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Freedman DE, Oh J, Kiss A, Puopolo J, Wishart M, Meza C, Feinstein A. The influence of depression and anxiety on cognition in people with multiple sclerosis: a cross-sectional analysis. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12409-x. [PMID: 38730098 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12409-x] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
There are conflicting findings about the relationships between depression, anxiety, and cognitive dysfunction in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), and a paucity of research has examined the cumulative influence on cognition of depression plus anxiety. This study aimed to determine whether elevated symptoms of depression and anxiety alone or in combination are associated with worse cognition in people with MS. In this cross-sectional analysis, people with MS consecutively seen at a tertiary neuropsychiatry clinic completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for symptoms of depression (HADS-D) and anxiety (HADS-A), and the Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Function in MS for cognitive indices. Accounting for covariates, regression models predicted cognitive indices from scores for HADS-D, HADS-A, and the interaction. Of 831 people with MS, 72% were female, mean age was 43.2 years, and median Expanded Disability Status Scale score was 2.0. Depressive symptoms were independently predictive of lower verbal fluency (Controlled Oral Word Association Test, p < 0.01), verbal learning (California Verbal Learning Test-II (CVLT-II) total learning, p = 0.02), verbal delayed recall (CVLT-II delayed recall, p < 0.01), and processing speed (Symbol Digit Modalities Test, p < 0.01; three-second Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT), p = 0.05; two-second PASAT, p = 0.01). Anxiety in people with depression predicted decreased visuospatial function (Judgment of Line Orientation, p = 0.05), verbal learning (p < 0.01), verbal delayed recall (p < 0.01), visuospatial recall (Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-Revised, p = 0.02), and executive function (Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System, p < 0.01). Anxiety alone was not independently predictive of cognition. In conclusion, depression, especially with comorbid anxiety, is associated with cognitive dysfunction in people with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Freedman
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Jiwon Oh
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Alex Kiss
- Evaluative Clinical Sciences, Department of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Juliana Puopolo
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Margaret Wishart
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Cecilia Meza
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Anthony Feinstein
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
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2
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Takla TN, Chargo AN, Daugherty AM, Fritz NE. Cognitive Contributors of Backward Walking in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis. Mult Scler Int 2023; 2023:5582242. [PMID: 37600498 PMCID: PMC10438976 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5582242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) are at an increased fall risk due to motor and cognitive dysfunction. Our past studies suggest that backward walking (BW) velocity predicts fall risk; however, specific cognitive domains associated with BW velocity remain understudied. The goal of this study was to determine the specific contributions of cognitive functioning to BW velocity in persons with MS. We hypothesized that better visuospatial memory, verbal immediate recall, and faster information processing speed would contribute to faster BW velocity, and deficits in these domains would partially account for disease severity-related impairment in BW velocity. Methods Participants completed demographic questionnaires, walking tests, and cognitive assessments. Applied structural equation modeling was used to test our hypothesized model of competing cognitive mediators. Within the model, disease severity was a predictor of BW via three intercorrelated cognitive mediators. Results Participants included 39 individuals with relapsing-remitting MS. Results indicated that 35.3% of the significant total effect of disease severity on BW was accounted for by specific cognitive deficits. Verbal immediate recall had the largest contribution, followed by visuospatial memory and information processing speed. Conclusions When examining the unique effects of cognitive domains on disease severity-related deficits in BW, a meaningful source of impairment related to visuospatial memory and verbal immediate recall was demonstrated. Considering the utility of BW velocity as a predictor of falls, these results highlight the importance of assessing cognition when evaluating fall risk in MS. Cognitive-based intervention studies investigating fall prevention may find BW as a more specific and sensitive predictor of fall risk than forward walking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor N. Takla
- Neuroimaging and Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Alexis N. Chargo
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Institute of Gerontology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Ana M. Daugherty
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Institute of Gerontology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Nora E. Fritz
- Neuroimaging and Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Neurology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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3
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Li TJ, Hua MS, Liu MY, Liao YC, Chang HT. Extending Normative Data of the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test to Account for Preliminary Psychometric Properties among Elderly Individuals in Taiwan. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2023; 38:264-269. [PMID: 36420697 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acac089] [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: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) is widely used to assess cognitive performance in clinical settings. However, availability of normative data for Revised Version of PASAT (PASAT-R) is often constrained by sample size among elderly individuals. In this study, we sought to establish normative data for PASAT-R for elderly individuals in Taiwan. METHODS This study recruited 166 individuals aged over 65 years stratified in accordance with the general population in terms of demographic characteristics, including age, educational level, and sex. We assessed PASAT-R test results in terms of psychometric properties. RESULTS PASAT-R demonstrated good internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Performance on PASAT-R was correlated with performance on the criterion tests. Performance on PASAT-R was negatively correlated with age and positively correlated with educational level. This study provides normative data for PASAT-R for elderly Taiwanese individuals. CONCLUSIONS PASAT-R is applicable to neuropsychological assessment among elderly Taiwanese individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Jia Li
- Department of Psychology, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Mau-Sun Hua
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Ying Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital Yun-Lin Branch, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Yunlin, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chi Liao
- Department of Psychology, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Te Chang
- Department of Psychology, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Psychology, College of Science, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Research Assistance Center, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua City, Changhua, Taiwan
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4
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Hanly JG, Robertson JW, Legge A, Kamintsky L, Aristi G, Friedman A, Beyea SD, Fisk JD, Omisade A, Calkin C, Bardouille T, Bowen C, Matheson K, Hashmi JA. Resting state functional connectivity in SLE patients and association with cognitive impairment and blood-brain barrier permeability. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2023; 62:685-695. [PMID: 35699463 PMCID: PMC9891437 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keac343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Extensive blood-brain barrier (BBB) leakage has been linked to cognitive impairment in SLE. This study aimed to examine the associations of brain functional connectivity (FC) with cognitive impairment and BBB dysfunction among patients with SLE. METHODS Cognitive function was assessed by neuropsychological testing (n = 77). Resting-state FC (rsFC) between brain regions, measured by functional MRI (n = 78), assessed coordinated neural activation in 131 regions across five canonical brain networks. BBB permeability was measured by dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (n = 61). Differences in rsFC were compared between SLE patients with cognitive impairment (SLE-CI) and those with normal cognition (SLE-NC), between SLE patients with and without extensive BBB leakage, and with healthy controls. RESULTS A whole-brain rsFC comparison found significant differences in intra-network and inter-network FC in SLE-CI vs SLE-NC patients. The affected connections showed a reduced negative rsFC in SLE-CI compared with SLE-NC and healthy controls. Similarly, a reduced number of brain-wide connections was found in SLE-CI patients compared with SLE-NC (P = 0.030) and healthy controls (P = 0.006). Specific brain regions had a lower total number of brain-wide connections in association with extensive BBB leakage (P = 0.011). Causal mediation analysis revealed that 64% of the association between BBB leakage and cognitive impairment in SLE patients was mediated by alterations in FC. CONCLUSION SLE patients with cognitive impairment had abnormalities in brain rsFC which accounted for most of the association between extensive BBB leakage and cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- John G Hanly
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine and Department of Pathology, Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Center and Dalhousie University
| | - Jason W Robertson
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia Health Authority
| | - Alexandra Legge
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Center and Dalhousie University
| | - Lyna Kamintsky
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Guillermo Aristi
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia Health Authority
| | - Alon Friedman
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Departments of Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Physiology and Cell Biology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Steven D Beyea
- Biomedical Translational Imaging Centre (BIOTIC), QEII Health Sciences Centre, and Department of Diagnostic Radiology
| | - John D Fisk
- Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Canada and the Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience and Medicine, Dalhousie University
| | - Antonina Omisade
- Acquired Brain Injury (Epilepsy Program), Nova Scotia Health Authority
| | - Cynthia Calkin
- Department of Psychiatry and Department of Medical Neuroscience
| | | | - Chris Bowen
- Biomedical Translational Imaging Centre (BIOTIC), QEII Health Sciences Centre, and Department of Diagnostic Radiology
| | - Kara Matheson
- Research Methods Unit, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Javeria A Hashmi
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia Health Authority
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5
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Berard JA, Walker LA. Validity and sensitivity of Canadian normative data for the minimal assessment of cognitive function in multiple sclerosis (MACFIMS) battery. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 63:103865. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.103865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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6
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Hanly JG, Legge A, Kamintsky L, Friedman A, Hashmi JA, Beyea SD, Fisk J, Omisade A, Calkin C, Bardouille T, Bowen C, Matheson K, Fritzler MJ. Role of autoantibodies and blood-brain barrier leakage in cognitive impairment in systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus Sci Med 2022; 9:9/1/e000668. [PMID: 35705307 PMCID: PMC9204449 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2022-000668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Objective Cognitive impairment is common in patients with SLE but the cause is unknown. The current cross-sectional study examined the association between select SLE-related autoantibodies, other serological biomarkers and extensive blood–brain barrier (BBB) leakage in patients with SLE with and without cognitive impairment. In addition, we determined whether the relationship between SLE autoantibodies, other biomarkers and cognitive impairment differed depending on the presence or absence of concurrent extensive BBB leakage. Methods Consecutive patients with SLE, recruited from a single academic medical centre, underwent formal neuropsychological testing for assessment of cognitive function. On the same day, BBB permeability was determined using dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI scanning. SLE autoantibodies and other serological biomarkers were measured. Regression modelling was used to determine the association between cognitive impairment, extensive BBB leakage and autoantibodies/biomarkers. Results There were 102 patients with SLE; 90% were female and 88% were Caucasian, with a mean±SD age of 48.9±13.8 years. The mean±SD SLE disease duration was 14.8±11.0 years. Impairment in one or more cognitive tests was present in 47 of 101 (47%) patients and included deficits in information processing speed (9%), attention span (21%), new learning (8%), delayed recall (15%) and executive abilities (21%). Extensive BBB leakage was present in 20 of 79 (25%) patients and was associated with cognitive impairment (15 of 20 (75%) vs 24 of 59 (41%); p=0.01) and shorter disease duration (median (IQR): 7 (8–24 years) vs 15 (2–16 years); p=0.02). No serological parameters were associated with extensive BBB leakage and there was no statistically significant association between cognitive impairment and circulating autoantibodies even after adjusting for BBB leakage. Conclusions Extensive BBB leakage alone was associated with cognitive impairment. These findings suggest that BBB leakage is an important contributor to cognitive impairment, regardless of circulating SLE-related autoantibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- John G Hanly
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine and Pathology, Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada .,Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Alexandra Legge
- Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Lyna Kamintsky
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Alon Friedman
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Departments of Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Physiology and Cell Biology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Javeria A Hashmi
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Steven D Beyea
- Biomedical Translational Imaging Centre (BIOTIC), Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - John Fisk
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and Medicine, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Antonina Omisade
- Acquired Brain Injury (Epilepsy Program), Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Cynthia Calkin
- Department of Psychiatry and Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Tim Bardouille
- Department of Physics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Chris Bowen
- Biomedical Translational Imaging Centre (BIOTIC), Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Kara Matheson
- Research Methods Unit, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Marvin J Fritzler
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Chu L, Casserly C, Rosehart H, Morrow SA. Is there a multiple sclerosis personality? Personality characteristics in newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis and association with mood and cognition. J Neurol Sci 2022; 434:120145. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2022.120145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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8
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Chaves AR, Kenny HM, Snow NJ, Pretty RW, Ploughman M. Sex-specific disruption in corticospinal excitability and hemispheric (a)symmetry in multiple sclerosis. Brain Res 2021; 1773:147687. [PMID: 34634288 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2021.147687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disease in which pathophysiology and symptom progression presents differently between the sexes. In a cohort of people with MS (n = 110), we used transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to investigate sex differences in corticospinal excitability (CSE) and sex-specific relationships between CSE and cognitive function. Although demographics and disease characteristics did not differ between sexes, males were more likely to have cognitive impairment as measured by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA); 53.3% compared to females at 26.3%. Greater CSE asymmetry was noted in females compared to males. Females demonstrated higher active motor thresholds and longer silent periods in the hemisphere corresponding to the weaker hand which was more typical of hand dominance patterns in healthy individuals. Males, but not females, exhibited asymmetry of nerve conduction latency (delayed MEP latency in the hemisphere corresponding to the weaker hand). In males, there was also a relationship between delayed onset of ipsilateral silent period (measured in the hemisphere corresponding to the weaker hand) and MoCA, suggestive of cross-callosal disruption. Our findings support that a sex-specific disruption in CSE exists in MS, pointing to interhemispheric disruption as a potential biomarker of cognitive impairment and target for neuromodulating therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur R Chaves
- Recovery and Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, L.A. Miller Centre, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada.
| | - Hannah M Kenny
- Recovery and Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, L.A. Miller Centre, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada.
| | - Nicholas J Snow
- Recovery and Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, L.A. Miller Centre, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada.
| | - Ryan W Pretty
- Recovery and Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, L.A. Miller Centre, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada.
| | - Michelle Ploughman
- Recovery and Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, L.A. Miller Centre, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada.
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Harenberg S, St. Onge J, Robinson J, Eguakun O, Feinstein A, Dorsch K, Kakar RS, Abdulhakim R, Rehman Z, Shawush M, Pillay V. Effectiveness of Three-Dimensional Multiple-Object Tracking in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Pilot Trial. Int J MS Care 2021; 23:143-149. [PMID: 34483752 PMCID: PMC8405148 DOI: 10.7224/1537-2073.2020-007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Computerized cognitive training remains an attractive supplemental modality to enhance rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis (MS). The objective of the present study was to assess the usability of three-dimensional multiple-object tracking (3D-MOT) in patients with MS. METHODS In this pilot study, 16 patients with relapsing-remitting MS and nine age-matched controls participated in four 30-minute training sessions of 3D-MOT. Computerized neuropsychological tests, including driving readiness (ie, Useful Field of View) and cognitive function (ie, Stroop Color and Word Test, Paced Visual Serial Addition Test, Symbol Digit Modalities Test) were conducted at baseline and at the conclusion of training. RESULTS Although scoring lower in 3D-MOT, the MS group improved their 3D-MOT scores in similar magnitude as the control group. The 3D-MOT training led to significant improvements in driving readiness in the MS group. Taken together, 3D-MOT training showed similar effectiveness in patients with MS as in age-matched controls. CONCLUSIONS Training with 3D-MOT may be an accessible and remotely administrable supplement to cognitive rehabilitation protocols for patients with MS.
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10
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Henning DA, Edwards EM, Ansara M, Fritz NE. Validating the walking while talking test to measure motor, cognitive, and dual-task performance in ambulatory individuals with multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 54:103123. [PMID: 34246023 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.103123] [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: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is associated with demyelination of the central nervous system that negatively impacts both motor and cognitive function, resulting in difficulty performing simultaneous motor and cognitive tasks, or dual-tasks. Declines in dual-tasking have been linked with falls in MS; thus, dual-task assessment with the Walking While Talking Test (WWTT) is commonly utilized in the clinical setting. However, the validity and minimal detectable change (MDC) of the WWTT has not been established for persons with MS. The primary objective of the study was to establish the WWTT as a valid measure of dual-task function by examining concurrent validity with other motor, cognitive and dual-task measures, and to establish the MDC for both the simple and complex conditions of the WWTT. METHODS In a single visit, 38 adults (34 female, mean (SD) age 49.8(±9.1), Patient Determined Disease Steps (PDDS) mean 3, range 1-6) completed the WWTT simple (walk while reciting the alphabet) and complex (walk while reciting every other letter of the alphabet) conditions as well as a battery of cognitive and motor tests. Spearman correlations were used to examine concurrent validity. The sample was divided into low and high disability groups to determine the impact of disability severity on relationships among WWTT and cognitive and motor function. RESULTS Excellent concurrent validity (r ≥ 0.79; p < 0.001) was observed for the WWTT simple and complex with both motor (Timed Up-and-Go, Timed 25-Foot Walk, forward and backward walking velocity, Six-Spot Step Test) and dual-task measures (Timed Up-and-Go Cognitive). The WWTT-simple demonstrated moderate concurrent validity with measures of processing speed (Symbol Digit Modalities Test, p = 0.041) and was related to all motor and dual-task measures across disability levels. The WWTT complex was only related to complex motor tasks in the low disability group. Within the low disability group, WWTT was associated with processing speed (p = 0.045) and working memory (California Verbal Learning Test, p = 0.012). The MDC values were established for WWTT simple (6.9 s) and complex (8 s) conditions. DISCUSSION The WWTT is a quick, easy-to-administer clinical measure that captures both motor and cognitive aspects of performance for persons with MS. Clinicians should consider adding the WWTT to the evaluation of persons with MS to examine dual-task performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Henning
- Neuroimaging and Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Wayne State University, Detroit MI, United States; Department of Health Care Sciences, Program in Physical Therapy, Wayne State University, Detroit MI, United States
| | - Erin M Edwards
- Neuroimaging and Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Wayne State University, Detroit MI, United States; Translational Neuroscience Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Melissa Ansara
- Neuroimaging and Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Wayne State University, Detroit MI, United States
| | - Nora E Fritz
- Neuroimaging and Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Wayne State University, Detroit MI, United States; Department of Health Care Sciences, Program in Physical Therapy, Wayne State University, Detroit MI, United States; Translational Neuroscience Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States; Department of Neurology, Wayne State University, Detroit MI, United States.
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11
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Increasing the Clinical Utility of the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test: Normative Data for Standard, Dyad, and Cognitive Fatigability Scoring. Cogn Behav Neurol 2021; 34:107-116. [PMID: 34074865 DOI: 10.1097/wnn.0000000000000268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No normative data currently exist that would allow clinicians to decide whether the degree of cognitive fatigability (CF) experienced in individuals with neurologic disease is greater than expected when compared with a healthy population. OBJECTIVE To establish discrete and regression-based normative data for CF as defined by an objective decrement in performance over the course of a cognitive task; namely, the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT). In addition, to develop discrete and regression-based normative data for PASAT performance scores-dyad and percent dyad-for which data do not currently exist. METHOD One hundred and seventy-eight healthy individuals completed the PASAT as part of a larger neuropsychological battery. PASAT performance scores including total correct responses, total dyads, and percent dyad were calculated. CF scores were calculated by comparing the individuals' performance on the first half (or third) of the test to their performance on the last half (or third) in order to capture any within-task performance decrements over time. RESULTS Both age- and education-based discrete normative data and demographically adjusted (sex, age, and education) regression-based formulas were established for the PASAT performance scores and the CF scores. CONCLUSION The development of these normative data will allow for greater interpretation of an individual's performance on the PASAT, beyond just the total correct score, through the use of dyad and percent dyad scores. With respect to CF, these data will allow clinicians to objectively quantify decrements in cognitive performance over time better in individuals with neurologic diseases.
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12
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Oh J, Suthiphosuwan S, Sati P, Absinta M, Dewey B, Guenette M, Selchen D, Bharatha A, Donaldson E, Reich DS, Feinstein A. Cognitive impairment, the central vein sign, and paramagnetic rim lesions in RIS. Mult Scler 2021; 27:2199-2208. [PMID: 33754887 PMCID: PMC8458475 DOI: 10.1177/13524585211002097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The central vein sign (CVS) and “paramagnetic rim lesions” (PRL) are emerging imaging biomarkers in multiple sclerosis (MS) reflecting perivenular demyelination and chronic, smoldering inflammation. The objective of this study was to assess relationships between cognitive impairment (CI) and the CVS and PRL in radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS). Methods: Twenty-seven adults with RIS underwent 3.0 T MRI of the brain and cervical spinal cord (SC) and cognitive assessment using the minimal assessment of cognitive function in MS battery. The CVS and PRL were assessed in white-matter lesions (WMLs) on T2*-weighted segmented echo-planar magnitude and phase images. Multivariable linear regression evaluated relationships between CI and MRI measures. Results: Global CI was present in 9 (33%) participants with processing speed and visual memory most frequently affected. Most participants (93%) had ⩾ 40% CVS + WML (a threshold distinguishing MS from other WM disorders); 63% demonstrated PRL. Linear regression revealed that CVS + WML predicted performance on verbal memory(β =-0.024, p = 0.03) while PRL predicted performance on verbal memory (β = -0.040, p = 0.04) and processing speed (β = -0.039, p = 0.03). Conclusions: CI is common in RIS and is associated with markers of perivenular demyelination and chronic inflammation in WML, such as CVS + WML and PRL. A prospective follow-up of this cohort will ascertain the importance of CI, CVS, and PRL as risk factors for conversion from RIS to MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwon Oh
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada/Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Suradech Suthiphosuwan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada/Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Medical Imaging, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Pascal Sati
- Translational Neuroradiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA/Neuroimaging Unit, Department of Neurology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Martina Absinta
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA/Translational Neuroradiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Blake Dewey
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Melanie Guenette
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel Selchen
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Aditya Bharatha
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Medical Imaging, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada/Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Emily Donaldson
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel S Reich
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA/Translational Neuroradiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anthony Feinstein
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada/Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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13
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Marrie RA, Whitehouse CE, Patel R, Figley CR, Kornelsen J, Bolton JM, Graff LA, Mazerolle EL, Marriott JJ, Bernstein CN, Fisk JD. Performance of Regression-Based Norms for Cognitive Functioning of Persons With Multiple Sclerosis in an Independent Sample. Front Neurol 2021; 11:621010. [PMID: 33519702 PMCID: PMC7840703 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.621010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cognitive impairment is common in multiple sclerosis (MS). Interpretation of neuropsychological tests requires the use of normative data. Traditionally, normative data have been reported for discrete categories such as age. More recently continuous norms have been developed using multivariable regression equations that account for multiple demographic factors. Regression-based norms have been developed for use in the Canadian population for tests included in the MACFIMS and BICAMS test batteries. Establishing the generalizability of these norms is essential for application in clinical and research settings. Objectives: We aimed to (i) test the performance of previously published Canadian regression-based norms in an independently collected sample of Canadian healthy controls; (ii) compare the ability of Canadian and non-Canadian regression-based norms to discriminate between healthy controls and persons with MS; and (iii) develop regression-based norms for several cognitive tests drawn from batteries commonly used in MS that incorporated race/ethnicity in addition to age, education, and sex. Methods: We included 93 adults with MS and 96 healthy adults in this study, with a replication sample of 104 (MS) and 39 (healthy adults). Participants reported their sociodemographic characteristics, and each was administered the oral Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II), and the Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-Revised (BVMT-R). From the healthy control data, we developed regression-based norms incorporating race, age, education and sex. We then applied existing discrete norms and regression-based norms for the cognitive tests to the healthy controls, and generated z-scores which were compared using Spearman rank and concordance coefficients. We also used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to compare the ability of each set of norms to discriminate between participants with and without MS. Within the MS samples we compared the ability of each set of norms to discriminate between differing levels of disability and employment status using relative efficiency. Results: When we applied the published regression norms to our healthy sample, impairment classification rates often differed substantially from expectations (7%), even when the norms were derived from a Canadian (Ontario) population. Most, but not all of the Spearman correlations between z-scores based on different existing published norms for the same cognitive test exceeded 0.90. However, concordance coefficients were often lower. All of the norms for the SDMT reliably discriminated between the MS and healthy control groups. In contrast, none of the norms for the CVLT-II or BVMT-R discriminated between the MS and healthy control groups. Within the MS population, the norms varied in their ability to discriminate between disability levels or employment status; locally developed norms for the SDMT and CVLT-II had the highest relative efficiency. Conclusion: Our findings emphasize the value of local norms when interpreting the results of cognitive tests and demonstrate the need to consider and assess the performance of regression-based norms developed in other populations when applying them to local populations, even when they are from the same country. Our findings also strongly suggest that the development of regression-based norms should involve larger, more diverse samples to ensure broad generalizability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Ann Marrie
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - Ronak Patel
- Department of Clinical Health Psychology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Chase R Figley
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Neuroscience Research Program, Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre, Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Jennifer Kornelsen
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Neuroscience Research Program, Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre, Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - James M Bolton
- Department of Psychiatry, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Lesley A Graff
- Department of Clinical Health Psychology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Erin L Mazerolle
- Department of Psychology, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS, Canada
| | - James J Marriott
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Charles N Bernstein
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - John D Fisk
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Departments of Psychiatry, and Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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14
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Kamintsky L, Beyea SD, Fisk JD, Hashmi JA, Omisade A, Calkin C, Bardouille T, Bowen C, Quraan M, Mitnitski A, Matheson K, Friedman A, Hanly JG. Blood-brain barrier leakage in systemic lupus erythematosus is associated with gray matter loss and cognitive impairment. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 79:1580-1587. [PMID: 33004325 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-218004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the association between blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, brain volume and cognitive dysfunction in adult patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). METHODS A total of 65 ambulatory patients with SLE and 9 healthy controls underwent dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI scanning, for quantitative assessment of BBB permeability. Volumetric data were extracted using the VolBrain pipeline. Global cognitive function was evaluated using a screening battery consisting of tasks falling into five broad cognitive domains, and was compared between patients with normal versus extensive BBB leakage. RESULTS Patients with SLE had significantly higher levels of BBB leakage compared with controls (p=0.04). Extensive BBB leakage (affecting over >9% of brain volume) was identified only in patients with SLE (16/65; 24.6%), who also had smaller right and left cerebral grey matter volumes compared with controls (p=0.04). Extensive BBB leakage was associated with lower global cognitive scores (p=0.02), and with the presence of impairment on one or more cognitive tasks (p=0.01). CONCLUSION Our findings provide evidence for a link between extensive BBB leakage and changes in both brain structure and cognitive function in patients with SLE. Future studies should investigate the mechanisms underlying BBB-mediated cognitive impairment, validate the diagnostic utility of BBB imaging, and determine the potential of targeting the BBB as a therapeutic strategy in patients with SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyna Kamintsky
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Steven D Beyea
- Biomedical Translational Imaging Centre (BIOTIC), Queen Elizabeth ll Health Sciences Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Diagnostic Radiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - John D Fisk
- Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience and Medicine, Dalhousie University and Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Javeria A Hashmi
- Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University and Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Antonina Omisade
- Acquired Brain Injury (Epilepsy Program), Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Cynthia Calkin
- Psychiatry and Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Mood Disorders Clinic, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Tim Bardouille
- Physics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Chris Bowen
- Biomedical Translational Imaging Centre (BIOTIC), Queen Elizabeth ll Health Sciences Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Diagnostic Radiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Maher Quraan
- Biomedical Translational Imaging Centre (BIOTIC), Queen Elizabeth ll Health Sciences Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Diagnostic Radiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | - Kara Matheson
- Research Methods Unit, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Alon Friedman
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Physiology and Cell Biology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - John G Hanly
- Medicine and Pathology, Queen Elizabeth ll Health Sciences Centre and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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15
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Marrie RA, Patel R, Bernstein CN, Bolton JM, Graff LA, Marriott JJ, Hitchon CA, Figley CR, Kornelsen J, Fisk JD. Anxiety and depression affect performance on the symbol digit modalities test over time in MS and other immune disorders. Mult Scler 2020; 27:1284-1292. [PMID: 32976067 PMCID: PMC8226371 DOI: 10.1177/1352458520961534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Longitudinal studies assessing depression and anxiety effects on cognition in
multiple sclerosis (MS) are limited. Objective: We tested whether within-person fluctuations in symptoms of depression or
anxiety over time affect cognition in persons with MS, inflammatory bowel
disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and a lifetime history of
depression/anxiety disorders (DEP/ANX) but without an immune-mediated
inflammatory diseases (IMID). Methods: We followed participants (MS: 255, IBD: 247, RA: 154, and DEP/ANX: 306) for
3 years. Annually, they completed the hospital anxiety and depression scale
(HADS) and cognitive tests including the symbol digit modalities test
(SDMT). We evaluated associations of elevated symptoms (scores ⩾ 11) of
anxiety (HADS-A) and depression (HADS-D) with SDMT z-scores
using multivariable linear models—estimating between-person and
within-person effects. Results: Participants with MS performed worse on the SDMT than participants in the
DEP/ANX cohort (β = −0.68; 95% CI: −0.88, −0.48). Participants with elevated
HADS-A scores performed worse on the SDMT than those without elevated scores
(β = −0.43; 95% CI: −0.65, −0.21), particularly those with RA. Time-varying
within-person elevations in depressive symptoms were associated with worse
SDMT performance (β = −0.12; 95% CI: −0.21, −0.021). Conclusions: Across persons, elevated symptoms of anxiety adversely affected information
processing. Elevated symptoms of depression within-persons over time were
associated with declines in information processing speed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Ann Marrie
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Health Sciences Center, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada/Department of Community Health Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Ronak Patel
- Department of Clinical Health Psychology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Charles N Bernstein
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Health Sciences Center, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - James M Bolton
- Department of Psychiatry, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Lesley A Graff
- Department of Clinical Health Psychology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - James J Marriott
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Health Sciences Center, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Carol A Hitchon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Health Sciences Center, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Chase R Figley
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada/Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada/Neuroscience Research Program, Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Jennifer Kornelsen
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada/Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada/Neuroscience Research Program, Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - John D Fisk
- Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, and Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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16
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Treatment Optimization in Multiple Sclerosis: Canadian MS Working Group Recommendations. Can J Neurol Sci 2020; 47:437-455. [DOI: 10.1017/cjn.2020.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Abstract:The Canadian Multiple Sclerosis Working Group has updated its treatment optimization recommendations (TORs) on the optimal use of disease-modifying therapies for patients with all forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Recommendations provide guidance on initiating effective treatment early in the course of disease, monitoring response to therapy, and modifying or switching therapies to optimize disease control. The current TORs also address the treatment of pediatric MS, progressive MS and the identification and treatment of aggressive forms of the disease. Newer therapies offer improved efficacy, but also have potential safety concerns that must be adequately balanced, notably when treatment sequencing is considered. There are added discussions regarding the management of pregnancy, the future potential of biomarkers and consideration as to when it may be prudent to stop therapy. These TORs are meant to be used and interpreted by all neurologists with a special interest in the management of MS.
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Hawkins R, Shatil AS, Lee L, Sengupta A, Zhang L, Morrow S, Aviv RI. Reduced Global Efficiency and Random Network Features in Patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis with Cognitive Impairment. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2020; 41:449-455. [PMID: 32079601 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a6435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Graph theory uses structural similarity to analyze cortical structural connectivity. We used a voxel-based definition of cortical covariance networks to quantify and assess the relationship of network characteristics to cognition in a cohort of patients with relapsing-remitting MS with and without cognitive impairment. MATERIALS AND METHODS We compared subject-specific structural gray matter network properties of 18 healthy controls, 25 patients with MS with cognitive impairment, and 55 patients with MS without cognitive impairment. Network parameters were compared, and predictive value for cognition was assessed, adjusting for confounders (sex, education, gray matter volume, network size and degree, and T1 and T2 lesion load). Backward stepwise multivariable regression quantified predictive factors for 5 neurocognitive domain test scores. RESULTS Greater path length (r = -0.28, P < .0057) and lower normalized path length (r = 0.36, P < .0004) demonstrated a correlation with average cognition when comparing healthy controls with patients with MS. Similarly, MS with cognitive impairment demonstrated a correlation between lower normalized path length (r = 0.40, P < .001) and reduced average cognition. Increased normalized path length was associated with better performance for processing (P < .001), learning (P < .001), and executive domain function (P = .0235), while reduced path length was associated with better executive (P = .0031) and visual domains. Normalized path length improved prediction for processing (R 2 = 43.6%, G2 = 20.9; P < .0001) and learning (R 2 = 40.4%, G2 = 26.1; P < .0001) over a null model comprising confounders. Similarly, higher normalized path length improved prediction of average z scores (G2 = 21.3; P < .0001) and, combined with WM volume, explained 52% of average cognition variance. CONCLUSIONS Patients with MS and cognitive impairment demonstrate more random network features and reduced global efficiency, impacting multiple cognitive domains. A model of normalized path length with normal-appearing white matter volume improved average cognitive z score prediction, explaining 52% of variance.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hawkins
- From the Department of Medical Imaging (R.H., A.S.S., A.S., L.Z.)
| | - A S Shatil
- From the Department of Medical Imaging (R.H., A.S.S., A.S., L.Z.)
| | - L Lee
- Division of Neurology (L.L.), Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - A Sengupta
- From the Department of Medical Imaging (R.H., A.S.S., A.S., L.Z.)
| | - L Zhang
- From the Department of Medical Imaging (R.H., A.S.S., A.S., L.Z.)
| | - S Morrow
- Division of Neurology (S.M.), Lawson Health Research Institute, London Health Sciences Centre, University Hospital, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - R I Aviv
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering (R.I.A.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,Department of Radiology (R.I.A.), University of Ottawa, and Division of Neuroradiology, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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18
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive dysfunction affects 40% to 70% of people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Sex may influence a person's cognition. Although a few studies have reported greater cognitive deficits in men than women, it is unclear whether specific cognitive domains are more vulnerable than others to the effects of sex or whether cognition is influenced by neurologic or psychiatric variables. METHODS A chart review was undertaken of 408 people with MS referred to neuropsychological services. Demographic and MS-related variables were extracted from the patients' records. We used the Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Functioning in Multiple Sclerosis for the neuropsychological assessment. Raw test scores were converted to z scores using Canadian regression-based normative means. A general linear model was conducted on the adjusted scores, controlling for age; years of education; disease course; illness duration; and disability, anxiety, and depression scores. RESULTS Men were more likely than women to have primary progressive MS (χ=6.415, P=0.011). There were no other sex differences with respect to demographic, neurologic, or psychiatric data. Women performed significantly better than men on the California Verbal Learning Test-Second Edition Total Learning index (F=7.846, P=0.006). CONCLUSIONS An analysis of a large, consecutive sample of people with MS demonstrated that sex, independent of demographic, neurologic, or psychiatric factors, is an important determinant in cognitive impairment, with men being more impaired than women on tests of verbal learning and memory.
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19
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Canadian Normative Data for Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Function in Multiple Sclerosis – CORRIGENDUM. Can J Neurol Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1017/cjn.2018.308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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