending choice, it is under direct control of the woman. As FPA Director Doreen Massey puts it: "We have to face the fact that some women who want safer sex can't get their partners to use condoms. for the 1st time with Femidom, you can insist that if he won't use a condom, you'll use yours." In trails of self-selected couples, up to 2/3 of women and their partners found the product acceptable. a study at the Institute of Population Studies in Exeter showed that while some couples had initial misgivings about the condom's size and appearance, especially its visibility when in position, these often declined with repeated use. Researcher Dr. Nicholas Ford pointed out that if the female condom makes a woman feel unattractive, her partner's comments may well influence these feelings. Users' experience of insertion and the condom's comfort also improved with repeated use. While there are no large studies showing ranges of effectiveness, it is likely to be as effective as the male condom (about 85%-98%). In a study of 106 women at the margaret Pyke Center in London, there were 7 unplanned pregnancies: 4 were due to inconsistent use of the method and 3 were method failures. Breakages were rare. 1/3 of participants dropped out in the 1st month. Users should continue with their existing contraceptive method until they are sure that they are using Femidom efficiently, recommended the authors. In October the FPA is launching a new free consumer leaflet on male and female condoms. 1/2 million leaflets will be distributed to UK pharmacies in October and November via the Pharmacy Healthcare Scheme as part of a safer sex campaign. a launch event will include the results of a survey asking pharmacists and consumers what they think of condoms.
 ...
PMID:Female condom launched in UK. 1228 18

Screening for HIV in China began in 1984, with the first AIDS case appearing in 1985. 305,280 sera were tested as of 1992, of which 379 were seropositive for antibodies to HIV. Of these 379 individuals, there were 4 hemophiliacs identified in 1985, 1 homosexual male, 4 individuals returning from Africa, 365 drug addicts and 2 spouses. 68 foreigners and 1 Chinese hemophiliac from Hong Kong also tested seropositive. Concern is expressed over the psychosomatic trials of infected women who feel unable to discuss their HIV status with family members for fear of influencing their role as primary caregivers and sex partners. Without access to medical therapy and support groups, these women no doubt feel isolated. Non-directive counseling is recommended for seropositive women during pregnancy. AIDS patients have reduced natural killer cell cytotoxicity. Seminal plasma also suppresses several immune responses. The pathogenicity of HIV, however, has yet to be determined. Fatty acid metabolism and Beta-endorphin are discussed in the context of therapeutic approaches. HIV/STD interactions are finally considered with individual attention given to bacterial vaginosis, hepatitis B, Chlamydia trachomatis, Herpes Simplex virus, microbiological contaminants of the vagina bacterial vaginosis, syphilis, mycoplasmas/epididymitis, bacterial prostatitis, and IVF culture media infections.
 ...
PMID:HIV / STD interactions immunosuppression and future research development. 1228 86

Vaginal spermicides offer protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases to many women throughout the world whose partners refuse to use condoms. The threat of AIDS has prompted renewed interest in the efficacy of spermicides used alone without a barrier method in preventing disease as well as pregnancy. No conclusive data are yet available on whether spermicides, alone or in combination with condoms, protect against HIV and other viral sexually transmitted diseases. Questions have also arisen about possible risks involved in using multiple daily doses of spermicides. Despite their advantages of accessibility, reversibility, and near absence of side effects, spermicides are used as the principle contraceptive method by less than 3% of the world's contraceptive users. Researchers estimate that the theoretical efficacy of spermicides is around 97%, but efficacy in practice is only 79% among typical users. Inconsistent and incorrect use undoubtedly accounts for many failures. A study underway among 1200 women in a sexually transmitted disease clinic in Alabama is designed to furnish data on the maximal protection provided by spermicides alone or with condoms among women using the method correctly and consistently. Numerous laboratory studies since the 1970s have shown that spermicides inactivate the majority of pathogenic agents causing sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. Clinical studies have been more limited but are beginning to accumulate. A study among prostitutes in Bangkok showed that spermicides decreased the risk of gonorrhea and chlamydia by 40%. Despite in vitro studies dating back to 1985 that demonstrate the capacity of nonoxynol-9 to destroy HIV even in the interior of white cells, no study demonstrating protection against HIV transmission has been published. But anecdotal evidence and conclusions presented at scientific conferences suggest that spermicides offer insufficient protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Results of studies on the efficacy of spermicides against HIV transmission in Cameroon and Zambia are ambiguous. The question of whether spermicides offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases has been complicated by recent studies suggesting a relationship between very frequent use of spermicides and development of genital lesions, which would aggravate the risk of HIV infection. Studies are underway to determine whether less frequent use of spermicides also alters tissue of the vagina and cervix. Some recent studies have suggested that spermicides have a high degree of acceptability especially among clients who are well informed about their correct use. Providing clients with a choice of condoms or spermicides may increase the acceptability of both methods.
 ...
PMID:[Spermicides for contraception and STD prevention: current status]. 1228 77


<< Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Next >>