Day 1 :
Keynote Forum
Timothy Fouts
Profectus BioSciences, Inc., USA
Keynote: The Balance of Cellular and Humoral Immunity Determines the Level of Protection Offered by an HIV Vaccine in Macaque Models of HIV Infection
Time : 9:30 - 10:00
Biography:
Dr. Fouts is one of the founders and principle scientists at Profectus Biosciences. He directs a team of scientists in the discovery and preclinical development of vaccines, small molecule and antibody based antiviral therapies and microbicides that are within the Profectus research portfolio, in particular HIV and certain biothreat viruses. Dr. Fouts has more than 32 scientific publications that have appeared in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters. Dr. Fouts received his Ph.D. in Immunology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore and did a postdoctoral fellowship at the Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center at Rockerfeller University in NYC
Abstract:
Obtaining a practical, efficacious vaccine against HIV has been a public health priority for over 30 years. A guiding principle for vaccine design has been that cellular and humoral immunity will work together to provide the strongest level of efficacy. This concept has been called into question after the failure of several large clinical trials, giving rise to the ideas that vaccine-induced immune responses may not act in concert and might even increase risk by immune activation, thereby providing more targets for infection. We have addressed this issue through a series of nonhuman primate studies using a selected HIV/SIV envelope-based subunit antigen, called the Full-length Single Chain (FLSC). The FSLC was developed in order to induce broader immunity, including against new conserved epitopes, compared to conventional gp120. Here, we tested the FLSC in a variety of formulations and vaccination regimens that generated a variety of immune response profiles. We used two repeat low dose challenge models (heterologous SHIV(162P3) and cross-clade SIVmac251) to test for protection in three separate studies. Under certain conditions, immunization with the FLSC was able to protect against heterologous neutralization resistant challenge viruses in all three studies. The data show that antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) is associated with a reduced rate of acquisition against repeat challenges with either challenge virus provided that the concurrent anti-vaccine T cell response is minimal. Protection is lost over time as requisite antibody titers declined consistent with the evanescent quality of anti-envelope humoral responses. Vaccine efficacy was consistently lost in animals exhibiting higher T cell responses that were predominately single or dual function.These data indicate that in the case of HIV the balance between the humoral immune response and cellular immune activation is the critical element for generating protective efficacy. Achieving and sustaining such a balance, while enhancing antibody durability,is a significant challenge for HIV vaccine development.
Keynote Forum
Christophe Longuet
Fondation Mérieux Lyon, France
Keynote: LaoCol-VP: Performance of careHPVâ„¢ human papillomavirus screening versus Pap smear for the detection of cervical precancerous lesions and cancer.among HIV infected women in Lao PDR
Time : 10:00-10:30
Biography:
Christophe Longuet, MD, MPH, is the Medical Director of Fondation Mérieux, a foundation of charity status dedicated to strengthening capacities in developing countries to reduce the impact of infectious diseases on vulnerable populations. Medical doctor from Reims University, France, specializing in tropical diseases and HIV, he has participated since 1995 in clinical research into HIV. Fondation Mérieux has been contributing to laboratory capacity building against Ebola in Guinea and other West African countries. Dr Longuet has been involved in clinical care and research on Ebola virus disease.
Abstract:
In the absence of a national prevention program, it has been estimated that only 3.9% of women benefit from pap smear screening in Lao PDR where cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women. The present study is a transversal multicenter trial aiming to assess the performance of human papillomavirus screening with careHPV™, a DNA-test that can easily be performed and does not require sophisticated laboratory infrastructure, versus pap smear, for the detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and invasive cervical cancer among HIV-infected women in Lao PDR. It is hypothesized that careHPV™ will help diagnose more precancerous lesions and cervical cancers than the pap smear, among this population with higher risk of such events. The cost-effectiveness of this strategy will also be evaluated. The expected impact of LaoCol-VP is increased awareness and capacity among the health professionals. The study will also help inform the health policy makers of Lao PDR. Cancer treatment will be provided for free. rnAfter clearance by the National Ethics Committee for Health Research, the study has been systematically proposed to all women from 25 to 65 years living with HIV, attending the four main HIV reference centers in Laos, until the target number of 600 women has been achieved. From January 2014 to May 2015, 644 women have been enrolled after written informed consent. They have all benefitted from a careHPV™ test, a pap-smear and a colposcopy. When anomalies where found, biopsies and anatomopathology were performed. Preliminary results will be presented.
Keynote Forum
Manjunath N. Swamy
Paul L Foster School of Medicine, USA
Keynote: Safer Gene Editing Approaches Towards HIV-1 gene therapy
Time : 10:30 - 11:00
Biography:
Manjunath N. Swamy, M.D. is a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences and Co-Director of the Center of Excellence in Infectious Disease at the Paul L Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University, Health Sciences Center, El Paso, Texas. He has received M.D. degree from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi in 1980. He is serving as a reviewer of 10 journals (Number of publications, 60).
Abstract:
CCR5 gene disruption is a promising method for HIV-1 gene therapy and recent gene editing technologies such as ZFNs and CRISPR/Cas9 provide methods for such disruption. However, one major concern of using nucleases is off-target effects associated with their long-term expression. Thus,successful clinical translation of gene editing strategies necessitates the development of safe and effective methods for their transient expression in relevant cells.We have modified the ZFN and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technologies to provide for transient expression of nucleases. We used non-integrating lentivirus (NILV) for transient expression of ZFNs and pseudotyped the virus with HIV-envelope for targeted delivery to CD4 T cells. Both activated and resting primary CD4 T cells transduced with CCR5-ZFNs NILV showed resistance to HIV-1 infection in vitro. Furthermore, NILV transduced resting CD4 T cells from HIV-1 seronegative individuals were resistant to HIV-1 challenge when reconstituted into NOD-scid IL2rγc null (NSG) mice. Likewise, endogenous virus replication was suppressed in NSG mice reconstituted with CCR5-ZFN-transduced resting CD4 T cells from treatment naïve as well as ART-treated HIV-1 seropositive patients. Taken together, NILV pseudotyped with HIV envelope provides a simple and clinically viable strategy for HIV-1 gene therapy.rnSince the CRISPR/Cas9 system provides an easier way for gene editing, we also modified this system for transient expression of Cas9 protein. For this purpose, we pre-packaged Cas9 protein (Cas9P LV) in lentiviral particles and showed its effectiveness for gene disruption in cells, including primary T cells expressing specific sgRNAs. We then constructed an “all in one” lentivirus to express sgRNAs in association with prepackaged Cas9 protein (sgRNA/Cas9P LV). We successfully edited CCR5 in TZM-bl cells by this approach. Using an sgRNA targeting HIV LTR, we also were able to disrupt HIV provirus in the J-LAT model of viral latency. Moreover, we also found that pre-packaging Cas9 protein in LV particle reduced off-target editing of chromosome 4:-29134166 locus by CCR5 sgRNA, compared to continued expression from the vector. These results show that sgRNA/Cas9P LV can be used as a safer approach for human gene therapy.
Keynote Forum
Daniel Bauer
Motivational speaker/ Escape artist Harry Houdini, USA
Keynote: Avoiding Burn Out In the Healthcare Industry
Time : 11:15- 12:00
Biography:
Daniel Bauer is internationally revered as the Successor to the legendary escape artist Harry Houdini and globally respected as a 12-year warrior and survivor living with HIV/AIDS. Through heart-breaking loss, such as burying his baby brother who passed from AIDS-related complications, to conquering impossible moments of rare survival, he has gracefully triumphed to once again pursing his dreams. He is one the most requested motivational public speakers and entertainers who continues to present highly engaging educational experiences and spectacularly, life-changing theatrical productions to tens of thousands annually (adolescents, healthcare professionals and mainstream communities &audiences at-large) focusing on topics such as living with HIV/AIDS, prevention, reversing HIV/AIDS-related man-made stigma and so much more. He is the current active celebrity voice and face of JustGetTested.com. He continues to work tirelessly to promote equality for all living with and/or affected by the global HIV/AIDS pandemic. His work as both an escape artist and speaker have been featured on: National Television Networks [NBC, CBS, ABC and FOX], International print/radio media (i.e. poz.com/blogs, positivelite.com, NPR Radio, Poz I Am Radio Show),International Theatrical Stages including New York City off-Broadway; and has been highlighted at internationally revered events such as The OMICS Group2013 International HIV/STI Conference, The National Healthy Living Summit, 2012 International AIDS Conference (AIDS Reunion Program, Washington, D.C.), The 2013 University of Minnesota African Student Association Red Spots Gala, and The Texas State-wide HIV/HEI Conference.
Abstract:
Working with clients who are living with HIV/AIDS and other accompanying difficulties such as mental illness, depression or spending time in a research lab can certainly provide its fair share of strained effects on the mind, body and soul. More times than none professionals in the healthcare industry bring their work home and find it difficult to detach. Rejuvenation is a key component to ensuring longevity in the work place and providing optimal service to client services, research, casework, outreach and more. During this session Daniel Bauer will unite the international, professional community of HIV/AIDS healthcare workers through a think-tank experience that provides tools to avoid burnout.
- Track 1: Awareness and knowledge on HIV/AIDS, STDs and STIs
Track 2: Viral, Bacterial, Fungal & Protozoan STDs
Track 3: Understanding and identifying HIV: HIV Related Infections, Co-Infections and Cancers
Track 4: Primary HIV Infection Transmission and Eradication Issues
Location: Grand Ball Room A
Chair
Michael M Ling
GeneBio Systems, Inc., Canada
Session Introduction
Michael M. Ling
GeneBio Systems, Inc., canada
Title: Rapid Molecular Diagnostics of HIV-1 RNA from Plasma
Time : 13:30-13:55
Biography:
Michael Ling, PhD graduated from the University of Guelph and has 25 years of molecular biology, assay, method development experience, and has developed and launched several FDA approved assays. He has written more than 30 papers, holds several US, European and Canadian patents, developed an isothermal amplification technology called DNA Amplification via Scissors-Like structures (DASL,) and is the founder of GeneBio Systems Inc
Abstract:
Rapid HIV diagnostics and viral load testing are critical factors in the overall management of HIV epidemics in developing countries. Over the last two years we have focused our efforts on developing a 30-60 min HIV-1 RNA detection assay for plasma samples. Our assay offers portability, a low cost profile, and high performance results that fill an unmet need in developing countries for rapid molecular detection of HIV (from early to late stage infection). We have developed an early prototype version of a HIV-1 RNA assay that utilizing an optimized two-step process with reverse transcription and isothermal amplification. Using a simple heater and a visual detection method, our HIV-1 assay demonstrates utility and potential as a low cost assay without the requirement of extensive training and skilled technicians. Several reverse transcriptases have been compared (including RTx, AMV RT, MMLV RT and Sensiscript, and Superscript III), and we have used our isothermal amplification technology (DNA Amplification via Scissors-Like structures - DASL) to amplify the resulting cDNA; reaction conditions including the choice of targets, primer design, polymerase enzymes have been optimized to maximize detection. We have successfully amplified RNA purified from HIV positive plasma samples with the limit of detection being less than 100 copies/reaction, as well as amplified directly from HIV RNA plasma samples with no amplification in control samples. We will present the assay procedure and complete results on 30 samples, our challenges and recommendations for further development of this assay into a validated rapid molecular diagnostic HIV assay.
Debbie Y Mohammed
Saint Michael’s Medical Center, USA
Title: High prevalence of trichomonasvaginalis in an urban HIV clinic in Newark, New Jersey, USA
Time : 13:55-14:20
Biography:
Debbie Y Mohammed is an adult nurse practitioner with 15 years experience specializing in the care of HIV infected persons. She completed her doctorate in Public Health with a concentration in Epidiemiology, graduating from Rutgers State University in 2015
Abstract:
Infection with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) among HIV positives facilitates the transmission of the virus to negative persons. Current recommendations in this population include routine screening for gonorrhea and chlamydia in both males and females but trichomonas screening in females only. The objective of this study is to compare the prevalence of STI, by gender, in 2014, in an urban HIV clinic. A retrospective chart review was conducted to determine screening results for chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomonas in an urban HIV clinic from 4/1/2013-3/30/2015. Women were screened using the APTIMA® Unisex Swab Specimen Collection Kit for Endocervical Specimens and men by urine NAAT testing with APTIMA®. We compared the baseline demographics of patients who received screening using chisquare test of association. We compared the prevalence of gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomonas, stratified by gender. Data analyses were done using SAS 9.4. Of 1184 patients with a medical visit in the study period, 765 (65%) were tested for at least one STI. A higher percentage of males were tested (64%), p= 0.01, than females. Those who tested were similar to those who did not test by age, race/ethnicity and insurance type. Overall, there were 45 (6%) positive test results, of which 35 (78%) were in females. Trichomonas was the most prevalent STI in males and females, 4 (0.8%) and 31 (11.4%) respectively. The majority of positive trichomonas results were in those aged 35-49 (45%) or >= 50 years (45%). Screening and treating for positive trichomonasvaginalis, in addition to gonorrhea and chlamydia, in this clinic is important for both males and females to prevent the transmission of HIV virus tonegative persons. Trichomonasvaginalis was more prevalent in older patients and as more than 50% of this population is > = 50 years old, this STI may be an important mediating factor in the transmission of infection for this population. The cellsizes were small for most of the measures and results may become more robust with increased screening. Results may not be generalizable to other HIV clinics.
Russom Teshome Welday
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan China
Title: Knowledge and Attitude of HIV/AIDS Among women 15-49 years old of Three East African Countries Comparison study
Time : 14:20-14:45
Biography:
Russom Teshome Welday is Assistant Lecturer as well as member of research and postgraduate program in Asmara College of Health sciences, Asmara Eritrea, for the Past 4 years. Currently he is studying Masters Program in Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Tongji Medical College, School of Public Health in Wuhan China. He is one of the trainers for Integrated HIV care and management (IMAI/IMPAC/IMNCI) in Eritrea. He has two papers on process for publication.
Abstract:
Background: women living in sub-Saharan Africa are at great risk of HIV/AIDS. Gender inequalities, inadequate knowledge and negative attitude towards the disease are the major barriers to prevent spread of HIV/AIDS. Thus, the aim of the study was to assess and compare HIV/AIDS related knowledge and attitude of women age 15-49 years old among three East African countries. Methods: Data was taken from Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) conducted in three East African Countries namely Burundi, Ethiopia and Kenya. Data was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression, taking p-values less than 0.05 as significant. All analyses were done using Predictive Analysis Software (SPSS version 21). Result: Almost all three counties of east Africa were heard about HIV/AIDS before survey. Respondents comprehensive knowledge was 77.2% of in Burundi and 63.6% in Kenya. Only 41.6% of the women from Ethiopia had adequate knowledge. Positive attitude was 67.3% of women from Burundi followed by 54.7% from Kenya and 39.7% from Ethiopia. Upon comparison of knowledge through multivariate analysis, women from Kenya (AOR=1.61, 95%CI=1.50-1.72, p-value=0.000) were more knowledgeable than Ethiopia. Similarly Burundians have 4.89 times more (AOR=4.89, 95%CI=4.57-5.24, p-value=0.000) knowledge than Ethiopian women. Women from Kenya had more positive attitude (AOR=1.29, 95%CI=1.21-1.37, p-value=0.000) towards HIV/AIDS than Ethiopians and, in contrast, women from Burundi had more positive attitude (AOR=2.58, 95%CI=2.38-2.75, p-value=0.000) than Kenyans. Conclusion: As result shows comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS was above average in women from Burundi and Kenya, while for Ethiopian respondents was below average. Similarly for Attitude towards people living with HIV/AIDS respondents from Ethiopia had more negative attitude than women from Burundi and Kenya. Women with no education and living in rural areas have inadequate knowledge and negative attitude towards people living with HIV/AIDS in all three East African Countries.
Sylvia Heloisa Arantes Cruz
Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo, Brazil
Title: Anal intraepithelial neoplasia in HIV-positive patients: a review
Time : 14:45-15:10
Biography:
Sylvia Heloisa Arantes Cruz has completed her PhD at the age of 35 years from Santa Casa de São Paulo - Brazil. She is an assistant professor at Santa Casa de São Paulo – Brazil and at CRT/AIDS São Paulo – Brazil. Her research is on screening anal cancer in HIV-positive patients
Abstract:
HIV-positive patients are described with a high rate of anal dysplasia. One of the main causes for the progress of this disorderly epithelial growth in anal mucosa is the concomitant HIV and HPV infection. HPV acts as a cofactor for the persistent anal dysplasia which will provide a precursor lesion for anal squamous cell carcinoma. The rate of anal cancer has increased nowadays. This dysplasia is described as either high-grade anal intraepithelial (HAIN) or low-grade anal intraepithelial (LAIN). The aim of this study is to compare the findings of the screening in HIV-positive and negative patients and perform a review of the literature. We evaluated 131 HIV-positive and negative patients at CRT/AIDS São Paulo who had previously anal intercourse from January 2013 to December 2014. All of the patients underwent the high-risk HPV DNA test, anal Pap smear protocol and high resolution anoscopy. The anal lesions were treated with 90% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and 5% imiquimod for 12 weeks. The statistical analysis was performed using chi-squared test and the significance level was set at less than 5%. 57 HIV-positive male patients, 35 HIV-negative male patients and 39 HIV-negative female patients were evaluated. 18 HIV-positive patients had anal lesions and 43 patients were positive for the high-risk HPV DNA test and had anal dysplasia. In conclusion, anal dysplasia was more common in HIV-positive patients. High-risk HPV infection was related to anal dysplasia.
Ibe, Salome N.O
University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria
Title: Effects of Peer-Health-Education on STIs, HIV and AIDS Knowledge and Attitudes of Tertiary Institution Students in Imo State Nigeria
Time : 15:10-15:35
Biography:
Dr. Ibe has a P.hD. in Public Health Education from NnamdiAzikiwe University, Master of Public Health Degree, Bachelor of Science (Nursing) degree from University of Ibadan, Master of Science Degree (Sociology of Development) from Imo State University, Certificate in Population and Health Promotion from Nuffield Institute, University of Leeds United Kingdom in addition to other diplomas and certificates in related areas. She has worked with different healthagencies;World Bank and European Union fundedhealth and development programs/projects. Currently she lectures at the Department of Public Health, Federal University of Technology Owerri and has several publications to her credit.
Abstract:
This study was designed to determine the effects of peer-health-education on STIs, HIV and AIDS knowledge and attitudes of tertiary institution students by comparing the mean gain scores. Quasi-experimental (pre-test-post-test) research design was employed.Two hundred students drawn from the University, Polytechnic and College of Education, using a multi-stage sampling technique participated as subjects in the peer sessions. Data were analysed using ANCOVA and Z-test. Factorial design was used for the interaction effects. Findings revealedimproved knowledge and attitudes on STIs, HIV and AIDS, as depicted by positive mean gain scores. Age group 16-20 years had highest mean gain score (X = 22.31) of STIs, HIV and AIDS knowledge than the rest, while age group 26-30 years had the highest mean gain score (X = 10.59) of STIS, HIV and AIDS attitudes. Males had higher mean gain score (X = 26.05) of STIs, HIV and AIDS knowledge, while females had higher mean gain score (X = 9.77) of STIs, HIV and AIDS attitudes. The first years (100 level students) had highest mean gain score (X = 25.71) of STIs, HIV and AIDS knowledge and also had the highest mean gain score (X = 14.12) of STIs, HIV and AIDS attitudes. Level of study was significant both for knowledge and attitudes (P < 0.01). There was no significant interaction effect of age, gender and level of study. It is recommended that peer-health-education be explored further as a method of communicating STIs, HIV and AIDS to tertiary institution students and youths generally.
Charles I. Tobin-West
University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
Title: Determinants of HIV transmission and sexual risk practices among women of childbearing age in semi-urban communities of Rivers State, Nigeria
Time : 15:50-16:15
Biography:
Dr. Tobin-West is a Public Health Physician and Senior Lecturer in Epidemiology and Primary Health Care at the Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. He is also a Honourary Consultant Community Physician and Chairman Medical advisory Committee/Director Clinical Services and Training at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. He holds anM.D., MPH degrees and a Fellow of the Faculty of Public Health of the National Postgraduate College of Nigeria. He has over 25 publications to his credit.
Abstract:
Sexual risk behaviors are among the key drivers of the HIV epidemic in Nigeria, where heterosexual transmission accounts for 80-95% of all infections.Women are disproportionately affected, with infection rates two to three times higher compared with men, and also accounting for 31% of all new infections.This study was aimed at identifying the determinants of HIV transmission and sexual risk practices among women in order to address their peculiar intervention needs and to minimize the mother-to-child transmission of the virus. Data was generated from 769 women of child bearing age in semi-urban communities of River State, Nigeria in November 2013. Data was analyzed in SPSS version 20 with p<0.05 considered significant. Majority (85.6%) of the women were sexually exposed, with a third,(37.2%) engaged in sexual risk practices which included early sexual debut (< 15 years) (16.7%), multiple sexual relationships (12.9%), use of alcohol (29.6%) and or illicit drugs (5.9%) before sex and occasional or inconsistent condom use (22.4%). Logistic regressionanalysisshowed that women with poor knowledge of HIV were more prone to sexual risks. Also, younger women (15-24 years) were 2.2 times more likely to engage in sexual risk practices than older women (25-49 years), [O.R (95% C.I) = 1.571 (1.106-2.231)], p=0.012,and thesingles2.5 times more at risk than married, [O.R (95% C.I) = 1.714 (1.190-2.469)], p=0.004. There is need to focus on peer education and curriculum-based sexuality education in schools in order to improve knowledge about HIV among women of childbearing age.
Biography:
Dr.Katekaew Seangpraw has completed her M.Sc and Ph.D from Mahidol University (Faculty of Public Health) and College of Public Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. She is a lecturer at the University of Phayao. She has expertise in health behavior, health education, and health promotion
Abstract:
This quasi-experimental research with 2 Groups and a Pretest-Posttest design was used to evaluate the effectiveness of a life skills model for preventing sexual risk behaviors among university students in Phayao Province. The sample was of a first year in university students. The experimental group was composed of 300 students and 200 students in a comparison group from the same school. The experimental group participated in the integrate life skills model for preventing sexual risk behaviors and participatory learning. The educational activities organized were lecture, brainstorming, group discussion, role-playing, simulation games, naming experience, and 6 life skills training sessions, once a week and 90 minutes for each session. The data were collected from self-questionnaires and analyzed by using the following statistics: frequency, percentage, arithmetic mean, standard deviation, Paired samples t-test, and Independent samples t-test. The results showed that significant improvement in knowledge about STI and HIV/AIDS in the experimental group as compared to the comparison group (p <0.001), changed their self-awareness, self-esteem, decision-making and problem-solving skills (p <0.001). The experimental group also significantly improved communication skills, and behaviors preventive to sexual risk than before the program and measured against the comparison group (p <0.001). A life skills model was found to reduce sexual risk behaviors among university students was effective. Thus, this program should focus on safer sexual behaviors to develop strategies to increase self-efficacy and integration in the university curriculum for sustainability. Changes in sexual risk behavior mat require a longer follow-up.
A Sathiya Susuman
University of Western Cape, South Africa
Title: The impact of early sexual debut and non-use of condom on adolescent sexual behaviour in Malawi
Biography:
Prof. Sathiya’ s field level social science research experience on Demographic analysis and Reproductive health within a span of 12 years of job experience. He did Master of Arts (MA) in Population Studies, Master of Philosophy (M Phil) in Population Studies with specialization in Population Studies, Applied Statistics and Ph D in Demography with specialization in Fertility and Contraception. His area of research is fertility, mortality family planning and reproductive health. He has published several research articles in reputed journals
Abstract:
This study examines the impact of early sexual debut and non-use of condoms on the sexual behaviour of adolescents in Malawi, by identifying the determinants of these two indicators, and examining their impact on adolescent sexual behaviour. Data was obtained from the Malawi Demographic Health Survey 2010. A weighted sample of 9559 females and 2987 males aged 15-24 years was subjected to bivariate and logistic regression techniques. Females were more vulnerable to infections then males. Muslim females were more likely to initiate sexual activity earlier than their male counterparts and females with no education were more likely to initiate sexual activities early. The prevalence of non-use of condom was 1.5 times higher among Muslim females, and 6.2 times higher among those with no education. However, married females in the poorest quintiles were about 1.5 times more likely not to use condom. Encouraging these adolescents to abstain from sexual activities, use condoms consistently and delay sexual initiation will help curb the spread of STIs.
Muhammad Kamran Hanif
University of Lahore, Pakisthan
Title: Knowledge Attitude & Practice regarding AIDS/HIV among Pakistani Womenan analysis of PHDS
Biography:
M. Kamran Hanif has been working as Lecturer at university of Lahore and as a visiting lecturer at university of South Asia.He completed his master’s degree from university of the Punjab and now he is doing his m.phil from same the institution. Previously he was head of examinations in National College of Arts Lahore, Pakistan. He has published more than 5 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as an editorial board member of repute
Abstract:
Knowledge about HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is the most demanding topic these days. Women are more vulnerable to STDs including HIV/AIDS. The prevalence of HIV and Aids is increasing worldwide also in Pakistan the prevalence of HIV is 5 %.
Objective of the study is to assess the sexual preferences, knowledge attitude and practice of Pakistani women regarding HIV/AIDS.
Data from PDHS 2012-13 was used. It was a cross-sectional study. A sample of 13558 women aged 15 to 49 years was taken.
The mean age of the respondents was 32.69±8.55 years. There were 46.8% respondents from urban area and 53.2% from rural area, 56.4% respondents had never heard about AIDS where as 43.6 % ever heard about AIDS. Among the respondents 54.4% responded that they always use condoms to reduce the risk of getting HIV, 77.3 % responded that they have only one sex partner to reduce the risk of getting HIV,25% think that they can get HIV by mosquito bites, 30% think that they can get HIV by sharing food with persons who have HIV, only 2.4% respondents had STI in last 12 months, 69.2% respondents think that HIV is transmitted during pregnancy, 79.9% respondents don’t know where to go for an HIV test.
In Pakistan there are less number of people aware about HIV/AIDS so there is the need for a campaign through media and all accessible sources to aware the women of all ages about AIDS, HIV.
- Young Research Forum
Location: Grand Ball Room A
Session Introduction
P.S.Shantanu Rao
University of Tennessee, USA
Title: Role of cytochrome P450s in mediating the effects of alcohol on HIV pathogenesis
Time : 16:15-16:40
Biography:
P.S.Shantanu Rao received his bachelor of pharmacy degree from India, he completed his Ph.D. from the department of Medicinal and Biological Chemistry at the University of Toledo (UT) in Dec. 2011. Since then, he have conducted his postdoctoral research/training under the mentorship of Dr. Youssef Sari (UT; 01/12-03/14) and Dr. Santosh Kumar (UTHSC; 03/14-current). His graduate and postdoctoral works has resulted in 7 peer-reviewed research article (4 first author), 4 review articles, and 1 book chapter. Currently, 4 other research/review articles (3 first author) are being reviewed for publication by various scientific journals.
Abstract:
Compared to general population, drug addiction is highly prevalent amongst HIV positive population. In addition to having an impact on adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), several drugs of abuse, including alcohol, have been shown to exacerbate HIV pathogenesis and decrease ART efficacy. Moderate to heavy alcohol consumption, in particular, has been identified as a major impediment to optimum HIV care. Cytochrome P450s (CYPs), the major drug-metabolizing enzymes in the body, play a critical role in modulating the pharmacokinetic profiles of both ART and commonly abused drugs like alcohol. We hypothesize alcohol mediated changes in expression of CYPs in monocytes/macrophages (major viral target and reservoir), and subsequent increase in oxidative stress, to have a direct impact on HIV replication. Our recent results have demonstrated significant changes in expression of CYPs in U937 monocytic cells following chronic treatment with alcohol and ART. In addition, chronic treatment with alcohol and/or ART resulted in decreased or unchanged expression of major antioxidant enzymes in monocytes. Moreover, chronic exposure to alcohol and/or ART was associated with enhanced production of reactive oxygen species and significant decrease in cell viability. Overall, based on these results, chronic exposure to alcohol (with or without ART) is rationalized to further compromise the immune system and enhance HIV pathogenesis. Further studies are underway to examine the cellular pathways involved in alcohol/ART mediated changes observed in monocytes/macrophages. Results from these studies are expected to yield promising drugs targets for therapeutic interventions in HIV positive alcohol users.
P.S.Shantanu Rao
University of Tennessee, USA
Title: Role of cytochrome P450s in mediating the effects of alcohol on HIV pathogenesis
Time : 16:15-16:40
Biography:
P.S.Shantanu Rao received his bachelor of pharmacy degree from India, he completed his Ph.D. from the department of Medicinal and Biological Chemistry at the University of Toledo (UT) in Dec. 2011. Since then, he have conducted his postdoctoral research/training under the mentorship of Dr. Youssef Sari (UT; 01/12-03/14) and Dr. Santosh Kumar (UTHSC; 03/14-current). His graduate and postdoctoral works has resulted in 7 peer-reviewed research article (4 first author), 4 review articles, and 1 book chapter. Currently, 4 other research/review articles (3 first author) are being reviewed for publication by various scientific journals.
Abstract:
Compared to general population, drug addiction is highly prevalent amongst HIV positive population. In addition to having an impact on adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), several drugs of abuse, including alcohol, have been shown to exacerbate HIV pathogenesis and decrease ART efficacy. Moderate to heavy alcohol consumption, in particular, has been identified as a major impediment to optimum HIV care. Cytochrome P450s (CYPs), the major drug-metabolizing enzymes in the body, play a critical role in modulating the pharmacokinetic profiles of both ART and commonly abused drugs like alcohol. We hypothesize alcohol mediated changes in expression of CYPs in monocytes/macrophages (major viral target and reservoir), and subsequent increase in oxidative stress, to have a direct impact on HIV replication. Our recent results have demonstrated significant changes in expression of CYPs in U937 monocytic cells following chronic treatment with alcohol and ART. In addition, chronic treatment with alcohol and/or ART resulted in decreased or unchanged expression of major antioxidant enzymes in monocytes. Moreover, chronic exposure to alcohol and/or ART was associated with enhanced production of reactive oxygen species and significant decrease in cell viability. Overall, based on these results, chronic exposure to alcohol (with or without ART) is rationalized to further compromise the immune system and enhance HIV pathogenesis. Further studies are underway to examine the cellular pathways involved in alcohol/ART mediated changes observed in monocytes/macrophages. Results from these studies are expected to yield promising drugs targets for therapeutic interventions in HIV positive alcohol users.
Monray Edward Williams
University of Western Cape, South Africa
Title: Molecular validation of putative antimicrobial peptides for improved Human Immunodeficiency Virus diagnostics via HIV protein p24
Time : 16:40-17:05
Biography:
Monray Williams is passionate biotechnology MSc candidate from the University of the Western Cape, South Africa,devoted in research fields HIV diagnostics, bioinformatics and molecular biology. Monray obtained his BSc (hon) from the University of the Western Cape. His current research focus is HIV diagnostics, whereby he holds a provisional patent for antimicrobial peptide sequences which are currently being implemented in a sensitive diagnostic device to detect HIV within the window period.
Abstract:
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 is responsible for causing the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome pandemic. More than 40 million people are infected globally, with 60% of the infected people residing in Sub-Saharan Africa. Earlier detection translates into earlier treatment, which ensures improved quality of life. However, difficulties remain in the field of HIV diagnostics. The p24 antigen detection assay is preferred due to its ability to decrease the window period. The current p24 diagnostic assay displays insensitivity due to the p24 antibody produced by the body, binding to the C-terminal of the p24 antigen. This interaction obstructs detection, the basis of the current p24 assay. In silico approaches identified novel antimicrobial peptides (AMP) which bind to the N-terminal domain of the p24 antigen (provisional patent). This binding is important because if the p24 antibody binds to the C-terminal, the unoccupied N-terminal domain would provide a binding pocket for the AMP. Conjugation of nanoparticles to the positively validated AMPs, can lead to development of a diagnostic lateral flow device (LFD). In silico studies were done to identify additional AMPs thatbind the N-terminal domain of p24 antigen with increased binding affinity.A preliminary study soughtto design aLFD containing the identified AMPs to test HIV positive sera. Protein expression of p24 was done to test in binding studies against the AMPs. In silico studies predicted 9 AMPs to bind to the p24 antigen. Binding interaction between p24 and AMPs were molecularly validated. Consequentlya sensitive LFDfor HIV diagnostics could be developed
Lawrence Soon-U LEE
National University of Singapore, Singapore
Title: Tenofovir renal toxicity in HIV-infected patients
Time : 17:05-17:30
Biography:
Dr Lawrence Lee Soon-U is an assistant professor in clinical pharmacologist and infectious diseases physician at the National University of Singapore and Tan Tock Seng Hospital / Institute of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology. He graduated from medical school with honours at the University of New South Wales, Australia, and then completed infectious diseases training in Singapore. He subsequently completed his PhD in Clinical Investigation with Phi Beta Kappa honors, and post-doctoral fellowship in Clinical Pharmacology at the John Hopkins University. He has published more than 35 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as an editorial board member.
Abstract:
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is a nucleotide analogue widely recommended in international HIV treatment guidelines. The association of TDF and renal dysfunction has remained an area of interest. We conducted a retrospective review of all patients on TDF for 2.5 years in our institution (Tan Tock Seng Hospital), and evaluated their renal function. Absolute change of creatinine clearance (CLCr) using Cockcroft-Gault equation from baseline was calculated at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Mixed-effects models were used to analyze predictors of change in log transformed CLCr from baseline. Overall, 226 patients were included in the study. Ninety percent were male. The median age was 46 yrs old (23-82), median weight was 60 kg (IQR 53.75-68), median CD4 count was 127 cells/mm3 (IQR 38-258) and median CLCr 82.7 mL/min (IQR 71.4-101.7) on initiation of TDF. After excluding patients without baseline CLCr, 165 patients were left in the mixed effects analyses. At baseline, the adjusted CLCr was 80.7 ml/min; this was 0.3% lower with every 1 year higher age and 0.1% higher with every 1 kg higher weight. After adjustment, there was a 3.0% (95% CI -0.8% to 6.6%) CLCr decline per year on average. This decline was 0.86% (95% CI 0.40% to 1.32%) steeper with 1 year age increase, 0.3% (95% CI 0.09 to 0.51%) steeper with 1 unit increase in baseline CLCr and 0.62% (95% CI 0.26 to 0.99%) gentler with 1 kg increase in weight. There was no association with CD4 count, age, NNRTI or PI, existing co-morbidities. Treatment with TDF was associated with a gentle decline in renal function over 24 months. The decline was greater in older patients, patients with higher baseline CLCr and patients with lower body weight. The results underscore the need for monitoring of CLCr patients receiving TDF.
Roman Shrestha
University of Connecticut Health Center, USA
Title: Early sexual debut: a risk factor for STIs/HIV acquisition among a nationally representative sample of adults in Nepal
Biography:
Roman Shrestha is a Doctoral student in the Department of Community Medicine and Health Care at the University of Connecticut Health Center. His research interests include HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases, health care disparities, and program evaluation. His current research involves developing an evidence-based intervention targeting high-risk returnee migrant workers in Nepal. He also works as a research assistant for the ‘Secondary HIV prevention and adherence among HIV-infected drug users’ project under the direction of Dr. Michael Copenhaver.
Abstract:
While early sexual debut is highly prevalent in Nepal, its link to sexually transmitted infections (STIs/HIV) risk factors has not been explored at a national level. The objective of this study was to assess potential association between early sexual debut and risk factors for STIs/HIV acquisition, including sexual risk behaviors, sexual violence, and teenage pregnancy among adults in Nepal. Data were taken from the nationally representative Nepal Demographic Health Survey (2011), which employed a two-stage complex design to collect data. A sample of 12,756 adults (ages 15-49 years) were included. Multivariate logistic models were conducted, adjusted for demographic characteristics, to assess the association between early sexual debut and STIs/HIV-related risk factors. The prevalence of early sexual debut in this sample was 39.2%, with a mean age of coital debut at 17.9 years. After adjusting for potential confounders, individuals with early sexual debut were significantly more likely to report a history of STIs (aOR:1.19; 95% CI:1.06-1.35) and had a significantly higher risk profile, including having multiple sex partner (aOR:2.14; 95% CI:1.86-2.47), inconsistent condom use (aOR:0.72; 95% CI:0.61-0.86), paid for sex (aOR:1.61; 95% CI:1.14-2.27), a history of sexual violence (aOR:1.99; 95% CI:1.63-2.43), and teenage pregnancy (aOR:12.87; 95% CI:11.62-14.26). Individuals who have early sexual debut are more likely to engage in risk behaviors that place them at increased risk of STIs/HIV acquisition. STIs/HIV prevention strategies should aim at delaying sexual debut to decrease the disproportionate burden of adverse health outcomes, including STIs/HIV, among individuals in Nepal.