User Experience of Persons Using Ingestible Sensor-Enabled Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis to Prevent HIV Infection: Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Background

A digital health technology's success or failure depends on how it is received by users.

objectives

We conducted a user experience (UX) evaluation among persons who used the Food and Drug Administration-approved Digital Health Feedback System incorporating ingestible sensors (ISs) to capture medication adherence, after they were prescribed oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV infection. We performed an association analysis with baseline participant characteristics, to see if "personas" associated with positive or negative UX emerged.

Methods

UX data were collected upon exit from a prospective intervention study of adults who were HIV negative, prescribed oral PrEP, and used the Digital Health Feedback System with IS-enabled tenofovir disoproxil fumarate plus emtricitabine (IS-Truvada). Baseline demographics; urine toxicology; and self-report questionnaires evaluating sleep (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), self-efficacy, habitual self-control, HIV risk perception (Perceived Risk of HIV Scale 8-item), and depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-8) were collected. Participants with ≥28 days in the study completed a Likert-scale UX questionnaire of 27 questions grouped into 4 domain categories: overall experience, ease of use, intention of future use, and perceived utility. Means and IQRs were computed for participant total and domain subscores, and linear regressions modeled baseline participant characteristics associated with UX responses. Demographic characteristics of responders versus nonresponders were compared using the Fisher exact and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests.

Results

Overall, 71 participants were enrolled (age: mean 37.6, range 18-69 years; n=64, 90% male; n=55, 77% White; n=24, 34% Hispanic; n=68, 96% housed; and n=53, 75% employed). No demographic differences were observed in the 63 participants who used the intervention for ≥28 days. Participants who completed the questionnaire were more likely to be housed (52/53, 98% vs 8/10, 80%; P=.06) and less likely to have a positive urine toxicology (18/51, 35% vs 7/10, 70%; P=.08), particularly methamphetamine (4/51, 8% vs 4/10, 40%; P=.02), than noncompleters. Based on IQR values, ≥75% of participants had a favorable UX based on the total score (median 3.78, IQR 3.17-4.20), overall experience (median 4.00, IQR 3.50-4.50), ease of use (median 3.72, IQR 3.33-4.22), and perceived utility (median 3.72, IQR 3.22-4.25), and ≥50% had favorable intention of future use (median 3.80, IQR 2.80-4.40). Following multipredictor modeling, self-efficacy was significantly associated with the total score (0.822, 95% CI 0.405-1.240; P<.001) and all subscores (all P<.05). Persons with more depressive symptoms reported better perceived utility (P=.01). Poor sleep was associated with a worse overall experience (-0.07, 95% CI -0.133 to -0.006; P=.03).

Conclusions

The UX among persons using IS-enabled PrEP (IS-Truvada) to prevent HIV infection was positive. Association analysis of baseline participant characteristics linked higher self-efficacy with positive UX, more depressive symptoms with higher perceived utility, and poor sleep with negative UX.

Performance of a commercial smart watch compared to polysomnography reference for overnight continuous oximetry measurement and sleep apnea evaluation

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the accuracy and precision of continuous overnight oxygen saturation (SpO2) measurement by a commercial wrist device (WD) incorporating high-grade sensors, and investigate WD estimation of sleep-disordered breathing by quantifying overnight oxygen desaturation index (ODI) compared to polysomnography (PSG) ODI and apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) with and without sleep questionnaire data, to assess WD ability to detect obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and determine its severity.

METHODS

Participants completed sleep questionnaires, had a WD (Samsung Galaxy Watch 4) placed on their wrist, and underwent attending, in-lab overnight PSG (Nihon Kohden) with pulse oximetry probe secured either to a finger or ear lobe. PSG data was scored by a single experienced registered PSG technologist. Statistical analysis included demographic characteristics, continuous SpO2 measurement WD vs PSG root mean square error (RMSE) with Bland Altman plot and linear regression associations. Predictive models for PSG ODI and AHI severity were built using logistic regression with probability cutoffs determined via receiver operating curve (ROC) characteristics.

RESULTS

The 51 participants analyzed had median age of 49 (range 22-78) years, 66.7% were male, with median body mass index (BMI) 28.1 (range 20.1, 47.3) kg/m2 with race/ethnicity distribution of 49.0% Caucasian, 25.5% Hispanic, 9.8% African-American, 9.8% Asian, and 5.9% Middle Eastern. WD vs PSG continuous SpO2 measurement in percentage points demonstrated bias of 0.91 (CI95 0.38, 1.45), standard deviation 2.37 (CI95 2.36, 2.38), and RMSE 2.54 (CI95 2.34, 2.73). WD area under the curve (AUC) ROC characteristics for predicting PSG were 0.882 ODI>15/h, 0.894 AHI>30/h, 0.800 AHI>15/h, and 0.803 AHI>5/h. WD plus select sleep questionnaire AUCs for predicting PSG were 0.943 AHI>30/h, 0.868 AHI>15/h, and 0.863 AHI>5/h.

CONCLUSIONS

The WD conducted reliable overnight continuous SpO2 monitoring with RMSE <3% vs PSG. Predictive models of PSG AHI based on WD measurements alone, or plus sleep questionnaires, demonstrated excellent to outstanding discrimination for OSA identification and severity. Longitudinal WD use should be evaluated promptly based on WD potential to improve accessibility and accuracy of OSA testing, as well as support treatment follow-up.

Neurocognition and its predictors in a linguistically and culturally diverse cohort of people with HIV

Objective: HIV/AIDS disproportionately affects Black and Latino people in the United States, yet there is a lack of research on predictors of neurocognitive outcomes in these groups. We examined neurocognitive performance and its key predictors across White, Black, and Latino people with HIV (PWH). Method: Participants included 586 PWH of White, Black, and Latino (English- and Spanish-speaking) background. Neurocognition was assessed via demographically-adjusted Fluid Cognition Composite T-scores from the NIH-Toolbox cognition battery, and individual tests comprising this composite. Predictors examined included sociodemographic and HIV disease characteristics, and medical, psychiatric and substance comorbidities. Results: Compared to White PWH, English-speaking Latino PWH had lower T-scores on the Fluid Cognition Composite, as well as Flanker Inhibition and Picture Sequence Memory tests. While there were no other significant group differences on Fluid Cognition, both Latino PWH language groups performed worse than Black PWH on Flanker Inhibition, and Black PWH performed worse than White PWH on List Sorting. Separate multivariable linear regression models by ethnic/racial/language group showed that significant correlates of worse Fluid Cognition included depressive symptoms among White PWH; hepatitis C co-infection among Black PWH; hypertension among English-speaking Latino PWH; and higher estimated duration of HIV disease and depressive symptoms in Spanish-speaking Latino PWH. Conclusions: Findings suggest worse neurocognition among English-speaking Latino PWH compared to Whites. Predictors of neurocognitive function among PWH differ across ethnic/racial and language groups. Consideration of these HIV disease characteristics and comorbidities may be valuable in developing targeted culturally-relevant interventions aimed at ameliorating neurocognitive dysfunction among diverse PWH.

Effects of Opioid Withdrawal on Psychobiology in People Living with HIV

OBJECTIVE

Many persons with opioid use disorders (OUDs) have HIV disease and experience clinically significant stress after they enroll in abstinence-based treatment and undergo medically assisted withdrawal. We examined whether opioid withdrawal affects virologic control, inflammatory markers, cognition, and mood in persons with an OUD and HIV, and explored whether measures of withdrawal stress, such as activation of the HPA axis, contribute to alterations in immune function, cognition, and mood.

METHOD AND PARTICIPANTS

Study participants were 53 persons with HIV who were admitted for OUD treatment at the City Addiction Hospital in Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation. Participants were examined at admission, at the anticipated peak of withdrawal 3 to 7 days after the last day of a clonidine-based withdrawal process lasting 7 to 14 days, and 3 to 4 weeks after completing withdrawal. At these times, participants received medical exams and were evaluated for symptoms of withdrawal, as well as cognition and mood. Viral load, plasma cortisol, DHEA sulfate ester (DHEA-S), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and soluble CD14 (sCD14) were determined. Multivariable models examined the relationships between markers of HPA activation and the other parameters over time.

RESULTS

HPA activation as indexed by cortisol/DHEA-S ratio increased during withdrawal, as did markers of immune activation, IL-6 and sCD14. There were no significant associations between viral load and indicators of HPA activation. In longitudinal analyses, higher cortisol/DHEA sulfate was related to worse cognition overall, and more mood disturbance. Increase in IL-6 was associated with worse cognitive performance on a learning task. There were no significant associations with sCD14.

CONCLUSIONS

Worsening of cognition and measures of mood disturbance during withdrawal were associated with activation of the HPA axis and some measures of inflammation. Whether repeated episodes of opioid withdrawal have a cumulative impact on long-term HIV outcomes and neurocognition is a topic for further investigation.

Emotional health and its association with neurocognition in Hispanic and non-Hispanic White people with HIV

OBJECTIVE

Emotional functioning is linked to HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment, yet research on this association among diverse people with HIV (PWH) is scant. We examined emotional health and its association with neurocognition in Hispanic and White PWH.

METHODS

Participants included 107 Hispanic (41% primarily Spanish-speakers; 80% Mexican heritage/origin) and 216 White PWH (Overall age: M = 53.62, SD = 12.19; 86% male; 63% AIDS; 92% on antiretroviral therapy). Emotional health was assessed via the National Institute of Health Toolbox (NIHTB)-Emotion Battery, which yields T-scores for three factor-based summary scores (negative affect, social satisfaction, and psychological well-being) and 13 individual component scales. Neurocognition was measured via demographically adjusted fluid cognition T-scores from the NIHTB-cognition battery.

RESULTS

27%-39% of the sample had problematic socioemotional summary scores. Hispanic PWH showed less loneliness, better social satisfaction, higher meaning and purpose, and better psychological well-being than Whites (ps <.05). Within Hispanics, Spanish-speakers showed better meaning and purpose, higher psychological well-being summary score, less anger hostility, but greater fear affect than English speakers. Only in Whites, worse negative affect (fear affect, perceived stress, and sadness) was associated with worse neurocognition (p <.05); and in both groups, worse social satisfaction (emotional support, friendship, and perceived rejection) was linked with worse neurocognition (p <.05).

CONCLUSION

Adverse emotional health is common among PWH, with subgroups of Hispanics showing relative strengths in some domains. Aspects of emotional health differentially relate to neurocogntition among PWH and cross-culturally. Understanding these varying associations is an important step towards the development of culturally relevant interventions that promote neurocognitive health among Hispanic PWH.

Automated procedure for demographic adjustments on cognitive test scores

Performances of normal people on cognitive tests are known to vary by demographic characteristics, such as age, education, and sex. Thus, cognitive test scores should be corrected for demographic influences when they are used to detect below-expected results due to disease or injury involving the central nervous system (CNS). Normative corrections, if estimated from a large, diverse, and well-characterized cohort of controls, help to remove expected differences in cognitive performance associated with normal demographic characteristics and associated socio-economic disadvantages. In this paper, we (1) describe in detail the process of generating regression-based normative standards, and its advantages and limitations, (2) provide recommendations for applying these normative standards to data from individuals and populations at risk for CNS dysfunction, and (3) introduce an R package, test2norm, that contains functions for producing and applying normative formulas to generate demographically corrected scores for measuring deviations from expected, normal cognitive performances.

An Automated Virtual Reality Program Accurately Diagnoses HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Older People With HIV

Background

HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HANDs) remain prevalent despite antiretroviral therapy, particularly among older people with HIV (PWH). However, the diagnosis of HAND is labor intensive and requires expertise to administer neuropsychological tests. Our prior pilot work established the feasibility and accuracy of a computerized self-administered virtual reality program (DETECT; Display Enhanced Testing for Cognitive Impairment and Traumatic Brain Injury) to measure cognition in younger PWH. The present study expands this to a larger sample of older PWH.

Methods

We enrolled PWH who were ≥60 years old, were undergoing antiretroviral therapy, had undetectable plasma viral loads, and were without significant neuropsychological confounds. HAND status was determined via Frascati criteria. Regression models that controlled for demographic differences (age, sex, education, race/ethnicity) examined the association between DETECT's cognition module and both HAND status and Global Deficit Score (GDS) derived via traditional neuropsychological tests.

Results

Seventy-nine PWH (mean age, 66 years; 28% women) completed a comprehensive neuropsychological battery and DETECT's cognition module. Twenty-five (32%) had HAND based on the comprehensive battery. A significant correlation was found between the DETECT cognition module and the neuropsychological battery (r = 0.45, P < .001). Furthermore, in two separate regression models, HAND status (b = -0.79, P < .001) and GDS impairment status (b = -0.83, P < .001) significantly predicted DETECT performance. Areas under the curve for DETECT were 0.78 for differentiating participants by HAND status (HAND vs no HAND) and 0.85 for detecting GDS impairment.

Conclusions

The DETECT cognition module provides a novel means to identify cognitive impairment in older PWH. As DETECT is fully immersive and self-administered, this virtual reality tool holds promise as a scalable cognitive screening battery.

B - 45 Differences in the Association between Social Activity and Neurocognition between Latino and Non-Hispanic White Older Adults with HIV

OBJECTIVE

Older Hispanics/Latinos/as/x (henceforth Latinos) are disproportionately affected by HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment compared to their non-Hispanic White counterparts. We examined social activity as a possible protective factor against worse neurocognitive outcomes for older people with HIV (PWH). Given cultural values regarding interpersonal relationships, we also examined whether the association between social activity and neurocognition was stronger for Latino than White PWH.

METHOD

Community-dwelling PWH (N = 114; 50% Latino [53% Spanish-speaking]; Overall group: Age: M = 58.03 SD = 5.75; Education: M = 13.29, SD = 3.39; 82% male; 58% AIDS; 95% on antiretroviral therapy; 4% detectable plasma RNA) completed neuropsychological and neuromedical evaluations. Global neurocognition was derived from demographically adjusted T-scores on a battery of 10 tests with separate norms for English and Spanish-speakers. A questionnaire assessed participants' engagement in 7 social activities over the past year. Covariates included physical activity, depressed mood, and HIV disease characteristics.

RESULTS

There were no ethnic differences in degree or nature of social activity. A linear regression model revealed a significant interaction between ethnicity and social activity on global neurocognitive T-scores, (β = 0.45, SE = 0.18, p = 0.02), such that increased engagement in social activities was associated with better global neurocognition in White PWH (β = 3.40, SE = 1.13, p < 0.01), but not Latino PWH (β = 0.57, SE = 1.00, p = 0.57).

CONCLUSIONS

Results indicate a possible protective influence of social activity on neurocognition in older White, but not Latino PWH, highlighting the importance of examining the generalizability of this relationship across ethnic/cultural groups. Future studies might examine the quality of social activities and their link with neurocognition in diverse older PWH.

Evaluation of Field Sobriety Tests for Identifying Drivers Under the Influence of Cannabis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

With increasing medicinal and recreational cannabis legalization, there is a public health need for effective and unbiased evaluations for determining whether a driver is impaired due to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exposure. Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are a key component of the gold standard law enforcement officer-based evaluations, yet controlled studies are inconclusive regarding their efficacy in detecting whether a person is under the influence of THC.

Objective

To examine the classification accuracy of FSTs with respect to cannabis exposure and driving impairment (as determined via a driving simulation).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel randomized clinical trial was conducted from February 2017 to June 2019 at the Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research, University of California, San Diego. Participants were aged 21 to 55 years and had used cannabis in the past month. Data were analyzed from August 2021 to April 2023.

Intervention

Participants were randomized 1:1:1 to placebo (0.02% THC), 5.9% THC cannabis, or 13.4% THC cannabis smoked ad libitum.

Main Outcome and Measures

The primary end point was law enforcement officer determination of FST impairment at 4 time points after smoking. Additional measures included officer estimation as to whether participants were in the THC or placebo group as well as driving simulator data. Officers did not observe driving performance.

Results

The study included 184 participants (117 [63.6%] male; mean [SD] age, 30 [8.3] years) who had used cannabis a mean (SD) of 16.7 (9.8) days in the past 30 days; 121 received THC and 63, placebo. Officers classified 98 participants (81.0%) in the THC group and 31 (49.2%) in the placebo group as FST impaired (difference, 31.8 percentage points; 95% CI, 16.4-47.2 percentage points; P < .001) at 70 minutes after smoking. The THC group performed significantly worse than the placebo group on 8 of 27 individual FST components (29.6%) and all FST summary scores. However, the placebo group did not complete a median of 8 (IQR, 5-11) FST components as instructed. Of 128 participants classified as FST impaired, officers suspected 127 (99.2%) as having received THC. Driving simulator performance was significantly associated with results of select FSTs (eg, ≥2 clues on One Leg Stand was associated with impairment on the simulator: odds ratio, 3.09; 95% CI, 1.63-5.88; P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

This randomized clinical trial found that when administered by highly trained officers, FSTs differentiated between individuals receiving THC vs placebo and driving abilities were associated with results of some FSTs. However, the high rate at which the participants receiving placebo failed to adequately perform FSTs and the high frequency that poor FST performance was suspected to be due to THC-related impairment suggest that FSTs, absent other indicators, may be insufficient to denote THC-specific impairment in drivers.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02849587.

A Pilot Assessment of the Effects of HIV and Methamphetamine Dependence on Socially Dysregulated Behavior in the Human Behavioral Pattern Monitor

Deficits in social cognition are seen in both people living with HIV (PWH) and people with a history of methamphetamine (METH) dependence. Dually affected individuals may experience additive negative effects on social cognition due to these conditions. We evaluated social cognition in 4 diagnostic groups (HIV-/METH-, HIV-/METH+, HIV+/METH-, HIV+/METH+). First, we used traditional social-emotional functioning assessments, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale and the Faux Pas Task, to determine any significant effects of METH dependence and HIV on social cognition. Next, we quantified social cognition using the Human Behavioral Pattern Monitor by evaluating social behavior represented by interaction with novel objects. METH dependence significantly affected social-emotional functions and HIV significantly affected on object interactions, however no significant additive effects were observed using these methods. The nuanced relationship between HIV and METH dependence suggests that other factors (i.e., adaptive life skills) likely mediate social cognition-related behaviors.

Driving Under the Influence of Cannabis: Impact of Combining Toxicology Testing with Field Sobriety Tests

BACKGROUND

Cannabis is increasingly used both medically and recreationally. With widespread use, there is growing concern about how to identify cannabis-impaired drivers.

METHODS

A placebo-controlled randomized double-blinded protocol was conducted to study the effects of cannabis on driving performance. One hundred ninety-one participants were randomized to smoke ad libitum a cannabis cigarette containing placebo or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (5.9% or 13.4%). Blood, oral fluid (OF), and breath samples were collected along with longitudinal driving performance on a simulator (standard deviation of lateral position [SDLP] and car following [coherence]) over a 5-hour period. Law enforcement officers performed field sobriety tests (FSTs) to determine if participants were impaired.

RESULTS

There was no relationship between THC concentrations measured in blood, OF, or breath and SDLP or coherence at any of the timepoints studied (P > 0.05). FSTs were significant (P < 0.05) for classifying participants into the THC group vs the placebo group up to 188 minutes after smoking. Seventy-one minutes after smoking, FSTs classified 81% of the participants who received active drug as being impaired. However, 49% of participants who smoked placebo (controls) were also deemed impaired at this same timepoint. Combining a 2 ng/mL THC cutoff in OF with positive findings on FSTs reduced the number of controls classified as impaired to zero, 86 minutes after smoking the placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

Requiring a positive toxicology result in addition to the FST observations substantially improved the classification accuracy regarding possible driving under the influence of THC by decreasing the percentage of controls classified as impaired.

Brain opportunistic infections and tumors in people living with HIV - still a challenge in efficient antiretroviral therapy era

The aim of the study was to evaluate the incidence of brain opportunistic pathologies and survival in patients living with HIV from a Romanian tertiary center. A 15-year prospective observational study of brain opportunistic infections diagnosed in HIV-infected patients was performed at Victor Babes Hospital, Bucharest, between January 2006 and December 2021. Characteristics and survival were compared related to modes of HIV acquisition and type of opportunistic infection. A total of 320 patients were diagnosed with 342 brain opportunistic infections (incidence 9.79 per 1000 person-years), 60.2% males with median age at diagnosis of 31 years (IQR 25, 40). Median CD4 cell count and VL were 36/μL (IQR 14, 96) and 5.1 log10 copies/mL (IQR 4, 5.7) respectively. The routes of HIV acquisition were heterosexual (52.6%), parenteral route in early childhood (31.6%), injecting drug use (12.9%), men having sex with men (1.8%), and vertical (1.2%). The most common brain infections were progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (31.3%), cerebral toxoplasmosis (26.9%), tuberculous meningitis (19.3%), and cryptococcal meningitis (16.7%). Patients infected by parenteral mode in early childhood were younger at diagnosis of both opportunistic infection and HIV (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively), developed more frequently PML (p < 0.001), and had the lowest early (p = 0.002) and late (p = 0.019) mortality rates. Risk factors for shorter survival were age > 30 years (p = 0.001), injecting drug use (p = 0.003), CD4 +  < 100/μL (p = 0.007), and VL > 5 log10 copies/mL at diagnosis (p < 0.001). The incidence and mortality rate of brain opportunistic infections were high and did not decrease significantly during the study period, due to late presentation or non-adherence to ART.

Anemia and Erythrocyte Indices Are Associated With Neurocognitive Performance Across Multiple Ability Domains in Adults With HIV

BACKGROUND

Anemia is linked to neurocognitive impairment (NCI) in people with HIV (PWH), but its impact within specific ability domains, and in diverse populations with HIV, is uncertain.

METHODS

Participants included 1339 PWH enrolled in observational HIV cohort studies with a mean of 3 comprehensive neurocognitive assessments over 30 months. Global and domain-specific neurocognitive function were assessed by the global deficit score and domain deficit score (GDS and DDS, respectively) or as GDS-defined or DDS-defined NCI (GDS ≥ 0.5, DDS > 0.5). Time-dependent associations of anemia or red-cell indices with neurocognitive function were evaluated by multivariable regression.

RESULTS

The mean age at entry was 43.6 years (85% male, 23.9% Hispanic, 16.7% African ancestry by self-report, and 69.8% virally suppressed). Anemia occurred at entry in 297 (22.2%) and developed subsequently in another 129 (9.6%). Anemia (present in 26.8% of cognitively impaired PWH at entry) and lower hemoglobin were associated with higher (worse) GDS values; the association for anemia persisted after multivariable adjustment and in virally suppressed persons ( P < 0.0001). Anemia was also associated with reduced processing speed, motor function, learning, delayed recall, working memory (all P < 0.01), executive function ( P = 0.021), and verbal fluency ( P = 0.035), and these findings persisted in longitudinal analyses (adjusted P < 0.01 for all domains, except verbal fluency). Higher mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin were associated with less impairment in learning and recall (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Anemia in diverse and virally suppressed PWH associates with reduced neurocognitive performance in multiple domains, cross-sectionally and over time. The impact of identifying and treating anemia to prevent or slow neurocognitive decline in PWH should be prospectively evaluated.

NIH Toolbox Emotion Battery Findings Among People with HIV: Normative Comparisons and Clinical Associations

Purpose

Depression and other aspects of emotional health in people with HIV (PWH) can affect functional independence, disease progression, and overall life quality. This study used the NIH Toolbox Emotion Battery (NIHTB-EB), which assesses many features of emotional health, to more comprehensively investigate differences among adults living with and without HIV, and to identify factors associated with emotional health for PWH.

Patients and Methods

Participants (n=1451; age: M=50.19, SD=16.84; 47.90% women) included 433 PWH living in southern California seen from 2003 to 2021 (64.72% AIDS, 92.25% on antiretroviral therapy) and 1018 healthy participants from NIHTB-EB national normative cohort. Participants completed the NIHTB-EB and PWH underwent comprehensive HIV disease and psychiatric evaluations. We investigated differences in emotional health by HIV status via independent samples t-tests (continuous scores) and Chi2 tests ("problematic" emotional health scores). Multivariable linear regression models examined correlates of emotional health among PWH.

Results

PWH had significantly worse emotional health than people without HIV across Social Satisfaction (Cohen's d=0.71, p<0.001), Psychological Well-Being (Cohen's d=0.49, p<0.001) and Negative Affect (Cohen's d=0.19, p<0.01) summary T-scores, and most component scales. PWH also had higher rates of "problematic" emotional health, particularly in Social Satisfaction (45% vs 17%, p<0.0001). Poor emotional health among PWH was associated with lifetime Major Depressive and Substance Use Disorders, relationship status (lost relationship versus in relationship), unemployment, and cognitive difficulties and loss of functional independence.

Conclusion

The NIHTB-EB identified that difficulties with multiple aspects of emotional health are common among PWH, and appear to be relatively independent of cognitive impairment as well as HIV disease and treatment history, but are strongly associated with everyday functioning. Given the cross-sectional nature of this study, longitudinal studies should be employed to evaluate causality pertaining to predictors of emotional health in PWH. These findings may inform interventions to promote emotional wellbeing in PWH.

Supporting the Art: Medication Adherence Patterns in Persons Prescribed Ingestible Sensor-enabled Oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis to Prevent Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

BACKGROUND

Timely, accurate adherence data may support oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) success and inform prophylaxis choice. We evaluated a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved digital health feedback system (DHFS) with ingestible-sensor-enabled (IS) tenofovir-disoproxil-fumarate plus emtricitabine (Truvada®) in persons starting oral PrEP.

METHODS

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative adults were prescribed IS-Truvada® with DHFS for 12 weeks to observe medication taking behavior. Baseline demographics, urine toxicology, and self-report questionnaires were obtained. Positive detection accuracy and adverse events were computed as percentages, with Kaplan Meier Estimate for persistence-of-use. In participants persisting ≥28 days, adherence patterns (taking and timing) were analyzed, and mixed-effects logistic regression modeled characteristics associated with treatment adherence.

RESULTS

Seventy-one participants were enrolled, mean age 37.6 years (range 18-69), 90.1% male, 77.5% White, 33.8% Hispanic, 95.8% housed, and 74.6% employed. Sixty-three participants (88.7%) persisted ≥28 days, generating 4987 observation days, average 79.2 (29-105). Total confirmed doses were 86.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] 82.5, 89.4), decreasing over time, odds ratio (OR) 0.899 (95% CI .876, .923) per week, P < .001; 79.4% (95% CI 66.7%, 87.3%) of participants had ≥80% adherence. Pattern analysis showed days without confirmed doses clustered (P = .003); regular dose timing was higher among participants with ≥80% confirmed doses (0.828, 95% CI .796 to .859) than among those with <80% (0.542, 95% CI95 .405 to .679) P < .001. In multi-predictor models, better adherence was associated with older age, OR 1.060 (95% CI 1.033, 1.091) per year, P < .001; negative vs positive methamphetamine screen, OR 5.051 (95% CI 2.252, 11.494), P < .001.

CONCLUSIONS

DHFS with IS-Truvada® distinguished adherent persons from those potentially at risk of prophylactic failure. Ongoing methamphetamine substance use may impact oral PrEP success.

Influence of Educational Background, Childhood Socioeconomic Environment, and Language Use on Cognition among Spanish-Speaking Latinos Living Near the US-Mexico Border

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the impact of culturally relevant social, educational, and language factors on cognitive test performance among Spanish speakers living near the US-Mexico border.

METHODS

Participants included 254 healthy native Spanish speakers from the Neuropsychological Norms for the US-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project (Age: M = 37.3, SD = 10.4; Education: M = 10.7, SD = 4.3; 59% Female). A comprehensive neuropsychological battery was administered in Spanish. Individual test scaled scores and T-scores (based on region-specific norms adjusted for age, education, and sex) were averaged to create Global Mean Scaled and T-scores. Measures of culturally relevant factors included a self-reported indicator of educational quality/access (proportion of education in Spanish-speaking country, quality of school/classroom setting, stopped attending school to work), childhood socioeconomic environment (parental education, proportion of time living in Spanish-speaking country, childhood socioeconomic and health status, access to basic resources, work as a child), and Spanish/English language use and fluency.

RESULTS

Several culturally relevant variables were significantly associated with unadjusted Global Scaled Scores in univariable analyses. When using demographically adjusted T-scores, fewer culturally relevant characteristics were significant. In multivariable analyses, being bilingual (p = .04) and working as a child for one's own benefit compared to not working as a child (p = .006) were significantly associated with higher Global Mean T-score, accounting for 9% of variance.

CONCLUSIONS

Demographically adjusted normative data provide a useful tool for the identification of brain dysfunction, as these account for much of the variance of sociocultural factors on cognitive test performance. Yet, certain culturally relevant variables still contributed to cognitive test performance above and beyond basic demographics, warranting further investigation.

Higher religiosity and spirituality are associated with ethnic group membership among middle-aged and older adults living with HIV

Background: HIV is a chronic illness that impacts the lives of more than 1 million people in the United States. As persons living with HIV (PWH) are living longer, it is important to understand the influence that religiosity/spirituality has among middle-aged and older PWH.

Objective: Compare the degree of religiosity/spirituality among middle-aged and older PWH and HIV-negative individuals, and to identify demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors associated with religiosity/spirituality among PWH.

Method: Baseline data on 122 PWH and 92 HIV-negative individuals (ages 36-65 years; 61.1% Non-Hispanic White) from a longitudinal study were analyzed for the current study. Recruitment occurred through HIV treatment clinics and community organizations in San Diego. Participants completed questionnaires on religiosity, spirituality, and psychosocial functioning. Independent samples t-tests, Pearson correlations, and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to test the study objective.

Results: No significant differences in religiosity/spirituality were found between PWH and HIV-negative individuals. Demographic and psychosocial variables were unrelated to religiously/spirituality among HIV-negative individuals. Among PWH, multiple linear regression models indicated higher daily spirituality was significantly associated with racial/ethnic minority membership (Hispanic/Latino, African American/Black, or Other), fewer years of estimated duration of HIV, greater social support, and higher grit. Greater engagement in private religious practices was significantly associated with racial/ethnic minority membership and higher social support.

Conclusions: For PWH, being a racial/ethnic minority and having higher social support was associated with greater engagement in religious/spiritual practices. Future longitudinal studies should examine whether religion/spirituality impacts well-being across the lifespan among racial/ethnic minority groups of PWH.

Higher Cerebrospinal Fluid Soluble Urokinase-type Plasminogen Activator Receptor, But Not Interferon γ-inducible Protein 10, Correlate With Higher Working Memory Deficits

BACKGROUND

We hypothesized that the induction of monocyte activation biomarkers, especially soluble urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) and interferon γ-inducible protein 10 (IP-10), is lower in HIV-1C than HIV-1B, owing to a defective Tat cysteine dimotif (C30S).

METHODS

A total of 68 paired cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood samples from people with HIV (PWH), free of CNS opportunistic infections, from a Southern Brazil outpatient HIV clinic were evaluated such as HIV-1B subtype (n = 27), HIV-1C (n = 26), other (n = 15), and 19 HIV-negative controls. The levels of suPAR, IP-10, neopterin, and β2 microglobulin (β2m) in the CSF and serum were quantified using different immunoassays.

RESULTS

Overall, in PWH, increases in CSF suPAR, CSF/serum suPAR, and CSF/serum β2m correlated with worse working memory deficits (r = 0.303, 0.353, and 0.289, respectively, all P < 0.05). The medians of IP-10, suPAR, neopterin, and β2m in CSF and serum and the CSF/serum ratio and suPAR index were comparable between the HIV-1B and HIV-1C subtypes. CSF IP-10 and neopterin and serum IP-10 and suPAR levels were higher in PWH than the HIV-negative controls (P = 0.015, P = 0.001, P < 0.0001, and P < 0.001, respectively). The serum β2m level was higher in HIV-associated dementia than neuropsychologically normal or asymptomatic (P = 0.024).

DISCUSSION

We observed that higher levels of CSF suPAR and the suPAR quotient correlated with worse working memory deficit. Elevated levels of monocyte activation were similar in both HIV-1 B and C subtypes, providing no evidence of reduced neuropathogenicity of HIV-1 subtype C Tat compared with subtype B.

Driving Performance and Cannabis Users' Perception of Safety: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Expanding cannabis medicalization and legalization increases the urgency to understand the factors associated with acute driving impairment.

OBJECTIVE

To determine, in a large sample of regular cannabis users, the magnitude and time course of driving impairment produced by smoked cannabis of different Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, the effects of use history, and concordance between perceived impairment and observed performance.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel randomized clinical trial took place from February 2017 to June 2019 at the Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research, University of California San Diego. Cannabis users were recruited for this study, and analysis took place between April 2020 and September 2021.

INTERVENTIONS

Placebo or 5.9% or 13.4% THC cannabis smoked ad libitum.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary end point was the Composite Drive Score (CDS), which comprised key driving simulator variables, assessed prior to smoking and at multiple time points postsmoking. Additional measures included self-perceptions of driving impairment and cannabis use history.

RESULTS

Of 191 cannabis users, 118 (61.8%) were male, the mean (SD) age was 29.9 (8.3) years, and the mean (SD) days of use in the past month was 16.7 (9.8). Participants were randomized to the placebo group (63 [33.0%]), 5.9% THC (66 [34.6%]), and 13.4% THC (62 [32.5%]). Compared with placebo, the THC group significantly declined on the Composite Drive Score at 30 minutes (Cohen d = 0.59 [95% CI, 0.28-0.90]; P < .001) and 1 hour 30 minutes (Cohen d = 0.55 [95% CI, 0.24-0.86]; P < .001), with borderline differences at 3 hours 30 minutes (Cohen d = 0.29 [95% CI, -0.02 to 0.60]; P = .07) and no differences at 4 hours 30 minutes (Cohen d = -0.03 [95% CI, -0.33 to 0.28]; P = .87). The Composite Drive Score did not differ based on THC content (likelihood ratio χ24 = 3.83; P = .43) or use intensity (quantity × frequency) in the past 6 months (likelihood ratio χ24 = 1.41; P = .49), despite postsmoking blood THC concentrations being higher in those with the highest use intensity. Although there was hesitancy to drive immediately postsmoking, increasing numbers (81 [68.6%]) of participants reported readiness to drive at 1 hour 30 minutes despite performance not improving from initial postsmoking levels.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Smoking cannabis ad libitum by regular users resulted in simulated driving decrements. However, when experienced users control their own intake, driving impairment cannot be inferred based on THC content of the cigarette, behavioral tolerance, or THC blood concentrations. Participants' increasing willingness to drive at 1 hour 30 minutes may indicate a false sense of driving safety. Worse driving performance is evident for several hours postsmoking in many users but appears to resolve by 4 hours 30 minutes in most individuals. Further research is needed on the impact of individual biologic differences, cannabis use history, and administration methods on driving performance.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02849587.

Metabolic Syndrome and Neurocognitive Function among older Hispanics/Latinos with HIV

Neurocognitive impairment is prevalent among persons with HIV (PWH), particularly among Hispanics/Latinos/as/x (henceforth Hispanics). We examined disparities in HIV-associated neurocognitive function between older Hispanic and non-Hispanic White PWH, and the potential role of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in explaining these disparities. Participants included 116 community-dwelling PWH ages 50-75, who were enrolled in a cohort study in southern California (58 Hispanic [53% Spanish-speaking] and 58 age-comparable non-Hispanic White; Overall group: Age: M=57.9, SD=5.7; Education: M=13, SD=3.4; 83% male, 58% AIDS, 94% on antiretroviral therapy [ART], 4% detectable plasma RNA). A global neurocognition score was derived from T-Scores on a comprehensive neurocognitive battery, with separate demographic adjustments for English and Spanish-speakers. MetS was ascertained via standard criteria that considered central obesity, elevated triglycerides, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and elevated fasting glucose, as well as current medical treatment for these conditions. Covariates examined included sociodemographic, psychiatric, substance use and HIV-disease characteristics. Hispanics had higher rates of MetS (56%) than non-Hispanic Whites (37%; p<.05). A stepwise regression model on global neurocognition including ethnicity and covariates that differed between ethnic groups, selected only Hispanic ethnicity as a significant predictor (B=-3.82, SE=1.27, p<.01). A comparable model also including MetS showed that both Hispanic ethnicity (B=-3.39, SE=1.31, p=.01) and MetS (B=-2.73, SE=1.31, p=.04), were significantly associated with worse global neurocognition. Findings indicate that MetS does not fully explain disparities in neurocognitive function between Hispanic and non-Hispanic White older PWH, but rather is an independent predictor of neurocognitive function along with Hispanic ethnicity.

Biomarkers of Recent Cannabis Use in Blood, Oral Fluid and Breath

Proving driving under the influence of cannabis (DUIC) is difficult. Establishing a biomarker of recent use to supplement behavioral observations may be a useful alternative strategy. We determined whether cannabinoid concentrations in blood, oral fluid (OF), or breath could identify use within 3h, likely the period of greatest impairment. In a randomized trial, 191 frequent (≥4/week) and occasional (<4/week) cannabis users smoked one cannabis (placebo [0.02%], 5.9% or 13.4% THC) cigarette ad libitum. Blood, OF and breath samples were collected prior to and up to 6h after smoking. Samples were analyzed for 10 cannabinoids in OF, 8 in blood, and THC in breath. Frequent users had more residual THC in blood and were categorized as "recently used" prior to smoking; this did not occur in OF. Per se limits ranging from undetectable to 5 ng/mL THC in blood offered limited usefulness as biomarkers of recent use. Cannabinol (CBN, cutoff=1 ng/mL) in blood offered 100% specificity but only 31.4% sensitivity, resulting in 100% PPV and 94.0% NPV at 4.3% prevalence; but CBN may vary by cannabis chemovar. A 10 ng/mL THC cutoff in OF exhibited the overall highest performance to detect use within 3h (99.7% specificity, 82.4% sensitivity, 92.5% PPV, 99.2% NPV) but was still detectable in 23.2% of participants ~4.4h post smoking limiting specificity at later time points. OF THC may be a helpful indicator of recent cannabis intake, but this does not equate to impairment. Behavioral assessment of impairment is still required to determine DUIC. This study only involved cannabis inhalation and additional research evaluating alternative routes of ingestion (i.e., oral) is needed.

Blood and Oral Fluid Cannabinoid Profiles of Frequent and Occasional Cannabis Smokers

Increased prevalence of cannabis consumption and impaired driving are a growing public safety concern. Some states adopted per se driving laws, making it illegal to drive with more than a specified ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) blood concentration of THC in a biological fluid (typically blood). Blood THC concentrations decrease significantly (~90%) with delays in specimen collection, suggesting use of alternative matrices, such as oral fluid (OF). We characterized 10 cannabinoids' concentrations, including THC metabolites, in blood and OF from 191 frequent and occasional users by LC-MS-MS for up to 6 h after ad libitum smoking. Subjects self-titrated when smoking placebo, 5.9 or 13.4% THC cannabis. Higher maximum blood THC concentrations (Cmax) were observed in individuals who received the 5.9% THC versus the 13.4% THC plant material. In blood, the Cmax of multiple analytes, including THC and its metabolites, were increased in frequent compared to occasional users, whereas there were no significant differences in OF Cmax. Blood THC remained detectable (≥5 ng/mL) at the final sample collection for 14% of individuals who smoked either the 5.9% or 13.4% THC cigarette, whereas 54% had detectable THC in OF when applying the same cutoff. Occasional and frequent cannabis users' profiles were compared, THC was detectable for significantly longer in blood and OF from frequent users. Detection rates between frequent and occasional users at multiple per se cutoffs showed larger differences in blood versus OF. Understanding cannabinoid profiles of frequent and occasional users and the subsequent impact on detectability with current drug per se driving limits is important to support forensic interpretations and the development of scientifically supported driving under the influence of cannabis laws.

Antiretroviral Tenofovir Induces Senescence-Associated β-Galactosidase Activity in Primary Human Brain Vascular Cells in Multi-Layer Three-Dimensional Co-Culture

Introduction In the current context of early diagnosis of HIV infection, immediate initiation of antiretroviral (ARV) therapy, and lifelong chronic treatment, the potential ARV toxicity is of particular concern. Emtricitabine (FTC) and tenofovir (TFV) are commonly used as backbone drugs in ARV regimens recommended for initial therapy of HIV infection. Here we assessed the effects of FTC and TFV exposure on senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity, a marker of cellular senescence, in human brain vascular cells. Design Multi-layer three-dimensional cell co-cultures and in vitro assays. Methods To mimic the small vessel wall structure in vivo, three types of primary human brain vascular cells (endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and pericytes) were co-cultured on three Alvetex Scaffold disks placed on top of each other in order (three-layer three-dimensional cell co-cultures) and exposed to clinically relevant concentrations of ARV drugs (FTC, TFV, or FTC+TFV combination) or vehicle for eight days (four or five biological replicates per condition, 18 replicates totally). The SA-β-Gal activity was quantitatively assayed in vitro by using the chemiluminescent Galacto-Star System (T1012; Applied Biosystems, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA) in 54 protein lysates extracted from individual cell-culture disks. Three-factor analysis of variance (cell type, FTC, TFV) was used to assess differences in the SA-β-Gal activity levels normalized by the corresponding total protein concentrations. Results There was a trend for the FTC by TFV interaction effect on SA-β-Gal activity (P = 0.058). The effects of FTC and TFV were not significantly different among the three cell types. The overall effect of FTC was not significant when controlling for TFV and cell type. The overall effect of TFV was significant when controlling for FTC and cell type (F_(1,48) = 30.61, P < 0.001, partial η² = 0.389). In the absence of FTC, TFV raised SA-β-Gal activity by 0.631 units on average, regardless of cell type (P < 0.001, partial η² = 0.368). In the presence of FTC, TFV raised SA-β-Gal activity by 0.303 units on average, regardless of cell type (P = 0.015, partial η² = 0.118). Conclusion Our preliminary findings suggest that primary human brain vascular cells exposed to TFV at clinically relevant concentrations undergo cellular senescence. This potential adverse effect of TFV should be further studied in animal models of HIV infection.

Demographically adjusted normative data for the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test-64 item: Results from the Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project

OBJECTIVE

The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) is among the most commonly used tests of executive functioning. We aimed to generate normative data on the 64-item version of this test (WCST-64) for Spanish-speakers living in the U.S.-Mexico Border region.

METHODS

Participants included 189 native Spanish-speakers (Age: 19-60; Education: 0-20; 59.3% female) from the Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project who completed the WCST-64. Univariable and interactive associations between demographic variables and raw scores were examined via Spearman correlations, Wilcoxon Rank-sum tests and linear regressions. T-scores for various WCST-64 measures (Total Errors, Perseverative Responses, Perseverative Errors, Conceptual Level Responses and Number of Categories) were obtained using fractional polynomial equations with weights for age, education, and gender. Percentile scores were reported for Failures to Maintain Set. Rates of impairment (T-score < 40) were calculated by applying the newly developed norms and published norms for non-Hispanic English-speaking Whites and Blacks.

RESULTS

Older age was associated with worse performance and education was linked to better performance on most WCST-64 raw scores, with stronger education effects among females than males. The norms developed here resulted in expected rates of impairment (14-16% across measures). Applying published norms for non-Hispanic Blacks resulted in generally comparable impairment rates. In contrast, applying previously published norms for non-Hispanic Whites overestimated impairment (38-52% across measures).

CONCLUSIONS

These data will enhance interpretation performance on the WCST-64 for Spanish-speakers living in the U.S.-Mexico Border region. Future work will need to examine the generalizability of these norms to other Hispanic/Latino groups.

Demographically-adjusted norms for the processing speed subtests of the WAIS-III in a Spanish-speaking adult population: Results from the Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project

OBJECTIVE

The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) processing speed subtests are among the most ubiquitous indices of processing speed in the field. The aim of this study was to develop and examine demographically-adjusted normative data for Spanish language versions of the WAIS-III Digit Symbol Coding (DSC) and Symbol Search (SS) subtests for US-dwelling Spanish-speakers living in the US/Mexico border region.

METHODS

The sample included 203 healthy participants who were part of the larger Neuropsychological Norms for the US-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project (DSC: n = 201; SS: n = 200).

RESULTS

Older age and higher education were both related to lower scores on the DSC and SS subtests (all ps < .0001). There were no significant effects for gender (all ps > .05). Raw-to-scaled score conversions were calculated for both subtests, and fractional polynomial equations were derived to compute demographically-adjusted T-scores accounting for age, education, and gender for each subtest and the Processing Speed Index. Published norms for English-speaking non-Hispanic white adults slightly overestimated impairment rates (T-scores <40) on both the DSC and SS subtests, while the norms for English-speaking non-Hispanic Black/African Americans and the new NP-NUMBRS norms Spanish-speakers both yielded impairment rates that fell within expected limits for healthy controls (i.e. 13%-14%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that population-specific normative data can improve the diagnostic validity of these measures for U.S.-dwelling Spanish-speakers living in the US/Mexico border region. Future research is needed to investigate the utility of these norms for other U.S.-dwelling Spanish-speaking subpopulations (e.g. Caribbean, Central American, South American).

The Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) Project: Overview and considerations for life span research and evidence-based practice

OBJECTIVE

This paper summarizes the findings of the Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) Project and offers a roadmap for future research.

METHODS

The NP-NUMBRS project represents the largest and most comprehensive co-normed neuropsychological battery to date for native Spanish-speaking healthy adults from the U.S. (California/Arizona)-Mexico borderland region (N = 254; ages 19-60 years). These norms provide demographic adjustments for tests across numerous domains (i.e., verbal fluency, processing speed, attention/working memory, executive function, episodic memory [learning and delayed recall], visuospatial, and fine motor skills).

CONCLUSIONS

This project: 1) shows that the NP-NUMBRS norms consistently outperformed previously published norms for English-speaking non-Hispanic (White and African-American) adults in identifying impairment; 2) explores the role of Spanish-English bilingualism in test performance; and 3) provides support for the diagnostic validity of these norms in detecting HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment. Study limitations include the limited assessment of sociocultural variables and generalizability (e.g., other Latina/o populations, age limit [19 - 60 years]). Future research is needed to: 1) investigate these norms with U.S.-dwelling Spanish-speakers of non-Mexican heritage and other clinical subpopulations; 2) expand coverage of cognitive domains (e.g. language, visuospatial); 3) develop large normative datasets for children and older Latina/o populations; 4) examine how sociocultural factors impact performance (e.g., bilingualism, acculturation); 5) investigate these norms' diagnostic and ecological validity; and 6) develop norms for neurocognitive change across time. It is hoped that the NP-NUMBRS norms will aid researchers and clinicians working with U.S.-dwelling Spanish-speakers from the U.S.-Mexico borderland to conduct research and evidence-based neuropsychological evaluations in a more culturally responsive and ethical manner.

Demographically adjusted norms for the Trail Making Test in native Spanish speakers: Results from the neuropsychological norms for the US-Mexico border region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project

OBJECTIVE

Despite the wide use of the Trail Making Test (TMT), there is a lack of normative data for Spanish speakers living in the USA. Here we describe the development of regional norms for the TMT for native Spanish speakers residing in the Southwest Mexico-Border Region of the USA.

METHOD

Participants were 252 healthy native Spanish speakers, 58% women, from ages 19 to 60, and ranging in education from 0 to 20 years, recruited in San Diego, CA and Tucson, AZ. All completed the TMT in Spanish along with a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery as part of their participation in the Neuropsychological Norms for the US-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project. Univariable and interactive effects of demographics on test performance were examined. T-scores were calculated using fractional polynomial equations to account for linear and any non-linear effects of age, education, and sex.

RESULTS

Older age and lower education were associated with worse scores on both TMT A and B. No sex differences were found. The newly derived T-scores showed no association with demographic variables and displayed the expected 16% rates of impairment using a -1 SD cut point based on a normal distribution. By comparison, published norms for English-speaking non-Hispanic Whites applied to the current data yielded significantly higher impairment for both TMT A and B with more comparable rates using non-Hispanic African Americans norms.

CONCLUSIONS

Population-specific, demographically adjusted regional norms improve the utility and diagnostic accuracy of the TMT for use with native Spanish speakers in the US-Mexico Border region.

Demographically-adjusted norms for the paced auditory serial addition test and letter number sequencing test in Spanish-speaking adults: Results from the neuropsychological norms for the U.S.-Mexico border region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) Project

OBJECTIVE

The Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale Letter Number Sequencing subtest (LNS) are two commonly used measures of working memory. Demographic variables (age, education, ethnicity, etc.) can impact performance on these measures, underscoring the need for demographically adjusted norms. We aimed to develop normative data for the PASAT and LNS for Spanish-speaking adults living in the U.S.-Mexico border region as part of a larger normative effort.

METHOD

Participants were native Spanish-speakers from the Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S. Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project. Two hundred and forty-nine participants completed the PASAT and 202 participants completed LNS. Ages ranged from 19 to 60 and education from 0 to 20 years.

RESULTS

Older age was associated with lower scores on LNS (p < .01) but not PASAT. Lower education was associated with lower scores on both tests (ps < .001). Women obtained lower raw scores than men on PASAT (ps < .003), and there were no significant main effects of gender on LNS raw scores. Raw-to-scaled score conversions were calculated, and fractional polynomial equations were developed to calculate demographically-adjusted T-scores accounting for age, education, and gender. Published norms for English-speaking non-Hispanic Whites substantially overestimated rates of impairment (defined as T-score < 40) on both the PASAT and LNS.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of the population-specific normative data may improve detection of working memory dysfunction in U.S. Spanish-speaking adults and contribute to improved diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning in this population. Whether the norms generalize to U.S. Spanish-speakers from other countries remains to be determined.

Updated demographically adjusted norms for the Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-revised and Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-revised in Spanish-speakers from the U.S.-Mexico border region: The NP-NUMBRS project

OBJECTIVE

We generated demographically adjusted norms for the Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-revised (BVMT-R) and the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-revised (HVLT-R) for Spanish-speakers from the U.S.-Mexico border region as part of a larger normative project. Methods: Healthy native Spanish-speakers (n = 203; Age: 19-60 years; Education: 0-20 years, 59% women) living in Arizona (n = 63) and California (n = 140) completed the BVMT-R and the HVLT-R as part of the larger Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project. Raw scores were converted to T-scores utilizing fractional polynomial equations, which considered linear and non-linear effects of demographic variables (age, education, sex). To demonstrate the benefit of employing our population-specific norms, we computed the proportion of our participants whose test performance fell below one standard deviation (T-score < 40) when applying published norms from non-Hispanic English-speakers, compared to the base rate derived from the new normative sample. Results: The resulting demographically adjusted T-scores showed the expected psychometric properties and corrected the misclassification in rates of impairment that were obtained when applying norms based on the English-speaking sample. Unexpectedly, participants in Arizona obtained slightly lower HVLT-R T-scores than those in California. This site effect was not explained by available sociodemographic or language factors. Supplementary formulas were computed adjusting for site in addition to demographics. Conclusions: These updated norms improve accuracy in identification of learning and memory impairment among Spanish-speaking adults living in the U.S.-Mexico border region. It will be important to generate additional data for elders, as the present norms are only applicable to adults age 60 and younger.

Demographically-adjusted norms for the Grooved Pegboard and Finger Tapping tests in Spanish-speaking adults: Results from the Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) Project

OBJECTIVE

We developed demographically-corrected norms for Spanish-speakers from the U.S.-Mexico border regions of California and Arizona on two tests of motor skills - the Grooved Pegboard Test (Pegboard) and Finger Tapping Test (Tapping) - as part of a larger normative effort.

METHOD

Participants were native Spanish-speakers from the Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) Project (Pegboard: N = 254; Tapping: N = 183; age: 19-60 years; education: 0-20 years; 59% women). We examined the association of demographics (age, education and gender) with raw scores. Raw test scores were then converted to demographically-corrected T-scores via fractional polynomial equations. We also examined rates of impairment (T-score < 40) based on the current norms and on previously published norms for English-speaking non-Hispanic Whites and Blacks.

RESULTS

Having more years of education was associated with better raw test score performance on both tests (p < .001), and increased age was associated with worse performance on Pegboard (p < .001). Men outperformed women on Tapping, and older age was associated with lower raw scores in men only on the Tapping non-dominant hand trial (p = .02). The normed T-scores were confirmed to be normally distributed and free from demographic influences, and resulted in expected rates of impairment. Applying existing norms for English-speaking non-Hispanic Whites and Blacks to the raw scores of Spanish-speakers generally yielded lower than expected impairment rates (2-13%), with one exception: non-dominant Pegboard, for which non-Hispanic White norms overestimated impairment (23%).

CONCLUSIONS

Present findings underscore the importance of appropriate, population-specific normative data, even for tests of motor ability.

Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) Project: Methodology and sample characteristics

OBJECTIVE

The present paper describes the methodology and sample characteristics of the Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) Project, which aimed to generate demographically-adjusted norms for a battery of neuropsychological tests in this population.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 254 healthy Spanish-speakers, ages 19-60 years, recruited from the U.S.-Mexico border regions of Arizona (n = 102) and California (n = 152). Participants completed a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery assessing multiple domains (verbal fluency, speed of information processing, attention/working memory, executive function, learning and memory, visual-spatial skills and fine motor skills). Fluency in both Spanish and English was assessed with performance-based measures. Other culturally-relevant data on educational, social, and language background were obtained via self-report. Demographic influences on test performances were modeled using fractional polynomial equations that allow consideration of linear and non-linear effects.

RESULTS

There were no significant demographic differences between participants tested in Arizona and California. Age and gender were similar across education ranges. Two thirds of the sample were Spanish dominant and the remainder were considered bilingual. Individual articles in this Special Issue detail the generation of demographically adjusted T-scores for the various tests in the battery as well as an exploration of bilingualism effects.

DISCUSSION

Norms developed through the NP-NUMBRS project stand to improve the diagnostic accuracy of neuropsychological assessment in Spanish-speaking young-to-middle-aged adults living in the U.S.-Mexico border region. Application of the present norms to other groups should be done with caution.

Neurocognitive impairment in Spanish-speaking Latinos living with HIV in the US: Application of the neuropsychological norms for the US-Mexico border region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS)

Objective Latinos in the US are at increased risk for HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment (NCI). Most studies of US Latinos living with HIV have included primarily English-speakers only. We investigated the rate, pattern, and correlates of HIV-associated NCI in native Spanish-speaking Latinos living in the US near the Mexican border. Methods Participants included 407 native Spanish-speaking Latinos (Age: M = 37.65, SD = 10.0; Education: M = 10.75, SD = 4.1; 53% male): 153 persons living with HIV (PLWH; 56% AIDS) and 254 healthy controls. All participants completed comprehensive neuropsychological assessments in Spanish. Raw neuropsychological test scores from seven domains were converted to demographically-adjusted T-scores using norms developed with healthy controls. Global and domain NCI were defined per established criteria. Among PLWH we applied norms developed for non-Hispanic (NH) Whites and Blacks, and investigated correlates of global NCI, including HIV disease characteristics and psychiatric comorbidities. Results Utilizing population specific norms, rates of global NCI were significantly higher among PLWH (39%) than healthy controls (17%), comparable to previously published rates. In contrast, rates of global NCI in the same group of PLWH were significantly different when NH White norms (63%, p < 0.0001) and NH Black norms were used (18%, p < 0.0001). Among PLWH without a history of lifetime substance use disorder, more years of antiretroviral exposure were significantly associated with decreased rates of global NCI. Conclusions Present findings lend support to the validity of newly developed norms for native Spanish-speakers living near the US-Mexico border, and underscore the importance of utilizing appropriate norms to accurately identify HIV-associated NCI.

Asymptomatic Malaria Co-infection of HIV-Infected Adults in Nigeria: Prevalence of and Impact on Cognition, Mood, and Biomarkers of Systemic Inflammation

BACKGROUND

HIV and malaria are associated with immunological perturbations and neurocognitive disorders even when asymptomatic. However, the effect of asymptomatic malaria (AM) in HIV-infected adults on neurocognitive impairment (NCI) is not well understood. This study investigated the biomarkers of systemic inflammation and neurocognition in dually infected Nigerian adults.

METHODS

We assessed the HIV and AM status of 269 adults and measured their global and domain-specific neurocognition and depression using standardized measures. Blood levels of sCD14 and sCD163 were also measured.

RESULTS

The mean age of the participants (n = 269) was 33 years, 62% were women, and AM among HIV+ and HIV- was similar (36% versus 37%). NCI was found in 23% (62/269) of participants. HIV+/AM+ had a higher prevalence of impaired learning and executive functions and were more depressed than HIV-/AM- or HIV+/AM-. HIV+ with CD4 T-cell counts ≤200/µL were more impaired in the learning domain than those with >200/µL. HIV+/AM+ group had higher levels of sCD14 compared to the other 3 groups and higher levels of sCD163 than the HIV-/AM- group. Higher levels of sCD14 and sCD163 were each associated with NCI. The sCD163 (log10) levels were higher for those with 1+ versus 2+ parasitemia level.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV and AM coinfection was associated with an increased risk of reduced learning and executive functions, and elevated systemic inflammation. Mood was more depressed in HIV patients with than those without AM. The mechanisms and long-term effects on neurocognition and depression among HIV+/AM+ individuals should be studied because this coinfection is common globally.

Effects of HIV infection, antiretroviral therapy, and immune status on the speed of information processing and complex motor functions in adult Cameroonians

HIV-associated neurocognitive deficits include impaired speed-of-information processing (SIP) and motor functions. There is lack of Cameroonian adult norms for assessing SIP or motor functions. This study of 683 Cameroonians (320 HIV+, 363 HIV-) establishes demographically-adjusted norms for six SIP [Wechsler-Adult-Intelligence-Scale (WAIS)-III Digit Symbol (WAIS-IIIDS) and Symbol Search (WAIS-IIISS), Stroop Color-Naming, Stroop Word-Reading, Trail-Making Test-A (TMT-A), Color Trails-1 (CTT1)], and two motor function [Grooved Pegboard-dominant (GP-DH) and non-dominant (GP-NDH) hands] tests. We assessed viral effects on SIP and motor functions. HIV-infected persons had significantly lower (worse) T scores on GP-DH, WAIS-IIIDS, Stroop Word-Reading, TMT-A; lower motor and SIP summary T scores. Significantly higher proportion of cases (20.7%) than controls (10.3%) had impaired SIP. Male cases had better T scores than female cases on GP-NDH, WAIS-IIIDS, WAIS-IIISS, TMT-A, CTT1; better SIP summary T scores. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) was associated with significantly better T scores on GP-NDH, WAIS-IIIDS, Stroop Color-Naming; better motor and SIP summary T scores. Cases with higher CD4 had better T scores on WAIS-IIIDS, TMT-A, CTT1; better SIP summary T scores. Overall, we demonstrate that HIV infection in Cameroon is associated with deficits in SIP and motor functions; ART and higher CD4 are associated with better cognitive performance. We provide SIP and psychomotor functions normative standards, which will be useful for neurobehavioral studies in Cameroon of diseases affecting the brain.

Impact of Latent Tuberculosis Infection on Neurocognitive Functioning and Inflammation in HIV-Infected and Uninfected South Indians

BACKGROUND

HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder persists in some people living with HIV despite optimal antiretroviral therapy. Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) may cause systemic inflammation and immune activation that may impair brain function. We assessed cognition and biomarkers of inflammation in both HIV+ and HIV- South Indians with and without LTBI.

METHODS

Adults (≥18 years old) with and without HIV infection were screened for LTBI by interferon-gamma release assays, completed comprehensive neurocognitive assessments, and underwent measurement of serum inflammatory biomarker levels.

RESULTS

The participants (n = 119) were HIV+/LTBI+ (n = 15), HIV+/LTBI- (n = 50), HIV-/LTBI+ (n = 26), and HIV-/LTBI- (n = 28). HIV+ participants, regardless of LTBI status, had more impaired global deficit scores than HIV- participants (odds ratio = 3.42, P = 0.028, adjusted for sex and education differences). Neither global deficit scores nor impairment rates differed in the LTBI+ group compared with the LTBI- group (P = 0.79 and P = 0.41, respectively). The mean log10 interleukin (IL)-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 values were significantly higher and high sensitivity C-reactive protein lower in the LTBI+ group than the LTBI- group (P = 0.044, 0.023, and 0.03, respectively, adjusting for HIV status and sex).

CONCLUSIONS

In this cross-sectional study of South Indians, HIV infection, but not LTBI, was associated with increased neurocognitive impairment. Proinflammatory biomarkers (IL-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, but not tumor necrosis factor-α) were elevated in the LTBI+ groups compared with the LTBI- groups. Biomarkers of immune activation (interferon-γ, macrophage inflammatory protein-1β, IL-2, interferon gamma inducible protein-10, RANTES, and IL-22) did not differ between these groups. Larger longitudinal studies should be conducted to confirm our findings that the effect of LTBI on systemic inflammation or neurocognitive impairment is likely small.

Emotional health outcomes are influenced by sexual minority identity and HIV serostatus

For people living with HIV (PLWH) and sexual minorities (SM), the intersection of identities can compound experiences like stigma and discrimination resulting in poor emotional health. We investigated the separate and interactive associations of HIV serostatus and sexual identity with emotional health. Our dataset included 371 participants. Emotional health was assessed by the NIH Toolbox emotion battery which yields negative affect, social satisfaction, and psychological well-being. Regressions were conducted for each composite, with HIV serostatus, sexual identity, and their interaction as independent variables along with covariates. The HIV serostatus x SM identity interaction was statistically significant in the regression of Negative Affect (p = .01): heterosexuals living with HIV had worse Negative Affect compared to heterosexual HIV-persons (p = .01). The interaction terms were for social satisfaction and psychological well-being were not significant. However, among PLWH, sexual minorities reported better Social Satisfaction (p = .03) and marginally better psychological well-being (p = .07) compared to heterosexuals.

The Effects of Low-Risk Drinking on Neurocognition Among Older Persons Living With HIV as Compared to Those Without HIV

BACKGROUND

Heavy alcohol use negatively impacts neurocognition, but some studies report neurocognitive benefits associated with light drinking among HIV-seronegative (HIV-) older persons, suggesting a nonlinear or an inverted "J-shaped" association of alcohol consumption on neurocognition. Alcohol use is common among people with HIV (PWH); however, the association between recent "low-risk" alcohol consumption and neurocognition among PWH is poorly understood.

METHODS

Participants included 310 PWH and 89 HIV- older (≥50 years) adults who reported alcohol abstinence or "low-risk" drinking, defined per the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism criteria (i.e., ≥15 drinks/wk or ≥5 drinks/d for men; ≥8 drinks/wk or ≥4 drinks/d for women). Neurocognition was measured using global and domain-specific demographically corrected T-scores. Multiple linear regressions examined the interaction between total drinks in the last 30 days (linear and quadratic terms) and HIV serostatus on neurocognition, covarying for age, sex, lifetime major depressive disorder, lifetime nonalcohol substance use disorders, and lifetime alcohol use disorder.

RESULTS

Total drinks consumed in the last 30 days did not differ by HIV serostatus (p = 0.202). Among HIV- older adults, quadratic effects of total drinks on neurocognition occurred such that optimal neurocognition (i.e., global function, executive function, learning, delayed recall, and motor skills) was detected at intermediate levels of "low-risk" drinking (~20 to 40 drinks), with poorer performance at the lower and higher ranges of "low-risk" consumption. In PWH, total drinks did not exhibit linear or quadratic associations with neurocognition.

CONCLUSIONS

In HIV- "low-risk" drinkers, intermediate levels of recent alcohol use were associated with better neurocognition, consistent with the inverted J-shaped association. The same nonlinear effect of recent alcohol consumption on neurocognition was absent in PWH, indicating there may be no beneficial or deleterious effects of low-risk alcohol consumption on neurocognition among PWH. Future research is warranted to examine associations between alcohol consumption and HIV-related biopsychosocial disadvantages that may supersede the neurocognitive benefits of alcohol.

Demographically-adjusted norms for selected tests of verbal fluency: Results from the Neuropsychological Norms for the US-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project

OBJECTIVE

Verbal fluency tests are sensitive to various disorders affecting the central nervous system and are commonly included in neuropsychological evaluations. We aimed to develop normative data for two verbal fluency tests in a sample of native Spanish-speakers living in the US-Mexico border region.

METHOD

Participants included 254 adults from the Neuropsychological Norms for the US-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) Project (Age: range = 19-60; Education: range = 0-20, 59% female). Participants completed two verbal fluency tests (i.e., letter [PMR] and semantic/category fluency [Animal Naming]) as part of a larger neuropsychological test battery. We examined linear and nonlinear effects of demographic factors (age, education, and gender) on verbal fluency raw scores, and developed T-scores using fractional polynomial equations controlling for demographics. We also calculated the rates of "impairment" (T-scores < 40) that would be obtained by applying the newly developed norms and available norms for non-Hispanic English-speakers on comparable tests.

RESULTS

There were positive small effects of age and medium effects of education on verbal fluency raw scores. The normalized distribution of T-scores with the new norms showed expected psychometric properties. However, rates of impairment for both letter and semantic fluency were significantly higher when applying non-Hispanic White norms, and significantly lower when applying non-Hispanic Black norms.

CONCLUSIONS

We provide norms for Spanish-speakers living along the US-Mexico border region for two verbal fluency tests that are co-normed with a more extensive neuropsychological battery. These regional norms will improve interpretation of verbal fluency test performance in Spanish-speakers living in the US-Mexico borderland.

Introduction to the Neuropsychological Norms for the US-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) Project

OBJECTIVE

The present introduction to the Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project aims to provide an overview of the conceptual framework and rationale that guided the development of this project.

METHODS

We describe important aspects of our conceptual framework, which was guided by some of the main purposes of neuropsychological testing, including the identification of underlying brain dysfunction, and the characterization of cognitive strengths and weakness relevant to everyday functioning. We also provide our rationale for focusing this norm development project on Spanish-speakers in the United States, and provide an outline of the articles included in this Special Issue focused on the NP-NUMBRS project.

CONCLUSIONS

The data presented in this Special Issue represent an important tool for clinicians and researchers working in the neuropsychological assessment of Spanish-speakers in the United States.

Cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis as a predictive factor for CSF and plasma HIV RNA discordance and escape

The aims of this study were to investigate the frequency of HIV-1 RNA level discordance between the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma and of CSF viral escape (CVE) in patients with HIV-1 subtype C on antiretroviral therapy, and evaluate the CSF white blood cell (WBC) performance characteristics in predicting CSF discordance in HIV+ group and the frequency of cognitive impairment in individuals with CSF HIV discordance or escape. HIV-1 RNA levels were assessed in plasma and CSF samples from 68 HIV+ participants without opportunistic infection. CSF discordance was found in 7.4% and CVE in 10%, with comparable frequencies between HIV-1B and C. Twenty samples (29%) showed increased CSF WBC counts. This group had higher CSF and plasma HIV-1 RNA levels than the group with normal WBC counts (p < 0.0001 and 0.006, respectively). The odds of CSF discordance were 18 times higher for a person with CSF WBC count of > 5 cells/mm3 than the group with normal CSF WBC count. CSF WBC counts (cut-off of 15 cells/mm3) showed high-performance characteristics as a predictive biomarker of CSF discordance (AUC the ROC curve 0.98). The frequency of cognitive impairment for CSF escape or discordance was 83% and 80%. The odds of cognitive impairment in these groups were 19 and 15 times higher than those for an HIV(-) person. Viral discordance or escape in the CNS occurs at a comparable frequency for HIV-1C and HIV-1B. The CSF WBC count was effective as a predictive biomarker of CSF and plasma discordance.

Demographically-adjusted norms for the WAIS-R Block Design and Arithmetic subtests: Results from the Neuropsychological Norms for the US-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) project

OBJECTIVE

Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) Block Design and Arithmetic subtests are frequently used as measures of visuospatial construction and verbal working memory, respectively. As part of a larger test adaptation and norming effort for this population, we generated and investigated demographically-adjusted interpretive norms for WAIS-R Block Design and Arithmetic in Spanish-speaking adults living in the US-Mexico border region.

METHOD

Participants included 183 community-dwelling adults ages 20-55 (education range: 0-20 years; 58% women) from the NeuroPsychological-Norms for the US-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS) Project. They completed the WAIS-R Block Design and Arithmetic subtests in Spanish. Demographically-adjusted T-scores were calculated for these subtests using fractional polynomial equations adjusting for linear and non-linear effects of age, education (continuous), and sex. We compared our rates of impairment (i.e. T < 40) against rates calculated using published English-speaking WAIS-R standardization sample norms adjusted for age, education, and sex.

RESULTS

Education was positively associated with performance on Block Design and Arithmetic subtests, and men outperformed women on both subtests. The present Spanish-speaker norms for these subtests yielded expected rates of "impairment" (i.e. 15-16% impaired, a 1 SD cutoff), while existing norms for English-speakers underestimated impairment (i.e. 5-6% impaired) when applied to our Spanish-speaking sample.

CONCLUSIONS

Regional normative data will improve interpretation of test performance on Block Design and Arithmetic subtests for Spanish-speakers living in the US-Mexico border region and may aid in bolstering the overall analysis of neuropsychological profile patterns in this population. Cross-validation with Spanish-speakers in other regions and/or with other national origins is needed.

Demographically adjusted normative data for the Halstead category test in a Spanish-speaking adult population: Results from the Neuropsychological Norms for the U.S.-Mexico Border Region in Spanish (NP-NUMBRS)

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to develop norms applicable to Spanish-speakers living in the United States (U.S.)- Mexico border region for the Halstead Category Test (HCT), a test of executive function.

METHODS

Healthy native Spanish-speakers (N = 252; Age: range 19-60 years, M = 37.28, SD = 10.24; Education: range 0-20 years; M = 10.65, SD = 4.33; 58.33% women) living in the U.S.-Mexico border region of California and Arizona completed the HCT as part of a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery. The univariable and interactive effects of demographic variables on HCT raw scores were examined. Total scores were normed using fractional polynomial equations, controlling for age, education, and gender. T-scores were also computed for HCT scores of the current Spanish-speaking normative sample using published, demographically-adjusted norms for English-speaking non-Hispanic Whites and Blacks. Impairment rates (T-Scores < 40) were calculated using published and current norms.

RESULTS

Age was significantly associated with increased number of errors, and education and male gender were associated with decreased number of HCT errors (total raw scores). Applying norms developed for English-speaking non-Hispanic Whites and Blacks resulted in overestimation of impairment rates in the current sample (impairment: 48% with White norms and 27% with Black norms). This pattern was evident across levels of education except in participants with 13+ years of education, where rates of impairment using non-Hispanic Black norms were comparable to those based on newly developed norms.

CONCLUSION

The present study presents norms for the HCT in a sample of U.S. Spanish-speakers, providing an important tool for identifying executive dysfunction in this population.

Risk of developing cerebral β-amyloid plaques with posttranslational modification among HIV-infected adults

OBJECTIVES

Evidence of accelerated brain aging among HIV-infected adults argues for the increased risk of developing cerebral β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques. We compared the frequency of Aβ plaque-bearing cases in our HIV cohort with that in a general cohort reported by Braak et al. We explored posttranslationally modified Aβ forms (N3pE, E22P, phospho-Ser8) in plaques and E22P-Aβ in the postmortem cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the HIV cohort.

DESIGN

Clinicopathological study of HIV-infected adults.

METHODS

To assess frontal Aβ plaque deposition, we conducted immunohistochemistry for generic Aβ (4G8) and three modified Aβ forms. We determined CSF E22P-Aβ levels by ELISA.

RESULTS

We found 4G8-Aβ plaques in 29% of 279 HIV-infected cases. Within the age range of 31-70 years, the frequency of 4G8-Aβ plaque-bearing cases was higher in our HIV cohort (n = 273) compared with the general cohort (n = 1110) overall (29.3 vs. 25.8%) and across four age groups by decade (odds ratio 2.35, P < 0.0001). In HIV-infected cases with (n = 37) and without (n = 12) 4G8-Aβ plaques, modified Aβ forms occurred in order: N3pE, E22P, and phospho-Ser8. In CSF assays of HIV-infected cases with (n = 27; 17 focal, 10 widespread) and without (n = 11) 4G8-Aβ plaques, the median E22P-Aβ/Aβ40 ratio was higher among cases with widespread plaques than in cases with focal or absent plaques (P = 0.047).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest HIV-infected adults are at increased risk of developing cerebral Aβ plaques. The occurrence of modified Aβ forms in order suggests the progression stages of Aβ plaque deposition. The potential for E22P-Aβ as a CSF biomarker of cerebral Aβ plaques should be investigated.

Predictors of Neurocognitive Impairment in Spanish-Speaking Latinos Living with HIV in the United States using Newly Developed Neuropsychological Test Norms

Objective

HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment (NCI) is prevalent and impactful. Yet, there is an absence of published studies that investigate its correlates among Spanish-speaking Latinos living in mainland US- a demographic that represents a large and vulnerable segment of the HIV+ population. The goal of the current study was to examine predictors of NCI among Spanish-speaking Latinos with HIV living in the United States.

Participants and Method

153 Spanish-speaking Latinos living with HIV from the US-Mexico border region (Age: M = 38.2, SD = 9.7; Education: M = 10.9, SD = 3.6; 73% female; 56% AIDS) completed comprehensive neuropsychological, neuromedical, and psychiatric evaluations in Spanish. Scores across 7 cognitive domains were converted to a Global Deficit Score (GDS) based on T-scores on individual tests using newly developed, region specific, and demographically-corrected norms for Spanish-speaking Latinos. NCI was determined using cutoff of GDS &gt; 0.5 (39.2% of sample). Examined predictors included HIV disease characteristics (e.g., AIDS status, current CD4 count, duration of antiretroviral therapy (ART) exposure) and psychiatric comorbidities.

Results

A multivariable logistic regression - including predictors that were associated with NCI in univariable analyses - showed a significant interaction between lifetime history of substance use disorder (LT SUD) and duration of ART exposure, after accounting for AIDS status (LR Chi2 = 3.99, p = 0.046). Stratified analyses showed that among participants who did not have LT SUD, longer ART exposure was associated with decreased NCI (p = 0.01), while rates of NCI among those with LT SUD were not influenced by months of ART exposure (p = 0.91).

Conclusions

Present findings showed that HIV disease burden and psychiatric characteristics might interact to impact NCI among Spanish-speaking Latinos. Considering these influences may help in the provision of comprehensive care to Spanish-speaking, Latino minority groups that suffer from NCI and HIV.

Normative Data for Wisconsin Card Sorting Test-64 Item in a Spanish Speaking Adult Population Living in the US/Mexico Border Region

Objective

The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) is a commonly used test of executive functioning. We aimed to generate norms on the WCST-64 item version for Spanish-speakers living in the US.

Participants and Method

Healthy Spanish-speakers (N=189) were recruited (Age M = 38.2, SD = 10.3, range 19-60; Education M = 10.9, SD = 4.5, range 0-20; 59.3% female) from the US-Mexico border region. Participants completed the WCST-64 as part of a larger neuropsychological battery. Spearman correlations and Wilcoxon Rank-sum tests were used to assess associations between demographic variables and raw scores. T-scores enabling demographic corrections for various WCST-64 measures (Total Errors, Perseverative Responses, Perseverative Errors, and Number of Categories Completed) were obtained using fractional polynomial equations with corrections for age, education, and gender. Uncorrected percentile scores were reported for Failures to Maintain Set. Rates of neurocognitive impairment (NCI; T &lt; 40) were calculated by applying the newly developed norms along with published norms for non-Hispanic (NH) White and African American English-speakers.

Results

Older age was significantly associated with worse performance, and higher education was linked to better performance on most WCST-64 raw scores. Current norms resulted in expected rates of NCI (14-16% across measures). Applying norms for NH-Whites overestimated NCI (38-52% across measures). Applying norms for African Americans yielded NCI rates closer to what would be expected, with milder misclassifications (NCI: Total Errors = 14%, Perseverative Responses = 19%, Perseverative Errors = 10%).

Conclusions

Regional normative data will improve interpretation of test performance on the WCST-64 for Spanish-speakers of Mexican origin living in the US and will facilitate a more valid analysis of neuropsychological profile patterns in this population. Future research will need to explore the generalizability of these norms to other groups.

Demographically-Corrected Norms for the Grooved Pegboard Test and Finger Tapping Test in monolingual Spanish speakers from the U.S.-Mexico Border Region

Objective

We developed demographically-corrected norms for US-dwelling, Spanish-speaking Hispanics on two widely used tests of motor skills - the Grooved Pegboard Test (Pegs) and Finger Tapping Test (Tapping). We then examined the effects of applying established norms for non-Hispanic Caucasians (NH Whites) and non-Hispanic African Americans (NH Blacks) on motor test results from our Hispanic population.

Participants and Method

254 participants living in the US-Mexico border region of San Diego, CA and Tucson, AZ completed Pegs, and a subset (n = 183) completed Tapping. Age ranged from 19-60 and education from 0-20 years, with 59% women. Raw test scores were converted to demographically-corrected T-scores with a fractional polynomial procedure and compared to a fitted curve for the original data.

Results

Findings included significant main effects of education on both tests (p &lt; .001), and of age for Pegs (p &lt; .001). There was a significant interaction of sex and age on Tapping, such that older age was associated with lower scores in men only (p = .02). The resulting normative T-scores were confirmed to be free from demographic influences. Using a T &lt; 40 cut point, rates of impairment in the Spanish speaking normative sample for dominant (D) and nondominant (ND) hands, respectively, were 17% and 14% for Pegs, and 12% and 10% for Tapping. Applying existing norms for NH Whites and NH Blacks to the raw scores of Spanish speakers generally yielded lower impairment rates on all measures, with one exception, Pegs ND, for which NH White norms overestimated impairment (23%).

Conclusions

Normative standards from other groups are not a good fit for interpreting motor test performance in this Hispanic population, which in the current instance would have generally underdiagnosed fine motor impairment. These findings underscore the importance of appropriate, population-specific normative data- even for tests of motor ability.

Wirelessly observed therapy compared to directly observed therapy to confirm and support tuberculosis treatment adherence: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Excellent adherence to tuberculosis (TB) treatment is critical to cure TB and avoid the emergence of resistance. Wirelessly observed therapy (WOT) is a novel patient self-management system consisting of an edible ingestion sensor (IS), external wearable patch, and paired mobile device that can detect and digitally record medication ingestions. Our study determined the accuracy of ingestion detection in clinical and home settings using WOT and subsequently compared, in a randomized control trial (RCT), confirmed daily adherence to medication in persons using WOT or directly observed therapy (DOT) during TB treatment.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We evaluated WOT in persons with active Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex disease using IS-enabled combination isoniazid 150 mg/rifampin 300 mg (IS-Rifamate). Seventy-seven participants with drug-susceptible TB in the continuation phase of treatment, prescribed daily isoniazid 300 mg and rifampin 600 mg, used IS-Rifamate. The primary endpoints of the trial were determination of the positive detection accuracy (PDA) of WOT, defined as the percentage of ingestions detected by WOT administered under direct observation, and subsequently the proportion of prescribed doses confirmed by WOT compared to DOT. Initially participants received DOT and WOT simultaneously for 2-3 weeks to allow calculation of WOT PDA, and the 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated using the bootstrap method with 10,000 samples. Sixty-one participants subsequently participated in an RCT to compare the proportion of prescribed doses confirmed by WOT and DOT. Participants were randomized 2:1 to receive WOT or maximal in-person DOT. In the WOT arm, if ingestions were not remotely confirmed, the participant was contacted within 24 hours by text or cell phone to provide support. The number of doses confirmed was collected, and nonparametric methods were used for group and individual comparisons to estimate the proportions of confirmed doses in each randomized arm with 95% CIs. Sensitivity analyses, not prespecified in the trial registration, were also performed, removing all nonworking (weekend and public holiday) and held-dose days. Participants, recruited from San Diego (SD) and Orange County (OC) Divisions of TB Control and Refugee Health, were 43.1 (range 18-80) years old, 57% male, 42% Asian, and 39% white with 49% Hispanic ethnicity. The PDA of WOT was 99.3% (CI 98.1; 100). Intent-to-treat (ITT) analysis within the RCT showed WOT confirmed 93% versus 63% DOT (p < 0.001) of daily doses prescribed. Secondary analysis removing all nonworking days (weekends and public holidays) and held doses from each arm showed WOT confirmed 95.6% versus 92.7% (p = 0.31); WOT was non-inferior to DOT (difference 2.8% CI [-1.8%, 9.1%]). One hundred percent of participants preferred using WOT. WOT associated adverse events were <10%, consisting of minor skin rash and pruritus associated with the patch. WOT provided longitudinal digital reporting in near real time, supporting patient self-management and allowing rapid remote identification of those who needed more support to maintain adherence. This study was conducted during the continuation phase of TB treatment, limiting its generalizability to the entire TB treatment course.

CONCLUSIONS

In terms of accuracy, WOT was equivalent to DOT. WOT was superior to DOT in supporting confirmed daily adherence to TB medications during the continuation phase of TB treatment and was overwhelmingly preferred by participants. WOT should be tested in high-burden TB settings, where it may substantially support low- and middle-income country (LMIC) TB programs.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01960257.

Normative Data for the Halstead Category Test in a Spanish-Speaking Adult Population Living in the U.S./México Border Region

Objective

To provide norms applicable to Spanish-speakers living in the US- Mexico border region for the Halstead Category Test, a test of executive function.

Participants and Method

Healthy Spanish-speakers (n = 252) were recruited from the US–Mexico border regions (Age: M = 37.3, SD = 10.2, range 19-60; Education: M = 10.7, SD = 4.3, range 0-20; 58% female). Participants completed the Category Test as part of a larger neuropsychological test battery. Relationships between demographic variables and raw error scores were assessed using Spearman and Wilcoxon Rank-sum tests. Demographically corrected T-scores for the Category Test were normed using fractional polynomial equations accounting for age, education, and sex. For comparison, T-scores were also computed for the Spanish-speaking normative sample using published norms for English-speaking non-Hispanic Whites and African Americans, which were also adjusted for age, education and sex. Impairment rates based on -1SD (T &lt; 40) were calculated using both, published and current, norms.

Results

Older age was significantly associated with higher number of errors (Spearman ρ = 0.32, p &lt; .001) and higher education was associated with lower number of errors (Spearman ρ = -0.52, p &lt; .001), with no other significant demographic effects. Applying non-Hispanic norms resulted in overestimation of impairment rates in the Spanish-speaking sample (impairment rate: 48% with White norms and 27% with African American norms). This pattern was evident across levels of education except in participants with 13+ years of education, where rates of impairment using African American norms were comparable to those based on the newly developed norms.

Conclusions

The present study is the first to develop norms for the Category test in a sample of Spanish-speakers in the US-Mexico border region. These norms will provide tools for the assessment of executive function in this population. Research concerning generalizability of norms to other Spanish-speaking populations is needed.

Neurocognitive Impairment in Spanish-Speaking Latinos Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus in the United States: Validation of Neuropsychological Tests Norms

Objective

Latinos in the US are at increased risk for HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment (NCI). Yet, most studies in this group have included English-speakers only. We investigated the rate and pattern of HIV-associated NCI in Spanish-speaking Latinos from the US-Mexico border region by utilizing newly developed norms for this group, and compared it to previously published norms for English-speaking non-Latino Whites and Blacks/African Americans.

Participants and Method

Participants included 153 HIV+ Spanish-speaking Latinos (Age: M = 38.2, SD = 9.7; Education: M = 10.9, SD = 3.6; 27% female; 56% AIDS) living in the greater San Diego area. Participants completed comprehensive neuropsychological, neuromedical and psychiatric assessments in Spanish. The neuropsychological test battery employed in this study - and used extensively in prior studies of HIV- assesses seven ability domains. Raw test scores were converted to demographically-adjusted T-scores using regional norms for Spanish-speakers, and for non-Latino Whites and Blacks. NCI was defined per established criteria.

Results

Rate of global NCI was 39% using norms for Spanish-speaking Latinos, compared to 64% with White norms and 18% with Black norms. Using norms for Spanish speakers, domain specific NCI among those impaired was highest in executive function (68%), speed of information processing (65%), learning (51%), and working memory (50%). The pattern of HIV associated NCI varied when norms developed for non-Latino Whites and Blacks were used.

Conclusions

HIV+ Spanish speakers showed similar rates of global NCI to those in other HIV+ populations, when norms developed for this group were used. In contrast, use of non-Latino White and Black norms resulted in misclassification of impairment. The pattern of NCI differed based on the norms used. Present findings highlight the importance of utilizing norms developed for Spanish-speakers in the US in order to obtain more precise and valid depictions of cognition in this population.

Comparison of Rates of Impairment Between Three Sets of Normative Data for Spanish-speakers of Mexican Origin in a Healthy Cohort

Objective

With over 37 million Spanish-speakers, the US is the second country in the world with the largest number of Spanish-speakers. Identification of neurological dysfunction via neuropsychological testing for this language group requires knowledgeable application of available tests and normative data. Accordingly, we investigated whether rates of neurocognitive impairment (NCI) varied based on the Spanish language normative method used.

Method

Participants included 254 healthy native Spanish-speakers (Age: M = 37.3, SD = 10.4; Education: M = 10.7, SD = 4.3; 59% Female; 78.7% of known Mexican origin/descent) living in the US-Mexico border region. Participants completed the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Revised (HVLT-R), Trail Making Test (TMT) A&B, and Animal Naming in Spanish. Raw test scores were converted to demographically-adjusted T-scores based on normative adjustments developed for this population (Neuropsychological Norms for the US-Mexico Border Region in Spanish [NP-NUMBRS]) and norms developed based on samples in Mexico (Latin American Norms from Mexico [LAN-M] and NEUROPSI). Rates of NCI (T < 40) based on the different normative methods were compared via McNemar’s tests.

Results

Rates of NCI for NP-NUMBRS and NEUROPSI fell between the expected 15-17%. Compared to NP-NUMBRS, significantly lower rates were found when applying LAN-M for HVLT-R Total (4%) and Delayed Recall (8%), TMT-A (1%), and Animal Naming (10%; all ps < .0002). No significant differences were found for TMT-B (p > .05).

Conclusions

Present findings revealed that while the NP-NUMBRS and NEUROPSI norms yielded similar NCI rates, and LAN-M norms underestimated NCI on three tests. This highlights the importance of carefully considering available normative adjustments for Spanish-speakers when applying them to specific populations.