Gap detection responses modelled using the Hill equation in adults with well-controlled HIV

This study’s objective was determining whether gap detection deficits are present in a longstanding cohort of people living with HIV (PLWH) compared to those living without HIV (PLWOH) using a new gap detection modelling technique (i.e. fitting gap responses using the Hill equation and analysing the individual gap detection resulting curves with non-linear statistics). This approach provides a measure of both gap threshold and the steepness of the gap length/correct detection relationship. The relationship between the correct identification rate at each gap length was modelled using the Hill equation. Results were analysed using a nonlinear mixed-effect regression model. 45 PLWH (age range 41–78) and 39 PLWOH (age range 38–79) were enrolled and completed gap detection testing. The likelihood ratio statistic comparing the full regression model with the HIV effects to the null model, assuming one population curve for both groups, was highly significant (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), suggesting a less precise relationship between gap length and correct detection in PLWH. PLWH showed degraded gap detection ability compared to PLWOH, likely due to central nervous system effects of HIV infection or treatment. The Hill equation provided a new approach for modelling gap detection ability.