Source: AIDSMAP, HIV WEEKLY
Kaletra (lopinavir boosted by a small amount of ritonavir) is a powerful anti-HIV drug that is one of the drugs recommended for use in combination with other anti-HIV drugs by people starting anti-HIV treatment for the first time.
A new study shows that saquinavir (Invirase) boosted by ritonavir is just as effective in initial drug combinations. Equal numbers of patients (about 70%) taking Kaletra and saquinavir/ritonavir had an undetectable viral load after a year.
Protease inhibitors are associated with tummy problems, particularly diarrhoea. Doctors found that 17% of people taking saquinavir/ritonavir had diarrhoea compared to over a quarter of those taking Kaletra. Another side-effect caused by many protease inhibitors is an increase in blood fats, particularly ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol which can be a risk factor for heart disease. Researchers found that 34% of people taking saquinavir/ritonavir had high levels of LDL cholesterol compared to just over a quarter of those taking Kaletra.
Reference
Walmsley S et al. Saquinavir/r (SQV/r) BiD versus lopinavir/r (LPV/r) BiD, plus emtricitabine/tenofovir (FTC/TDF) QD as initial therapy in HIV-1 infected patients: the GEMINI study. Eleventh European AIDS Copnference, Madrid. Abstract PS1/4. 2007.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
AIDS, poverty and human development
Source: UNAIDS
In an article published in leading scientific magazine PLoS, UNAIDS examines the often called ‘vicious circle’ within which the impacts of AIDS increase poverty and social deprivation, while socio-economic inequalities increase vulnerability to HIV infection.
Read article - Squaring the Circle: AIDS, Poverty, and Human Development
In an article published in leading scientific magazine PLoS, UNAIDS examines the often called ‘vicious circle’ within which the impacts of AIDS increase poverty and social deprivation, while socio-economic inequalities increase vulnerability to HIV infection.
Read article - Squaring the Circle: AIDS, Poverty, and Human Development
Recently acquired: The psychiatry of AIDS
Treisman, Glenn J.; Angelino, Andrew F. The Psychiatry of AIDS : A guide to diagnosis and treatmentBaltimore, MA, Johns Hopkins, 2004
D 400 TRE 2004
The book provides HIV/AIDS professionals with overviews of psychiatric disorders, including mood and personality disorders, mental retardation, substance abuse and addiction, and sexual disorders and dysfunction. It also provides mental health professionals with essential information on how to care for patients with HIV and those at risk for the infection. The book discusses psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and counseling, as well as adherence and compliance issues, and the relationship between psychiatric disorders and other STDs.
Containing the most up-to-date information on diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment, this book draws on the authors' unrivaled experience and uses case studies to show HIV/AIDS professionals how psychiatric interventions benefit the patient, the medical team, and society as a whole. The cases are rich and engaging, and convey to the reader the intense disorder that can affect the lives of patients.
Contact the library to borrow this book.
AIDS virus invaded US from Haiti in 1969 -study
Source: Reuters
By Will Dunham
WASHINGTON, Oct 29 (Reuters) - The AIDS virus invaded the United States in about 1969 from Haiti, carried most likely by a single infected immigrant who set the stage for it to sweep the world in a tragic epidemic, scientists said on Monday. Michael Worobey, a University of Arizona evolutionary biologist, said the 1969 U.S. entry date is earlier than some experts had believed. The timeline laid out in the study led by Worobey indicates that HIV infections were occurring in the United States for roughly 12 years before AIDS was first recognized by scientists as a disease in 1981. Many people had died by that point.
"It is somehow chilling to know it was probably circulating for so long under our noses," Worobey said in a telephone interview.
The researchers conducted a genetic analysis of stored blood samples from early AIDS patients to determine when the human immunodeficiency virus first entered the United States. They found that HIV was brought to Haiti by an infected person from central Africa in about 1966, which matches earlier estimates, and then came to the United States in about 1969.
The researchers think an unknown single infected Haitian immigrant arrived in a large city like Miami or New York, and the virus circulated for years -- first in the U.S. population and then to other nations. It can take several years after infection for a person to develop AIDS, a disease that ravages the immune system.
DISEASE MULTIPLIES
"That one infection would have become two, and then it doubles again and the two becomes four," Worobey said. "So you have a period -- probably a fair number of years -- where you're dealing with probably fewer than a hundred people who are infected.
"And then, as with epidemic expansion, at some point the hundred becomes 200, you start getting into thousands, tens of thousands. And then quite rapidly you can be up into the hundreds of thousands of infections that were probably already there before AIDS was recognized in the early 1980s."
The study was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
The path the virus traveled as it jumped from nation to nation has long been debated by scientists.
The University of Miami's Dr. Arthur Pitchenik, a co-author of the study, had seen Haitian immigrants in Miami as early as 1979 with a mystery illness that turned out to be AIDS. He knew the government long had stored some of their blood samples. The researchers analyzed samples from five of these Haitian immigrants dating from 1982 and 1983. They also looked at genetic data from 117 more early AIDS patients from around the world. This genetic analysis allowed the scientists to calibrate the molecular clock of the strain of HIV that has spread most widely, and calculated when it arrived first in Haiti from Africa and then in the United States.
The researchers virtually ruled out the possibility that HIV had come directly to the United States from Africa, setting a 99.8 percent probability that Haiti was the steppingstone.
"I think that it gives us more clear insight into the history of it (the AIDS epidemic) and what path the virus took -- and hard objective evidence, not just armchair thinking," Pitchenik said in a telephone interview.
Studies suggest the virus first entered the human population in about 1930 in central Africa, probably when people slaughtered infected chimpanzees for meat. AIDS has killed more than 25 million people and about 40 million others are infected with HIV.
By Will Dunham
WASHINGTON, Oct 29 (Reuters) - The AIDS virus invaded the United States in about 1969 from Haiti, carried most likely by a single infected immigrant who set the stage for it to sweep the world in a tragic epidemic, scientists said on Monday. Michael Worobey, a University of Arizona evolutionary biologist, said the 1969 U.S. entry date is earlier than some experts had believed. The timeline laid out in the study led by Worobey indicates that HIV infections were occurring in the United States for roughly 12 years before AIDS was first recognized by scientists as a disease in 1981. Many people had died by that point.
"It is somehow chilling to know it was probably circulating for so long under our noses," Worobey said in a telephone interview.
The researchers conducted a genetic analysis of stored blood samples from early AIDS patients to determine when the human immunodeficiency virus first entered the United States. They found that HIV was brought to Haiti by an infected person from central Africa in about 1966, which matches earlier estimates, and then came to the United States in about 1969.
The researchers think an unknown single infected Haitian immigrant arrived in a large city like Miami or New York, and the virus circulated for years -- first in the U.S. population and then to other nations. It can take several years after infection for a person to develop AIDS, a disease that ravages the immune system.
DISEASE MULTIPLIES
"That one infection would have become two, and then it doubles again and the two becomes four," Worobey said. "So you have a period -- probably a fair number of years -- where you're dealing with probably fewer than a hundred people who are infected.
"And then, as with epidemic expansion, at some point the hundred becomes 200, you start getting into thousands, tens of thousands. And then quite rapidly you can be up into the hundreds of thousands of infections that were probably already there before AIDS was recognized in the early 1980s."
The study was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
The path the virus traveled as it jumped from nation to nation has long been debated by scientists.
The University of Miami's Dr. Arthur Pitchenik, a co-author of the study, had seen Haitian immigrants in Miami as early as 1979 with a mystery illness that turned out to be AIDS. He knew the government long had stored some of their blood samples. The researchers analyzed samples from five of these Haitian immigrants dating from 1982 and 1983. They also looked at genetic data from 117 more early AIDS patients from around the world. This genetic analysis allowed the scientists to calibrate the molecular clock of the strain of HIV that has spread most widely, and calculated when it arrived first in Haiti from Africa and then in the United States.
The researchers virtually ruled out the possibility that HIV had come directly to the United States from Africa, setting a 99.8 percent probability that Haiti was the steppingstone.
"I think that it gives us more clear insight into the history of it (the AIDS epidemic) and what path the virus took -- and hard objective evidence, not just armchair thinking," Pitchenik said in a telephone interview.
Studies suggest the virus first entered the human population in about 1930 in central Africa, probably when people slaughtered infected chimpanzees for meat. AIDS has killed more than 25 million people and about 40 million others are infected with HIV.
Monday, October 29, 2007
New issue of AIDS Patient Care and STDs, Vol. 21, no 9, September 2007
In this issue:
Immunologic Response to Protease Inhibitor-Based Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy: A Review
Mark A. Wainberg, Bonaventura Clotet
pp. 609-620.
Abstract
Outcomes of Blood and Oral Fluid Rapid HIV Testing: A Literature Review, 2000–2006
Kathleen Johnston Roberts, Oscar Grusky, Aimee-Noelle Swanson
pp. 621-637.
Abstract
Maternal HIV-1 DNA Load and Mother-to-Child Transmission
Nils D. Arvold, Nicole Ngo-Giang-Huong, Kenneth McIntosh et al.
pp. 638-643.
Abstract
Prevalence of Drug-Resistant and Nonsubtype B HIV Strains in Antiretroviral-Naïve, HIV-Infected Individuals in New York State
Monica M. Parker, Daniel Gordon, Andrew Reilly et al.
pp. 644-652.
Abstract
MDR1 and CYP3A4 Polymorphisms Are Associated with HIV Seropositivity in Israeli Patients But Do Not Influence the Course of HIV Disease
Meirav Kedmi, Shlomo Maayan, Sara Bar Cohen et al.
pp. 653-658.
Abstract
The Effects of Smoking Abstinence on Symptom Burden and Quality of Life Among Persons Living with HIV/AIDS
Damon J. Vidrine, Roberto C. Arduino, Ellen R. Gritz
pp. 659-666.
Abstract
Social Support, Coping, and Medication Adherence Among HIV-Positive Women with Depression Living in Rural Areas of the Southeastern United States
Medha Vyavaharkar, Linda Moneyham, Abbas Tavakoli et al.
pp. 667-680.
Abstract
Predictors of AIDS-Related Morbidity and Mortality in a Southern U.S. Cohort
Michael J. Mugavero, Brian Wells Pence, Kathryn Whetten et al.
pp. 681-690.
Abstract
Retention Challenges for a Community-Based HIV Primary Care Clinic and Implications for Intervention
Sharon Coleman, Ulrike Boehmer, Fumihido Kanaya et al.
pp. 691-701.
Abstract
Antiviral Briefs
pp. 702-705.
Drug Developments and STD News
pp. 706-709.
Immunologic Response to Protease Inhibitor-Based Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy: A Review
Mark A. Wainberg, Bonaventura Clotet
pp. 609-620.
Abstract
Outcomes of Blood and Oral Fluid Rapid HIV Testing: A Literature Review, 2000–2006
Kathleen Johnston Roberts, Oscar Grusky, Aimee-Noelle Swanson
pp. 621-637.
Abstract
Maternal HIV-1 DNA Load and Mother-to-Child Transmission
Nils D. Arvold, Nicole Ngo-Giang-Huong, Kenneth McIntosh et al.
pp. 638-643.
Abstract
Prevalence of Drug-Resistant and Nonsubtype B HIV Strains in Antiretroviral-Naïve, HIV-Infected Individuals in New York State
Monica M. Parker, Daniel Gordon, Andrew Reilly et al.
pp. 644-652.
Abstract
MDR1 and CYP3A4 Polymorphisms Are Associated with HIV Seropositivity in Israeli Patients But Do Not Influence the Course of HIV Disease
Meirav Kedmi, Shlomo Maayan, Sara Bar Cohen et al.
pp. 653-658.
Abstract
The Effects of Smoking Abstinence on Symptom Burden and Quality of Life Among Persons Living with HIV/AIDS
Damon J. Vidrine, Roberto C. Arduino, Ellen R. Gritz
pp. 659-666.
Abstract
Social Support, Coping, and Medication Adherence Among HIV-Positive Women with Depression Living in Rural Areas of the Southeastern United States
Medha Vyavaharkar, Linda Moneyham, Abbas Tavakoli et al.
pp. 667-680.
Abstract
Predictors of AIDS-Related Morbidity and Mortality in a Southern U.S. Cohort
Michael J. Mugavero, Brian Wells Pence, Kathryn Whetten et al.
pp. 681-690.
Abstract
Retention Challenges for a Community-Based HIV Primary Care Clinic and Implications for Intervention
Sharon Coleman, Ulrike Boehmer, Fumihido Kanaya et al.
pp. 691-701.
Abstract
Antiviral Briefs
pp. 702-705.
Drug Developments and STD News
pp. 706-709.
Insite could run without feds' OK
Source: The Province
Operators of Dr. Peter Centre offering similar service rely on nursing ethics
David Carrigg, The Province
Published: Monday, October 29, 2007
VANCOUVER - Vancouver's largest supervised injection site does not need Health Canada's permission to operate, says the head of a smaller injection site that operates without federal permission.
"A Section 56 exemption [of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act] isn't needed," said Maxine Davis, head of the Dr. Peter Centre of Vancouver. "We've very confident of the position we're taking."
The Dr. Peter Centre provides a supervised injection site for 50 of its 300 clients. Those clients are HIV-positive and some are homeless with mental-health and drug-addiction problems. The centre's injection site opened in April 2002, prior to the opening of the Insite supervised injection site in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.
Davis said the Dr. Peter Centre does not need Health Canada permission to operate because it is not part of a scientific study Insite is involved in. A Section 56 exemption was needed for the Insite study to be undertaken.
Davis said she's confident her centre's facility is legal under the B.C. Nurses Act because of a nurse's duty of patient care. She said the same would apply to Insite, meaning it's not subject to Health Canada approval.
The centre's supervised injection facility opened after two overdose deaths at the centre's old location at St. Paul's Hospital.
Click here to read the article.
Operators of Dr. Peter Centre offering similar service rely on nursing ethics
David Carrigg, The Province
Published: Monday, October 29, 2007
VANCOUVER - Vancouver's largest supervised injection site does not need Health Canada's permission to operate, says the head of a smaller injection site that operates without federal permission.
"A Section 56 exemption [of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act] isn't needed," said Maxine Davis, head of the Dr. Peter Centre of Vancouver. "We've very confident of the position we're taking."
The Dr. Peter Centre provides a supervised injection site for 50 of its 300 clients. Those clients are HIV-positive and some are homeless with mental-health and drug-addiction problems. The centre's injection site opened in April 2002, prior to the opening of the Insite supervised injection site in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.
Davis said the Dr. Peter Centre does not need Health Canada permission to operate because it is not part of a scientific study Insite is involved in. A Section 56 exemption was needed for the Insite study to be undertaken.
Davis said she's confident her centre's facility is legal under the B.C. Nurses Act because of a nurse's duty of patient care. She said the same would apply to Insite, meaning it's not subject to Health Canada approval.
The centre's supervised injection facility opened after two overdose deaths at the centre's old location at St. Paul's Hospital.
Click here to read the article.
Social agencies to run rooming hotels
Source: the Vancouver Sun
Province picks non-profits for role in Downtown Eastside
Frances Bula, Vancouver Sun
Published: Monday, October 29, 2007
Eleven Downtown Eastside hotels will be turned over to non-profit social agencies to run as of Dec. 1, in a move the province and the agencies say will mean more and better rooms for the homeless and hardest to house.
Housing Minister Rich Coleman is set to announce today the 10 non-profit agencies that have been chosen to run them.
A wide variety of agencies will be named, including one that specializes in native housing, another that deals with women's housing and two that handle housing specifically for the mentally ill. One agency will operate two hotels.
The non-profits, all of which run other buildings targeted to particular groups of people who are the most vulnerable to homelessness, will gradually add new tenants who are part of their target group to the existing mix.
Two hotels, the Park and the Marble Arch, will be added to the stock of "dry" housing that City Centre Care Society offers for people trying to live without drugs and alcohol after they've come out of a detox program.
Most of the others are not like that, instead providing safe and supportive homes to women, aboriginals with HIV, the mentally ill, the addicted or a mix of any of those categories.
Click here to read the article.
Province picks non-profits for role in Downtown Eastside
Frances Bula, Vancouver Sun
Published: Monday, October 29, 2007
Eleven Downtown Eastside hotels will be turned over to non-profit social agencies to run as of Dec. 1, in a move the province and the agencies say will mean more and better rooms for the homeless and hardest to house.
Housing Minister Rich Coleman is set to announce today the 10 non-profit agencies that have been chosen to run them.
A wide variety of agencies will be named, including one that specializes in native housing, another that deals with women's housing and two that handle housing specifically for the mentally ill. One agency will operate two hotels.
The non-profits, all of which run other buildings targeted to particular groups of people who are the most vulnerable to homelessness, will gradually add new tenants who are part of their target group to the existing mix.
Two hotels, the Park and the Marble Arch, will be added to the stock of "dry" housing that City Centre Care Society offers for people trying to live without drugs and alcohol after they've come out of a detox program.
Most of the others are not like that, instead providing safe and supportive homes to women, aboriginals with HIV, the mentally ill, the addicted or a mix of any of those categories.
Click here to read the article.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
HIV spread most by those with moderate virus level
Source: Reuters
By Michael Kahn
LONDON, Oct 22 (Reuters) - People with moderate levels of HIV in their blood are the most likely to infect others, researchers said on Monday in a study that provides a better understanding of how the deadly virus spreads.
Looking at several groups of HIV-positive people in Europe, the United States and Africa, the researchers found that people with high levels of the AIDS virus were the most infectious but had only limited time to pass it on to others. Those with moderate virus levels -- using a measure called viral load -- had plenty of virus circulating in their blood as well as the opportunity to infect others, the researchers said. This means that trying to halt the spread of AIDS by focusing on people with the highest viral loads may not be the most effective approach, said Christophe Fraser, an epidemiologist at Imperial College London who led the study.
"The surprise was that those people with high viral loads actually infected fewer people because they progressed to AIDS more quickly," Fraser said in a telephone interview.
The findings may also suggest that the virus has somehow adapted to find the optimal balance between infectiousness and virulence in order to maximise its chances of spreading -- something one would expect from evolution, the researchers wrote in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
"We now want to see whether the virus has adapted in order to allow it to infect the most people, which seems plausible given the results of our study," Fraser said. "While it is too early to sound the alarm, more research to prove or disprove this theory is urgently needed."
More than 25 million people have died of AIDS since the incurable disease that ravages the body's immune system was first recognized in 1981. Almost 40 million people now live with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa. In their study, the researchers analysed previously published European and African studies linking viral load, infectiousness and survival. The researchers focused on people with medium viral loads as individuals may show no symptoms and not progress to full-blown AIDS for about seven to eight years. Those with high loads were typically people who developed AIDS in a short period of time, usually two to three years, Fraser said.
People with a medium viral load also form the largest, most common group not to receive treatment, so these individuals are far more dangerous when it comes to contributing to the AIDS epidemic, the researchers said.
By Michael Kahn
LONDON, Oct 22 (Reuters) - People with moderate levels of HIV in their blood are the most likely to infect others, researchers said on Monday in a study that provides a better understanding of how the deadly virus spreads.
Looking at several groups of HIV-positive people in Europe, the United States and Africa, the researchers found that people with high levels of the AIDS virus were the most infectious but had only limited time to pass it on to others. Those with moderate virus levels -- using a measure called viral load -- had plenty of virus circulating in their blood as well as the opportunity to infect others, the researchers said. This means that trying to halt the spread of AIDS by focusing on people with the highest viral loads may not be the most effective approach, said Christophe Fraser, an epidemiologist at Imperial College London who led the study.
"The surprise was that those people with high viral loads actually infected fewer people because they progressed to AIDS more quickly," Fraser said in a telephone interview.
The findings may also suggest that the virus has somehow adapted to find the optimal balance between infectiousness and virulence in order to maximise its chances of spreading -- something one would expect from evolution, the researchers wrote in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
"We now want to see whether the virus has adapted in order to allow it to infect the most people, which seems plausible given the results of our study," Fraser said. "While it is too early to sound the alarm, more research to prove or disprove this theory is urgently needed."
More than 25 million people have died of AIDS since the incurable disease that ravages the body's immune system was first recognized in 1981. Almost 40 million people now live with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa. In their study, the researchers analysed previously published European and African studies linking viral load, infectiousness and survival. The researchers focused on people with medium viral loads as individuals may show no symptoms and not progress to full-blown AIDS for about seven to eight years. Those with high loads were typically people who developed AIDS in a short period of time, usually two to three years, Fraser said.
People with a medium viral load also form the largest, most common group not to receive treatment, so these individuals are far more dangerous when it comes to contributing to the AIDS epidemic, the researchers said.
BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS: First Academic Division of AIDS opens in Canada
Source: Marketwire
The BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS partners with the University of British Columbia in the fight against HIV/AIDS
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Oct. 24, 2007) - The University of British Columbia (UBC) Department of Medicine has established Canada's first Division of AIDS (DAIDS) based at the BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Providence Health Care. DAIDS will attract and retain staff with the wide range of expertise needed to continue HIV/AIDS clinical care, scientific research and training. The new division is also intended to provide an academic home for researchers within the Centre, as well as other UBC affiliated institutions.
"The establishment of DAIDS recognizes both the complexities brought upon by HIV and AIDS, as well as the unique contributions made by UBC based researchers and educators over the years," says Centre director and newly appointed head of the DAIDS, Dr. Julio Montaner. "HIV/AIDS is a rapidly evolving field of medicine that requires a very specific set of skills and dedication. The formal acknowledgement of HIV/AIDS as an academic discipline within the UBC-Department of Medicine will open the door for new generations of physicians and scientists to focus their careers on this important field."
DAIDS will work collaboratively within the Department of Medicine at UBC. The division's key areas of involvement include: epidemiology, basic science, clinical science, prevention, integrated primary and specialty care, urban health and international health. The newly created Division will bring together more then 40 faculty and staff members, with plans to grow as it attracts additional academics.
Montaner was chosen as the new DAIDS head as a result of his vast knowledge and experience in HIV research and treatment, and his ability to shape modern treatment regimens that assist health care professionals to better manage the disease. Montaner is considered one of the world's outstanding clinical investigators in the field of HIV/AIDS. He is currently the president-elect of the International AIDS Society. Montaner has also been named the B.C. Innovation Council's 2007 B.C. Science and Technology Champion of the Year Award.
"Dr. Montaner's work has revolutionized patient care in the province of British Columbia," says UBC president Stephen Toope. "We are all grateful for his significant contributions to the global fight against HIV/AIDS."
In the last 20 years - particularly during the last decade - HIV/AIDS has become the fastest growing field of medicine in terms of research, therapy and service delivery methods, explains Montaner. UBC is the first academic institution in Canada to establish a Division of AIDS.
Approximately 13,000 HIV-positive men and women live in B.C., with 56,000 in total across Canada. While B.C. has the third highest number of persons living with HIV after Ontario and Quebec, the province has the highest per capita rate of HIV infection in Canada. Health economists estimate it will cost approximately $250,000 to treat and care for each of these HIV-infected Canadians over their lifetime. At this rate, it will cost nearly $2 to $4 billion to treat and care for all persons infected with HIV living in B.C. More than $58 million was spent on antiretroviral therapy alone in B.C. in the last fiscal year.
Key partners to DAIDS include the Centre, as well as the HIV Program at Providence Healthcare, AIDS Ward at St. Paul's Hospital, John Ruedy Immunodefiency Clinic (IDC) and AIDS Research Program within the Department of Medicine at UBC.
About the B.C. Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS
Founded in 1992 at St. Paul's Hospital by the provincial Ministry of Health, the B.C. Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS is a key provincial resource. The mandate of the centre is to improve the health of people with HIV through the development, ongoing monitoring and dissemination of comprehensive investigative and treatment programs for HIV and related diseases. St. Paul's Hospital is one of seven care facilities operated by Providence Health Care, Canada's largest faith-based health care organization.
For interview requests or further information relating to the Centre and its ongoing research in HIV/AIDS, please contact Stephen Burega, media relations, 604-506-3734, stephen.burega@karyo-edelman.com.
The BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS partners with the University of British Columbia in the fight against HIV/AIDS
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Oct. 24, 2007) - The University of British Columbia (UBC) Department of Medicine has established Canada's first Division of AIDS (DAIDS) based at the BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Providence Health Care. DAIDS will attract and retain staff with the wide range of expertise needed to continue HIV/AIDS clinical care, scientific research and training. The new division is also intended to provide an academic home for researchers within the Centre, as well as other UBC affiliated institutions.
"The establishment of DAIDS recognizes both the complexities brought upon by HIV and AIDS, as well as the unique contributions made by UBC based researchers and educators over the years," says Centre director and newly appointed head of the DAIDS, Dr. Julio Montaner. "HIV/AIDS is a rapidly evolving field of medicine that requires a very specific set of skills and dedication. The formal acknowledgement of HIV/AIDS as an academic discipline within the UBC-Department of Medicine will open the door for new generations of physicians and scientists to focus their careers on this important field."
DAIDS will work collaboratively within the Department of Medicine at UBC. The division's key areas of involvement include: epidemiology, basic science, clinical science, prevention, integrated primary and specialty care, urban health and international health. The newly created Division will bring together more then 40 faculty and staff members, with plans to grow as it attracts additional academics.
Montaner was chosen as the new DAIDS head as a result of his vast knowledge and experience in HIV research and treatment, and his ability to shape modern treatment regimens that assist health care professionals to better manage the disease. Montaner is considered one of the world's outstanding clinical investigators in the field of HIV/AIDS. He is currently the president-elect of the International AIDS Society. Montaner has also been named the B.C. Innovation Council's 2007 B.C. Science and Technology Champion of the Year Award.
"Dr. Montaner's work has revolutionized patient care in the province of British Columbia," says UBC president Stephen Toope. "We are all grateful for his significant contributions to the global fight against HIV/AIDS."
In the last 20 years - particularly during the last decade - HIV/AIDS has become the fastest growing field of medicine in terms of research, therapy and service delivery methods, explains Montaner. UBC is the first academic institution in Canada to establish a Division of AIDS.
Approximately 13,000 HIV-positive men and women live in B.C., with 56,000 in total across Canada. While B.C. has the third highest number of persons living with HIV after Ontario and Quebec, the province has the highest per capita rate of HIV infection in Canada. Health economists estimate it will cost approximately $250,000 to treat and care for each of these HIV-infected Canadians over their lifetime. At this rate, it will cost nearly $2 to $4 billion to treat and care for all persons infected with HIV living in B.C. More than $58 million was spent on antiretroviral therapy alone in B.C. in the last fiscal year.
Key partners to DAIDS include the Centre, as well as the HIV Program at Providence Healthcare, AIDS Ward at St. Paul's Hospital, John Ruedy Immunodefiency Clinic (IDC) and AIDS Research Program within the Department of Medicine at UBC.
About the B.C. Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS
Founded in 1992 at St. Paul's Hospital by the provincial Ministry of Health, the B.C. Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS is a key provincial resource. The mandate of the centre is to improve the health of people with HIV through the development, ongoing monitoring and dissemination of comprehensive investigative and treatment programs for HIV and related diseases. St. Paul's Hospital is one of seven care facilities operated by Providence Health Care, Canada's largest faith-based health care organization.
For interview requests or further information relating to the Centre and its ongoing research in HIV/AIDS, please contact Stephen Burega, media relations, 604-506-3734, stephen.burega@karyo-edelman.com.
Monday, October 22, 2007
New issue of AIDS Care: Vol. 19, no 8. Sept 2007
In this issue:
Sexual dysfunction in HIV-positive men is multi-factorial: A study of prevalence and associated factors
pp. 955 – 965
Authors: D. Asboe; J. Catalan; S. Mandalia et al.
Abstract
Sexual practices of church youths in the era of HIV/AIDS: Playing the ostrich
pp. 966 – 969
Author: C. V. Nweneka
Abstract
Contexts of condom use and non-condom use among young adolescent male perpetrators of dating violence
pp. 970 – 973
Authors: A. Raj; E. Reed; E. Miller et al.
Abstract
Skinning the goat and pulling the load: transactional sex among youth in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
pp. 974 – 981
Authors: R. K. Maganja; S. Maman; A. Groves et al.
Abstract
Patient preferences among third agent HIV medications: a US and German perspective
pp. 982 – 988
Authors: K. M. Beusterien; K. Dziekan; S. Schrader et al.
Abstract
Sex, condoms, gender roles, and HIV transmission knowledge among adolescents in León, Nicaragua: Implications for HIV prevention
pp. 989 – 995
Authors: A. Manji; R. Peña; R. Dubrow
Abstract
Cost-effectiveness of clinical interventions for AIDS wasting
pp. 996 – 1001
Authors: A. Beaston-Blaakman; D. S. Shepard; N. Stone; A. H. Shevitz
Abstract
Validation of the HIV/AIDS Stigma Instrument - PLWA (HASI-P)
pp. 1002 – 1012
Authors: William L. Holzemer; Leana R. Uys; Maureen L. Chirwa et al.
Abstract
Impact on HIV test providers of giving a positive test result
pp. 1013 – 1019
Authors: Ted Myers; Catherine Worthington; Jeffrey P. Aguinaldo et al.
Abstract
Predictors of workplace sexual health policy at sex work establishments in the Philippines
pp. 1020 – 1025
Authors: M. Withers; K. Dornig; D. E. Morisky
Abstract
Acceptability of tenofovir gel as a vaginal microbicide by US male participants in a Phase I clinical trial (HPTN 050)
pp. 1026 – 1031
Authors: Alex Carballo-Diéguez; Iván C. Balán; Kathleen Morrow et al.
Abstract
Condom use behaviours among 18-24 year-old urban African American males: a qualitative study
pp. 1032 – 1038
Authors: S. B. Kennedy; S. Nolen; J. Applewhite et al.
Abstract
Factors associated with discontinuation of antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected patients with alcohol problems
pp. 1039 – 1047
Authors: T. W. Kim; A. Palepu; D. M. Cheng et al.
Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy in the lives of women of colour with HIV
pp. 1048 – 1051
Authors: A. Wayson Locher; K. Pargament; J. Duggan
Abstract
Determinants and evolution of squamous intraepithelial lesions in HIV-infected women, 1991-2004
pp. 1052 – 1057
Authors: M-P. Drogoul-Vey; C. Marimoutou; A. Robaglia-Schlupp et al.
Abstract
The idiographic study of inconsistent condom use behavior of persons living with HIV
pp. 1058 – 1064
Authors: W. D. Barta; S. M. Kiene; H. Tennen et al.
Abstract
Case management community care for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHAs)
pp. 1065 – 1072
Authors: W. Husbands; G. Browne; J. Caswell et al.
Abstract
Contact the library to request copies of articles.
Sexual dysfunction in HIV-positive men is multi-factorial: A study of prevalence and associated factors
pp. 955 – 965
Authors: D. Asboe; J. Catalan; S. Mandalia et al.
Abstract
Sexual practices of church youths in the era of HIV/AIDS: Playing the ostrich
pp. 966 – 969
Author: C. V. Nweneka
Abstract
Contexts of condom use and non-condom use among young adolescent male perpetrators of dating violence
pp. 970 – 973
Authors: A. Raj; E. Reed; E. Miller et al.
Abstract
Skinning the goat and pulling the load: transactional sex among youth in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
pp. 974 – 981
Authors: R. K. Maganja; S. Maman; A. Groves et al.
Abstract
Patient preferences among third agent HIV medications: a US and German perspective
pp. 982 – 988
Authors: K. M. Beusterien; K. Dziekan; S. Schrader et al.
Abstract
Sex, condoms, gender roles, and HIV transmission knowledge among adolescents in León, Nicaragua: Implications for HIV prevention
pp. 989 – 995
Authors: A. Manji; R. Peña; R. Dubrow
Abstract
Cost-effectiveness of clinical interventions for AIDS wasting
pp. 996 – 1001
Authors: A. Beaston-Blaakman; D. S. Shepard; N. Stone; A. H. Shevitz
Abstract
Validation of the HIV/AIDS Stigma Instrument - PLWA (HASI-P)
pp. 1002 – 1012
Authors: William L. Holzemer; Leana R. Uys; Maureen L. Chirwa et al.
Abstract
Impact on HIV test providers of giving a positive test result
pp. 1013 – 1019
Authors: Ted Myers; Catherine Worthington; Jeffrey P. Aguinaldo et al.
Abstract
Predictors of workplace sexual health policy at sex work establishments in the Philippines
pp. 1020 – 1025
Authors: M. Withers; K. Dornig; D. E. Morisky
Abstract
Acceptability of tenofovir gel as a vaginal microbicide by US male participants in a Phase I clinical trial (HPTN 050)
pp. 1026 – 1031
Authors: Alex Carballo-Diéguez; Iván C. Balán; Kathleen Morrow et al.
Abstract
Condom use behaviours among 18-24 year-old urban African American males: a qualitative study
pp. 1032 – 1038
Authors: S. B. Kennedy; S. Nolen; J. Applewhite et al.
Abstract
Factors associated with discontinuation of antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected patients with alcohol problems
pp. 1039 – 1047
Authors: T. W. Kim; A. Palepu; D. M. Cheng et al.
Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy in the lives of women of colour with HIV
pp. 1048 – 1051
Authors: A. Wayson Locher; K. Pargament; J. Duggan
Abstract
Determinants and evolution of squamous intraepithelial lesions in HIV-infected women, 1991-2004
pp. 1052 – 1057
Authors: M-P. Drogoul-Vey; C. Marimoutou; A. Robaglia-Schlupp et al.
Abstract
The idiographic study of inconsistent condom use behavior of persons living with HIV
pp. 1058 – 1064
Authors: W. D. Barta; S. M. Kiene; H. Tennen et al.
Abstract
Case management community care for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHAs)
pp. 1065 – 1072
Authors: W. Husbands; G. Browne; J. Caswell et al.
Abstract
Contact the library to request copies of articles.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Bristol-Myers/Gilead HIV treatment gets Canada approval
Source: CNN Money / DOW JONES NEWSWIRES
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (BMY) and Gilead Sciences Inc. (GILD) Wednesday said Health Canada approved the companies' Atripla for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults.
The companies said Atripla, which combines Bristol-Myers' Sustiva and Gilead's Truvada, will be Canada's first once-daily single tablet HIV regimen for use as a stand-alone therapy or in combination with other antiretrovirals. The drug, developed through a joint venture between Bristol-Myers and Gilead, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in July 2006.
In premarket activity, shares of New York health- and personal-care products maker Bristol-Myers were trading at $29.87, up about 2.2% from Tuesday's close of $29.24. Shares of Foster City, Calif., biopharmaceutical company Gilead closed Tuesday at $42.40, up 39 cents. The stock reached a 52-week high of $43.90 on Monday.
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (BMY) and Gilead Sciences Inc. (GILD) Wednesday said Health Canada approved the companies' Atripla for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults.
The companies said Atripla, which combines Bristol-Myers' Sustiva and Gilead's Truvada, will be Canada's first once-daily single tablet HIV regimen for use as a stand-alone therapy or in combination with other antiretrovirals. The drug, developed through a joint venture between Bristol-Myers and Gilead, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in July 2006.
In premarket activity, shares of New York health- and personal-care products maker Bristol-Myers were trading at $29.87, up about 2.2% from Tuesday's close of $29.24. Shares of Foster City, Calif., biopharmaceutical company Gilead closed Tuesday at $42.40, up 39 cents. The stock reached a 52-week high of $43.90 on Monday.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Zambia: Male Circumcision Can Reduce a Man's Risk of HIV
Source: AllAfrica.com
Since the announcement of findings that male circumcision can reduce a man's risk of HIV infection through heterosexual sex, thousands of men have opted to be circumcised as a way of protecting themselves against being infected with the virus.
Much as male circumcision does not guarantee 100 per cent protection from contracting the virus that causes AIDS, the mere fact that it reduces the risk of infection by as much as 65 per cent is good news, and an opportunity to build on the fight against the spread of the pandemic.
Unfortunately, there appears to be a move by medical practitioners to cash in on this circumcision craze, by charging up to K350,000 for the operation.
University Teaching Hospital (UTH) management says the response witnessed so far has been overwhelming and it is those who opt to have the operation in high cost private clinics who are paying as much as K350,000.
According to UTH spokesperson Pauline Mbangweta, the operation can also be accessed at the cheaper rate of K10, 000 at low cost clinics.
The only problem with the low cost clinics is that there are so many people on the waiting list and those seeking to have the operation have to wait for almost a month before being attended to.
Click here to read the article.
Since the announcement of findings that male circumcision can reduce a man's risk of HIV infection through heterosexual sex, thousands of men have opted to be circumcised as a way of protecting themselves against being infected with the virus.
Much as male circumcision does not guarantee 100 per cent protection from contracting the virus that causes AIDS, the mere fact that it reduces the risk of infection by as much as 65 per cent is good news, and an opportunity to build on the fight against the spread of the pandemic.
Unfortunately, there appears to be a move by medical practitioners to cash in on this circumcision craze, by charging up to K350,000 for the operation.
University Teaching Hospital (UTH) management says the response witnessed so far has been overwhelming and it is those who opt to have the operation in high cost private clinics who are paying as much as K350,000.
According to UTH spokesperson Pauline Mbangweta, the operation can also be accessed at the cheaper rate of K10, 000 at low cost clinics.
The only problem with the low cost clinics is that there are so many people on the waiting list and those seeking to have the operation have to wait for almost a month before being attended to.
Click here to read the article.
bioLytical Reports Milestone Patient Enrollment in New Trial for INSTITM, 60-Second Rapid HIV Test
Source: Marketwire.com
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Oct. 16, 2007) - bioLytical Laboratories (bioLytical) today announced patient enrollment has exceeded 30% in their Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) study for approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of INSTITM, a 60-second rapid HIV test for point-of-care (POC) testing. bioLytical's IDE filing was accepted by the FDA July 6, 2007.
Initial patient enrollment began July 31, 2007. As of October 15, 755 patients were enrolled, representing over 30 percent of the total enrollment. To date, 11 clinical testing sites are involved in the study and are actively enrolling patients.
"The rapid pace of enrollment clearly reflects strong interest by investigators and patients," commented Rick Galli, Chief Technical Officer at bioLytical. "Timely site activation has also accelerated our ability to register new patients. We look forward to completing the study and substantiating for the FDA the safety and efficacy of INSTITM."
Patient enrollment is expected to continue until December 2007 and include approximately 2500 patients of known and unknown HIV status in total. This multi-centre, cross-country study will include up to 15 clinical sites and one central laboratory. bioLytical has contracted with Beardsworth Consulting Group Inc. in Flemington, NJ, as the Contract Research Organization for this study.
bioLytical is a Canadian company that has developed the INSTITM Rapid Antibody Test. INSTITM is a rapid, in-vitro, qualitative test for the detection of antibodies to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Type 1 in human whole blood, serum or plasma. INSTITM is also approved for HIV Type 2 detection in a number of other international countries, including Europe, and is pending similar approval in Canada. The test is intended for use by trained personnel in medical facilities, clinical laboratories, emergency care situations, physicians' offices and any other primary care facility as a screening assay capable of providing test results in less than 60 seconds.
The US Center for Disease Control estimates that approximately 40,000 persons in the United States become infected with HIV each year. Of those, 25 percent are unaware of their infection and could be spreading the disease unknowingly. Each year up to 22 million persons in the US are tested for HIV. With current revisions to both CDC and WHO guidelines on HIV testing advocating routine HIV screening as part of regular medical practice, the market for rapid HIV tests in the US will continue to escalate.
Rapid HIV antibody tests seek to improve access to HIV testing however, most must be administered in a clinical setting. Currently available rapid tests also have longer response times that can be a deterrent for many who should be tested. INSTITM has been developed to make it ideal for use in mobile and in-field scenarios allowing all communities access and social barriers to be removed.
Click here to read the press release
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Oct. 16, 2007) - bioLytical Laboratories (bioLytical) today announced patient enrollment has exceeded 30% in their Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) study for approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of INSTITM, a 60-second rapid HIV test for point-of-care (POC) testing. bioLytical's IDE filing was accepted by the FDA July 6, 2007.
Initial patient enrollment began July 31, 2007. As of October 15, 755 patients were enrolled, representing over 30 percent of the total enrollment. To date, 11 clinical testing sites are involved in the study and are actively enrolling patients.
"The rapid pace of enrollment clearly reflects strong interest by investigators and patients," commented Rick Galli, Chief Technical Officer at bioLytical. "Timely site activation has also accelerated our ability to register new patients. We look forward to completing the study and substantiating for the FDA the safety and efficacy of INSTITM."
Patient enrollment is expected to continue until December 2007 and include approximately 2500 patients of known and unknown HIV status in total. This multi-centre, cross-country study will include up to 15 clinical sites and one central laboratory. bioLytical has contracted with Beardsworth Consulting Group Inc. in Flemington, NJ, as the Contract Research Organization for this study.
bioLytical is a Canadian company that has developed the INSTITM Rapid Antibody Test. INSTITM is a rapid, in-vitro, qualitative test for the detection of antibodies to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Type 1 in human whole blood, serum or plasma. INSTITM is also approved for HIV Type 2 detection in a number of other international countries, including Europe, and is pending similar approval in Canada. The test is intended for use by trained personnel in medical facilities, clinical laboratories, emergency care situations, physicians' offices and any other primary care facility as a screening assay capable of providing test results in less than 60 seconds.
The US Center for Disease Control estimates that approximately 40,000 persons in the United States become infected with HIV each year. Of those, 25 percent are unaware of their infection and could be spreading the disease unknowingly. Each year up to 22 million persons in the US are tested for HIV. With current revisions to both CDC and WHO guidelines on HIV testing advocating routine HIV screening as part of regular medical practice, the market for rapid HIV tests in the US will continue to escalate.
Rapid HIV antibody tests seek to improve access to HIV testing however, most must be administered in a clinical setting. Currently available rapid tests also have longer response times that can be a deterrent for many who should be tested. INSTITM has been developed to make it ideal for use in mobile and in-field scenarios allowing all communities access and social barriers to be removed.
Click here to read the press release
Monday, October 15, 2007
New report: Sexual Health in Canada: Baseline 2007
Source: Canadian Federation for Sexual Health
This groundbreaking report represents the first ever comprehensive, national portrait of Canadians’ sexual and reproductive health. It was compiled after a thorough review of all relevant data from government and academic sources. It establishes a baseline for policy, planning and further study.
Highlights of report findings:
Trends in Canadians’ sexual and reproductive health vary distinctly by province and territory. For example:
- Youth aged 14-15 in the Maritimes & Quebec are more likely to be sexually active than those in Ontario or the western provinces (...)
Canada is way off track to meet the 2010 national goals for prevention of sexually transmitted infections set by Health Canada in 1996. The goals were to reduce the disease incidence rates. Instead they have steadily risen for all reportable STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis) except HIV. In some cases the most recent disease rates are seven to nine times the level reported in 1996.
Rates of STIs among young people (15 – 24 years) show the most dramatic rise, placing this age group at the highest risk. For example, over two thirds of chlamydia cases occur among youth, although they only represent 14% of the population.
(...)
The full report is available online. A copy will be shortly available in the library.
This groundbreaking report represents the first ever comprehensive, national portrait of Canadians’ sexual and reproductive health. It was compiled after a thorough review of all relevant data from government and academic sources. It establishes a baseline for policy, planning and further study.
Highlights of report findings:
Trends in Canadians’ sexual and reproductive health vary distinctly by province and territory. For example:
- Youth aged 14-15 in the Maritimes & Quebec are more likely to be sexually active than those in Ontario or the western provinces (...)
Canada is way off track to meet the 2010 national goals for prevention of sexually transmitted infections set by Health Canada in 1996. The goals were to reduce the disease incidence rates. Instead they have steadily risen for all reportable STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis) except HIV. In some cases the most recent disease rates are seven to nine times the level reported in 1996.
Rates of STIs among young people (15 – 24 years) show the most dramatic rise, placing this age group at the highest risk. For example, over two thirds of chlamydia cases occur among youth, although they only represent 14% of the population.
(...)
The full report is available online. A copy will be shortly available in the library.
Health Canada Approves Novel Treatment for HIV
Source: CNW Group
CELSENTRI(TM) (maraviroc) Tablets Available, First in a New Class of
Oral HIV Medicines in More than a Decade
KIRKLAND, QC, Oct. 15 /CNW/ - CELSENTRI (maraviroc) tablets, the first in a new class of oral HIV medicines in more than 10 years, is now approved and available in Canada. CELSENTRI blocks entry of HIV into T cells (CD4+ white blood cells), significantly reducing the level of HIV in treatment-experienced patients.
"There is an important need for new medicines to help the many Canadians living with HIV/AIDS who are running out of effective medications to control the virus," said Dr. Sharon Walmsley, MSc, FRCPC, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto. "The approval of maraviroc is a significant breakthrough in that it provides a new class that blocks an early step in the viral life cycle that can be used for people with HIV who have developed resistance to our currently available drugs."
CELSENTRI is the first in a class of drugs known as CCR5 antagonists, which block the CCR5 co-receptor, the virus' main entry route into the body's immune cells or CD4+ cells. CELSENTRI stops the CCR5-tropic HIV-1, which is also known as "R5 virus" on the surface of the cell before it enters, rather than fighting the virus inside the cell as do all other classes of oral HIV medicines. A tropism test confirms that a patient is infected with R5 virus.
Earlier this year, Health Canada granted CELSENTRI priority review status. Priority reviews are granted to medicines that would represent an improved overall risk/benefit profile for a disease or condition not adequately managed by a medicine currently available in Canada.
"The approval of CELSENTRI is a Pfizer research and development success story," said Dr. Bernard Prigent, Vice President & Medical Director, Pfizer Canada. "Our hope is that CELSENTRI will offer a much needed new option to many people living with HIV in Canada."
Click here to read the press release.
CELSENTRI(TM) (maraviroc) Tablets Available, First in a New Class of
Oral HIV Medicines in More than a Decade
KIRKLAND, QC, Oct. 15 /CNW/ - CELSENTRI (maraviroc) tablets, the first in a new class of oral HIV medicines in more than 10 years, is now approved and available in Canada. CELSENTRI blocks entry of HIV into T cells (CD4+ white blood cells), significantly reducing the level of HIV in treatment-experienced patients.
"There is an important need for new medicines to help the many Canadians living with HIV/AIDS who are running out of effective medications to control the virus," said Dr. Sharon Walmsley, MSc, FRCPC, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto. "The approval of maraviroc is a significant breakthrough in that it provides a new class that blocks an early step in the viral life cycle that can be used for people with HIV who have developed resistance to our currently available drugs."
CELSENTRI is the first in a class of drugs known as CCR5 antagonists, which block the CCR5 co-receptor, the virus' main entry route into the body's immune cells or CD4+ cells. CELSENTRI stops the CCR5-tropic HIV-1, which is also known as "R5 virus" on the surface of the cell before it enters, rather than fighting the virus inside the cell as do all other classes of oral HIV medicines. A tropism test confirms that a patient is infected with R5 virus.
Earlier this year, Health Canada granted CELSENTRI priority review status. Priority reviews are granted to medicines that would represent an improved overall risk/benefit profile for a disease or condition not adequately managed by a medicine currently available in Canada.
"The approval of CELSENTRI is a Pfizer research and development success story," said Dr. Bernard Prigent, Vice President & Medical Director, Pfizer Canada. "Our hope is that CELSENTRI will offer a much needed new option to many people living with HIV in Canada."
Click here to read the press release.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Canadian to head effort to speed HIV vaccine
Source: The Globe and Mail
ANDRÉ PICARD
PUBLIC HEALTH REPORTER
Canada's top scientist is taking on a new challenge: trying to speed up the development of an AIDS vaccine. Alan Bernstein, the founding president of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, has been appointed the first executive director of the Global HIV Vaccine Enterprise. The role of the new body is to get a diverse group of scientists, activists and industry to agree on a common strategy for speeding up research on an AIDS vaccine, an endeavour that has been floundering.
"Part of me was scared by the challenge," Dr. Bernstein said in an interview from Cape Town, South Africa. "But I love a challenge and there's a fantastic need for the world to have an AIDS vaccine."
An estimated 40 million people worldwide are living with HIV-AIDS, and another five million are infected each year. But attempts to create a vaccine against the human immunodeficiency virus have proved fruitless, in large part because it is able to mutate quickly, it can lie dormant for years and it attacks the immune system.
"There's no question HIV is a particularly challenging foe," Dr. Bernstein said. But, at the same time, he said expectations have been unrealistic.
"New pathogens come along and it takes time to understand them. We've never had a vaccine in 20-25 years."
The CIHR, created in 2000, doles out close to $1-billion a year in research funds. The HIV Vaccine Enterprise, by contrast, will have a budget of only $1-million annually to operate its New York-based secretariat. However, it has already mobilized commitments of more than $750-million to support its scientific plan.
The enterprise plans to focus on six key areas: vaccine discovery, laboratory standardization, product development and manufacturing, clinical trials capacity, regulatory issues and intellectual property.
Stephen Lewis, the former United Nations envoy on HIV-AIDS in Africa and now the co-director of AIDS-Free World, said Dr. Bernstein is an "ideal choice to serve as a leader among leaders, co-ordinating the HIV vaccine field and working to build productive partnerships between researchers, donors and advocates."
José Esparza, senior adviser on HIV vaccines for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, said the enterprise "has an important role to play in ensuring HIV vaccine development effort match the magnitude of the pandemic" and said the foundation is committed to supporting the new initiative.
ANDRÉ PICARD
PUBLIC HEALTH REPORTER
Canada's top scientist is taking on a new challenge: trying to speed up the development of an AIDS vaccine. Alan Bernstein, the founding president of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, has been appointed the first executive director of the Global HIV Vaccine Enterprise. The role of the new body is to get a diverse group of scientists, activists and industry to agree on a common strategy for speeding up research on an AIDS vaccine, an endeavour that has been floundering.
"Part of me was scared by the challenge," Dr. Bernstein said in an interview from Cape Town, South Africa. "But I love a challenge and there's a fantastic need for the world to have an AIDS vaccine."
An estimated 40 million people worldwide are living with HIV-AIDS, and another five million are infected each year. But attempts to create a vaccine against the human immunodeficiency virus have proved fruitless, in large part because it is able to mutate quickly, it can lie dormant for years and it attacks the immune system.
"There's no question HIV is a particularly challenging foe," Dr. Bernstein said. But, at the same time, he said expectations have been unrealistic.
"New pathogens come along and it takes time to understand them. We've never had a vaccine in 20-25 years."
The CIHR, created in 2000, doles out close to $1-billion a year in research funds. The HIV Vaccine Enterprise, by contrast, will have a budget of only $1-million annually to operate its New York-based secretariat. However, it has already mobilized commitments of more than $750-million to support its scientific plan.
The enterprise plans to focus on six key areas: vaccine discovery, laboratory standardization, product development and manufacturing, clinical trials capacity, regulatory issues and intellectual property.
Stephen Lewis, the former United Nations envoy on HIV-AIDS in Africa and now the co-director of AIDS-Free World, said Dr. Bernstein is an "ideal choice to serve as a leader among leaders, co-ordinating the HIV vaccine field and working to build productive partnerships between researchers, donors and advocates."
José Esparza, senior adviser on HIV vaccines for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, said the enterprise "has an important role to play in ensuring HIV vaccine development effort match the magnitude of the pandemic" and said the foundation is committed to supporting the new initiative.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
New journal issue received: AIDS and Behavior, Vol. 11, no 5, September 2007
Vol. 11, no 5, September 2007AIDS and Behavior provides an international venue for the scientific exchange of research and scholarly work on the contributing factors, prevention, consequences, social impact, and response to HIV/AIDS.
In this issue:
Some Data-Driven Reflections on Priorities in AIDS Network Research
Authors: Samuel R. Friedman, Melissa Bolyard, Pedro Mateu-Gelabert et al.
pp. 641-651
Abstract
Safe Syringe Disposal is Related to Safe Syringe Access among HIV-positive Injection Drug Users
Authors Phillip O. Coffin, Mary H. Latka, Carl Latkin et al.
pp. 652-662
Abstract
Medication Adherence and Sexual Risk Behavior among HIV-Infected Adults: Implications for Transmission of Resistant Virus
Authors: Robert H. Remien, Theresa M. Exner, Stephen F. Morin et al.
pp. 663-675
Abstract
Beliefs about Personal and Partner Responsibility among HIV-Seropositive Men Who Have Sex with Men: Measurement and Association with Transmission Risk Behavior
Authors Richard J. Wolitski, Stephen A. Flores, Ann O’Leary et al.
pp. 676-686
Abstract
Motivations and Methods for Self-disclosure of HIV Seropositivity in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors Ann Neville Miller and Donald L. Rubin
pp. 687-697
Abstract
Reducing HIV Transmission Risk by Increasing Serostatus Disclosure: A Mathematical Modeling Analysis
Authors Steven D. Pinkerton and Carol L. Galletly
pp. 698-705
Abstract
Correlates of Risk Patterns and Race/Ethnicity among HIV-Positive Men who have Sex with Men
Authors Ann O’Leary, Holly H. Fisher, David W. Purcell et al.
pp. 706-715
Abstract
HIV-positive Romanian Adolescents: Acquisition Routes, Risk Behaviors, and Psychological Correlates
Authors Blair T. Johnson and Doru Buzducea
pp. 716-725
Abstract
Ongoing Risk Behavior Among Persons With HIV in Medical Care
Authors Matthew R. Golden, Robert W. Wood, Susan E. Buskin et al.
pp. 726-735
Abstract
Educational Attainment and HIV Status among Ethiopian Voluntary Counseling and Testing Clients
Authors Heather Bradley, Amare Bedada, Heena Brahmbhatt et al.
pp. 736-742
Abstract
Migrant Latino Day Laborers and Intentions to Test for HIV
Authors Samantha F. Ehrlich, Kurt C. Organista and Doug Oman
pp. 743-752
Abstract
Acceptance of Routine Testing for HIV among Adult Patients at the Medical Emergency Unit at a National Referral Hospital in Kampala, Uganda
Authors Damalie Nakanjako, Moses Kamya, Kyabayinze Daniel et al.
pp. 753-758
Abstract
Readiness for HIV Testing among Young People in Northern Nigeria: The Roles of Social Norm and Perceived Stigma
Author Stella Babalola
pp. 759-769
Abstract
Community-based Voluntary Counseling and Testing Services in Rural Communities of Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand
Authors Surinda Kawichai, David D. Celentano, Suwat Chariyalertsak et al.
pp. 770-777
Abstract
HIV Voluntary Counseling and Testing among Injection Drug Users in South China: A Study of a Non-Government Organization Based Program
Authors Huey T. Chen, Shaoling Liang, Quilan Liao et al.
pp. 778-788
Abstract
Contact the library to request copies of articles.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Canada gives more time to drug injection site
Source: Reuters
By Allan Dowd
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct 2 (Reuters) - The Canadian government granted another reprieve on Tuesday to North America's only sanctioned injection site for drug addicts, saying it wants more research before deciding its fate.
Vancouver's Insite facility had faced closure at the end of the year, but Health Minister Tony Clement notified the local health authority that the injection site can stay open until June 30, 2008.
The facility, which opened in 2003 as part of a research project in Vancouver's poor, drug-infested Downtown Eastside neighborhood, needs an exemption from Canada's drug laws to remain in operation.
Ottawa has been weighing Insite's long-term future, and the six-month extension will allow continued research on its impact on efforts to promote drug treatment programs and reduce crime, Clement said.
Addicts using drugs such as heroin and cocaine are given clean needles to inject with at the facility in a room supervised by a nurse. After shooting up, they go to a "chill-out room" before returning to the street.
Insite receives more than 600 addict visits daily. Insite's supporters, including Vancouver police, say studies have already shown it has prevented overdose deaths and helped get addicts into treatment. They say it also has slowed the sharing of needles, which is how AIDS and other diseases are often spread. Insite received a similar reprieve last year.
"This is the second time that the federal government has stalled on this decision, and said that more research is needed. But the fact is, Minister Clement is asking questions that have already been answered and calling for research that's already been done," said Richard Elliott, executive director of the Canadian AIDS/HIV Legal Network.
But Insite's critics, including Prime Minister Stephen Harper, have complained that the government should not be sanctioning illegal drug use. The U.S. government has complained that Insite is a weak link in Canada's anti-drug efforts.
Questions about Insite's fate had been fueled by the government's announcement last weekend that it was ready to unveil a new national drug strategy expected to emphasize a tougher stand on illegal drug use.
The Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, which oversees the facility, was pleased with the announcement and ready to supply federal officials with any additional information they need, spokeswoman Viviana Zanocco said.
Victoria, British Columbia, has said it also wants permission to establish a drug injection facility, but the federal government has ruled out setting up any new sites until the research in Vancouver is completed.
By Allan Dowd
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct 2 (Reuters) - The Canadian government granted another reprieve on Tuesday to North America's only sanctioned injection site for drug addicts, saying it wants more research before deciding its fate.
Vancouver's Insite facility had faced closure at the end of the year, but Health Minister Tony Clement notified the local health authority that the injection site can stay open until June 30, 2008.
The facility, which opened in 2003 as part of a research project in Vancouver's poor, drug-infested Downtown Eastside neighborhood, needs an exemption from Canada's drug laws to remain in operation.
Ottawa has been weighing Insite's long-term future, and the six-month extension will allow continued research on its impact on efforts to promote drug treatment programs and reduce crime, Clement said.
Addicts using drugs such as heroin and cocaine are given clean needles to inject with at the facility in a room supervised by a nurse. After shooting up, they go to a "chill-out room" before returning to the street.
Insite receives more than 600 addict visits daily. Insite's supporters, including Vancouver police, say studies have already shown it has prevented overdose deaths and helped get addicts into treatment. They say it also has slowed the sharing of needles, which is how AIDS and other diseases are often spread. Insite received a similar reprieve last year.
"This is the second time that the federal government has stalled on this decision, and said that more research is needed. But the fact is, Minister Clement is asking questions that have already been answered and calling for research that's already been done," said Richard Elliott, executive director of the Canadian AIDS/HIV Legal Network.
But Insite's critics, including Prime Minister Stephen Harper, have complained that the government should not be sanctioning illegal drug use. The U.S. government has complained that Insite is a weak link in Canada's anti-drug efforts.
Questions about Insite's fate had been fueled by the government's announcement last weekend that it was ready to unveil a new national drug strategy expected to emphasize a tougher stand on illegal drug use.
The Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, which oversees the facility, was pleased with the announcement and ready to supply federal officials with any additional information they need, spokeswoman Viviana Zanocco said.
Victoria, British Columbia, has said it also wants permission to establish a drug injection facility, but the federal government has ruled out setting up any new sites until the research in Vancouver is completed.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Armour found not liable in Canadian blood taint trial
Source: Bloomberg Canada
By Joe Schneider
Oct. 1 (Bloomberg) -- Armour Pharmaceutical Co. and a former director at the Canadian Red Cross were acquitted of criminal negligence following an 18-month trial on charges they failed to properly screen blood products that infected thousands of Canadians with hepatitis and HIV. Ontario Superior Court Judge Mary Lou Benotto released her ruling today in Toronto, finding Armour, former Canadian Red Cross chief Roger Perrault and three other officials acted properly in distributing the blood products.
"There was no conduct that showed wanton and reckless disregard," required for a criminal negligence conviction, Benotto told a courtroom filled with victims, their relatives and media. "The allegations of criminal conduct on the part of these men and this corporation were not only unsupported by evidence, they were disproved."
More than 1,000 Canadians contracted HIV and as many as 20,000 got hepatitis C from blood transfusions with tainted products in the 1980s and 1990s, according to evidence presented at the trial.
"The events here were tragic," Benotto said. "However, to assign blame where none exists is to compound the tragedy."
Armour, which had been based in New Jersey, supplied the blood-clotting agent H.T. Factorate, which had been tainted with HIV, between July 1986 and December 1987. The Red Cross had distributed the products to clinics and hospitals.
`Shocked'
"We're quite shocked at this particular decision," John Plater of the Canadian Hemophilia Society told reporters after the judge read her decision. "This certainly is not over, despite what we heard today."
Now a non-operating company, according to lawyer Brian Greenspan, Armour won a contract in 1985 to supply the Canadian Red Cross with 10 million units of Factor VIII. A year later the contract was renewed for 12 million units, prosecutor Michael Bernstein said in his opening statement Feb. 21, 2006.
The four counts of criminal negligence of which Armour was accused stem from four Canadians who developed AIDS after being treated with HIV-contaminated Factor VIII, the government said. Three of them died, Bernstein said.
Also charged with criminal negligence were John Furesz, former director of Canada's Bureau of Biologics; Donald Boucher, former chief of the blood products division of the Bureau of Biologics; and Michael Rodell, former vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs at Armour.
All of the defendants were acquitted on all charges. Bernstein wasn't immediately available for comment.
The Canadian Red Cross pleaded guilty in May 2005 to distributing harmful products in contravention of the federal Food and Drugs Act and agreed to pay a C$5,000 ($5,044) fine and C$1.5 million to establish charitable foundations.
The agency had sold its blood operations in 1998 to help pay C$70 million to the people who were infected.
The case is Between Her Majesty the Queen and Armour Pharmaceutical Co., Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Toronto), Case No.: P51/04.
To contact the reporter on this story: Joe Schneider in Toronto at jschneider5@bloomberg.net .
By Joe Schneider
Oct. 1 (Bloomberg) -- Armour Pharmaceutical Co. and a former director at the Canadian Red Cross were acquitted of criminal negligence following an 18-month trial on charges they failed to properly screen blood products that infected thousands of Canadians with hepatitis and HIV. Ontario Superior Court Judge Mary Lou Benotto released her ruling today in Toronto, finding Armour, former Canadian Red Cross chief Roger Perrault and three other officials acted properly in distributing the blood products.
"There was no conduct that showed wanton and reckless disregard," required for a criminal negligence conviction, Benotto told a courtroom filled with victims, their relatives and media. "The allegations of criminal conduct on the part of these men and this corporation were not only unsupported by evidence, they were disproved."
More than 1,000 Canadians contracted HIV and as many as 20,000 got hepatitis C from blood transfusions with tainted products in the 1980s and 1990s, according to evidence presented at the trial.
"The events here were tragic," Benotto said. "However, to assign blame where none exists is to compound the tragedy."
Armour, which had been based in New Jersey, supplied the blood-clotting agent H.T. Factorate, which had been tainted with HIV, between July 1986 and December 1987. The Red Cross had distributed the products to clinics and hospitals.
`Shocked'
"We're quite shocked at this particular decision," John Plater of the Canadian Hemophilia Society told reporters after the judge read her decision. "This certainly is not over, despite what we heard today."
Now a non-operating company, according to lawyer Brian Greenspan, Armour won a contract in 1985 to supply the Canadian Red Cross with 10 million units of Factor VIII. A year later the contract was renewed for 12 million units, prosecutor Michael Bernstein said in his opening statement Feb. 21, 2006.
The four counts of criminal negligence of which Armour was accused stem from four Canadians who developed AIDS after being treated with HIV-contaminated Factor VIII, the government said. Three of them died, Bernstein said.
Also charged with criminal negligence were John Furesz, former director of Canada's Bureau of Biologics; Donald Boucher, former chief of the blood products division of the Bureau of Biologics; and Michael Rodell, former vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs at Armour.
All of the defendants were acquitted on all charges. Bernstein wasn't immediately available for comment.
The Canadian Red Cross pleaded guilty in May 2005 to distributing harmful products in contravention of the federal Food and Drugs Act and agreed to pay a C$5,000 ($5,044) fine and C$1.5 million to establish charitable foundations.
The agency had sold its blood operations in 1998 to help pay C$70 million to the people who were infected.
The case is Between Her Majesty the Queen and Armour Pharmaceutical Co., Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Toronto), Case No.: P51/04.
To contact the reporter on this story: Joe Schneider in Toronto at jschneider5@bloomberg.net .
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