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Rocca MA, Valsasina P, Romanò F, Tedone N, Amato MP, Brichetto G, Boccia VD, Chataway J, Chiaravalloti ND, Cutter G, Dalgas U, DeLuca J, Farrell RA, Feys P, Freeman J, Inglese M, Meza C, Motl RW, Salter A, Sandroff BM, Feinstein A, Filippi M. Cognitive rehabilitation effects on grey matter volume and Go-NoGo activity in progressive multiple sclerosis: results from the CogEx trial. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2024:jnnp-2024-333460. [PMID: 38754979 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2024-333460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on cognitive rehabilitation (CR) and aerobic exercise (EX) to improve cognition in progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) remains limited. CogEx trial investigated the effectiveness of CR and EX in PMS: here, we present MRI substudy volumetric and task-related functional MRI (fMRI) findings. METHODS Participants were randomised to: 'CR plus EX', 'CR plus sham EX (EX-S)', 'EX plus sham CR (CR-S)' and 'CR-S plus EX-S' and attended 12-week intervention. All subjects performed physical/cognitive assessments at baseline, week 12 and 6 months post intervention (month 9). All MRI substudy participants underwent volumetric MRI and fMRI (Go-NoGo task). RESULTS 104 PMS enrolled at four sites participated in the CogEx MRI substudy; 84 (81%) had valid volumetric MRI and valid fMRI. Week 12/month 9 cognitive performances did not differ among interventions; however, 25-62% of the patients showed Symbol Digit Modalities Test improvements. Normalised cortical grey matter volume (NcGMV) changes at week 12 versus baseline were heterogeneous among interventions (p=0.05); this was mainly driven by increased NcGMV in 'CR plus EX-S' (p=0.02). Groups performing CR (ie, 'CR plus EX' and 'CR plus EX-S') exhibited increased NcGMV over time, especially in the frontal (p=0.01), parietal (p=0.04) and temporal (p=0.04) lobes, while those performing CR-S exhibited NcGMV decrease (p=0.008). In CR groups, increased NcGMV (r=0.36, p=0.01) at week 12 versus baseline correlated with increased California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT)-II scores. 'CR plus EX-S' patients exhibited Go-NoGo activity increase (p<0.05, corrected) at week 12 versus baseline in bilateral insula. CONCLUSIONS In PMS, CR modulated grey matter (GM) volume and insular activity. The association of GM and CVLT-II changes suggests GM plasticity contributes to cognitive improvements. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03679468.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Rocca
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Valsasina
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Romanò
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicolò Tedone
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Amato
- Department NEUROFARBA, Section Neurosciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Florence, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Brichetto
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (FISM), Genoa, Italy
- AISM Rehabilitation Service, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Society, Genoa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Daniele Boccia
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, and Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Jeremy Chataway
- Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research, University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Nancy D Chiaravalloti
- Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Gary Cutter
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Ulrik Dalgas
- Exercise Biology, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - John DeLuca
- Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Rachel A Farrell
- Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Peter Feys
- REVAL, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
- University MS Center, Hasselt University, Pelt, Belgium
| | - Jennifer Freeman
- Faculty of Health, School of Health Professions, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, Devon, UK
| | - Matilde Inglese
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, and Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Cecilia Meza
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert W Motl
- Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Amber Salter
- Department of Neurology, Section on Statistical Planning and Analysis, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Brian M Sandroff
- Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Anthony Feinstein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Neurophysiology Service, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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Hellgren J, Strandberg MC, Källén K, Svenningsson A. A comparative study of fatigue and processing speed in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with natalizumab or rituximab. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2024; 10:20552173241252566. [PMID: 38807848 PMCID: PMC11131408 DOI: 10.1177/20552173241252566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Fatigue is the most debilitating symptom in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Natalizumab and rituximab are the most used MS disease modifying therapies in Sweden, but comparative data on the effect on fatigue is sparse. Objective Primary objective was to compare fatigue levels between patients on natalizumab and rituximab. As secondary objective, we assessed processing speed, an attention domain quality, between treatment groups. Method In this Swedish multicentre cross-sectional study, patients with relapsing-remitting MS and >24 months treatment duration were identified in the Swedish MS-registry. Fatigue was assessed using the Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive functions (FSMC) and processing speed using Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT). Results 128 patients were enrolled (natalizumab: 56, rituximab: 72). No significant differences in FSMC were found when adjusting for potential confounders (p = 0.936), with age having the biggest impact, correlating with increased fatigue. Individuals on natalizumab performed significantly better on SDMT at cross-section (natalizumab 64.7, rituximab 56.2; p = 0.003), with an improvement from treatment initiation, compared to rituximab (change: natalizumab 8.9, rituximab -1.0; p = 0.002). Conclusion We found no difference in fatigue levels between natalizumab and rituximab cohorts. Patients treated with natalizumab showed significantly better results on SDMT than patients on rituximab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Hellgren
- Clinical Sciences Helsingborg Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Neurology Section, Department of Specialised Medicine, Helsingborg General Hospital, Helsingborg, Sweden
| | - Maria Compagno Strandberg
- Neurology Lund Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Rehabilitation medicine, Memory disorders and Geriatrics, Skånes University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Kristina Källén
- Clinical Sciences Helsingborg Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Neurology Section, Department of Specialised Medicine, Helsingborg General Hospital, Helsingborg, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Rehabilitation medicine, Memory disorders and Geriatrics, Skånes University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Anders Svenningsson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Danderyd Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Danderyd Hospital AB, Stockholm, Sweden
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3
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Baeva ME, Tottenham I, Koch M, Camara-Lemarroy C. Biomarkers of disability worsening in inactive primary progressive multiple sclerosis. J Neuroimmunol 2024; 387:578268. [PMID: 38157653 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2023.578268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate serum biomarkers of progression in inactive primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS). METHODS We measured protein biomarkers (growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15), dickkopf-1 (DKK-1), neuron specific enolase (NSE) and cathepsin-D) in serum samples from 39 patients with inactive PPMS included in a clinical trial enrolling people with PPMS (clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT02913157) and investigated the association of these biomarker levels with clinical disability at baseline and during follow-up. We then performed a meta-analysis of publicly available transcriptomic datasets to investigate the gene expression of these biomarkers in the CNS in progressive MS. RESULTS When compared with healthy controls, people with PPMS had higher serum levels of GDF-15, DKK-1 and cathepsin-D at baseline. These findings match those in our meta-analysis which found increased expression of GDF-15 and cathepsin-D in the CNS in progressive MS. At baseline, elevated serum DKK-1 was associated with worse Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and nine-hole peg test (9HPT) scores. None of the other biomarkers levels significantly correlated with EDSS, Timed 25-Foot Walk Test (T25FWT), 9HPT, or cognitive measures. However, serum GDF-15 and cathepsin-D were higher at baseline in participants who developed worsening disability. Our receiver operating characteristic curve showed that higher serum GDF-15 and cathepsin-D at baseline significantly discriminated between participants who worsened in T25FWT and 9HPT and those who remained stable. CONCLUSIONS Patients with PPMS have altered levels of GDF-15, DKK-1 and cathepsin-D in serum, and GDF-15 and cathepsin-D may have predictive value in progression free of inflammatory activity in PPMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Elizabeth Baeva
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Isabelle Tottenham
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Marcus Koch
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Carlos Camara-Lemarroy
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Canada.
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Benedict RHB. Neuropsychological assessment in MS is outdated and in need for innovation: Commentary. Mult Scler 2024; 30:154-155. [PMID: 38291551 DOI: 10.1177/13524585241227762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Ralph H B Benedict
- SUNY, University at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Motyl J. Advancing assessment of cognitive change in multiple sclerosis: Seeking valid and sensitive approaches beyond simple cut-offs. Mult Scler 2024; 30:276-278. [PMID: 38196122 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231221409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Jiri Motyl
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czechia
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6
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Jakimovski D, Bittner S, Zivadinov R, Morrow SA, Benedict RH, Zipp F, Weinstock-Guttman B. Multiple sclerosis. Lancet 2024; 403:183-202. [PMID: 37949093 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01473-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis remains one of the most common causes of neurological disability in the young adult population (aged 18-40 years). Novel pathophysiological findings underline the importance of the interaction between genetics and environment. Improvements in diagnostic criteria, harmonised guidelines for MRI, and globalised treatment recommendations have led to more accurate diagnosis and an earlier start of effective immunomodulatory treatment than previously. Understanding and capturing the long prodromal multiple sclerosis period would further improve diagnostic abilities and thus treatment initiation, eventually improving long-term disease outcomes. The large portfolio of currently available medications paved the way for personalised therapeutic strategies that will balance safety and effectiveness. Incorporation of cognitive interventions, lifestyle recommendations, and management of non-neurological comorbidities could further improve quality of life and outcomes. Future challenges include the development of medications that successfully target the neurodegenerative aspect of the disease and creation of sensitive imaging and fluid biomarkers that can effectively predict and monitor disease changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejan Jakimovski
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA; Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Stefan Bittner
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience and Immunotherapy, Rhine Main Neuroscience Network, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA; Center for Biomedical Imaging at the Clinical Translational Science Institute, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Sarah A Morrow
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ralph Hb Benedict
- Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Frauke Zipp
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience and Immunotherapy, Rhine Main Neuroscience Network, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.
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7
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Morrow SA, Weinstock ZL, Mirmosayyeb O, Conway D, Fuchs T, Jaworski MG, Eckert S, Hojnacki DH, Dwyer MG, Zivadinov R, Weinstock-Guttman B, Benedict RHB. Detecting isolated cognitive relapses in persons with MS. Mult Scler 2023; 29:1786-1794. [PMID: 37776097 PMCID: PMC10687840 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231201219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The existence of isolated cognitive relapses (ICRs) in persons with MS (PwMS) has been debated. OBJECTIVE To examine relapses with decline on Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) but no change on Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). METHODS This 3-year prospective cohort study identified PwMS experiencing a relapse with decrease on SDMT. Participants with SDMT decline/stable EDSS were labeled "ICR," while those with a corresponding decrease on EDSS were classified "Relapse with Cognitive Decline (RCD)." Two definitions of SDMT decline were explored: (1) ⩾ 8 points, and (2) ⩾ 4 points. Logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between ICR and RCD. RESULTS The full cohort had 592 participants: 83 experienced relapses; 22 (26.5%) had an SDMT decrease of ⩾ 8 points; 14 (63.6%) met ICR criteria. Logistic regression (X2(1) = 5.112, p = 0.024) using demographics and disease characteristics explained 28.4% of the variance in ICR versus RCD. Only the MS Neuropsychological Questionnaire was associated with ICR (odds ratio (OR): 8.6; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1-16.4) 40 relapsing participants with SDMT decrease of ⩾ 4 points were identified: 26 (65%) had a stable EDSS (ICR). Logistic regression did not find any variable predictive of ICR. CONCLUSION This prospective study demonstrates evidence of ICR in PwMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Morrow
- University Hospital, London Health Sciences Center, Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Zachary L Weinstock
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Neurology, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Omid Mirmosayyeb
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Neurology, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Devon Conway
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Tom Fuchs
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Michael G Jaworski
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Neurology, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Sveltlana Eckert
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Neurology, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - David H Hojnacki
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Neurology, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Michael G Dwyer
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, Clinical Translational Science Institute, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Neurology, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Ralph H B Benedict
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Neurology, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Lechner-Scott J, Agland S, Allan M, Darby D, Diamond K, Merlo D, van der Walt A. Managing cognitive impairment and its impact in multiple sclerosis: An Australian multidisciplinary perspective. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 79:104952. [PMID: 37683558 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.104952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis (MS) affects approximately 40-70% of patients and can have varying degrees of severity. Even mild cognitive impairment can impact on quality of life and productivity. Despite this, patients are not routinely screened or monitored for cognitive impairment in Australia due to a range of issues, with time and space being the main limiting factors. This Australian multidisciplinary perspective provides recommendations on cognition management in Australia. It gives a broad overview of cognition in MS, advice on the screening and monitoring tools available to clinicians, and strategies that can be implemented in clinics to help monitor for cognitive impairment in patients with MS. We suggest a routine baseline assessment and multidomain cognitive battery in regular intervals; a change should trigger a thorough investigation of the cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannette Lechner-Scott
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia; Department of Neurology, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, NSW, Australia.
| | - Susan Agland
- MSSN John Hunter Hospital, Hunter New England Health, Australia
| | - Michelle Allan
- Multiple Sclerosis Nurse Consultant, Monash Health, Australia
| | - David Darby
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Keri Diamond
- Clinical Research Unit, Brain & Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Daniel Merlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anneke van der Walt
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Neurology, MSNI Service, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
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9
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Feinstein A, Amato MP, Brichetto G, Chataway J, Chiaravalloti ND, Cutter G, Dalgas U, DeLuca J, Farrell R, Feys P, Filippi M, Freeman J, Inglese M, Meza C, Motl RW, Rocca MA, Sandroff BM, Salter A. Cognitive rehabilitation and aerobic exercise for cognitive impairment in people with progressive multiple sclerosis (CogEx): a randomised, blinded, sham-controlled trial. Lancet Neurol 2023; 22:912-924. [PMID: 37739574 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(23)00280-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive dysfunction in people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis can improve with cognitive rehabilitation or exercise. Similar effects have not been clearly shown in people with progressive multiple sclerosis. We aimed to investigate the individual and synergistic effects of cognitive rehabilitation and exercise in patients with progressive multiple sclerosis. METHODS CogEx was a randomised, sham-controlled trial completed in 11 hospital clinics, universities, and rehabilitation centres in Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Italy, UK, and USA. Patients with progressive multiple sclerosis were eligible for inclusion if they were aged 25-65 years and had an Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of less than 7. All had impaired processing speed defined as a performance of 1·282 SD or greater below normative data on the Symbol Digit modalities Tests (SDMT). Participants were randomly assigned (1:1:1:1), using an interactive web-response system accessed online from each centre, to cognitive rehabilitation plus exercise, cognitive rehabilitation plus sham exercise, exercise plus sham cognitive rehabilitation, or sham exercise plus sham cognitive rehabilitation. The study statistician created the randomisation sequence that was stratified by centre. Participants, outcome assessors, and investigators were blinded to group allocation. The study statistician was masked to treatment during analysis only. Interventions were conducted two times per week for 12 weeks: cognitive rehabilitation used an individualised, computer-based, incremental approach to improve processing speed; sham cognitive rehabilitation consisted of internet training provided individually; the exercise intervention involved individualised aerobic training using a recumbent arm-leg stepper; and the sham exercise involved stretching and balance tasks without inducing cardiovascular strain. The primary outcome measure was processing speed measured by SDMT at 12 weeks; least squares mean differences were compared between groups using linear mixed model in all participants who had a 12-week assessment. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03679468, and is completed. FINDINGS Between Dec 14, 2018, and April 2, 2022, 311 people with progressive multiple sclerosis were enrolled and 284 (91%) completed the 12-week assessment (117/311 [38%] male and 194/311 [62%] female). The least squares mean group differences in SDMT at 12 weeks did not differ between groups (p=0·85). Compared with the sham cognitive rehabilitation and sham exercise group (n=67), differences were -1·30 (95% CI -3·75 to 1·16) for the cognitive rehabilitation plus exercise group (n=70); -2·78 (-5·23 to -0·33) for the sham cognitive rehabilitation plus exercise group (n=71); and -0·71 (-3·11 to 1·70) for the cognitive rehabilitation plus sham exercise group (n=76). 11 adverse events possibly related to the interventions occurred, six in the exercise plus sham cognitive rehabilitation group (pain, dizziness, and falls), two in the cognitive rehabilitation plus sham exercise group (headache and pain), two in the cognitive rehabilitation and exercise group (increased fatigue and pain), and one in the dual sham group (fall). INTERPRETATION Combined cognitive rehabilitation plus exercise does not seem to improve processing speed in people with progressive multiple sclerosis. However, our sham interventions were not inactive. Studies comparing interventions with a non-intervention group are needed to investigate whether clinically meaningful improvements in processing speed might be attainable in people with progressive multiple sclerosis. FUNDING MS Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Feinstein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Maria Pia Amato
- Department NEUROFARBA, Section Neurosciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Florence, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Brichetto
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Genoa, Italy; AISM Rehabilitation Service, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Society, Genoa, Italy
| | - Jeremy Chataway
- Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research, University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Nancy D Chiaravalloti
- Kessler Foundation, East Hanover, NJ, USA; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Gary Cutter
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Ulrik Dalgas
- Exercise Biology, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - John DeLuca
- Kessler Foundation, East Hanover, NJ, USA; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Rachel Farrell
- Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research, University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Peter Feys
- REVAL Rehabilitation Research Center, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hasselt University, Belgium; UMSC University MS Center Hasselt Pelt, Belgium
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Neurology Unit, IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Neurophysiology Service, IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Jennifer Freeman
- Faculty of Health, School of Health Professions, University of Plymouth, Devon, UK
| | - Matilde Inglese
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, and Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Cecilia Meza
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robert W Motl
- Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Maria A Rocca
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Neurology Unit, IRCSS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Brian M Sandroff
- Kessler Foundation, East Hanover, NJ, USA; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Amber Salter
- Department of Neurology, Section on Statistical Planning and Analysis, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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Crippes LJ, Saxby SM, Shemirani F, Bisht B, Gill C, Rubenstein LM, Ten Eyck P, Carr LJ, Darling WG, Hoth KF, Kamholz J, Snetselaar LG, Titcomb TJ, Wahls TL. Diet-induced changes in functional disability are mediated by fatigue in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: A secondary analysis of the WAVES randomized parallel-arm trial. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2023; 9:20552173231209147. [PMID: 37916030 PMCID: PMC10617283 DOI: 10.1177/20552173231209147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background People with multiple sclerosis (MS) often report dietary modifications; however, evidence on functional outcomes remains sparse. Objective Evaluate the impact of the low-saturated fat (Swank) and modified Paleolithic elimination (Wahls) diets on functional disability among people with relapsing-remitting MS. Methods Baseline-referenced MS functional composite (MSFC) scores were calculated from nine-hole peg-test (NHPT), timed 25-foot walk, and oral symbol digit modalities test (SDMT-O) collected at four study visits: (a) run-in, (b) baseline, (c) 12 weeks, and (d) 24 weeks. Participants were observed at run-in and then randomized at baseline to either the Swank (n = 44) or Wahls (n = 43) diets. Results Among the Swank group, MSFC scores significantly increased from -0.13 ± 0.14 at baseline to 0.10 ± 0.11 at 12 weeks (p = 0.04) and 0.14 ± 0.11 at 24 weeks (p = 0.02). Among the Wahls group, no change in MSFC scores was observed at 12 weeks from 0.10 ± 0.11 at baseline but increased to 0.28 ± 0.13 at 24 weeks (p = 0.002). In both groups, NHPT and SDMT-O z-scores increased at 24 weeks. Changes in MSFC and NHPT were mediated by fatigue. Discussion Both diets reduced functional disability as mediated by fatigue. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT02914964.
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Affiliation(s)
- Landon J Crippes
- Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Solange M Saxby
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | - Babita Bisht
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Christine Gill
- Department of Neurology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | - Patrick Ten Eyck
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Lucas J Carr
- Department of Health and Human Physiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Warren G Darling
- Department of Health and Human Physiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Karin F Hoth
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - John Kamholz
- Department of Neurology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | - Tyler J Titcomb
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Terry L Wahls
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Varela S, Ayán C, Bidaurrazaga-Letona I, Diz JC, Duñabeitia I. The effect of Brain Gym on cognitive function in older people: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Geriatr Nurs 2023; 53:175-180. [PMID: 37540913 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
This review aimed to systematically evaluate and meta-analyze the available data on the effects of Brain Gym (BG) on cognitive function in older people. Six electronic databases were searched systematically using: "Brain Gym" AND "elderly, "Brain Gym" AND "older people". The PEDro and MINORS scales were used to evaluate methodological quality. For the meta-analysis, inverse variance or generic inverse variance was used and heterogeneity was assessed with the Chi2 test and I2 test. Ten research studies with a high to low quality. Significant changes intra- and inter-group were observed for neurocognitive outcomes in the BG groups. Findings from the metaanalysis indicated changes in the BG groups, on cognitive function by means of the Mini-Mental State Examination, were not greater than those reported in the control/comparison groups. BG will not lead to improvements in cognitive function in people with and without cognitive impairment, supported by low to high evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Varela
- Department of Special Didactics, University of Vigo, Vigo, Spain; Well-Move Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute (IIS Galicia Sur), SERGAS-UVIGO, Vigo, Spain
| | - Carlos Ayán
- Department of Special Didactics, University of Vigo, Vigo, Spain; Well-Move Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute (IIS Galicia Sur), SERGAS-UVIGO, Vigo, Spain; RIDEAIDI, Research Network on People with Disability: Exercise, Physical Activity and Inclusive Sport, Consejo Superior de Deportes (CSD), Spain
| | - Iraia Bidaurrazaga-Letona
- RIDEAIDI, Research Network on People with Disability: Exercise, Physical Activity and Inclusive Sport, Consejo Superior de Deportes (CSD), Spain; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - José Carlos Diz
- Well-Move Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute (IIS Galicia Sur), SERGAS-UVIGO, Vigo, Spain; Departamento de Bioloxía Funcional e Ciencias da Saúde, Universidade de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
| | - Iratxe Duñabeitia
- RIDEAIDI, Research Network on People with Disability: Exercise, Physical Activity and Inclusive Sport, Consejo Superior de Deportes (CSD), Spain; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain.
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Højsgaard Chow H, Talbot J, Lundell H, Marstrand L, Gøbel Madsen C, Bach Søndergaard H, Bredahl Hansen M, Solberg Sørensen P, Siebner HR, Sellebjerg F. Dimethyl fumarate treatment of primary progressive multiple sclerosis: results of an open-label extension study. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 70:104458. [PMID: 36586351 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.104458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dimethyl fumarate treatment is approved in Europe for patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) and in the US for relapsing forms of MS. We recently published the results of the first randomized placebo-controlled trial of 48 weeks of treatment with dimethyl fumarate or placebo in primary progressive MS (PPMS) (clinicaltrial.gov NCT02959658). The placebo-controlled phase of the trial did not meet its primary endpoint (reduction in cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of neurofilament light chain [NFL]). AIM To investigate the effects of dimethyl fumarate treatment in the open-label extension phase of the trial (week 48-96), where all patients were treated with DMF. METHODS Reported data are from screening, week 48, and week 96 visits. Patients were clinically evaluated with Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), 9-Hole Peg Test (9HPT), Timed 25-Foot Walk (T25FW) test, Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), California Verbal Learning Test, and Brief Visuospatial Memory-Revised. Serum NFL concentrations were measured by single-molecule array analysis. MRI was performed on a 3 tesla MRI scanner and included: new/enlarging lesions, volume of lesions, cortical grey matter, putamen, thalamus, and normal-appearing white matter, and additional diffusion tensor imaging and magnetization transfer ratio measures. RESULTS Forty-two patients entered the open-label treatment phase, and 33 patients (61%) had complete data sets at week 96. The remaining 39% did not complete the trial and were not evaluated at week 96. We found no evidence of differences in clinical and MRI measures between patients initially treated with dimethyl fumarate and patients initially treated with placebo from baseline to week 48 and from week 48-96, where all patients were treated with dimethyl fumarate. Serum NFL concentrations remained stable in both groups over 96 weeks. Assessed with either EDSS, T25FW, or 9HPT at week 96, progression was observed for 14 patients (45%). Interestingly, another 15 patients (46%) had improvement in one or more of these domains. Applying a cut-off of 8 points, 2 (6%) patients worsened on SDMT, 25 (78%) did not change, and 5 (16%) improved. CONCLUSIONS Dimethyl fumarate treatment showed no effects on neither clinical nor MRI outcomes or changes in serum concentrations of NFL. An expected number of patients showed evidence of progression on standard clinical scales; however, this was matched by an equal number of patients improving. The reasons for the physical improvement in an unexpectedly high proportion of patients must be addressed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Højsgaard Chow
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark.
| | - Jacob Talbot
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Henrik Lundell
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen Denmark, Kettegård Alle 30, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Lisbet Marstrand
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Camilla Gøbel Madsen
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen Denmark, Kettegård Alle 30, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Helle Bach Søndergaard
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Malene Bredahl Hansen
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Per Solberg Sørensen
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen N, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hartwig Roman Siebner
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen Denmark, Kettegård Alle 30, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen N, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Bispebjerg Bakke 23, 2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Finn Sellebjerg
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen N, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Damasceno A, Pimentel-Silva LR, Damasceno BP, Cendes F. Are we ready to define cognitive worsening in MS? How different cutoffs detect future cognitive worsening after six years of follow-up. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 69:104402. [PMID: 36379184 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.104402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although cognitive evaluation has been incorporated in recent MS clinical trials, the definition of cognitive progression is not clear and recent data are questioning the 4-point cutoff using the SDMT at the individual level. We aimed to evaluate the behavior of cognitive performance over time using different cutoffs. METHODS Cognitive performance over six years was analyzed in a cohort of 42 relapsing-remitting MS patients and 30 controls using verbal/visual memory and information processing speed tests. Fixed cutoffs were: 10% and 20% change (all tests) and a 4- and 8-point change (SDMT). The relative cutoff established by regression-based models was a 1SD change. RESULTS The distributions of "worsening", "stability", and "improvement" showed low concordance rates across the cutoffs (p < 0.001 for most comparisons). Most patients classified with worsening initially using fixed cutoffs had subsequent improvement in all cognitive tests, yielding a low sensitivity to predict later cognitive worsening. Using the relative cutoff, the proportion of patients with subsequent improvement was noticeably smaller. CONCLUSIONS Fixed cutoffs classify a high proportion of patients with cognitive improvement. Most patients categorized with worsening initially presented subsequent improvement. Instead, the relative cutoff generally had a better performance. These data raise concerns about how we are defining cognitive worsening so far, especially at the individual level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Damasceno
- Department of Neurology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil; Laboratory of Neuroimaging, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Fernando Cendes
- Department of Neurology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil; Laboratory of Neuroimaging, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
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Esbrí SF, Tirado AS, Sanchis-Segura C, Forn C. Possible evidence of near transfer effects after adaptive working memory training in persons with multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 67:104182. [PMID: 36155966 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.104182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive deficits, especially in working memory (WM) and information processing (IP) efficiency, are common in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Few studies have examined the efficacy of n-back training in improving these two cognitive functions in PwMS. In the present study, we examined the effects of an intensive n-back training program by measuring the gains on the trained task (2- and 3-back tasks), but we also studied possible near transfer effects to other tests that assess WM and IP, as well as far transfer effects or improvements in other cognitive functions. METHODS A sample consisting of 35 PwMS with different cognitive statuses. All the participants underwent an adaptive n-back training for 10 days (60 min/day), and they were neuropsychologically assessed at baseline (D1) and after training (D10). The effectiveness of the training was tested: (1) by using mean-based comparisons and Cohen's d values; (2) by estimating and comparing the quartile values of the D1 and D10 distributions. Two indexes of improvement in individual performance were calculated, the net score improvement index (NSI) and the percent of maximum possible individualized improvement (PMPI). RESULTS Repeat practice improves 2- and 3-back performance, showing more correct responses (CR) and lower reaction times (RT) on D10 compared to D1. These results were corroborated by the NSI and PMPI scores, but the gains after training were more statistically significant for the 3-back (observing higher CR and lower RT after training) than for the 2-back (observing gains in CR, but not in RT). We also observed a possible transference of this improvement on the n-back task to other WM/IPS tests. Specifically, statistically significant pre-post training differences were found in the values in three quartiles of the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT; q25, p < 0.03; q50, p < 0.001; q75, p < 0.002) and of the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT; q25, p < 0.03; q50, p < 0.001; q75, p < 0.001) as well as in two quartiles of the Letter-Number Sequencing Task (LNST; q50, p < 0.004; q75 p < 0.001), and in one quartile of the Digit Backwards Span Test (DSBT; q75, p < 0.001). Reliable change analyses confirmed these performance improvements on the PASAT, SDMT, and LNST. CONCLUSIONS This study confirmed that the intensive and adaptive n-back training produced improvements in the trained task in PwMS with different cognitive statuses. Furthermore, these gains were not only observed on the trained task, but they seemed to be also transferred to other tests that measured WM and IP functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Félix Esbrí
- Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Clínica i Psicobiología, Universitat Jaume I, Universitat de Ciències de la Salut, Avda. Sos Baynat s/n (Edifici d'investigació II), Castelló de la Plana 12006, Spain
| | - Alba Sebastián Tirado
- Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Clínica i Psicobiología, Universitat Jaume I, Universitat de Ciències de la Salut, Avda. Sos Baynat s/n (Edifici d'investigació II), Castelló de la Plana 12006, Spain
| | - Carla Sanchis-Segura
- Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Clínica i Psicobiología, Universitat Jaume I, Universitat de Ciències de la Salut, Avda. Sos Baynat s/n (Edifici d'investigació II), Castelló de la Plana 12006, Spain
| | - Cristina Forn
- Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Clínica i Psicobiología, Universitat Jaume I, Universitat de Ciències de la Salut, Avda. Sos Baynat s/n (Edifici d'investigació II), Castelló de la Plana 12006, Spain.
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