DR. JONATHAN A. LEVISON, M.D.

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This study looked at different ways to find out where chloride, a harmful chemical, comes from in urban water sources, like rivers and groundwater. Researchers tested five different techniques and found that salt from roads, wastewater, and natural groundwater all contributed to chloride levels. No single method worked perfectly all year long, and the researchers provided insights on how much each method costs and their effectiveness for others in the field. Who this helps: This helps environmental scientists, urban planners, and policymakers working to improve water quality.

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This study looked at how to improve HIV care in jails by using a status-neutral approach, which connects people to treatment if they test positive and to prevention if they test negative. Researchers interviewed 28 people, including jail staff and inmates, and found that while strong partnerships and proactive healthcare help, issues like understaffing and problems with reporting health needs are significant barriers. Addressing these issues and focusing on a patient-centered approach can lead to better HIV care in jail settings, which is crucial for public health. Who this helps: This benefits incarcerated individuals and healthcare providers in the jail system.

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This study reviewed over 100 research articles on using machine learning to predict groundwater quality. Researchers found that while machine learning can effectively improve predictions, there are gaps in knowledge, especially in under-studied regions and practical applications. The study emphasizes the importance of trustworthy models and suggests further exploration with advanced techniques, like deep learning, to enhance groundwater management. Who this helps: This benefits water resource managers and researchers working to ensure clean and safe groundwater.

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This study looked at whether chewing xylitol gum could help prevent preterm births and low-birthweight babies among pregnant women in Malawi. The researchers found that using xylitol gum reduced preterm births from 16.5% to 12.6% and low-birthweight deliveries from 12.9% to 8.9%. These results are important because reducing these outcomes can lead to healthier babies and mothers. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women and their babies.

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This study looked at how machine learning can help predict nutrient levels in rivers and lakes affected by farming practices. Researchers found that models like ensemble bagged trees and exponential Gaussian process regression were very effective, with accuracy rates of over 72% for classifying nutrients and over 93% for estimating their levels. This matters because it could lead to better management of water quality, helping to reduce pollution from agricultural runoff. Who this helps: This helps farmers, environmental scientists, and water quality managers.

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This research paper discusses the need for changes in how doctors screen for drug use during pregnancy to promote racial fairness. It highlights issues like racial bias, the harsh consequences faced by Black mothers, and how the current legal system often punishes rather than supports these women. The study calls for using simple questions instead of urine tests to reduce bias and ensure that all pregnant women are treated fairly, especially those from marginalized groups. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women, particularly women of color, and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how healthcare providers should talk to pregnant people with HIV about feeding their babies. It found that while breastfeeding used to be discouraged because of the risk of spreading HIV, advancements in medication have reduced that risk significantly, making it safer for some mothers to consider breastfeeding. This is important because not all families have easy access to baby formula, especially given recent shortages, and some may prefer breastfeeding for cultural or personal reasons. Who this helps: This helps pregnant people with HIV and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how well vegetative buffers near farms can keep nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from entering nearby water sources. Researchers found that sandy soil saw ten times more nitrogen in surface water than clay soil, even with the same amount of fertilizer used. Additionally, the study noted that plant uptake of nutrients was most effective when root biomass was high, yet plants weren’t able to take up nutrients during peak nutrient input times in early summer, fall, and winter. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and environmentalists aiming to reduce nutrient pollution in waterways.

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This study examined how climate and farming practices affect the movement of nutrients, like nitrogen and phosphorus, in the water around an agricultural area near Lake Huron. Over a 14-month period, researchers found that heavy rain, melting snow, and certain farming events increased nutrient levels in the water. For example, when tile drains were active, they consistently released high amounts of phosphorus and nitrogen into the surface water, highlighting the need for better management of these nutrients to improve water quality. Who this helps: This research benefits farmers, environmental regulators, and water quality managers.

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This study looked at how U.S. medical providers support breastfeeding among mothers with HIV. It found that while most providers discuss infant feeding options with these mothers, only about 10% of healthcare institutions have specific guidelines that encourage breastfeeding in this context. This is important because having these guidelines seems to make providers more comfortable with supporting breastfeeding, which can benefit both the health of the mother and the baby. Who this helps: This helps patients with HIV who want to breastfeed and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined the experiences of people with HIV who chose to breastfeed in North America from 2014 to 2022 across several sites. Out of 72 breastfeeding cases, most individuals had well-controlled HIV, and none of the infants were found to have contracted the virus after breastfeeding, despite varying practices and policies at different institutions. This research highlights the importance of understanding breastfeeding options for HIV-positive individuals and suggests that choosing to breastfeed can be safe in this context. Who this helps: This benefits patients with HIV and their healthcare providers by providing insights into safe breastfeeding practices.

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This study looked at the benefits of using special tracers called isotopic variables to enhance regular water monitoring in an agricultural area in southwestern Ontario, Canada. Researchers found that these isotopic tracers could reveal critical information about water sources and the speed at which water moves through the environment, improving understanding of how groundwater and surface water interact. For example, they found that changes in rainfall could significantly influence these interactions and the movement of potential contaminants like fertilizers. Who this helps: This helps farmers, environmental scientists, and water resource managers.

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This study looked at the sources of nitrate pollution in groundwater in a coastal agricultural area in Tunisia. Researchers found that nitrate levels in the groundwater were higher than natural levels, primarily coming from manure, soil organic matter, and sewage. Specifically, they discovered that manure accounted for most of the nitrate contamination, which is linked to the use of organic fertilizers and livestock practices. Understanding these sources is crucial for managing groundwater resources sustainably. Who this helps: This information benefits local farmers, environmentalists, and water resource managers.

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This study looked at how machine learning can help identify nutrient levels in surface water in agricultural areas, specifically in the Upper Parkhill watershed in Ontario, Canada. Researchers tested 24 different machine learning algorithms and found that the "ensemble bagged trees" algorithm accurately classified nitrate levels 90.9% of the time, while the "weighted KNN" algorithm accurately identified total phosphorus at 87%. These findings are important because they can help policymakers develop better strategies to manage nutrient pollution in water resources. Who this helps: This helps farmers and environmental policymakers.

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The updated 2023 guidelines on infant feeding for people with HIV in the US highlight that breastfeeding is considered safe for mothers who are on effective treatment and have low viral levels. This change is based on new evidence showing a very low risk of HIV transmission through breast milk in these cases. Support for individual choices, including formula feeding or using donor milk, is emphasized, promoting a respectful approach to decision-making. Who this helps: This benefits parents with HIV and their infants by providing clearer options and support for feeding choices.

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This study looked at how group prenatal care affects pregnant women living with HIV, specifically focusing on whether it helps them maintain their health after giving birth and keep their virus levels low. The researchers found that women who participated in group care were 2.7 times more likely to attend a follow-up visit with their HIV care provider after giving birth and showed a trend toward better virus control during pregnancy. This is important because maintaining health during and after pregnancy can lead to better outcomes for both mothers and their children. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant women living with HIV and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the risk of groundwater pollution in Sari-Behshahr plain, Iran, focusing on how levels of nitrate from 218 wells could indicate potential contamination. Researchers used different models including DRASTIC and statistical methods to assess groundwater pollution. They found that the best model for predicting pollution risk was the weights-of-evidence model, which was more accurate than the others, and identified that the southern part of the area, near major cities, is at high risk for pollution. Who this helps: This helps local communities, environmental planners, and water resource managers in reducing pollution risks.

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This research studied a specialized tool called a pregnancy wheel to help pregnant women in Malawi better determine how far along they are in their pregnancy and improve their visits to healthcare providers. The results showed that 50% of the women using the pregnancy wheel were accurately dated when they arrived at the hospital to give birth, compared to just 9% of those who received standard care. This is important because knowing the correct gestational age can help doctors make better decisions for childbirth, but access to regular check-ups remains a challenge. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women and healthcare providers in Malawi.

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This study explored how to better prevent HIV in pregnant women and new mothers in the U.S. It found that many opportunities to stop HIV transmission were overlooked due to three main issues: doctors often underestimate risks, partner HIV testing is hard to carry out, and a preventive medicine called PrEP is not used enough. Improving these factors is important because it can help reduce the number of new HIV infections among mothers and their babies. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women, new mothers, and their partners.

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The study looked at ways to improve pregnancy and postpartum care for people living with HIV to reduce the chances of passing the virus to their babies. It found that using HIV treatment before and during pregnancy lowers the HIV levels in the body, significantly cutting the risk of transmission to newborns. For instance, early and consistent use of medication can reduce the risk to almost zero. This matters because it helps more babies be born HIV-free when mothers receive proper care. Who this helps: This helps pregnant individuals living with HIV and their newborns.

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This study looked at how nitrogen and phosphorus levels change in water in a clay area around the Great Lakes, which is mainly used for farming. Researchers collected samples over a year and found that heavy rainfall in spring and winter helped move more nitrogen into surface water, while winter freeze-thaw cycles increased phosphorus levels. These findings are important because they can help improve water management practices in farming areas, ensuring cleaner water for everyone. Who this helps: This helps farmers, environmental managers, and communities relying on clean water.

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This study looked at the rate of preterm births (babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy) in the areas around Lilongwe, Malawi, from December 2012 to May 2015. Out of nearly 15,000 births, 19.3% were preterm, which is among the highest rates in the world. The study also found that many factors contributing to preterm births, like domestic violence, HIV, and malnutrition, were common in the community. Who this helps: This research helps patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers working to improve maternal and child health in Malawi.

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This study evaluated a special group prenatal care program designed for pregnant women living with HIV to see how it affected their knowledge, emotional support, and mental health. Among 42 women who participated in the program, those who completed surveys reported feeling more supported by family and friends, experienced less depression (43% reported significant depression before compared to just 18% after), and missed fewer doses of their medication due to feeling down. This is important because better emotional support and mental health can lead to better adherence to HIV treatment, helping to prevent the transmission of HIV to babies during and after pregnancy. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women living with HIV by improving their social support and mental health.

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This study looked at how well patients and healthcare providers in Malawi understood preterm birth (PTB) after a three-year education program. The researchers found that participants had a better grasp of important concepts, with most correctly identifying that two to three out of ten women experience PTB and knowing ways to reduce its risk. This improved understanding is crucial because it helps women access healthcare earlier, potentially leading to better outcomes for both mothers and babies. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers by improving awareness and treatment options for preterm birth.

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This study looked at the use of the HIV medication elvitegravir during pregnancy to see how well it helps control the virus and what outcomes are for babies born to mothers taking it. The research found that 81.3% of pregnant women on this medication had low virus levels at the time of delivery, and if they started taking it before pregnancy, that number rose to 88.2%. There were also low rates of HIV transmission to the baby (0.8%) and no reported cases of serious birth defects related to the medication. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant women living with HIV and their babies.

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This study looked at dental health in pregnant women and those who recently gave birth in Lilongwe, Malawi. It found that 69.3% of these women had dental cavities, and 76.7% had some form of dental disease, with an average dental health score indicating significant issues. Most women had never visited a dentist, even though many practiced good oral hygiene, suggesting a need for better dental care access. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women and new mothers by highlighting their dental health needs.

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This study looks at how health care providers can use routine visits for family planning and pregnancy to offer a medication called PrEP, which helps prevent HIV infection in women at risk, particularly women of color. It found that using PrEP during pregnancy and breastfeeding is safe for both mothers and their babies. This is important because it empowers women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health while reducing the risk of HIV. Who this helps: This helps women at risk for HIV, especially those seeking family planning or pregnancy care.

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This study examined how healthcare providers in seven U.S. cities view and use Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for couples where one partner has HIV and the other does not. It found that only 18.8% of healthcare providers had experience prescribing PrEP for conception, but 74.2% were willing to do so in the right conditions. This matters because PrEP can provide extra protection for the HIV-negative partner, helping them feel more secure while trying to conceive. Who this helps: This helps couples trying to conceive when one partner is HIV-positive, as well as the healthcare providers who support them.

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This study looked at how quickly different HIV treatments can reduce the virus in pregnant women. Researchers found that women using integrase inhibitors (INSTIs) experienced a significant reduction in HIV levels, with a median time of just 8 days to reach a 1-log reduction, compared to 35 days for those on other treatments. This is important because faster viral suppression can improve health outcomes for both mothers and babies. Who this helps: HIV-positive pregnant women and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the health outcomes of Latino individuals living with HIV who started treatment in North America compared to those in Central and South America. Researchers found that those in Latin America had a higher risk of dying after starting treatment, with a 61% increased risk, but they were less likely to interrupt treatment or switch to a different medication. This is important because it highlights differences in how Latino communities experience HIV care, which can inform how to better support their health needs. Who this helps: This helps patients living with HIV and healthcare providers who support them.

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This study looked at the results of Pap tests in 238 women with HIV who had a hysterectomy but no prior abnormal Pap test results. The findings revealed that 31% had abnormal results, with 29% of those who went for further biopsies showing significant conditions (VAIN 2 or 3). This is important because it highlights that HIV-infected women may still be at risk for vaginal abnormalities even after a hysterectomy, indicating a need for continued monitoring. Who this helps: This helps HIV-infected women and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at whether healthcare providers should talk to women living with HIV about breastfeeding, despite the common recommendation against it. It found that while the best advice has been to avoid breastfeeding due to potential risks, healthcare providers can ethically discuss it as an option if they engage in open conversations about the mother's choices and concerns. This matters because it respects mothers' rights to make informed decisions about their own bodies and their children's health. Who this helps: This helps mothers living with HIV and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how common abnormal vaginal Pap tests are among 238 women living with HIV who had a hysterectomy for reasons unrelated to cervical issues. They found that 30% of these women had abnormal results, with 29% of those who had further biopsies showing significant conditions such as VAIN2 or VAIN3, indicating precancerous changes. This matters because it highlights the need for continued Pap testing after hysterectomy in HIV-positive women, despite their lack of prior abnormalities. Who this helps: This research benefits HIV-infected women and their healthcare providers by emphasizing the importance of ongoing screening.

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This study looked at why low-income women with HIV struggle to keep their doctor appointments after giving birth. Of the women surveyed, 71% returned to see their obstetrician and 57% saw their primary care doctor, but many faced challenges like time constraints, lack of social support, and transportation issues. Addressing these barriers, as well as mental health and social support, is crucial for ensuring these mothers and their babies stay healthy. Who this helps: This helps low-income women with HIV and their families.

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This study looked at how pregnant women perceive the risks of using electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and hookahs. Researchers found that while e-cigarettes are often seen as safer than traditional cigarettes, many participants still believed that using them during pregnancy could harm the fetus—though some felt they may be useful for quitting smoking. The findings highlight the need for doctors to address questions about e-cigarette safety among pregnant women and those planning to become pregnant. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women and their doctors understand the risks of e-cigarette and hookah use.

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This study looked at how two common conditions, Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) and bacterial vaginosis (BV), affect the risk of HIV-positive women spreading the HIV virus in their vaginal secretions. Among 373 women studied, 43.1% had both TV and BV, and 33.2% were shedding HIV-1 RNA. The presence of TV and BV significantly increased the likelihood of vaginal shedding of HIV, with the odds being over 18 times higher for those with both conditions compared to those without. Who this helps: This helps HIV-positive women and healthcare providers by emphasizing the need for regular screening and treatment for these conditions to reduce the spread of HIV.

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The study looked at the pregnancy intentions among women living with HIV in the United States. It found that 23% of the women had unplanned pregnancies, 58% were unsure about their pregnancy, and 19% had planned their pregnancies. Women who had given birth before, met with a medical provider in the year before their pregnancy, or talked about their pregnancy plans with their healthcare provider were less likely to have unplanned or ambivalent pregnancies. Who this helps: This benefits women living with HIV, healthcare providers, and programs focused on reproductive health.

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This study looked at what people in Malawi know about preterm birth (when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy). Researchers found that while all participants recognized preterm birth and understood its causes, there were gaps in knowledge, especially about defining preterm birth and the availability of treatments like antenatal steroids. This understanding is important because it can lead to better education and programs to help prevent preterm births, improving maternal and infant health. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly expectant mothers and their families.

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This study looked at why many low-income women with HIV in Texas stop going to their healthcare appointments after giving birth. It found that 39% of these women did not return for follow-up care in the year after delivery. Factors that made this more likely included being younger, identifying as black, starting prenatal care late, and not having plans for contraception. Understanding these trends can help healthcare providers focus on supporting the women who need it most. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers working with women living with HIV.

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This research looked at how HIV-infected women in the United States view the recommendation against breastfeeding. It found that cultural and social factors make some women unsure about this advice, leading them to breastfeed without telling their healthcare providers. The paper suggests a harm reduction approach to support these women by providing safe options and clear information about the risks and benefits of breastfeeding. Who this helps: This helps HIV-infected women and their healthcare providers understand safer breastfeeding options.

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This study looked at how antiretroviral therapy (ART) affects the treatment of a common infection called Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) in women living with HIV. Researchers found that among 226 women, those on ART had more treatment failures—where TV persisted after treatment—compared to those not on ART (16.4% vs. 6.3%). Specifically, for those receiving a single-dose treatment, the failure rate was higher (23.3% vs. 7.7%), while the rates were similar for those on multidose treatment. These findings suggest that using a multidose treatment for TV is more effective for HIV-positive women, which is important for their overall health and preventing further HIV transmission. Who this helps: This helps HIV-positive women and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers created and tested a computer program to identify foreign-born patients living with HIV using electronic medical records from a large healthcare system involving over 9,000 patients. They found that this algorithm accurately classified 2,102 patients as foreign-born, achieving 94% sensitivity (correctly identifying true positives) and 92% specificity (correctly identifying true negatives) when compared to physician classifications. This is important because it helps healthcare providers better understand and address the needs of foreign-born patients, leading to improved health outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits healthcare providers and foreign-born patients with HIV.

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This study looked at how children with HIV in South Africa were responding to their first and second treatments. Researchers found that many of these children had developed resistance to the medications they were taking, with 19% still responding to the drugs as expected. This information is important because it highlights the need for better treatment plans to help kids keep responding to medications. Who this helps: This helps children with HIV and their doctors.

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This study looked at HIV-positive pregnant women in Houston, Texas, to see how many were in relationships with HIV-negative partners and how often they shared their HIV status with them. They found that about 40% of the 212 women had partners who were HIV-negative, and over 90% disclosed their HIV status to those partners. However, disclosure was lower (68%) among women whose partners did not know their HIV status, highlighting a need for better communication in these relationships. Who this helps: This information benefits HIV-positive pregnant women, their partners, and healthcare providers.

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This study examined how long it takes for pregnant women with HIV to reduce their viral load to safe levels when they start or restart antiretroviral therapy (ART) during pregnancy. Researchers found that 93% of women new to ART and 92% of those with prior treatment achieved a viral load under 400 copies/ml, with an average time of 25 days for those new to treatment and 27 days for experienced women. Key factors for achieving lower viral loads faster included higher adherence to medication, specific types of treatment, and lower initial viral loads. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant women living with HIV, their healthcare providers, and their unborn children.