A study published in JAMA Network found that patients receiving rifampicin-based anti-tuberculosis therapy are more likely to experience virological failure when starting nevirapine-based antiretroviral therapy. In contrast, efavirenz-based ART was associated with similar virological suppression rates regardless of tuberculosis status.
The Leptotyphlops carlae is the world's smallest known snake species, with adults measuring just under four inches in length. This tiny threadsnake was discovered by Blair Hedges in a forest fragment on Barbados and is believed to be rare due to habitat destruction.
A study found that low-dose growth hormone treatment reduced visceral adipose tissue and improved blood pressure in HIV-infected patients with abdominal obesity. However, it also increased glucose levels during glucose tolerance testing, highlighting the need for caution when using growth hormone therapy in this population.
A University of Washington study reveals a massive intervention by the US prison system on American families, disproportionately affecting black males. The research found higher rates of infertility, infectious diseases like TB and HIV/AIDS, and increased migration to rural areas among black inmates.
A sociologist's analysis reveals that new prescription drugs are twice as likely to harm patients as to provide benefits superior to existing drugs. The study identifies institutional flaws in the FDA's review process, including under-funding and industry influence.
Research suggests that homeownership promotes political involvement, particularly among those living in distressed areas. Homeowners in disadvantaged neighborhoods are more likely to vote than renters and those in privileged communities.
Research by Marlese Durr and Adia Harvey Wingfield reveals that black professionals engage in 'emotional performance' to fulfill white colleagues' expectations, strengthening race/ethnic group solidarity. This emotional labor can lead to feelings of isolation and frustration among African American women.
Researchers used data mining to identify subtle differences in movement between rats with ALS mutations and controls, predicting the onset of disease two months early. This novel approach may enable testing of therapies to delay or prevent disease.
A study of 3,116 patients with and without a history of injection drug use found similar survival rates after 4-5 years of receiving HAART. The results challenge the prevailing notion that IDUs may not derive full benefits from HAART due to social instability.
A low-dose growth hormone treatment reduced abdominal fat deposits and improved blood pressure and triglyceride levels in HIV patients with lipodystrophy. However, growth hormone treatment appeared to increase blood glucose levels, particularly in those with impaired glucose tolerance.
The International AIDS Society–USA Panel updated treatment guidelines to reflect recent data on antiretroviral therapy. The new guidelines recommend starting therapy before CD4 cell count declines to less than 350/μL, with individualized regimens tailored to patient needs.