Abdominal obesity contributes to neurocognitive impairment in HIV-infected patients with increased inflammation and immune activation

Additive Effect of Metabolic Syndrome on Brain Atrophy in People Living with HIV-Magnetic Resonance Volumetry Study

With people living with HIV (PLWH) reaching the senium, the importance of aging-related comorbidities such as metabolic syndrome (MS) becomes increasingly important. This study aimed to determine the additive effect of MS on brain atrophy in PLWH. This prospective study included 43 PLWH, average age of 43.02 ± 10.93 years, and 24 healthy controls, average age of 36.87 ± 8.89 years. PLWH were divided into two subgroups: without MS and with MS, according to NCEP ATP III criteria. All patients underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on a 3T clinical scanner with MR volumetry, used for defining volumes of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) spaces and white and grey matter structures, including basal ganglia. A Student's t-test was used to determine differences in brain volumes between subject subgroups. The binary classification was performed to determine the sensitivity and specificity of volumetry findings and cut-off values. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. PLWH presented with significantly lower volumes of gray matter, putamen, thalamus, globus pallidus, and nc. accumbens compared to healthy controls; cut-off values were: for gray matter 738.130 cm3, putamen 8.535 cm3, thalamus 11.895 cm3, globus pallidus 2.252 cm3, and nc. accumbens 0.715 cm3. The volumes of CSF and left lateral ventricles were found to be higher in PLWH with MS compared to those without MS, where, with a specificity of 0.310 and sensitivity of 0.714, it can be assumed that PLWH with a CSF volume exceeding 212.83 cm3 are likely to also have MS. This suggests that PLWH with metabolic syndrome may exhibit increased CSF volume above 212.83 cm3 as a consequence of brain atrophy. There seems to be an important connection between MS and brain volume reduction in PLWH with MS, which may add to the accurate identification of persons at risk of developing HIV-associated cognitive impairment.

Genetic Variations in EIF2AK3 are Associated with Neurocognitive Impairment in People Living with HIV

Based on emerging evidence on the role for specific single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) in EIF2AK3 encoding the integrated stress response kinase PERK, in neurodegeneration, we assessed the association of EIF2AK3 SNVs with neurocognitive performance in people with HIV (PWH) using a candidate gene approach. This retrospective study included the CHARTER cohort participants, excluding those with severe neuropsychiatric comorbidities. Genome-wide data previously obtained for 1047 participants and targeted sequencing of 992 participants with available genomic DNA were utilized to interrogate the association of three noncoding and three coding EIF2AK3 SNVs with the continuous global deficit score (GDS) and global neurocognitive impairment (NCI; GDS ≥ 0.5) using univariable and multivariable methods, with demographic, disease-associated, and treatment characteristics as covariates. The cohort characteristics were as follows: median age, 43.1 years; females, 22.8%; European ancestry, 41%; median CD4 + T cell counts, 175/µL (nadir) and 428/µL (current). At first assessment, 70.5% used ART and 68.3% of these had plasma HIV RNA levels ≤ 200 copies/mL. All three noncoding EIF2AK3 SNVs were associated with GDS and NCI (all p < 0.05). Additionally, 30.9%, 30.9%, and 41.2% of participants had at least one risk allele for the coding SNVs rs1805165 (G), rs867529 (G), and rs13045 (A), respectively. Homozygosity for all three coding SNVs was associated with significantly worse GDS (p < 0.001) and more NCI (p < 0.001). By multivariable analysis, the rs13045 A risk allele, current ART use, and Beck Depression Inventory-II value > 13 were independently associated with GDS and NCI (p < 0.001) whereas the other two coding SNVs did not significantly correlate with GDS or NCI after including rs13045 in the model. The coding EIF2AK3 SNVs were associated with worse performance in executive functioning, motor functioning, learning, and verbal fluency. Coding and non-coding SNVs of EIF2AK3 were associated with global NC and domain-specific performance. The effects were small-to-medium in size but present in multivariable analyses, raising the possibility of specific SNVs in EIF2AK3 as an important component of genetic vulnerability to neurocognitive complications in PWH.

Elevated Plasma Protein Carbonyl Concentration Is Associated with More Abnormal White Matter in People with HIV

Structural brain abnormalities, including those in white matter (WM), remain common in people with HIV (PWH). Their pathogenesis is uncertain and may reflect multiple etiologies. Oxidative stress is associated with inflammation, HIV, and its comorbidities. The post-translational carbonylation of proteins results from oxidative stress, and circulating protein carbonyls may reflect this. In this cross-sectional analysis, we evaluated the associations between protein carbonyls and a panel of soluble biomarkers of neuronal injury and inflammation in plasma (N = 45) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF, n = 32) with structural brain MRI. The volume of abnormal WM was normalized for the total WM volume (nAWM). In this multisite project, all regression models were adjusted for the scanner. The candidate covariates included demographics, HIV disease characteristics, and comorbidities. Participants were PWH on virally suppressive antiretroviral therapy (ART) and were mostly white (64.4%) men (88.9%), with a mean age of 56.8 years. In unadjusted analyses, more nAWM was associated with higher plasma protein carbonyls (p = 0.002) and higher CCL2 (p = 0.045). In the adjusted regression models for nAWM, the association with plasma protein carbonyls remained significant (FDR p = 0.018). Protein carbonyls in plasma may be a valuable biomarker of oxidative stress and its associated adverse health effects, including within the central nervous system. If confirmed, these findings would support the hypothesis that reducing oxidative stress could treat or prevent WM injury in PWH.

The Impact of COVID-19 on People Living with HIV-1 and HIV-1-Associated Neurological Complications

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative pathogen of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a fatal respiratory illness. The associated risk factors for COVID-19 are old age and medical comorbidities. In the current combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) era, a significant portion of people living with HIV-1 (PLWH) with controlled viremia is older and with comorbidities, making these people vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19-associated severe outcomes. Additionally, SARS-CoV-2 is neurotropic and causes neurological complications, resulting in a health burden and an adverse impact on PLWH and exacerbating HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND). The impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 severity on neuroinflammation, the development of HAND and preexisting HAND is poorly explored. In the present review, we compiled the current knowledge of differences and similarities between SARS-CoV-2 and HIV-1, the conditions of the SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 and HIV-1/AIDS syndemic and their impact on the central nervous system (CNS). Risk factors of COVID-19 on PLWH and neurological manifestations, inflammatory mechanisms leading to the neurological syndrome, the development of HAND, and its influence on preexisting HAND are also discussed. Finally, we have reviewed the challenges of the present syndemic on the world population, with a particular emphasis on PLWH.

Obesity in HIV infection: host-pathogen interaction

OBJECTIVE

Both obesity and HIV infection are characterized by a state of chronic inflammation associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This review aims to assess the available literature on immune dysregulation in obesity and people with HIV infection (PWH).

DESIGN

A systematic review of peer-reviewed literature.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic literature search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and international conference abstracts for articles on the epidemiology of obesity in the general population and in PWH and the pathogenesis of obesity with a focus on inflammation and immune activation.

RESULTS

Of the 631 articles selected after title review, 490 met the inclusion criteria and 90 were included in the final selection. The selected studies highlight the increasing prevalence of obesity in PWH and a substantial role for antiretroviral treatment (ART) in its development. Pathogenesis of obesity and its associated inflammation derives from disturbances in adipose tissue (AT) immune function, focused on T-cell and macrophage function, with a switch to pro-inflammatory immune phenotype and resulting increases in pro-inflammatory chemokines, which contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome. Although dysregulation of these pathways is seen in both obesity and HIV, there remains a lack of human studies on AT inflammation in HIV.

CONCLUSION

Obesity is an emerging comorbidity in PWH, with a substantial overlap in immune dysregulation patterns seen in both conditions. How this immune dysfunction impacts on development of metabolic complications for both obesity and HIV infection, and whether targeting of AT-derived inflammation will improve outcomes in PWH requires further study.

Machine Learning Quantifies Accelerated White-Matter Aging in Persons With HIV

BACKGROUND

Persons with HIV (PWH) undergo white matter changes, which can be quantified using the brain-age gap (BAG), the difference between chronological age and neuroimaging-based brain-predicted age. Accumulation of microstructural damage may be accelerated in PWH, especially with detectable viral load (VL).

METHODS

In total, 290 PWH (85% with undetectable VL) and 165 HIV-negative controls participated in neuroimaging and cognitive testing. BAG was measured using a Gaussian process regression model trained to predict age from diffusion magnetic resonance imaging in publicly available normative controls. To test for accelerated aging, BAG was modeled as an age × VL interaction. The relationship between BAG and global neuropsychological performance was examined. Other potential predictors of pathological aging were investigated in an exploratory analysis.

RESULTS

Age and detectable VL had a significant interactive effect: PWH with detectable VL accumulated +1.5 years BAG/decade versus HIV-negative controls (P = .018). PWH with undetectable VL accumulated +0.86 years BAG/decade, although this did not reach statistical significance (P = .052). BAG was associated with poorer global cognition only in PWH with detectable VL (P < .001). Exploratory analysis identified Framingham cardiovascular risk as an additional predictor of pathological aging (P = .027).

CONCLUSIONS

Aging with detectable HIV and cardiovascular disease may lead to white matter pathology and contribute to cognitive impairment.

Effects of different integrase strand transfer inhibitors on body weight in patients with HIV/AIDS: a network meta-analysis

Background

Global antiretroviral therapy has entered a new era. Integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) has become the first choice in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) treatment. Because INSTI has high antiviral efficacy, rapid virus inhibition, and good tolerance. However, INSTIs may increase the risk of obesity. Each INSTI has its unique impact on weight gain in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS. This study systematically assessed different INSTIs in causing significant weight gain in HIV/AIDS patients by integrating data from relevant literature.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), and Wanfang databases were searched to find studies on the influence of different INSTIs in weight gain. Data on weight change were extracted, and a network meta-analysis was performed.

Results

Eight studies reported weight changes in HIV/AIDS patients were included. Results of the network meta-analysis showed that the weight gain of HIV/AIDS patients treated with Dolutegravir (DTG) was significantly higher than that of Elvitegravir (EVG) [MD = 1.13, (0.18–2.07)]. The consistency test results showed no overall and local inconsistency, and no significant difference in the results of the direct and indirect comparison was detected (p > 0.05). The rank order of probability was DTG (79.2%) > Bictegravir (BIC) (77.9%) > Raltegravir (RAL) (33.2%) > EVG (9.7%), suggesting that DTG may be the INSTI drug that causes the most significant weight gain in HIV/AIDS patients.

Conclusion

According to the data analysis, among the existing INSTIs, DTG may be the drug that causes the most significant weight gain in HIV/AIDS patients, followed by BIC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-022-07091-1.

Learning and memory function in young people with and without perinatal HIV in England

Learning and memory are important for successful education and career progression. We assess these functions in young people (YP) with perinatal HIV (PHIV) (with or without a previous AIDS-defining illness) and a comparable group of HIV-negative YP. 234 PHIV and 68 HIV-negative YP completed 9 tests; 5 National Institutes of Health (NIH) Toolbox tests (2 executive function, 1 speed of information processing, 2 memory); 2 Hopkins Verbal Learning Test Revised (HVLT-R) (learning (L), delayed recall (R)), and 2 verbal application measures. Z-scores for each test were calculated using normative data and averaged by domain where appropriate. The effect of predictors on test scores in the three domains with the lowest z-scores were analysed using linear regression. 139(59%) and 48(71%) PHIV and HIV-negative YP were female, 202(86%) and 52(76%) Black, and median age was 19 [17, 21] and 18 [16, 21] years respectively. 55(24%) PHIV had a previous Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) class C AIDS-defining diagnosis (PHIV/C). For HVLT-R, there was a trend towards PHIV/C YP having the lowest mean z-scores (L -1.5 (95% CI -1.8,-1.2), R -1.7 (-2.0,-1.4)) followed by PHIV without a CDC C diagnosis (L -1.3 (-1.4,-1.1), R -1.4 (-1.5,-1.2)) and then the HIV-negative group (L -1.0 (-1.3,-0.7), R -1.1 (-1.3,-0.8)); all were greater than 1 SD below the reference mean. The same trend was seen for verbal application measures; however, z-scores were within 1 SD below the reference mean. NIH Toolbox tests were similar for all groups. In multivariable analyses PHIV/C and Black ethnicity predicted lower HVLT-R scores. Black ethnicity also predicted lower executive function scores, however each year increase in age predicted higher scores. In conclusion, cognitive performance in verbal learning and recall fell below population normative scores, and was more pronounced in PHIV/C, supporting wider findings that earlier antiretroviral therapy initiation, before the occurrence of AIDS-defining conditions, may protect aspects of cognitive development.

Weight Gain and Metabolic Syndrome in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Patients

While human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated wasting has declined with significant advances in antiretroviral therapy (ART), weight gain and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are now becoming a problem for people living with HIV (PLWH) worldwide. The development of a new and more effective ART regimen has increased viral suppression and improved immunologic function recovery, leading to the extension of the lifespan of PLWH. It has recently been reported as one of the significant factors associated with weight gain, obesity, and long-term metabolic consequences in PLWH. This article reviewed the epidemiology of overweight and MetS among PLWH and the known risk factors for weight gain and its major comorbidities, such as dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, neurocognitive disorders, and liver diseases, in PLWH. In addition, reports on the pharmacological and surgical management of overweight and obesity in PLWH has been briefly summarized.

Central Nervous System Effects of COVID-19 in People with HIV Infection

The convergence of the HIV and SARS-CoV-2 pandemics is an emerging field of interest. In this review, we outline the central nervous system (CNS) effects of COVID-19 in the general population and how these effects may manifest in people with HIV (PWH). We discuss the hypothetical mechanisms through which SARS-CoV-2 could impact the CNS during both the acute and recovery phases of infection and the potential selective vulnerability of PWH to these effects as a result of epidemiologic, clinical, and biologic factors. Finally, we define key research questions and considerations for the investigation of CNS sequelae of COVID-19 in PWH.

Screening for mild cognitive impairment in people with obesity: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Recent evidence demonstrates that obesity is associated with developing cognitive impairment. However, evidence related to the assessment of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in people with obesity is limited. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to examine evidence concerning the screening of MCI in people with obesity from the general population.

METHOD

We conducted a systematic search of CINHAL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and PubMed electronic databases for observational studies to assess MCI in people with obesity from the general population. PRISMA guideline was followed. The articles published from January 2011 to July 2021 were included.

RESULTS

Database search found 3104 sources. After the screening process, two articles from China and Egypt were included. The main age groups assessed were middle-aged adulthood and older adulthood. There were no studies undertaken in young adults or across the life span. Obesity was assessed by body mass index. MCI was assessed by cognitive screening tools; Mini-mental State Examination and Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination. The prevalence of MCI in people with obesity was 18.5 % and 42.9 % in Chinese and Egyptian studies, respectively. Only one study supported a positive association between MCI and obesity.

CONCLUSIONS

Limited studies were found on screening MCI in people with obesity in the general population. The available evidence was not adequate to explain the overall prevalence, possible associations, and the best tool for assessing MCI in people with obesity. Expanding screening studies for MCI in people with obesity in the general population is essential.

Components of metabolic syndrome associated with lower neurocognitive performance in youth with perinatally acquired HIV and youth who are HIV-exposed uninfected

We investigated the association of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components [abdominal obesity, elevated triglycerides (TG), low HDL cholesterol, elevated blood pressure (BP), and impaired fasting glycemia (IFG)] with neurocognitive impairment in youth with perinatally acquired HIV (YPHIV) or who are perinatally HIV-exposed uninfected (YPHEU). This was an observational study with a comparison group of 350 YPHIV and 68 YPHEU ages 10-19 years. Youth with MetS components measured between 1 year before and 3 months after a baseline neurocognitive assessment (Wechsler Intelligence Scale) were selected from the Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cohort Study (PHACS). A sub-group completed another assessment 3 years later. We assessed the association of each baseline MetS component with five standardized neurocognitive indices at baseline and changes in indices over time. At baseline, 15% of YPHIV and 18% of YPHEU met criteria for ≥ 2 MetS components. Among YPHIV, there was no association between MetS components and neurocognitive indices at baseline; however, over time, elevated baseline BP was associated with a greater decrease in mean Perceptual Reasoning scores (-4.3;95%CI: -8.8,0.3) and ≥ 2 MetS components with a greater decrease in mean Processing Speed scores (-5.1;95%CI: -9.4, -0.8). Among YPHEU, elevated TG was associated with lower mean Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Reasoning, and Full-scale IQ scores at baseline, and IFG with lower mean Verbal Comprehension scores. Components of MetS in YPHIV (elevated BP) and YPHEU (elevated TG and IFG) were associated with lower neurocognitive performance index scores. Studies to elucidate how modifying metabolic risk factors early in life may improve neurocognitive outcomes in this population are warranted.

Insult to Injury-Potential Contribution of Coronavirus Disease-19 to Neuroinflammation and the Development of HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-coronavirus (CoV)-2 is responsible for a new coronavirus disease known as coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). SARS-CoV-2 reports neurotropic properties and may have neurological implications, and this creates another health burden for people living with HIV. As yet, the impact of COVID-19 on (neuro)inflammation and the development of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) is not fully known. Here, we reviewed preliminary evidence that provides clues that COVID-19 may exacerbate inflammatory mechanisms related to the development of HAND.

Long-term weight gain after initiating combination antiretroviral therapy in treatment-naïve Asian people living with human immunodeficiency virus

OBJECTIVE

To investigate changes in weight following the initiation of antiretroviral therapy in treatment-naïve Asian people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH).

METHODS

This retrospective observational study evaluated adult treatment-naïve Asian PLWH who started antiretroviral therapy based on an integrase strand transfer inhibitor, a protease inhibitor or a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor at the AIDS Clinical Centre, Tokyo between January 2005 and February 2019. Patients were followed-up until October 2019. Multi-variate linear mixed-effects models were used to generate marginal predictions of weight over time. Predicted weight was reported at 3-month intervals until censoring or for 5 years after treatment initiation.

RESULTS

Five years after treatment initiation, average weight gain in PLWH who started on dolutegravir-, darunavir- and elvitegravir-based treatment was 5.3 kg, 4.1 kg and 4.6 kg, respectively, while those who started on raltegravir-, lopinavir- and atazanavir-based treatment gained an average of 1.9 kg, 2.1 kg and 2.3 kg, respectively. Average weight gain in PLWH who started treatment with the backbone drugs, tenofovir alafenamide, abacavir and tenofovir disproxil fumarateb was 4.1 kg, 3.0 kg and 3.0 kg, respectively, and those treated with dolutegravir plus tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine gained an average of 6.7 kg.

CONCLUSIONS

Antiretroviral-therapy-associated weight gain continued to increase for 5 years following treatment initiation. A combination of dolutegravir and tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine was associated with the greatest weight gain.

Cerebrospinal fluid immune markers and HIV-associated neurocognitive impairments: A systematic review

HIV-1 is responsible for the development of a spectrum of cognitive impairments known as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND). In the era of antiretroviral therapy (ART), HAND remains prevalent in people living with HIV (PLWH), despite low or undetectable viral loads. Persistent neuroinflammation likely plays an important role in the contributing biological mechanisms. Multiple cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) immune markers have been studied but it is unclear which markers most consistently correlate with neurocognitive impairment. We therefore conducted a systematic review of studies of the association of CSF immune markers with neurocognitive performance in ART-experienced PLWH. We aimed to synthesize the published data to determine consistent findings and to indicate the most noteworthy CSF markers of HAND. Twenty-nine studies were included, with 20 cross-sectional studies and 9 longitudinal studies. From the group of markers most often assayed, specific monocyte activation (higher levels of Neopterin, sCD163, sCD14) and neuroinflammatory markers (higher levels of IFN-γ, IL-1α, IL-7, IL-8, sTNFR-II and lower levels of IL-6) showed a consistent direction in association with HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment. Furthermore, significant differences exist in CSF immune markers between HIV-positive people with and without neurocognitive impairment, regardless of viral load and nadir/current CD4⁺ count. These markers may be useful in furthering our understanding of the neuropathology, diagnosis and prognosis of HAND. Studies using prospective designs (i.e. pre- and post-interventions), "multi-modal" methods (e.g. imaging, inflammation and neurocognitive evaluations) and utilizing a combination of the markers most commonly associated with HAND may help delineate the mechanisms of HAND.

Baseline 10-Year Cardiovascular Risk Scores Predict Cognitive Function in Older Persons, and Particularly Women, Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and associated comorbidities increase the risk of cognitive impairment in persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH). Given the potential composite effect of multiple cardiovascular risk factors on cognition, we examined the ability of the Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) risk score and the Framingham Heart Study Global CVD risk score (FRS) to predict future cognitive function in older PLWH.

METHODS

We constructed linear regression models evaluating the association between baseline 10-year cardiovascular risk scores and cognitive function (measured by a summary z-score, the NPZ-4) at a year 4 follow-up visit.

RESULTS

Among 988 participants (mean age, 52 years; 20% women), mean 10-year ASCVD risk score at entry into the cohort was 6.8% (standard deviation [SD], 7.1%) and FRS was 13.1% (SD, 10.7%). In models adjusted only for cognitive function at entry, the ASCVD risk score significantly predicted year 4 NPZ-4 in the entire cohort and after stratification by sex (for every 1% higher ASCVD risk, year 4 NPZ-4 was lower by 0.84 [SD, 0.28] overall, P = .003; lower by 2.17 [SD, 0.67] in women, P = .001; lower by 0.78 [SD, 0.32] in men, P = .016). A similar relationship was observed between FRS and year 4 NPZ-4. In multivariable models, higher 10-year ASCVD risk and FRS predicted lower NPZ-4 in women.

CONCLUSIONS

Baseline 10-year ASCVD risk and FRS predicted future cognitive function in older PLWH with well-controlled infection. Cardiovascular risk scores may help to identify PLWH, especially women, who are at risk for worse cognition over time.

HIV, Vascular Risk Factors, and Cognition in the Combination Antiretroviral Therapy Era: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVES

Mounting evidence indicates that vascular risk factors (VRFs) are elevated in HIV and play a significant role in the development and persistence of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder. Given the increased longevity of people living with HIV (PLWH), there is a great need to better elucidate vascular contributions to neurocognitive impairment in HIV. This systematic review and meta-analysis examine relationships between traditional VRFs, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cognition in PLWH in the combination antiretroviral therapy era.

METHODS

For the systematic review, 44 studies met inclusion criteria and included data from 14,376 PLWH and 6,043 HIV-seronegative controls. To better quantify the contribution of VRFs to cognitive impairment in HIV, a robust variance estimation meta-analysis (N = 11 studies) was performed and included data from 2139 PLWH.

RESULTS

In the systematic review, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies supported relationships between VRFs, cognitive dysfunction, and decline, particularly in the domains of attention/processing speed, executive functioning, and fine motor skills. The meta-analysis demonstrated VRFs were associated with increased odds of global neurocognitive impairment (odds ratio [OR ]= 2.059, p = .010), which remained significant after adjustment for clinical HIV variables (p = .017). Analyses of individual VRFs demonstrated type 2 diabetes (p = .004), hyperlipidemia (p = .043), current smoking (p = .037), and previous CVD (p = .0005) were significantly associated with global neurocognitive impairment.

CONCLUSIONS

VRFs and CVD are associated with worse cognitive performance and decline, and neurocognitive impairment in PLWH. Future studies are needed to examine these relationships in older adults with HIV, and investigate how race/ethnicity, gender, medical comorbidities, and psychosocial factors contribute to VRF-associated cognitive dysfunction in HIV.

Metabolic Risk Factors as Differential Predictors of Profiles of Neurocognitive Impairment Among Older HIV+ and HIV- Adults: An Observational Study

OBJECTIVE

Neurocognitive performance among older persons, including those living with HIV (people living with HIV [PLWH]), exhibits significant heterogeneity, suggesting subpopulations with differing profiles of neurocognitive impairment (NCI). Metabolic factors are associated with NCI, but their relationships to cluster-derived NCI profiles are unknown.

METHOD

Participants (144 PLWH and 102 HIV uninfected) aged 50+ years completed a neuropsychological battery assessing seven cognitive domains. Latent class analysis (LCA) identified NCI profiles separately by HIV serostatus and in a combined sample. Obtained classes were examined against the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and diagnoses of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). Multinomial regression identified metabolic predictors of classification.

RESULTS

LCA identified three latent classes in each participant sample: Class1Multidomain NCI (high probability of impairment across multiple domains), Class 2Learning & Recall NCI (high probability of impairment in learning and recall), and Class 3NC Unimpaired (low probability of NCI across all domains). Severity of NCI implied by classes corresponded with MoCA scores and HAND diagnoses. In analyses on the combined sample, compared to HIV-uninfected individuals, PLWH were more likely to be in Class1Multidomain NCI. Among PLWH, those with dyslipidemia and hypertension had greater odds of classification in Class 1Multidomain NCI while those with central obesity had higher odds of classification in Class 2Learning & Recall NCI; metabolic syndrome approached significance as a differential predictor. Regardless of HIV status, individuals with diabetes were more likely to be in Class 1Multidomain NCI.

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolic risk factors confer heightened risk of NCI in HIV infection. Interventions to reduce metabolic risk may improve neurocognitive outcomes among PLWH.

Behavioral and Physical Activity Interventions for HAND

Approximately 30-50% of persons living with HIV manifest some degree of neurocognitive impairment. Even mild-to-moderate forms of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) can result in difficulties with everyday functioning, such as suboptimal medication adherence and impaired driving. Despite the pervasive presence and consequences of HAND, there is a significant unmet need to develop effective behavioral strategies to reduce the incidence and consequences of HAND. Although there is an absence of evidence-based behavioral interventions specific to HAND, the literature reviewed in this chapter suggest the following modifiable lifestyle factors as intervention targets: physical activity, diet, sleep, and antiretroviral medication adherence. Adoption and maintenance of these healthy lifestyle factors may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which, in turn, may reduce the incidence and/or severity of HAND.

Short Communication: No Significant Increase in Body Fat Mass in Naive HIV-Infected Patients Starting Raltegravir Plus Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate/Emtricitabine

A significant weight gain has been reported in HIV-infected patients starting combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) including integrase strand transfer inhibitors, but clinical data about changes in body fat mass are still lacking. An observational retrospective analysis was made to evaluate changes in body fat mass and weight in 39 cART-naive patients initiating a first antiretroviral treatment, including tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine plus raltegravir (RAL) or darunavir/ritonavir (DRV/r), and who had a follow-up of at least 12 months and a whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry performed at baseline and after 12 months. After 12 months, changes in weight and total fat mass were comparable and statistically not significant in both groups. The median increase [interquartile range (IQR)] in weight was +2.02 kg (+1.19, +2.95; p = .378) in RAL group, and +1.71 kg (+0.89, +2.54; p = .449) in DRV/r group. The median increase in body fat mass (IQR) was +1.27 kg (+1.09, +1.43; p = .278) in RAL group, and +1.04 kg (+0.89, +1.22; p = .781) in DRV/r group. In conclusion, in our study, an initial regimen including RAL plus tenofovir/emtricitabine after 12 months led to a small and nonsignificant increase in weight and body fat mass, and changes were comparable with a DRV/r-based initial regimen.

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.

Neuroimaging and Cognitive Evidence for Combined HIV-Alcohol Effects on the Central Nervous System: A Review

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) among people living with HIV (PLWH) is a significant public health concern. Despite the advent of effective antiretroviral therapy, up to 50% of PLWH still experience worsened neurocognition, which comorbid AUD exacerbates. We report converging lines of neuroimaging and neuropsychological evidence linking comorbid HIV/AUD to dysfunction in brain regions linked to executive function, learning and memory, processing speed, and motor control, and consequently to impairment in daily life. The brain shrinkage, functional network alterations, and brain metabolite disruption seen in individuals with HIV/AUD have been attributed to several interacting pathways: viral proteins and EtOH are directly neurotoxic and exacerbate each other's neurotoxic effects; EtOH reduces antiretroviral adherence and increases viral replication; AUD and HIV both increase gut microbial translocation, promoting systemic inflammation and HIV transport into the brain by immune cells; and HIV may compound alcohol's damaging effects on the liver, further increasing inflammation. We additionally review the neurocognitive effects of aging, Hepatitis C coinfection, obesity, and cardiovascular disease, tobacco use, and nutritional deficiencies, all of which have been shown to compound cognitive changes in HIV, AUD, and in their comorbidity. Finally, we examine emerging questions in HIV/AUD research, including genetic and cognitive protective factors, the role of binge drinking in HIV/AUD-linked cognitive decline, and whether neurocognitive and brain functions normalize after drinking cessation.

Bypassing TBI: Metabolic Surgery and the Link between Obesity and Traumatic Brain Injury-a Review

Obesity is a common outcome of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that exacerbates principal TBI symptom domains identified as common areas of post-TBI long-term dysfunction. Obesity is also associated with increased risk of later-life dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Patients with obesity and chronic TBI may be more vulnerable to long-term mental abnormalities. This review explores the question of whether weight loss induced by bariatric surgery could delay or perhaps even reverse the progression of mental deterioration. Bariatric surgery, with its induction of weight loss, remission of type 2 diabetes, and other expressions of the metabolic syndrome, improves metabolic efficiency, leads to reversal of brain lesions seen on imaging studies, and improves function. These observations suggest that metabolic/bariatric surgery may be a most effective therapy for TBI.

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.

Peripheral immune dysregulation in the ART era of HIV-associated neurocognitive impairments: A systematic review

Human immunodeficiency virus-associated neurocognitive impairment (HANI) remains problematic despite the effective use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and viral suppression. A dysregulated immune response contributes to the development of HANI but findings on the association between peripheral blood immune markers and HANI have been inconsistent. We therefore conducted a systematic review of studies of the association of peripheral blood immune markers with neurocognitive performance in ART experienced HIV-positive participants. Thirty-seven studies were eligible, including 12 longitudinal studies and 25 cross-sectional studies. Findings consistently show that HIV-positive participants have altered immune marker levels, including elevated markers of monocyte activation (neopterin, sCD14, sCD163) and inflammation (CCL2, IL-8, IL-18, IP-10, IFN-α, sTNFR-II and TNF-α). These elevated levels persist in HIV-positive participants despite ART. The majority of studies found associations of HANI with immune markers, including those linked to monocyte activation (sCD14 and sCD163) and inflammation (IL-18 and IP-10). Despite the heterogeneity of studies reviewed, due to the presence of raised peripheral markers, our narrative review provides evidence of chronic inflammation despite ART. The raised levels of these markers may suggest certain mechanisms are active, potentially those involved in the neuropathophysiology of HANI.

Association of HIV serostatus and metabolic syndrome with neurobehavioral disturbances

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a constellation of related metabolic risk factors, is a common comorbidity associated with cognitive difficulty in people living with HIV (PLWH). Neurobehavioral disturbances (e.g., behavioral manifestations of frontal-subcortical dysfunction) are also prevalent in HIV, yet the role MetS might play in HIV-associated neurobehavioral disturbances is unknown. Thus, we examined the link between MetS and neurobehavioral disturbances in PLWH. Participants included 215 adults (117 PLWH, 98 HIV-uninfected), aged 36 to 65 years, from a cohort study at the University of California San Diego. Using the Frontal Systems Behavior Scale, we captured neurobehavioral disturbances (apathy, disinhibition, and executive dysfunction). MetS was defined by the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel-III criteria. Covariates examined included demographic, neurocognitive impairment, and psychiatric characteristics. When controlling for relevant covariates, both HIV serostatus and MetS were independently associated with greater apathy and executive dysfunction. HIV, but not MetS, was associated with greater disinhibition. The present findings suggest an additive effect of HIV and MetS on specific neurobehavioral disturbances (apathy and executive dysfunction), underscoring the importance of identifying and treating both HIV and MetS to lessen central nervous system burden among PLWH.

HIV and antiretroviral therapy-related fat alterations

Early in the HIV epidemic, lipodystrophy, characterized by subcutaneous fat loss (lipoatrophy), with or without central fat accumulation (lipohypertrophy), was recognized as a frequent condition among people living with HIV (PLWH) receiving combination antiretroviral therapy. The subsequent identification of thymidine analogue nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors as the cause of lipoatrophy led to the development of newer antiretroviral agents; however, studies have demonstrated continued abnormalities in fat and/or lipid storage in PLWH treated with newer drugs (including integrase inhibitor-based regimens), with fat gain due to restoration to health in antiretroviral therapy-naive PLWH, which is compounded by the rising rates of obesity. The mechanisms of fat alterations in PLWH are complex, multifactorial and not fully understood, although they are known to result in part from the direct effects of HIV proteins and antiretroviral agents on adipocyte health, genetic factors, increased microbial translocation, changes in the adaptive immune milieu after infection, increased tissue inflammation and accelerated fibrosis. Management includes classical lifestyle alterations with a role for pharmacological therapies and surgery in some patients. Continued fat alterations in PLWH will have an important effect on lifespan, healthspan and quality of life as patients age worldwide, highlighting the need to investigate the critical uncertainties regarding pathophysiology, risk factors and management.

COMT Val158Met Polymorphism, Cardiometabolic Risk, and Nadir CD4 Synergistically Increase Risk of Neurocognitive Impairment in Men Living With HIV

OBJECTIVE

The Val allele of the Val158Met single-nucleotide polymorphism of the catechol-o-methyltransferase gene (COMT) results in faster metabolism and reduced bioavailability of dopamine (DA). Among persons living with HIV, Val carriers display neurocognitive deficits relative to Met carriers, presumably due to exacerbation of HIV-related depletion of DA. COMT may also impact neurocognition by modulating cardiometabolic function, which is often dysregulated among persons living with HIV. We examined the interaction of COMT, cardiometabolic risk, and nadir CD4 on neurocognitive impairment (NCI) among HIV+ men.

METHODS

Three hundred twenty-nine HIV+ men underwent COMT genotyping and neurocognitive and neuromedical assessments. Cohort-standardized z scores for body mass index, systolic blood pressure, glucose, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were averaged to derive a cardiometabolic risk score (CMRS). NCI was defined as demographically adjusted global deficit score of ≥0.5. Logistic regression modeled NCI as a function of COMT, CMRS, and their interaction, covarying for estimated premorbid function, race/ethnicity, and HIV-specific characteristics. Follow-up analysis included the 3-way interaction of COMT, CMRS, and nadir CD4.

RESULTS

Genotypes were 81 (24.6%) Met/Met, 147 (44.7%) Val/Met, and 101 (30.7%) Val/Val. COMT interacted with CMRS (P = 0.02) such that higher CMRS increased risk of NCI among Val/Val [odds ratio (OR) = 2.13, P < 0.01], but not Val/Met (OR = 0.93, P > 0.05) or Met/Met (OR = 0.92, P > 0.05) carriers. Among Val/Val, nadir CD4 moderated the effect of CMRS (P < 0.01) such that higher CMRS increased likelihood of NCI only when nadir CD4 <180.

DISCUSSION

Results suggest a tripartite model by which genetically driven low DA reserve, cardiometabolic dysfunction, and historical immunosuppression synergistically enhance risk of NCI among HIV+ men, possibly due to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.

Weight gain among treatment-naïve persons with HIV starting integrase inhibitors compared to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors or protease inhibitors in a large observational cohort in the United States and Canada

INTRODUCTION

Weight gain following antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation is common, potentially predisposing some persons with HIV (PWH) to cardio-metabolic disease. We assessed relationships between ART drug class and weight change among treatment-naïve PWH initiating ART in the North American AIDS Cohort Collaboration on Research and Design (NA-ACCORD).

METHODS

Adult, treatment-naïve PWH in NA-ACCORD initiating integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI), protease inhibitor (PI) or non-nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based ART on/after 1 January 2007 were followed through 31 December 2016. Multivariate linear mixed effects models estimated weight up to five years after ART initiation, adjusting for age, sex, race, cohort site, HIV acquisition mode, treatment year, and baseline weight, plasma HIV-1 RNA level and CD4+ cell count. Due to shorter follow-up for PWH receiving newer INSTI drugs, weights for specific INSTIs were estimated at two years. Secondary analyses using logistic regression and all covariates from primary analyses assessed factors associated with >10% weight gain at two and five years.

RESULTS

Among 22,972 participants, 87% were male, and 41% were white. 49% started NNRTI-, 31% started PI- and 20% started INSTI-based regimens (1624 raltegravir (RAL), 2085 elvitegravir (EVG) and 929 dolutegravir (DTG)). PWH starting INSTI-based regimens had mean estimated five-year weight change of +5.9kg, compared to +3.7kg for NNRTI and +5.5kg for PI. Among PWH starting INSTI drugs, mean estimated two-year weight change was +7.2kg for DTG, +5.8kg for RAL and +4.1kg for EVG. Women, persons with lower baseline CD4+ cell counts, and those initiating INSTI-based regimens had higher odds of >10% body weight increase at two years (adjusted odds ratio = 1.37, 95% confidence interval: 1.20 to 1.56 vs. NNRTI).

CONCLUSIONS

PWH initiating INSTI-based regimens gained, on average, more weight compared to NNRTI-based regimens. This phenomenon may reflect heterogeneous effects of ART agents on body weight regulation that require further exploration.

Obesity and Weight Gain in Persons with HIV

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The proportion of overweight and obese persons with HIV (PWH) has increased since the introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART). We aim to summarize recent literature on risks of weight gain, discuss adipose tissue changes in HIV and obesity, and synthesize current understanding of how excess adiposity and HIV contribute to metabolic complications.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies have implicated contemporary ART regimens, including use of integrase strand transfer inhibitors and tenofovir alafenamide, as a contributor to weight gain, though the mechanisms are unclear. Metabolic dysregulation is linked to ectopic fat and alterations in adipose immune cell populations that accompany HIV and obesity. These factors contribute to an increasing burden of metabolic diseases in the aging HIV population. Obesity compounds an increasing burden of metabolic disease among PWH, and understanding the role of fat partitioning and HIV- and ART-related adipose tissue dysfunction may guide prevention and treatment strategies.

Prevention of stroke in people living with HIV

In the era of effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV has become a manageable disease marked by an elevated risk of non-AIDS-related comorbidities, including stroke. Rates of stroke are higher in people living with HIV (PLWH) compared with the general population. Elevated stroke risk may be attributable to traditional risk factors, HIV-associated chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation, and possible adverse effects of long-standing ART use. Tailoring stroke prevention strategies for PLWH requires knowledge of how stroke pathogenesis may differ from non-HIV-associated stroke, knowledge of long-term stroke outcomes in HIV, and accurate stroke risk assessment tools. As a result, the approach to primary and secondary stroke prevention in PLWH relies heavily on guidelines developed for the general population, with an emphasis on optimization of traditional vascular risk factors and early initiation of ART. This review summarizes existing evidence on HIV-associated stroke mechanisms and considerations for stroke prevention for PLWH.

Functional deficits and other psychiatric associations with abnormal scores on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) in older HIV-infected patients

OBJECTIVE

The authors assessed the association of physical function, social variables, functional status, and psychiatric co-morbidity with cognitive function among older HIV-infected adults.

DESIGN

From 2012-2014, a cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV-infected patients ages 50 or older who underwent comprehensive clinical geriatric assessment.

SETTING

Two San Francisco HIV clinics.

PARTICIPANTS

359 HIV-infected patients age 50 years or older.

MEASUREMENTS

Unadjusted and adjusted Poisson regression measured prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals for demographic, functional and psychiatric variables and their association with cognitive impairment using a Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score < 26 as reflective of cognitive impairment.

RESULTS

Thirty-four percent of participants had a MoCA score of < 26. In unadjusted analyses, the following variables were significantly associated with an abnormal MoCA score: born female, not identifying as homosexual, non-white race, high school or less educational attainment, annual income < $10,000, tobacco use, slower gait speed, reported problems with balance, and poor social support. In subsequent adjusted analysis, the following variables were significantly associated with an abnormal MoCA score: not identifying as homosexual, non-white race, longer 4-meter walk time, and poor social support. Psychiatric symptoms of depressive, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorders did not correlate with abnormal MoCA scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Cognitive impairment remains common in older HIV-infected patients. Counter to expectations, co-morbid psychiatric symptoms were not associated with cognitive impairment, suggesting that cognitive impairment in this sample may be due to neurocognitive disorders, not due to other psychiatric illness. The other conditions associated with cognitive impairment in this sample may warrant separate clinical and social interventions to optimize patient outcomes.

Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular Disease Impacts on the Pathophysiology and Phenotype of HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders

Evidence from epidemiological studies on the general population suggests that midlife cardiovascular disease (CVD) and/or metabolic syndrome (MetS) are associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment and dementia later in life. In the modern combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) era, as in the general population, CVD and MetS were strongly and independently associated with poorer cognitive performances of sustained immunovirologically controlled persons living with human immunodeficiency viruses (PLHIVs). Those findings suggest that CV/metabolic comorbidities could be implicated in the pathogenesis of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) and might be more important than factors related to HIV infection or its treatment, markers of immunocompetence, or virus replication. The association between CVD/MetS and cognition decline is driven by still not well-understood mechanisms, but risk might well be the consequence of increased brain inflammation and vascular changes, notably cerebral small-vessel disease. In this review, we highlight the correspondences observed between the findings concerning CVD and MetS in the general population and virus-suppressed cART-treated PLHIVs to evaluate the real brain-aging processes. Indeed, incomplete HIV control mainly reflects HIV-induced brain damage described during the first decades of the pandemic. Given the growing support that CVD and MetS are associated with HAND, it is crucial to improve early detection and assure appropriate management of these conditions.

Neurocognitive impairment is worse in HIV/HCV-coinfected individuals with liver dysfunction

Infections with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) can individually and jointly contribute to neurocognitive impairment (NCI). Rates of NCI in HIV/HCV-coinfected persons range from 40 to 63% but its correlates have not been described. In this study, we examined HIV/HCV-coinfected adults on antiretroviral therapy (ART) with undetectable HIV RNA in blood (n = 412) who were assessed using a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery. Demographics, host and viral biomarkers, and markers of liver dysfunction were compared between impaired (n = 198) and unimpaired (n = 214) participants using logistic regression. The cohort was predominantly middle-aged men, half of whom (48%) had NCI. The odds of NCI increased by almost two-fold when serum albumin was < 4 g/dL, 1.7-fold when alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were > 50 IU/L, and 2.2-fold with every unit increase in log10 AST to Platelet Ratio Index (APRI). These readily available clinical biomarkers of NCI measure hepatic injury and/or dysfunction, suggesting a mechanism for the effects of HCV infection on NCI. They may identify patients at increased risk of NCI who could be prioritized for early initiation of HCV treatment to protect or improve cognition.

Physical Activity Is Associated With Lower Odds of Cognitive Impairment in Women but Not Men Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

Background

Cardiovascular comorbidities are risk factors for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated cognitive impairment. Given differences in cardiometabolic risk profiles between women and men with HIV, we investigated whether associations between cardiometabolic risk factors and prevalent cognitive impairment differ by sex.

Methods

Separate logistic regression models were constructed for women and men at entry into a prospective study of older persons with HIV (PWH) to assess the association of cardiometabolic and other risk factors with cognitive impairment.

Results

Of 988 participants, 20% were women. Women had higher total cholesterol (194 vs 186 mg/dL; P = .027), hemoglobin A1c (5.9% vs 5.7%; P = .003), and body mass index (30.8 vs 27.4 kg/m2; P < .001) compared with men, and were less physically active (43% vs 55%; P = .005). In a multivariable model, physical activity was associated with lower odds of cognitive impairment in women (odds ratio, 0.35 [95% confidence interval, .15-.80]; P = .013) but not men.

Conclusions

Physical activity may have a greater positive impact on cognitive health in women than in men with HIV. This finding should be confirmed in studies examining the longitudinal association between physical activity and incident cognitive impairment in PWH and the effect of interventions that increase physical activity on cognitive impairment in women with HIV.

Weight gain in antiretroviral therapy-naive HIV-1-infected patients starting a regimen including an integrase strand transfer inhibitor or darunavir/ritonavir

BACKGROUND

Weight gain after initiation of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) is a possible side effect of all antiretroviral regimens, but it seems to be more evident in association with integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs). So, we aimed to evaluate weight change associated with an initial cART including one INSTI or darunavir-ritonavir (DRV/r).

METHODS

A retrospective, observational, cohort study of antiretroviral therapy-naive adult HIV-positive patients starting an initial cART including raltegravir (RAL), dolutegravir (DTG), elvitegravir-cobicistat (EVG), or DRV/r. We compared changes in weight and body mass index (BMI) across the four groups during a 12-month follow-up.

RESULTS

As a whole, 680 patients (470 males, mean age 42.1 years) were enrolled: 196 starting RAL, 174 DTG, 158 EVG/c, and 152 DRV/r. Baseline mean CD4 lymphocyte count was 455 cells/mm³ and 7.3% had an AIDS diagnosis. After 12 months, mean increase in body weight was 1.93 kg in the RAL group, 2.38 kg in the DTG group, 2.14 kg in the EVG group, and 1.85 in the DRV/r group. Mean increase in BMI was 0.71, 0.84, 0.77 and 0.63 kg/m², respectively (p > 0.05 for each comparison). Therefore, no significant increases in weight and BMI were reported in each group, and no significant differences in weight and BMI changes were described across the four treatment groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, patients starting an initial cART including one INSTI or DRV/r after 12 months showed a small and comparable, but not significant, increase in body weight, whose long-term clinical consequences are unknown.

Cognitive Impairment in Zambians With HIV Infection and Pulmonary Tuberculosis

BACKGROUND

HIV infection may result in neurocognitive deficits, but the effects of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB+), a common comorbid condition in HIV infection, on cognition in HIV infections are unknown. Accordingly, we examined the effects of TB+, on neurocognitive functioning in HIV-infected (HIV+) Zambian adults.

SETTING

All participants were drawn from HIV clinics in and around Lusaka, the capital of Zambia.

METHODS

Participants were 275 HIV+, of whom 237 were HIV+ and TB-negative (HIV+/TB-), and 38 also had pulmonary TB+ (HIV+/TB+). Controls were 324 HIV- and TB-uninfected (HIV-) healthy controls. All HIV+ participants were prescribed combination antiretroviral treatment (cART). Published, demographically corrected Zambian neuropsychological norms were used to correct for effects of age, education, sex, and urban/rural residence.

RESULTS

Neuropsychological deficits, assessed by global deficit scores, were more prevalent in this order: 14% (46 of 324) of HIV- controls, 34% (80 of 237) of HIV+/TB-, and 55% (21 of 38) of HIV+/TB+ group. Thus, both HIV-infected groups evidenced more impairment than HIV- controls, and the HIV+/TB+ group had a higher rate of neurocognitive impairment than the HIV+/TB- group. HIV+/TB+ patients were more likely to be male, younger, less-educated, and have lower CD4 counts and detectable HIV RNA in blood compared with the HIV+/TB- patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In HIV infection, TB may contribute to cognitive impairment, even after controlling for lower CD4 counts and viral load. Thus, systemic inflammation from HIV and TB and more advanced immune deficiency at diagnosis of HIV may contribute to impaired cognition in HIV+/TB+ patients.

Brief Report: Body Mass Index and Cognitive Function Among HIV-1-Infected Individuals in China, India, and Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Risk of cognitive impairment is increased among persons with high or low body mass index in HIV- and HIV+ populations in resource-rich settings. We examined this association among HIV+ patients in 3 resource-limited settings.

METHODS

This secondary analysis included data of 761 HIV+ volunteers pooled from 3 prospective cohort studies conducted in China (n = 404; 53%), India (n = 200; 26%), and Nigeria (n = 157; 21%). World Health Organization (WHO) weight classifications were based on body mass index. T scores, adjusted for demographics and practice effects, were derived from a 7-domain neuropsychological battery. Neurocognitive impairment (NCI) was defined as global deficit score of ≥0.5.

RESULTS

Overall, prevalence of NCI at baseline was 27.7% (similar across all cohorts). The overweight/obese and underweight constituted 37.3% and 15.5% of the total participants, respectively. In a multivariable logistic regression of pooled longitudinal data, adjusting for clinical and demographic variables, the odds of global NCI were 38% higher among the overweight/obese as compared to normal weight participants [odds ratio: 1.38 (95% confidence interval: 1.1 to 1.72); P = 0.005]. Similarly, the odds of global NCI were 39% higher among the underweight as compared to normal weight participants [odds ratio: 1.39 (95% confidence interval: 1.03 to 1.87); P = 0.029].

CONCLUSIONS

NCI among HIV-1-infected patients was more prevalent in both overweight/obese and underweight than normal weight individuals in 3 resource-limited settings, confirming observations in resource-rich settings. Mechanisms underlying these associations are unclear but likely differ for underweight and overweight persons.

Current Challenges and Solutions in Research and Clinical Care of Older Persons Living with HIV: Findings Presented at the 9th International Workshop on HIV and Aging

In the era of effective antiretroviral therapy, the number of older people with HIV (PWH) is increasing, and those aging with HIV are experiencing an increasing burden of age-associated comorbidities. Life expectancy among older PWH is approaching that of demographically comparable HIV-uninfected (HIV-) adults. With this changing demographic of PWH come new challenges for researchers and clinicians in how to identify, address, and manage the complex interplay of treated HIV infection and aging-associated factors. In response to these challenges, the annual International Workshop on HIV and Aging was initiated in 2009 as a multidisciplinary platform for scientific discourse on the research and clinical complications arising from the aging population of PWH. The multidisciplinary nature of the workshop has resulted in a wide range of topics addressed over the past 9 years, from basic mechanisms in aging and HIV pathogenesis, to epidemiology of aging within large cohorts, interventions, and implementation of clinical programs. Herein, we summarize the key topics discussed at the 9th Annual International Workshop on HIV and Aging 2018, including "inflammaging," mitochondrial dysfunction, exercise interventions, HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment, metabolic dysfunction, menopause, and polypharmacy. In addition to recent developments in research and clinical care, we discuss open questions and future research directions required to better understand the interaction of HIV and aging.

Midlife adiposity predicts cognitive decline in the prospective Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

Obesity is a common, modifiable cardiovascular and cerebrovascular risk factor. Among people with HIV, obesity may contribute to multisystem dysregulation including cognitive impairment. We examined body mass index (BMI) and central obesity (waist circumference [WC]) in association with domain-specific cognitive function and 10-year cognitive decline in men with HIV infection (MWH) vs HIV-uninfected (HIV-) men.

METHODS

A total of 316 MWH and 656 HIV- Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study participants ≥40 years at baseline, with neuropsychological testing every 2 years and concurrent BMI and WC measurements, were included. MWH were included if taking ≥2 antiretroviral agents and had HIV-1 RNA <400 copies/mL at >80% of visits. Mixed-effects models included all visits from 1996 to 2015, stratified by HIV serostatus, and adjusted for sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics. At baseline and follow-up, 8% of MWH and 15% of HIV- men and 41% of MWH and 56% of HIV- men were ≥60 years, respectively.

RESULTS

Cross-sectionally, higher BMI was inversely associated with motor function in MWH and HIV- men, and attention/working memory in HIV- men. WC was inversely associated with motor function in MWH and HIV- men. Longitudinal associations indicated an obese BMI was associated with a less steep decline in motor function in MWH whereas in HIV- men, obesity was associated with a greater decline in motor function, learning, and memory. WC, or central obesity, showed similar patterns of associations.

CONCLUSION

Higher adiposity is associated with lower cognition cross-sectionally and greater cognitive decline, particularly in HIV- men. Overweight and obesity may be important predictors of neurologic outcomes and avenues for prevention and intervention.

Neurocognitive Impairment in Well-Controlled HIV-Infected Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

The reported prevalence of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders in HIV people depends on the population studied and the methodology used. We analyze the prevalence of neurocognitive impairment (NCI) and associated factors in patients on successful antiretroviral therapy (ART), without comorbidities. Cross-sectional observational study in HIV subjects, ≥18 years old, on stable ART, and HIV viral load of <50 copies/mL. Patients with medical or psychiatric comorbidities and substance abuse were excluded. NCI was diagnosed using Frascati criteria, examining seven neurocognitive domains (NDs). We analyzed the association between NCI and HIV-related clinical variables, carotid intima-media thickness, bacterial translocation, and plasma inflammatory biomarkers [soluble CD14, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α]. The prevalence of NCI was calculated with a 95% confidence interval (CI). We fitted a logistic regression model to assess the strength of the associations. Eighty-four patients were included with an observed NCI prevalence of 29.8% (95% CI: 21.0-40.2): 19% had asymptomatic NCI, 8.3% had mild neurocognitive disorder, and 2.4% had HIV-associated dementia. Delayed recall was the most commonly affected ND (27.4%). People diagnosed at least 10 years ago (odds ratio [OR]: 6.5, 95% CI: 1.6-21.7) and those with IL-6 levels above 1.8 pg/mL (OR: 6.0, 95% CI: 1.1-31.3) showed higher odds of NCI in adjusted analyses. Participants with carotid plaques had lower scores for delayed recall: -0.9 ± 1.1 versus -0.2 ± 1.1 (p = .04). Prevalence of NCI is high in otherwise healthy adults with HIV-infection. In this population, more than 10 years since HIV diagnosis and high IL-6 levels are associated with NCI. Delayed recall ND is worse in patients with subclinical atherosclerosis.

Metabolic Syndrome and Neurocognitive Deficits in HIV Infection

BACKGROUND

The adverse consequences of HIV and related comorbidities on the central nervous system remain prevalent in the era of combination antiretroviral therapy. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common comorbidity in HIV and has been linked to increased neurocognitive impairment in the general population. We investigated the association between MetS and neurocognition among persons living with HIV (PLHIV).

METHODS

Participants included 109 PLHIV and 92 HIV-uninfected adults (HIV-) from the Multi-dimensional Successful Aging cohort study at the University of California San Diego (age: M = 50.8, SD = 8.0). Participants completed neuromedical, psychiatric, and neurocognitive assessments. Based on a comprehensive neurocognitive battery, we examined global neurocognitive deficits (based on the entire battery) and neurocognitive deficits in 7 domains (verbal fluency, learning, recall, executive function, working memory, speed of information processing, and fine motor skills). MetS was determined via the standard criteria by the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel-III. Covariates examined included demographics and psychiatric comorbidities (and HIV disease characteristics among PLHIV).

RESULTS

MetS had an independent significant effect on global neurocognitive deficits among PLHIV (P = 0.03) but not among their HIV- counterparts (P = 0.93). Among PLHIV, MetS was most strongly associated with the neurocognitive domains of learning, fine motor skills, and executive function. Diabetes and elevated triglycerides were the MetS components most strongly linked with increased global neurocognitive deficits in PLHIV.

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings underscore the need for early identification of PLHIV at risk for MetS and the implementation of preventive and treatment approaches to lessen the development of MetS and neurocognitive impairment among PLHIV.

Cerebrospinal fluid viral escape in aviremic HIV-infected patients receiving antiretroviral therapy: prevalence, risk factors and neurocognitive effects

BACKGROUND

During antiretroviral therapy, HIV RNA can be detected in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) when it is undetectable in plasma, a condition termed 'CSF viral escape'. The aim of the current study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors for CSF viral escape in two large cohorts in the USA.

METHODS

A total of 1264 HIV-infected volunteers enrolled in two US cohorts at their most recent visit between 2003 and 2011 were included in this cross-sectional analysis if their HIV RNA level in plasma was less than 50 copies/ml while receiving stable antiretroviral therapy (ART) (>6 months) and if they had HIV RNA measured in CSF at their most recent visit between 2003 and 2011. Potential risk factors were identified using univariable and multivariable regression.

RESULTS

CSF viral escape was detected in 55 adults (4.4%; 95% CI: 3.4-5.6), who had a median CSF HIV RNA of 155 copies/ml [interquartile range (IQR: 80-283)]. Patients with or without CSF viral escape had similar rates of neurocognitive impairment (38.2 vs. 37.7%; P = 0.91). CSF viral escape was independently associated with the use of ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitors [odds ratio (OR): 2.0; 95% CI: 1.1-3.8] or unboosted atazanavir (OR: 5.1; 95% CI: 1.3-16.1), CSF pleocytosis (OR: 7.6; 95% CI: 4.2-13.7) and abnormal CSF total protein (OR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1-3.7).

CONCLUSIONS

In this large study of aviremic patients receiving ART, CSF viral escape was uncommon and was linked to evidence of central nervous system inflammation and the use of protease inhibitors, but not with worse neurocognitive performance.

Impaired insulin sensitivity is associated with worsening cognition in HIV-infected patients

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association of insulin sensitivity and metabolic status with declining cognition in HIV-infected individuals.

METHODS

We conducted targeted clinical and metabolic measures in longitudinal plasma samples obtained from HIV-infected patients enrolled in the Central Nervous System HIV Anti-Retroviral Therapy Effects Research Study (CHARTER). Findings were validated with plasma samples from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS). Patients were grouped according to longitudinally and serially assessed cognitive performance as having stably normal or declining cognition.

RESULTS

Patients with declining cognition exhibited baseline hyperinsulinemia and elevated plasma c-peptide levels with normal c-peptide/insulin ratios, suggesting that insulin production was increased, but insulin clearance was normal. The association of hyperinsulinemia with worsening cognition was further supported by low high-density lipoprotein (HDL), high low-density lipoprotein/HDL ratio, and elevated cholesterol/HDL ratio compared to patients with stably normal cognition.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that hyperinsulinemia and impaired insulin sensitivity are associated with cognitive decline in antiretroviral therapy-treated HIV-infected patients.

Sex differences in neurocognitive screening among adults living with HIV in China

HIV-infected (HIV+) women may be more vulnerable to neurocognitive impairment (NCI) due to psychological and physiological factors but previous studies show mixed findings. We investigated the neurocognitive performances in HIV+ versus HIV- women and men. This cross-sectional analysis included 669 HIV+ patients (223 women) and 1338 HIV-uninfected (HIV-) controls (446 women) which were frequency matched on sex, education, and 5-year age categories. NCI was screened using the Mini-mental State Examination. Psychomotor speed was assessed using timed alternating hand sequence test. Prevalence of NCI was higher among women versus men in the HIV+ group (16.1% vs 10.5%) but not the HIV- group (4.3% vs 3.5%). HIV+ women performed worse compared to men on psychomotor speed, orientation, attention, and calculation, whereas HIV- women performed worse compared to men on attention and calculation. Adjusted interaction effects of HIV status × sex (women vs men) were significant on orientation, attention, and calculation, and marginally significant on psychomotor speed (p = 0.053). In multivariable models, among both HIV+ women and men, less years of education and depressive symptoms were associated with NCI. Waist-to-hip ratio above the cut-off was strongly associated with NCI among HIV+ women. HIV+ women perform worse on cognitive measures compared to HIV+ men. The association of central obesity with NCI in HIV+ women should be noted.

Focus groups inform a mobile health intervention to promote adherence to a Mediterranean diet and engagement in physical activity among people living with HIV

Background

A personalized mobile health intervention (iSTEP) aims to promote a Mediterranean diet and increase physical activity, thereby improving neurocognitive functioning among persons living with HIV (PLWH). This article describes a qualitative study conducted to develop iSTEP for PLWH, including assessment of diet habits and preferences for tracking physical activity.

Method

Two focus groups, with seven and 13 PLWH respectively, discussed barriers and facilitators of a healthy diet and provided feedback to refine iSTEP components, including the feasibility of using a Fitbit and the content of text messages designed to encourage improved diet and physical activity.

Results

Focus group discussions revealed several healthy diet barriers, including housing instability, time required for food preparation, cost of healthy food, depression, gastrointestinal issues, physical disability, and changes in appetite since HIV diagnosis. Participant-identified healthy diet facilitators included affordable price options for healthy food, a structured food plan, desire to modify appearance or weight, access to medical professionals, motivation for disease prevention, and social support. Participants endorsed wearing a Fitbit on the wrist and receiving text messages as useful methods to monitor and encourage a better diet and greater physical activity.

Conclusions

These findings assisted the expansion of a mobile health intervention that promotes health behaviors in order to improve neurocognitive outcomes among PLWH.

Trial registration

NCT03123731, prospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, April 21, 2017.

The current understanding of overlap between characteristics of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders and Alzheimer's disease

The advent of effective antiretroviral medications (ARVs) has led to an aging of the HIV population with approximately 50% of people with HIV (PWH) being over the age of 50 years. Neurocognitive complications, typically known as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND), persist in the era of ARVs and, in addition to risk of HAND, older PWH are also at risk for age-associated, neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD). It has been postulated that risk for AD may be greater among PWH due to potential compounding effects of HIV and aging on mechanisms of neural insult. We are now faced with the challenge of disentangling AD from HAND, which has important prognostic and treatment implications given the more rapidly debilitating trajectory of AD. Herein, we review the evidence to date demonstrating both parallels and differences in the profiles of HAND and AD. We specifically address similarities and difference of AD and HAND as it relates to (1) neuropsychological profiles (cross-sectional/longitudinal), (2) AD-associated neuropathological features as evidenced from neuropathological, cerebrospinal fluid and neuroimaging assessments, (3) biological mechanisms underlying cortical amyloid deposition, (4) parallels in mechanisms of neural insult, and (5) common risk factors. Our current understanding of the similarities and dissimilarities of AD and HAND should be further delineated and leveraged in the development of differential diagnostic methods that will allow for the early identification of AD and more suitable and effective treatment interventions among graying PWH.

Metabolic risk factors in young adults infected with HIV since childhood compared with the general population

AIM

Metabolic risk factors are poorly documented for the first generation of young adults who have lived with HIV since childhood. We compared their metabolic profile with that of adults of same age from the general population.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of data from two populations: (1) COVERTE (ANRS-CO19), a French national cohort of 18 to 30-year-old patients HIV-infected since childhood, and (2) ENNS, a national cross-sectional population-based household survey on nutrition. Body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, waist circumference, fasting glucose, triglycerides, and HDL-, LDL- and total cholesterol were measured in both studies. Direct standardization on overweight and education level and logistic regression were used to compare the prevalence of metabolic abnormalities between the two populations.

RESULTS

Data from 268 patients from COVERTE and 245 subjects from ENNS were analyzed. Tobacco use was similar in both groups. HIV-infected patients had increased mean waist-to-hip ratio and triglycerides to HDL-cholesterol ratio and decreased mean HDL-cholesterol as compared to their counterparts from the general population in both genders. In HIV-infected patients, metabolic syndrome was identified in 13.2% of men (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.1-19.2) and 10.4% (95% CI: 5.4-15.3) of women versus 10.6% (95%CI: 1.5-19.7) and 1.7% (95%CI: 0-4.1) in subjects from the general population, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Young adults infected with HIV since childhood had a higher prevalence of dyslipidemia and metabolically detrimental fat distribution than adults of same age of the general population, supporting close monitoring for cardiometabolic diseases.