GRAP Opportunity – Analysis of relationship between ART adherence and clinical outcomes among HIV+ patients in China (Bachman)

Opportunity ID: 03-Bachman

Project Title: Analysis of relationship between ART adherence measures and clinical outcomes among HIV-positive patients in China

Faculty Mentor: Mary Bachman DeSilva

Description Statement:

More information on the CATS Study

The China Adherence through Technology Study (CATS) was a randomized controlled trial designed to increase our understanding of interventions that are feasible and effective in helping HIV-positive injection drug users (IDU) maintain a high antiretroviral (ART) adherence. The study assessed: (1) the feasibility and acceptability of real-time feedback; (2) a wireless electronic drug monitoring (EDM) technology approach to promote ART adherence; (3) preliminary effectiveness of real-time feedback on adherence, CD4 count, and HIV viral load; and (4) factors that explain how real-time feedback influenced intervention success or failure.

The study enrolled 120 IDU patients through an ART clinic in Nanning, capital of Guangxi province, a border province with high rates of HIV and IDU. Enrolled patients were randomized to intervention vs. comparison groups for the 6-month intervention. The study followed all patients for an additional 3 months to determine sustainability of intervention impact.

Scope of Work:

The RA will use quantitative data generated from the CATS project to assess the association between several ART adherence measures (e.g., self-report and EDM) and clinical outcomes (e.g., CD4+ count, viral load), with the goal identifying the measure that is the best predictor of clinical outcomes.

Minimum skills required/desired:

RA should have quantitative skills and programming skills in SAS, R, STATA or similar statistical package. Previous data analysis/management experience preferred. We recommend students to have completed BS 723 (Introduction to Statistical Computing) at a minimum. Please specify the statistical courses you’ve taken in your application.

Time / Date Expectations :
5-10 hours/week, flexible. Expected completion of project in 6 month timeframe.

Additional Material Requested: None

Number of Positions: One (1)

Logistics & Support:

Student will work under the guidance of the project’s biostatistician, Dr. Mary Bachman DeSilva. Student will meet with study investigator biweekly to review progress. Study investigators will be available to troubleshoot and answer questions as they arise.  If performance is satisfactory, additional opportunities may arise.