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Krieger S, Cook K, Hersh CM. Understanding multiple sclerosis as a disease spectrum: above and below the clinical threshold. Curr Opin Neurol 2024; 37:189-201. [PMID: 38535979 PMCID: PMC11064902 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001262] [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] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Research in multiple sclerosis (MS) has long been predicated on clinical groupings that do not reflect the underlying biologic heterogeneity apparent within patient populations. This review explicates the various levels of explanation through which the spectrum of disease is described and investigated both above and below the clinical threshold of detection, as framed by the topographical model of MS, to help advance a cogent mechanistic framework. RECENT FINDINGS Contemporary evidence has amended the view of MS as consisting of sequential disease phases in favor of a spectrum of disease with an admixture of interdependent and dynamic pathobiological axes driving tissue injury and progression. Recent studies have shown the presence of acute and compartmentalized inflammation and mechanisms of neurodegeneration beginning early and evolving throughout the disease continuum. Still, the gap between the understanding of immunopathologic processes in MS and the tools used to measure relevant molecular, laboratory, radiologic, and clinical metrics needs attention to enable better prognostication of disease and monitoring for changes along specific pathologic axes and variable treatment outcomes. SUMMARY Aligning on a consistently-applied mechanistic framework at distinct levels of explanation will enable greater precision across bench and clinical research, and inform discourse on drivers of disability progression and delivery of care for individuals with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Krieger
- Corinne Goldsmith Dickinson Center for MS, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
| | - Karin Cook
- Medical Education Director, Neurology at Heartbeat/Publicis Health, New York
| | - Carrie M. Hersh
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, Cleveland Clinic Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
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Yanez Touzet A, Houhou T, Rahic Z, Kolias A, Yordanov S, Anderson DB, Laufer I, Li M, Grahovac G, Kotter MR, Davies BM. Reliability of a Smartphone App to Objectively Monitor Performance Outcomes in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: Observational Study. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e56889. [PMID: 38787602 DOI: 10.2196/56889] [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: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Developing new clinical measures for degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is an AO Spine RECODE-DCM Research, an international and multi-stakeholder partnership, priority. Difficulties in detecting DCM and its changes cause diagnostic and treatment delays in clinical settings and heightened costs in clinical trials due to elevated recruitment targets. Digital outcome measures can tackle these challenges due to their ability to measure disease remotely, repeatedly, and more economically. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to assess the reliability of the MoveMed battery of performance outcome measures. METHODS A prospective observational study in decentralized secondary care was performed in England, United Kingdom. The primary outcome was to determine the test-retest reliability of the MoveMed performance outcomes using the intraclass correlation (ICC) of agreement . The secondary outcome was to determine the measurement error of the MoveMed performance outcomes using both the SE of the mean (SEM) of agreement and the smallest detectable change (SDC) of agreement . Criteria from the Consensus-Based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) manual were used to determine adequate reliability (ie, ICC of agreement ≥0.7) and risk of bias. Disease stability was controlled using 2 minimum clinically important difference (MCID) thresholds obtained from the literature on the patient-derived modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (p-mJOA) score, namely, MCID ≤1 point and MCID ≤2 points. RESULTS In total, 7 adults aged 59.5 (SD 12.4) years who live with DCM and possess an approved smartphone participated in the study. All tests demonstrated moderate to excellent test-retest coefficients and low measurement errors. In the MCID ≤1 group, ICC of agreement values were 0.84-0.94 in the fast tap test, 0.89-0.95 in the hold test, 0.95 in the typing test, and 0.98 in the stand and walk test. SEM of agreement values were ±1 tap, ±1%-3% stability score points, ±0.06 keys per second, and ±10 steps per minute, respectively. SDC of agreement values were ±3 taps, ±4%-7% stability score points, ±0.2 keys per second, and ±27 steps per minute, respectively. In the MCID ≤2 group, ICC of agreement values were 0.61-0.91, 0.75-0.77, 0.98, and 0.62, respectively; SEM of agreement values were ±1 tap, ±2%-4% stability score points, ±0.06 keys per second, and ±10 steps per minute, respectively; and SDC of agreement values were ±3-7 taps, ±7%-10% stability score points, ±0.2 keys per second, and ±27 steps per minute, respectively. Furthermore, the fast tap, hold, and typing tests obtained sufficient ratings (ICC of agreement ≥0.7) in both MCID ≤1 and MCID ≤2 groups. No risk of bias factors from the COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist were recorded. CONCLUSIONS The criteria from COSMIN provide "very good" quality evidence of the reliability of the MoveMed tests in an adult population living with DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Yanez Touzet
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- MoveMed Ltd., Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Tatiana Houhou
- Division of Science, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zerina Rahic
- Division of Science, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Angelos Kolias
- Division of Neurosurgery, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- ANAPLASI Rehabilitation Centre, Athens, Greece
- 1st Neurosurgery Department, Henry Dunant Hospital Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Stefan Yordanov
- Division of Neurosurgery, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David B Anderson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ilya Laufer
- New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, United States
| | - Maggie Li
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gordan Grahovac
- King's College Hospital, Kings NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Rn Kotter
- MoveMed Ltd., Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Neurosurgery, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Ann McLaron Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin M Davies
- MoveMed Ltd., Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Oh J, Giacomini PS, Yong VW, Costello F, Blanchette F, Freedman MS. From progression to progress: The future of multiple sclerosis. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2024; 16:11795735241249693. [PMID: 38711957 PMCID: PMC11072059 DOI: 10.1177/11795735241249693] [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: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Significant advances have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis in recent years yet challenges remain. The current classification of MS phenotypes according to disease activity and progression, for example, does not adequately reflect the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that may be acting in an individual with MS at different time points. Thus, there is a need for clinicians to transition to a management approach based on the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that drive disability in MS. A Canadian expert panel convened in January 2023 to discuss priorities for clinical discovery and scientific exploration that would help advance the field. Five key areas of focus included: identifying a mechanism-based disease classification system; developing biomarkers (imaging, fluid, digital) to identify pathologic processes; implementing a data-driven approach to integrate genetic/environmental risk factors, clinical findings, imaging and biomarker data, and patient-reported outcomes to better characterize the many factors associated with disability progression; utilizing precision-based treatment strategies to target different disease processes; and potentially preventing disease through Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) vaccination, counselling about environmental risk factors (e.g. obesity, exercise, vitamin D/sun exposure, smoking) and other measures. Many of the tools needed to meet these needs are currently available. Further work is required to validate emerging biomarkers and tailor treatment strategies to the needs of individual patients. The hope is that a more complete view of the individual's pathobiology will enable clinicians to usher in an era of truly personalized medicine, in which more informed treatment decisions throughout the disease course achieve better long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwon Oh
- St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - V. Wee Yong
- University of Calgary and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Calgary, Canada
| | - Fiona Costello
- University of Calgary and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Calgary, Canada
| | | | - Mark S. Freedman
- Department of Medicine¸ University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, QC, Canada
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Sarnataro A, Cuomo N, Russo CV, Carotenuto A, Lanzillo R, Moccia M, Petracca M, Morra VB, Saccà F. Integration of the expanded disability status scale with ambulation, visual and cognitive tests. Neurol Sci 2024:10.1007/s10072-024-07559-9. [PMID: 38689096 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-024-07559-9] [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: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) is usually calculated through a neurological examination with self-reported performance. This may lead to incorrect assessment of Functional System scores (FSs). Aim of our study was to estimate the difference between EDSS obtained during routine visits, or after specific tests. METHODS We enrolled 670 MS patients that underwent a regular neurology consultation, and visual evaluation using optotype tables, ambulation evaluation with a rodometer, and cognitive assessment with the Brief International Cognitive assessment for MS (BICAMS). We calculated a new integrated EDSS (iEDSS) using the refined values of the FS and compared it to the standard EDSS. RESULTS Visual, cerebral and ambulation FSs were significantly higher compared with the self-reported counterpart [+ 1.169 (95%CI 1.077, 1.262; p < 0.001), + 0.727 (95%CI 0.653, 0.801; p < 0.001) and + 0.822 (95%CI 0.705, 0.939; p < 0.001), respectively]. Mean iEDSS was higher than EDSS (+ 0.642; p < 0.001). Visual acuity tests worsened the EDSS in 31% of cases, cognitive tests in 10%, ambulation measurement in 35%, all three measurements in 59% of cases. CONCLUSIONS Objective measurement of FSs results in a more accurate EDSS score in almost two-thirds of cases. This could lead to a more thorough evaluation of patients in the transition or progressive phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Sarnataro
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Nunzia Cuomo
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Cinzia Valeria Russo
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Carotenuto
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Lanzillo
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Marcello Moccia
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Petracca
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Brescia Morra
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Saccà
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
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van Beek JJW, Lehnick D, Pastore-Wapp M, Wapp S, Kamm CP, Nef T, Vanbellingen T. Tablet app-based dexterity training in multiple sclerosis (TAD-MS): a randomized controlled trial. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2024; 19:889-899. [PMID: 36308305 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2022.2131915] [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: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mobile health applications (mHealth apps) may lead to health benefits. In recent years, the use of apps in multiple sclerosis (MS) has increased. Apps to train and improve dexterity in MS are scarce. This study investigated the effectiveness of a tablet app-based home-based training to improve dexterity in individuals with MS. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a randomized controlled trial, two standardized 4-week home-based interventions focussing on different aspects of dexterity and upper limb function were compared. Assessments were done at baseline, post-intervention and 12-week follow-up. The primary endpoint was the Arm Function in Multiple Sclerosis Questionnaire, a dexterity-related measure of patient-reported activities of daily living. Secondary endpoints were dexterous function, grip strength and health-related quality of life. RESULTS Forty-eight individuals were randomly assigned to a tablet app-based program (n = 26) or a control strengthening exercise program (n = 22). No significant differences were found for the primary endpoint (p = 0.35). Some significant differences in favour of the app-group were found in fine coordinated finger movements and strength. No significant differences were found at the 12-week follow-up for all endpoints. Adherence in both groups was above 90%. CONCLUSIONS App-based training was not superior compared to a control strengthening exercise program concerning the arm- and hand function from the participant's perspective. However, app-based training was found to be effective in improving specific dimensions (finger movements and strength), and can easily be applied at home. Therefore, individuals living with MS with impaired dexterity should consider app-based training. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03369470.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith J W van Beek
- Neurocenter, Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Health Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dirk Lehnick
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Manuela Pastore-Wapp
- Neurocenter, Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, Gerontechnology & Rehabilitation Group, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Simona Wapp
- Neurocenter, Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Christian P Kamm
- Neurocenter, Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Nef
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, Gerontechnology & Rehabilitation Group, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Tim Vanbellingen
- Neurocenter, Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, Gerontechnology & Rehabilitation Group, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Nguyen PT, Zarghami A, Makowiecki K, Stevens N, Ezegbe C, Kyle K, Wang C, Ly L, De La Rue K, Hinder MR, Johnson L, Rodger J, Cooper S, Cullen CL, Barnett M, Young KM, Taylor BV. Low-intensity repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation is safe and well tolerated by people living with MS - outcomes of the phase I randomised controlled trial (TAURUS). Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2024; 10:20552173241252571. [PMID: 38756414 PMCID: PMC11097717 DOI: 10.1177/20552173241252571] [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: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Low-intensity repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), delivered as a daily intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) for four consecutive weeks, increased the number of new oligodendrocytes in the adult mouse brain. Therefore, rTMS holds potential as a remyelinating intervention for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Objective Primarily to determine the safety and tolerability of our rTMS protocol in people with MS. Secondary objectives include feasibility, blinding and an exploration of changes in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) metrics, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and cognitive or motor performance. Methods A randomised (2:1), placebo controlled, single blind, parallel group, phase 1 trial of 20 rTMS sessions (600 iTBS pulses per hemisphere; 25% maximum stimulator output), delivered over 4-5 weeks. Twenty participants were randomly assigned to 'sham' (n = 7) or active rTMS (n = 13), with the coil positioned at 90° or 0°, respectively. Results Five adverse events (AEs) including one serious AE reported. None were related to treatment. Protocol compliance was high (85%) and blinding successful. Within participant MRI metrics, PROMs and cognitive or motor performance were unchanged over time. Conclusion Twenty sessions of rTMS is safe and well tolerated in a small group of people with MS. The study protocol and procedures are feasible. Improvement of sham is warranted before further investigating safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Chigozie Ezegbe
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Kain Kyle
- Sydney Neuroimaging Analysis Centre (SNAC), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Chenyu Wang
- Sydney Neuroimaging Analysis Centre (SNAC), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Brain & Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Linda Ly
- Sydney Neuroimaging Analysis Centre (SNAC), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katie De La Rue
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Mark R Hinder
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Lewis Johnson
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Jennifer Rodger
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Carlie L Cullen
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael Barnett
- Sydney Neuroimaging Analysis Centre (SNAC), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Brain & Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kaylene M Young
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Bruce V Taylor
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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Chico-Garcia JL, Sainz-Amo R, Monreal E, Rodriguez-Jorge F, Sainz de la Maza S, Masjuan J, Villar LM, Costa-Frossard França L. Passive assessment of tapping speed through smartphone is useful for monitoring multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 86:105595. [PMID: 38598952 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105595] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Continuously acquired smartphone keyboard interactions may be useful to monitor progression in multiple sclerosis (MS). We aimed to study the correlation between tapping speed (TS), measured as keys/s, and baseline disability scales in patients with MS. METHODS Single-center prospective study in patients with MS. We passively assessed TS during first week, measured by an "in house" smartphone application. Reliability was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Correlations between median and maximum keys/s of first week of assessment and baseline disability measures were explored. RESULTS One-hundred three patients were included: 62.1 % women, with a median (IQR) age of 47 (40.4-54.8) years-old and an EDSS score of 3.0 (2.0-4.0). Distribution by MS subtypes was: 77.7 % relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), 17.5 % secondary-progressive MS (SPMS) and 4.9 % primary-progressive MS (PPMS). ICC during first week was 0.714 (p < 0.00001). Both median and maximum keys/s showed a negative correlation with Expanded Disability Status Score, 9-hole peg test and timed 25-foot walk and a positive correlation with Processing Speed Test CogEval® raw and Z-score. Median and maximum keys/s were lower in patients diagnosed with SPMS than in RRMS. Both measures of tapping speed were associated with MS phenotype independently of age. CONCLUSION TS measured through our application is reliable and correlates with baseline disability scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Luis Chico-Garcia
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ramon y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain; Alcala University, Alcalá de Henares, Spain.
| | - Raquel Sainz-Amo
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ramon y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain; Alcala University, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Enric Monreal
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ramon y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain; Alcala University, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Fernando Rodriguez-Jorge
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ramon y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain; Alcala University, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Susana Sainz de la Maza
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ramon y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain; Alcala University, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Jaime Masjuan
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ramon y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain; Alcala University, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Luisa María Villar
- Alcala University, Alcalá de Henares, Spain; Department of Immunology, University Hospital Ramon y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucienne Costa-Frossard França
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ramon y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain; Alcala University, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
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Podda J, Pedullà L, Brichetto G, Tacchino A. Evaluating Cognitive-Motor Interference in Multiple Sclerosis: A Technology-Based Approach. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:277. [PMID: 38534551 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11030277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) frequently present both cognitive and motor impairments, so it is reasonable to assume they may have difficulties in executing dual-tasks (DT). The aim of the present study is to identify novel technology-based parameters to assess cognitive-motor interference (CMI) in PwMS. In particular, we focused on the definition of dual-task cost (DTC) measures using wearable and portable tools such as insoles and mobile apps. METHODS All participants underwent a verbal fluency task (cognitive single-task, ST), a motor ST of walking, and a combination of these tasks (DT). Number of words uttered in the cognitive ST and steps recorded by insoles were used to calculate the motor and cognitive DTC. RESULTS The number of steps strongly correlated with the walked meters for both single- (r = 0.88, p < 0.05) and dual- (r = 0.91, p < 0.05) tasks. Motor but not cognitive performances significantly worsened during DT. Over the cognitive ST and DT, the number of pronounced words progressively decreased, probably due to the activation of different cognitive processes. Cognitive efforts could be the cause of cognitive task prioritization. CONCLUSIONS Our findings promote the use of low-cost devices to assess CMI easily in the clinical context and to detect ecologically valid DT impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Podda
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, 16149 Genoa, Italy
| | - Ludovico Pedullà
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, 16149 Genoa, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Brichetto
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, 16149 Genoa, Italy
- AISM Rehabilitation Service of Genoa, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Society, 16149 Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Tacchino
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, 16149 Genoa, Italy
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Vacchi L, Zirone E, Strina V, Cavaletti G, Ferrarese C. Mobile Applications to Support Multiple Sclerosis Communities: The Post-COVID-19 Scenario. Telemed J E Health 2024. [PMID: 38452336 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The increase in the use of mobile apps since the COVID-19 pandemic, even among people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) and health care providers (HCPs), has enabled access to reliable information, symptoms monitoring and management, and social connections. The pandemic has undoubtedly contributed to the acceleration of the "digital revolution." But how far has it progressed for the MS communities? Methods: Italian Google Play and App Store were queried, selecting MS-specific apps in English or Italian language and usable by a wide public. Results: Fifty-four (n = 54) MS-specific apps were identified; most were PwMS-oriented (83%), free of charge (94%), and in English language (76%). The 45 PwMS-oriented apps focused on increasing MS knowledge (71%), tracking symptoms (33%), and promoting networking with peers or HCPs (38%). The 13 HCPs-oriented tools addressed education and updates on MS (62%), disease assessment and management (54%), and research (15%). Google Search tool was also queried to find non-MS-specific apps to fulfill some unmet domains (as sleep, pain, sexual or mental health). Twenty-four additional apps were listed to provide a valuable contribution. Conclusion: The "digital revolution" led to increasingly customized tools for PwMS, especially as m-health or social-networking apps. However, apps to support other specific MS-relevant domains, appealing HCPs-oriented apps, and specific mobile tools for MS caregivers are still lacking. The absence of data assessing the usability and quality of MS apps in ecologically contexts leads to not reliable conclusions about potential benefits. A strong dialogue between MS communities and the digital industry is encouraged to fill this gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Vacchi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Milan Center for Neuroscience-NeuroMI, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Zirone
- Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Neurophysiopathology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Veronica Strina
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Guido Cavaletti
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Milan Center for Neuroscience-NeuroMI, Milan, Italy
- Department of Neurology, San Gerardo Hospital, ASST Monza, Monza, Italy
| | - Carlo Ferrarese
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Milan Center for Neuroscience-NeuroMI, Milan, Italy
- Department of Neurology, San Gerardo Hospital, ASST Monza, Monza, Italy
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Paredes-Acuna N, Utpadel-Fischler D, Ding K, Thakor NV, Cheng G. Upper limb intention tremor assessment: opportunities and challenges in wearable technology. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2024; 21:8. [PMID: 38218890 PMCID: PMC10787996 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-023-01302-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tremors are involuntary rhythmic movements commonly present in neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and multiple sclerosis. Intention tremor is a subtype associated with lesions in the cerebellum and its connected pathways, and it is a common symptom in diseases associated with cerebellar pathology. While clinicians traditionally use tests to identify tremor type and severity, recent advancements in wearable technology have provided quantifiable ways to measure movement and tremor using motion capture systems, app-based tasks and tools, and physiology-based measurements. However, quantifying intention tremor remains challenging due to its changing nature. METHODOLOGY & RESULTS This review examines the current state of upper limb tremor assessment technology and discusses potential directions to further develop new and existing algorithms and sensors to better quantify tremor, specifically intention tremor. A comprehensive search using PubMed and Scopus was performed using keywords related to technologies for tremor assessment. Afterward, screened results were filtered for relevance and eligibility and further classified into technology type. A total of 243 publications were selected for this review and classified according to their type: body function level: movement-based, activity level: task and tool-based, and physiology-based. Furthermore, each publication's methods, purpose, and technology are summarized in the appendix table. CONCLUSIONS Our survey suggests a need for more targeted tasks to evaluate intention tremors, including digitized tasks related to intentional movements, neurological and physiological measurements targeting the cerebellum and its pathways, and signal processing techniques that differentiate voluntary from involuntary movement in motion capture systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Paredes-Acuna
- Institute for Cognitive Systems, Technical University of Munich, Arcisstraße 21, 80333, Munich, Germany.
| | - Daniel Utpadel-Fischler
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Keqin Ding
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nitish V Thakor
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gordon Cheng
- Institute for Cognitive Systems, Technical University of Munich, Arcisstraße 21, 80333, Munich, Germany
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11
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Oh J, Capezzuto L, Kriara L, Schjodt-Eriksen J, van Beek J, Bernasconi C, Montalban X, Butzkueven H, Kappos L, Giovannoni G, Bove R, Julian L, Baker M, Gossens C, Lindemann M. Use of smartphone-based remote assessments of multiple sclerosis in Floodlight Open, a global, prospective, open-access study. Sci Rep 2024; 14:122. [PMID: 38168498 PMCID: PMC10762023 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49299-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Floodlight Open was a global, open-access, digital-only study designed to understand the drivers and barriers in deployment and use of a smartphone app in a naturalistic setting and broad study population of people with and without multiple sclerosis (MS). The study utilised the Floodlight Open app: a 'bring-your-own-device' solution that remotely measures a user's mood, cognition, hand motor function, and gait and postural stability via smartphone sensor-based tests requiring active user input ('active tests'). Levels of mobility of study participants ('life-space measurement') were passively measured. Study data from these tests were made available via an open-access platform. Data from 1350 participants with self-declared MS and 1133 participants with self-declared non-MS from 17 countries across four continents were included in this report. Overall, MS participants provided active test data for a mean duration of 5.6 weeks or a mean duration of 19 non-consecutive days. This duration increased among MS participants who persisted beyond the first week to a mean of 10.3 weeks or 36.5 non-consecutive days. Passively collected life-space measurement data were generated by MS participants for a mean duration of 9.8 weeks or 50.6 non-consecutive days. This duration increased to 16.3 weeks/85.1 non-consecutive days among MS participants who persisted beyond the first week. Older age, self-declared MS disease status, and clinical supervision as part of concomitant clinical research were all significantly associated with higher persistence of the use of the Floodlight Open app. MS participants performed significantly worse than non-MS participants on four out of seven active tests. The findings from this multinational study inform future research to improve the dynamics of persistence of use of digital monitoring tools and further highlight challenges and opportunities in applying them to support MS clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwon Oh
- Division of Neurology, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Lito Kriara
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Johan van Beek
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
- Biogen Digital Health International GmbH, Baar, Switzerland
| | - Corrado Bernasconi
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
- Limites Medical Research Ltd., Vacallo, Switzerland
| | - Xavier Montalban
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology, Centre d'Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Helmut Butzkueven
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ludwig Kappos
- Research Center Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel (RC2NB), University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Riley Bove
- Department of Neurology, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Mike Baker
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
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12
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Van Laethem D, Denissen S, Costers L, Descamps A, Baijot J, Van Remoortel A, Van Merhaegen-Wieleman A, D'hooghe MB, D'Haeseleer M, Smeets D, Sima DM, Van Schependom J, Nagels G. The Finger Dexterity Test: Validation study of a smartphone-based manual dexterity assessment. Mult Scler 2024; 30:121-130. [PMID: 38140857 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231216007] [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] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Nine-Hole Peg Test (9HPT) is the golden standard to measure manual dexterity in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, administration requires trained personnel and dedicated time during a clinical visit. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to validate a smartphone-based test for remote manual dexterity assessment, the icompanion Finger Dexterity Test (FDT), to be included into the icompanion application. METHODS A total of 65 MS and 81 healthy subjects were tested, and 20 healthy subjects were retested 2 weeks later. RESULTS The FDT significantly correlated with the 9HPT (dominant: ρ = 0.62, p < 0.001; non-dominant: ρ = 0.52, p < 0.001). MS subjects had significantly higher FDT scores than healthy subjects (dominant: p = 0.015; non-dominant: p = 0.013), which was not the case for the 9HPT. A significant correlation with age (dominant: ρ = 0.46, p < 0.001; non-dominant: ρ = 0.40, p = 0.002), Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS, dominant: ρ = 0.36, p = 0.005; non-dominant: ρ = 0.31, p = 0.024), and disease duration for the non-dominant hand (ρ = 0.31, p = 0.016) was observed. There was a good test-retest reliability in healthy subjects (dominant: r = 0.69, p = 0.001; non-dominant: r = 0.87, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The icompanion FDT shows a moderate-to-good concurrent validity and test-retest reliability, differentiates between the MS subjects and healthy controls, and correlates with clinical parameters. This test can be implemented into routine MS care for remote follow-up of manual dexterity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Van Laethem
- AIMS Lab, Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Stijn Denissen
- AIMS Lab, Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium/icometrix, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lars Costers
- AIMS Lab, Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium/icometrix, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Johan Baijot
- AIMS Lab, Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Remoortel
- Neurology Department, National Multiple Sclerosis Center, Melsbroek, Belgium
| | | | - Marie B D'hooghe
- Neurology Department, National Multiple Sclerosis Center, Melsbroek, Belgium
- Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Miguel D'Haeseleer
- Neurology Department, National Multiple Sclerosis Center, Melsbroek, Belgium
- Neurology Department, UZ Brussel, Brussel, Belgium/Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | | | | | - Jeroen Van Schependom
- AIMS Lab, Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
- Department of Electronics and Informatics (ETRO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Guy Nagels
- AIMS Lab, Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
- Neurology Department, UZ Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
- University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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13
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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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14
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Dorsch EM, Röhling HM, Zocholl D, Hafermann L, Paul F, Schmitz-Hübsch T. Progression events defined by home-based assessment of motor function in multiple sclerosis: protocol of a prospective study. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1258635. [PMID: 37881311 PMCID: PMC10597627 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1258635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study relates to emerging concepts of appropriate trial designs to evaluate effects of intervention on the accumulation of irreversible disability in multiple sclerosis (MS). Major starting points of our study are the known limitations of current definitions of disability progression by rater-based clinical assessment and the high relevance of gait and balance dysfunctions in MS. The study aims to explore a novel definition of disease progression using repeated instrumental assessment of relevant motor functions performed by patients in their home setting. Methods The study is a prospective single-center observational cohort study with the primary outcome acquired by participants themselves, a home-based assessment of motor functions based on an RGB-Depth (RGB-D) camera, a camera that provides both depth (D) and color (RGB) data. Participants are instructed to perform and record a set of simple motor tasks twice a day over a one-week period every 6 months. Assessments are complemented by a set of questionnaires. Annual research grade assessments are acquired at dedicated study visits and include clinical ratings as well as structural imaging (MRI and optical coherence tomography). In addition, clinical data from routine visits is provided semiannually by treating neurologists. The observation period is 24 months for the primary endpoint with an additional clinical assessment at 27 month to confirm progression defined by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Secondary analyses aim to explore the time course of changes in motor parameters and performance of the novel definition against different alternative definitions of progression in MS. The study was registered at Deutsches Register für Klinische Studien (DRKS00027042). Discussion The study design presented here investigates disease progression defined by marker-less home-based assessment of motor functions against 3-month confirmed disease progression (3 m-CDP) defined by the EDSS. The technical approach was chosen due to previous experience in lab-based settings. The observation time per participant of 24, respectively, 27 months is commonly conceived as the lower limit needed to study disability progression. Defining a valid digital motor outcome for disease progression in MS may help to reduce observation times in clinical trials and add confidence to the detection of progression events in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Dorsch
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hanna Marie Röhling
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Motognosis GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dario Zocholl
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lorena Hafermann
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Friedemann Paul
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tanja Schmitz-Hübsch
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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15
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Pinarello C, Elmers J, Inojosa H, Beste C, Ziemssen T. Management of multiple sclerosis fatigue in the digital age: from assessment to treatment. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1231321. [PMID: 37869507 PMCID: PMC10585158 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1231321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatigue is one of the most disabling symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), affecting more than 80% of patients over the disease course. Nevertheless, it has a multi-faceted and complex nature, making its diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment extremely challenging in clinical practice. In the last years, digital supporting tools have emerged to support the care of people with MS. These include not only smartphone or table-based apps, but also wearable devices or novel techniques such as virtual reality. Furthermore, an additional effective and cost-efficient tool for the therapeutic management of people with fatigue is becoming increasingly available. Virtual reality and e-Health are viable and modern tools to both assess and treat fatigue, with a variety of applications and adaptability to patient needs and disability levels. Most importantly, they can be employed in the patient's home setting and can not only bridge clinic visits but also be complementary to the monitoring and treatment means for those MS patients who live far away from healthcare structures. In this narrative review, we discuss the current knowledge and future perspectives in the digital management of fatigue in MS. These may also serve as sources for research of novel digital biomarkers in the identification of disease activity and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pinarello
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Julia Elmers
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Hernán Inojosa
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian Beste
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Tjalf Ziemssen
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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16
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Graves JS, Elantkowski M, Zhang YP, Dondelinger F, Lipsmeier F, Bernasconi C, Montalban X, Midaglia L, Lindemann M. Assessment of Upper Extremity Function in Multiple Sclerosis: Feasibility of a Digital Pinching Test. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e46521. [PMID: 37782540 PMCID: PMC10580133 DOI: 10.2196/46521] [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: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of touchscreen-based assessments of upper extremity function could benefit people with multiple sclerosis (MS) by allowing convenient, quantitative assessment of their condition. The Pinching Test forms a part of the Floodlight smartphone app (F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland) for people with MS and was designed to capture upper extremity function. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the Pinching Test as a tool for remotely assessing upper extremity function in people with MS. METHODS Using data from the 24-week, prospective feasibility study investigating the Floodlight Proof-of-Concept app for remotely assessing MS, we examined 13 pinching, 11 inertial measurement unit (IMU)-based, and 13 fatigability features of the Pinching Test. We assessed the test-retest reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients [second model, first type; ICC(2,1)], age- and sex-adjusted cross-sectional Spearman rank correlation, and known-groups validity (data aggregation: median [all features], SD [fatigability features]). RESULTS We evaluated data from 67 people with MS (mean Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS]: 2.4 [SD 1.4]) and 18 healthy controls. In this cohort of early MS, pinching features were reliable [ICC(2,1)=0.54-0.81]; correlated with standard clinical assessments, including the Nine-Hole Peg Test (9HPT) (|r|=0.26-0.54; 10/13 features), EDSS (|r|=0.25-0.36; 7/13 features), and the arm items of the 29-item Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29) (|r|=0.31-0.52; 7/13 features); and differentiated people with MS-Normal from people with MS-Abnormal (area under the curve: 0.68-0.78; 8/13 features). IMU-based features showed similar test-retest reliability [ICC(2,1)=0.47-0.84] but showed little correlations with standard clinical assessments. In contrast, fatigability features (SD aggregation) correlated with 9HPT time (|r|=0.26-0.61; 10/13 features), EDSS (|r|=0.26-0.41; 8/13 features), and MSIS-29 arm items (|r|=0.32-0.46; 7/13 features). CONCLUSIONS The Pinching Test provides a remote, objective, and granular assessment of upper extremity function in people with MS that can potentially complement standard clinical evaluation. Future studies will validate it in more advanced MS. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02952911; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02952911.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer S Graves
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xavier Montalban
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology, Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luciana Midaglia
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology, Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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17
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Voigt I, Inojosa H, Wenk J, Akgün K, Ziemssen T. Building a monitoring matrix for the management of multiple sclerosis. Autoimmun Rev 2023; 22:103358. [PMID: 37178996 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103358] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) has a longitudinal and heterogeneous course, with an increasing number of therapy options and associated risk profiles, leading to a constant increase in the number of parameters to be monitored. Even though important clinical and subclinical data are being generated, treating neurologists may not always be able to use them adequately for MS management. In contrast to the monitoring of other diseases in different medical fields, no target-based approach for a standardized monitoring in MS has been established yet. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a standardized and structured monitoring as part of MS management that is adaptive, individualized, agile, and multimodal-integrative. We discuss the development of an MS monitoring matrix which can help facilitate data collection over time from different dimensions and perspectives to optimize the treatment of people with MS (pwMS). In doing so, we show how different measurement tools can combined to enhance MS treatment. We propose to apply the concept of patient pathways to disease and intervention monitoring, not losing track of their interrelation. We also discuss the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the quality of processes, outcomes, and patient safety, as well as personalized and patient-centered care. Patient pathways allow us to track the patient's journey over time and can always change (e.g., when there is a switch in therapy). They therefore may assist us in the continuous improvement of monitoring in an iterative process. Improving the monitoring process means improving the care of pwMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Voigt
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Hernan Inojosa
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Judith Wenk
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Katja Akgün
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Tjalf Ziemssen
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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18
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Woelfle T, Bourguignon L, Lorscheider J, Kappos L, Naegelin Y, Jutzeler CR. Wearable Sensor Technologies to Assess Motor Functions in People With Multiple Sclerosis: Systematic Scoping Review and Perspective. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44428. [PMID: 37498655 PMCID: PMC10415952 DOI: 10.2196/44428] [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: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wearable sensor technologies have the potential to improve monitoring in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and inform timely disease management decisions. Evidence of the utility of wearable sensor technologies in people with MS is accumulating but is generally limited to specific subgroups of patients, clinical or laboratory settings, and functional domains. OBJECTIVE This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of all studies that have used wearable sensors to assess, monitor, and quantify motor function in people with MS during daily activities or in a controlled laboratory setting and to shed light on the technological advances over the past decades. METHODS We systematically reviewed studies on wearable sensors to assess the motor performance of people with MS. We scanned PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases until December 31, 2022, considering search terms "multiple sclerosis" and those associated with wearable technologies and included all studies assessing motor functions. The types of results from relevant studies were systematically mapped into 9 predefined categories (association with clinical scores or other measures; test-retest reliability; group differences, 3 types; responsiveness to change or intervention; and acceptability to study participants), and the reporting quality was determined through 9 questions. We followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) reporting guidelines. RESULTS Of the 1251 identified publications, 308 were included: 176 (57.1%) in a real-world context, 107 (34.7%) in a laboratory context, and 25 (8.1%) in a mixed context. Most publications studied physical activity (196/308, 63.6%), followed by gait (81/308, 26.3%), dexterity or tremor (38/308, 12.3%), and balance (34/308, 11%). In the laboratory setting, outcome measures included (in addition to clinical severity scores) 2- and 6-minute walking tests, timed 25-foot walking test, timed up and go, stair climbing, balance tests, and finger-to-nose test, among others. The most popular anatomical landmarks for wearable placement were the waist, wrist, and lower back. Triaxial accelerometers were most commonly used (229/308, 74.4%). A surge in the number of sensors embedded in smartphones and smartwatches has been observed. Overall, the reporting quality was good. CONCLUSIONS Continuous monitoring with wearable sensors could optimize the management of people with MS, but some hurdles still exist to full clinical adoption of digital monitoring. Despite a possible publication bias and vast heterogeneity in the outcomes reported, our review provides an overview of the current literature on wearable sensor technologies used for people with MS and highlights shortcomings, such as the lack of harmonization, transparency in reporting methods and results, and limited data availability for the research community. These limitations need to be addressed for the growing implementation of wearable sensor technologies in clinical routine and clinical trials, which is of utmost importance for further progress in clinical research and daily management of people with MS. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42021243249; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=243249.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Woelfle
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lucie Bourguignon
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Lorscheider
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ludwig Kappos
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yvonne Naegelin
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Caliendo D, Puca A, Lavorgna L, Carotenuto A, Petracca M, Lanzillo R, Brescia Morra V, Moccia M. Google Maps Timeline: An open-access digital tool to monitor walking abilities in people with multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2023; 9:20552173231202123. [PMID: 37724131 PMCID: PMC10505345 DOI: 10.1177/20552173231202123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Gait impairment is common in multiple sclerosis (MS), but difficult to evaluate in clinical practice. In this proof-of-concept observational study, we compared walking ability recorded by Google Maps Timeline to conventional clinical measures in people with MS. Methods We used open-access Google Maps Timeline to record the total number of days with walking activity, walking distance, walking time, and walking speed. Each Google Maps Timeline variable was included in a different stepwise linear regression model including all conventional clinical variables. Results We included nine people with MS (age 43.1 ± 6.6 years; females 55.6%; disease duration 12.7 ± 3.1 years; median Expanded Disability Status Scale 3.0 (range 1.0-5.5)). Higher percentage of days with recorded walking was associated with lower Fatigue Severity Scale (p = 0.01), and higher MS Walking Scale (p = 0.04). Longer average daily walking distance was associated with shorter Timed-25 Foot Walking Test (p = 0.02), lower Expanded Disability Status Scale (p = 0.01), and higher Euro-Quality of Life (p = 0.04). Longer average daily walking time was associated with shorter Timed-25 Foot Walking Test (p = 0.03). Higher walking speed was associated with lower Fatigue Severity Scale (p = 0.04). Conclusion Google Maps Timeline parameters provide actual estimates of daily walking activities in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Puca
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Lavorgna
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli,” Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Carotenuto
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Petracca
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Brescia Morra
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy; Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Policlinico Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Marcello Moccia
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Policlinico Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy;
Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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20
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Bove R, Poole S, Cuneo R, Gupta S, Sabatino J, Harms M, Cooper T, Rowles W, Miller N, Gomez R, Lincoln R, McPolin K, Powers K, Santaniello A, Renschen A, Bevan CJ, Gelfand JM, Goodin DS, Guo CY, Romeo AR, Hauser SL, Campbell Cree BA. Remote Observational Research for Multiple Sclerosis: A Natural Experiment. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2023; 10:10/2/e200070. [PMID: 36585249 PMCID: PMC9808915 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Prospective, deeply phenotyped research cohorts monitoring individuals with chronic neurologic conditions, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), depend on continued participant engagement. The COVID-19 pandemic restricted in-clinic research activities, threatening this longitudinal engagement, but also forced adoption of televideo-enabled care. This offered a natural experiment in which to analyze key dimensions of remote research: (1) comparison of remote vs in-clinic visit costs from multiple perspectives and (2) comparison of the remote with in-clinic measures in cross-sectional and longitudinal disability evaluations. METHODS Between March 2020 and December 2021, 207 MS cohort participants underwent hybrid in-clinic and virtual research visits; 96 contributed 100 "matched visits," that is, in-clinic (Neurostatus-Expanded Disability Status Scale [NS-EDSS]) and remote (televideo-enabled EDSS [tele-EDSS]; electronic patient-reported EDSS [ePR-EDSS]) evaluations. Clinical, demographic, and socioeconomic characteristics of participants were collected. RESULTS The costs of remote visits were lower than in-clinic visits for research investigators (facilities, personnel, parking, participant compensation) but also for participants (travel, caregiver time) and carbon footprint (p < 0.05 for each). Median cohort EDSS was similar between the 3 modalities (NS-EDSS: 2, tele-EDSS: 1.5, ePR-EDSS: 2, range 0.6.5); the remote evaluations were each noninferior to the NS-EDSS within ±0.5 EDSS point (TOST for noninferiority, p < 0.01 for each). Furthermore, year to year, the % of participants with worsening/stable/improved EDSS scores was similar, whether each annual evaluation used NS-EDSS or whether it switched from NS-EDSS to tele-EDSS. DISCUSSION Altogether, the current findings suggest that remote evaluations can reduce the costs of research participation for patients, while providing a reasonable evaluation of disability trajectory longitudinally. This could inform the design of remote research that is more inclusive of diverse participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riley Bove
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.
| | - Shane Poole
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Richard Cuneo
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Sasha Gupta
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Joseph Sabatino
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Meagan Harms
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Tifffany Cooper
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - William Rowles
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Nicolette Miller
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Refujia Gomez
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Robin Lincoln
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Kira McPolin
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Kyra Powers
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Adam Santaniello
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Adam Renschen
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Carolyn J Bevan
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jeffrey M Gelfand
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Douglas S Goodin
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Chu-Yueh Guo
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Andrew R Romeo
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Stephen L Hauser
- From the UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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21
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Evidence from ClinicalTrials.gov on the growth of Digital Health Technologies in neurology trials. NPJ Digit Med 2023; 6:23. [PMID: 36765123 PMCID: PMC9918454 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-023-00767-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Digital Health Technologies (DHTs) such as connected sensors offer particular promise for improving data collection and patient empowerment in neurology research and care. This study analyzed the recent evolution of the use of DHTs in trials registered on ClinicalTrials.gov for four chronic neurological disorders: epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's disease. We document growth in the collection of both more established digital measures (e.g., motor function) and more novel digital measures (e.g., speech) over recent years, highlighting contexts of use and key trends.
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22
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Lam KH, Bucur IG, van Oirschot P, de Graaf F, Strijbis E, Uitdehaag B, Heskes T, Killestein J, de Groot V. Personalized monitoring of ambulatory function with a smartphone 2-minute walk test in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2023; 29:606-614. [PMID: 36755463 PMCID: PMC10152211 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231152433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Remote smartphone-based 2-minute walking tests (s2MWTs) allow frequent and potentially sensitive measurements of ambulatory function. OBJECTIVE To investigate the s2MWT on assessment of, and responsiveness to change in ambulatory function in MS. METHODS One hundred two multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and 24 healthy controls (HCs) performed weekly s2MWTs on self-owned smartphones for 12 and 3 months, respectively. The timed 25-foot walk test (T25FW) and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) were assessed at 3-month intervals. Anchor-based (using T25FW and EDSS) and distribution-based (curve fitting) methods were used to assess responsiveness of the s2MWT. A local linear trend model was used to fit weekly s2MWT scores of individual patients. RESULTS A total of 4811 and 355 s2MWT scores were obtained in patients (n = 94) and HC (n = 22), respectively. s2MWT demonstrated large variability (65.6 m) compared to the average score (129.5 m), and was inadequately responsive to anchor-based change in clinical outcomes. Curve fitting separated the trend from noise in high temporal resolution individual-level data, and statistically reliable changes were detected in 45% of patients. CONCLUSIONS In group-level analyses, clinically relevant change was insufficiently detected due to large variability with sporadic measurements. Individual-level curve fitting reduced the variability in s2MWT, enabling the detection of statistically reliable change in ambulatory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka-Hoo Lam
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ioan Gabriel Bucur
- Institute for Computing and Information Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Frank de Graaf
- Orikami Digital Health Products, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Strijbis
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bernard Uitdehaag
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tom Heskes
- Institute for Computing and Information Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joep Killestein
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Vincent de Groot
- MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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23
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Woelfle T, Pless S, Reyes O, Wiencierz A, Feinstein A, Calabrese P, Gugleta K, Kappos L, Lorscheider J, Naegelin Y. Reliability and acceptance of dreaMS, a software application for people with multiple sclerosis: a feasibility study. J Neurol 2023; 270:262-271. [PMID: 36042020 PMCID: PMC9427170 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11306-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an unmet need for reliable and sensitive measures for better monitoring people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) to detect disease progression early and adapt therapeutic measures accordingly. OBJECTIVE To assess reliability of extracted features and meaningfulness of 11 tests applied through a smartphone application ("dreaMS"). METHODS PwMS (age 18-70 and EDSS ≤ 6.5) and matched healthy volunteers (HV) were asked to perform tests installed on their smartphone once or twice weekly for 5 weeks. Primary outcomes were test-retest reliability of test features (target: intraclass correlation [ICC] ≥ 0.6 or median coefficient of variation [mCV] < 0.2) and reported meaningfulness of the tests by PwMS. Meaningfulness was self-assessed for each test on a 5-point Likert scale (target: mean score of > 3) and by a structured interview. CLINICALTRIALS gov Identifier: NCT04413032. RESULTS We included 31 PwMS (21 [68%] female, mean age 43.4 ± 12.0 years, median EDSS 3.0 [range 1.0-6.0]) and 31 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers. Out of 133 features extracted from 11 tests, 89 met the preset reliability criteria. All 11 tests were perceived as highly meaningful to PwMS. CONCLUSION The dreaMS app reliably assessed features reflecting key functional domains meaningful to PwMS. More studies with longer follow-up are needed to prove validity of these measures as digital biomarkers in PwMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Woelfle
- Department of Neurology and MS Center, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland ,Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Silvan Pless
- Department of Neurology and MS Center, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland ,Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Andrea Wiencierz
- Clinical Trial Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anthony Feinstein
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Pasquale Calabrese
- Department of Neurology and MS Center, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland ,Neuropsychology and Behavioral Neurology Unit, Division of Molecular and Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Konstantin Gugleta
- Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ludwig Kappos
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Lorscheider
- Department of Neurology and MS Center, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland ,Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, Basel, Switzerland ,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yvonne Naegelin
- Department of Neurology and MS Center, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland ,Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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24
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Rinderknecht MD, Zanon M, Boonstra TA, Angelini L, Stanev D, Chan GG, Bunn L, Dondelinger F, Hosking R, Freeman J, Hobart J, Marsden J, Craveiro L. An observational study to assess validity and reliability of smartphone sensor-based gait and balance assessments in multiple sclerosis: Floodlight GaitLab protocol. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231205284. [PMID: 37868156 PMCID: PMC10588425 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231205284] [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: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gait and balance impairments are often present in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) and have a significant impact on quality of life and independence. Gold-standard quantitative tools for assessing gait and balance such as motion capture systems and force plates usually require complex technical setups. Wearable sensors, including those integrated into smartphones, offer a more frequent, convenient, and minimally burdensome assessment of functional disability in a home environment. We developed a novel smartphone sensor-based application (Floodlight) that is being used in multiple research and clinical contexts, but a complete validation of this technology is still lacking. Methods This protocol describes an observational study designed to evaluate the analytical and clinical validity of Floodlight gait and balance tests. Approximately 100 PwMS and 35 healthy controls will perform multiple gait and balance tasks in both laboratory-based and real-world environments in order to explore the following properties: (a) concurrent validity of the Floodlight gait and balance tests against gold-standard assessments; (b) reliability of Floodlight digital measures derived under different controlled gait and balance conditions, and different on-body sensor locations; (c) ecological validity of the tests; and (d) construct validity compared with clinician- and patient-reported assessments. Conclusions The Floodlight GaitLab study (ISRCTN15993728) represents a critical step in the technical validation of Floodlight technology to measure gait and balance in PwMS, and will also allow the development of new test designs and algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Lisa Bunn
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | | | | | - Jenny Freeman
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Jeremy Hobart
- Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, Plymouth, UK
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25
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Argentinean consensus recommendations for the use of telemedicine in clinical practice in adult people with multiple sclerosis. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:667-676. [PMID: 36319902 PMCID: PMC9628297 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06471-4] [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: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of telemedicine has quickly increased during of the COVID-19 pandemic. Given that unmet needs and barriers to multiple sclerosis (MS) care have been reported, telemedicine has become an interesting option to the care of these patients. The objective of these consensus recommendations was to elaborate a guideline for the management of people with MS using telemedicine in order to contribute to an effective and high-quality healthcare. METHODS A panel of Argentinean neurologist's experts in neuroimmunological diseases and dedicated to the diagnosis, management,and care of MS patients gathered virtually during 2021 and 2022 to conduct a consensus recommendation on the use of telemedicine in clinical practice in adult people with MS. To reach consensus, the methodology of "formal consensus RAND/UCLA Appropriateness method" was used. RESULTS Recommendations were established based on relevant published evidence and expert opinion focusing on definitions, general characteristics and ethical standards, diagnosis of MS, follow-up (evaluation of disability and relapses of MS), identification and treatment of relapses, and finally disease-modifying treatments using telemedicine. CONCLUSION The recommendations of this consensus would provide a useful guide for the proper use of telemedicine for the assessment, follow-up, management, and treatment of people with MS. We suggest the use of these guidelines to all the Argentine neurologists committed to the care of people with MS.
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Tacchino A, Podda J, Bergamaschi V, Pedullà L, Brichetto G. Cognitive rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis: Three digital ingredients to address current and future priorities. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1130231. [PMID: 36908712 PMCID: PMC9995764 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1130231] [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: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological chronic disease with autoimmune demyelinating lesions and one of the most common disability causes in young adults. People with MS (PwMS) experience cognitive impairments (CIs) and clinical evidence shows their presence during all MS stages even in the absence of other symptoms. Cognitive rehabilitation (CR) aims at reducing CI and improving PwMS' awareness of cognitive difficulties faced in their daily living. More defined cognitive profiles, easier treatment access and the need to transfer intervention effects into everyday life activities are aims of utmost relevance for CR in MS. Currently, advanced technologies may pave the way to rethink CR in MS to address the priority of more personalized and effective, accessible and ecological interventions. For this purpose, digital twins, tele-cognitive-rehabilitation and metaverse are the main candidate digital ingredients. Based on scientific evidences, we propose digital twin technology to enhance MS cognitive phenotyping; tele-cognitive-rehabilitation to make feasible the cognitive intervention access to a larger number of PwMS; and metaverse to represent the best choice to train real-world dual- and multi-tasking deficits in virtual daily life environments. Moreover, multi-domain high-frequency big-data collected through tele-cognitive-assessment, tele-cognitive-rehabilitation, and metaverse may be merged to refine artificial intelligence algorithms and obtain increasingly detailed patient's cognitive profile in order to enhance intervention personalization. Here, we present how these digital ingredients and their integration could be crucial to address the current and future needs of CR facilitating the early detection of subtle CI and the delivery of increasingly effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Tacchino
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (FISM), Genoa, Italy
| | - Jessica Podda
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (FISM), Genoa, Italy
| | - Valeria Bergamaschi
- AISM Rehabilitation Center Liguria, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Society (AISM), Genoa, Italy
| | - Ludovico Pedullà
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (FISM), Genoa, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Brichetto
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (FISM), Genoa, Italy.,AISM Rehabilitation Center Liguria, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Society (AISM), Genoa, Italy
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Ganzetti M, Graves JS, Holm SP, Dondelinger F, Midaglia L, Gaetano L, Craveiro L, Lipsmeier F, Bernasconi C, Montalban X, Hauser SL, Lindemann M. Neural correlates of digital measures shown by structural MRI: a post-hoc analysis of a smartphone-based remote assessment feasibility study in multiple sclerosis. J Neurol 2023; 270:1624-1636. [PMID: 36469103 PMCID: PMC9970954 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11494-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A study was undertaken to evaluate remote monitoring via smartphone sensor-based tests in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). This analysis aimed to explore regional neural correlates of digital measures derived from these tests. METHODS In a 24-week, non-randomized, interventional, feasibility study (NCT02952911), sensor-based tests on the Floodlight Proof-of-Concept app were used to assess cognition (smartphone-based electronic Symbol Digit Modalities Test), upper extremity function (Draw a Shape Test, Pinching Test), and gait and balance (Static Balance Test, Two-Minute Walk Test, U-Turn Test). In this post-hoc analysis, digital measures and standard clinical measures (e.g., Nine-Hole Peg Test [9HPT]) were correlated against regional structural magnetic resonance imaging outcomes. Seventy-six PwMS aged 18-55 years with an Expanded Disability Status Scale score of 0.0-5.5 were enrolled from two different sites (USA and Spain). Sixty-two PwMS were included in this analysis. RESULTS Worse performance on digital and clinical measures was associated with smaller regional brain volumes and larger ventricular volumes. Whereas digital and clinical measures had many neural correlates in common (e.g., putamen, globus pallidus, caudate nucleus, lateral occipital cortex), some were observed only for digital measures. For example, Draw a Shape Test and Pinching Test measures, but not 9HPT score, correlated with volume of the hippocampus (r = 0.37 [drawing accuracy over time on the Draw a Shape Test]/ - 0.45 [touching asynchrony on the Pinching Test]), thalamus (r = 0.38/ - 0.41), and pons (r = 0.35/ - 0.35). CONCLUSIONS Multiple neural correlates were identified for the digital measures in a cohort of people with early MS. Digital measures showed associations with brain regions that clinical measures were unable to demonstrate, thus providing potential novel information on functional ability compared with standard clinical assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Ganzetti
- grid.417570.00000 0004 0374 1269F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer S. Graves
- grid.266100.30000 0001 2107 4242Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA USA
| | - Sven P. Holm
- grid.417570.00000 0004 0374 1269F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Frank Dondelinger
- grid.417570.00000 0004 0374 1269F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland ,grid.419481.10000 0001 1515 9979Present Address: Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luciana Midaglia
- grid.411083.f0000 0001 0675 8654Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology, Centre d’Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Barcelona, Spain ,grid.7080.f0000 0001 2296 0625Department of Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Gaetano
- grid.417570.00000 0004 0374 1269F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Licinio Craveiro
- grid.417570.00000 0004 0374 1269F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Corrado Bernasconi
- grid.417570.00000 0004 0374 1269F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Xavier Montalban
- grid.411083.f0000 0001 0675 8654Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology, Centre d’Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Barcelona, Spain ,grid.7080.f0000 0001 2296 0625Department of Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Stephen L. Hauser
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Michael Lindemann
- grid.417570.00000 0004 0374 1269F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
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Graves JS, Ganzetti M, Dondelinger F, Lipsmeier F, Belachew S, Bernasconi C, Montalban X, van Beek J, Baker M, Gossens C, Lindemann M. Preliminary validity of the Draw a Shape Test for upper extremity assessment in multiple sclerosis. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2022; 10:166-180. [PMID: 36563127 PMCID: PMC9930424 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To validate the smartphone sensor-based Draw a Shape Test - a part of the Floodlight Proof-of-Concept app for remotely assessing multiple sclerosis-related upper extremity impairment by tracing six different shapes. METHODS People with multiple sclerosis, classified functionally normal/abnormal via their Nine-Hole Peg Test time, and healthy controls participated in a 24-week, nonrandomized study. Spatial (trace accuracy), temporal (mean and variability in linear, angular, and radial drawing velocities, and dwell time ratio), and spatiotemporal features (trace celerity) were cross-sectionally analyzed for correlation with standard clinical and brain magnetic resonance imaging (normalized brain volume and total lesion volume) disease burden measures, and for capacity to differentiate people with multiple sclerosis from healthy controls. RESULTS Data from 69 people with multiple sclerosis and 18 healthy controls were analyzed. Trace accuracy (all shapes), linear velocity variability (circle, figure-of-8, spiral shapes), and radial velocity variability (spiral shape) had a mostly fair/moderate-to-good correlation (|r| = 0.14-0.66) with all disease burden measures. Trace celerity also had mostly fair/moderate-to-good correlation (|r| = 0.18-0.41) with Nine-Hole Peg Test performance, cerebellar functional system score, and brain magnetic resonance imaging. Furthermore, partial correlation analysis related these results to motor impairment. People with multiple sclerosis showed greater drawing velocity variability, though slower mean velocity, than healthy controls. Linear velocity (spiral shape) and angular velocity (circle shape) potentially differentiate functionally normal people with multiple sclerosis from healthy controls. INTERPRETATION The Draw a Shape Test objectively assesses upper extremity impairment and correlates with all disease burden measures, thus aiding multiple sclerosis-related upper extremity impairment characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer S. Graves
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of California San DiegoSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xavier Montalban
- Department of Neurology‐Neuroimmunology, Centre d'Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat)Hospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
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Creagh AP, Dondelinger F, Lipsmeier F, Lindemann M, De Vos M. Longitudinal Trend Monitoring of Multiple Sclerosis Ambulation Using Smartphones. IEEE OPEN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 3:202-210. [PMID: 36578776 PMCID: PMC9788677 DOI: 10.1109/ojemb.2022.3221306] [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: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Goal: Smartphone and wearable devices may act as powerful tools to remotely monitor physical function in people with neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases from out-of-clinic environments. Detection of progression onset or worsening of symptoms is especially important in people living with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) in order to enable optimally adapted therapeutic strategies. MS symptoms typically follow subtle and fluctuating disease courses, patient-to-patient, and over time. Current in-clinic assessments are often too infrequently administered to reflect longitudinal changes in MS impairment that impact daily life. This work, therefore, explores how smartphones can administer daily two-minute walking assessments to monitor PwMS physical function at home. Methods: Remotely collected smartphone inertial sensor data was transformed through state-of-the-art Deep Convolutional Neural Networks, to estimate a participant's daily ambulatory-related disease severity, longitudinally over a 24-week study. Results: This study demonstrated that smartphone-based ambulatory severity outcomes could accurately estimate MS level of disability, as measured by the EDSS score ([Formula: see text]: 0.56,[Formula: see text]0.001). Furthermore, longitudinal severity outcomes were shown to accurately reflect individual participants' level of disability over the study duration. Conclusion: Smartphone-based assessments, that can be performed by patients from their home environments, could greatly augment standard in-clinic outcomes for neurodegenerative diseases. The ability to understand the impact of disease on daily-life between clinical visits, through objective digital outcomes, paves the way forward to better measure and identify signs of disease progression that may be occurring out-of-clinic, to monitor how different patients respond to various treatments, and to ultimately enable the development of better, and more personalised care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P Creagh
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Oxford Oxford OX1 2JD U.K
| | | | | | | | - Maarten De Vos
- Department of Electrical EngineeringKatholieke Universiteit Leuven 3000 Leuven Belgium
- Department of Development and RegenerationKatholieke Universiteit Leuven 3000 Leuven Belgium
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Meuth SG, Bayas A, Kallmann B, Linker R, Rieckmann P, Wattjes MP, Mäurer M, Kleinschnitz C. Long-term management of multiple sclerosis patients treated with cladribine tablets beyond year 4. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2022; 23:1503-1510. [PMID: 35930260 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2106783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oral cladribine is a highly effective pulsed selective immune reconstitution therapy licensed for relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) since 2017. A full treatment course comprises two treatment cycles given 1 year apart, followed by two treatment-free years. The management of cladribine-treated patients beyond year 4 needs to be addressed as patients have now passed the initial 4 years since European Medical Agency approval. AREAS COVERED A panel of neurologists and a neuroradiologist experienced in MS treatment/monitoring evaluated clinical trial data and real-world evidence and proposed recommendations for the management of cladribine-treated patients beyond year 4. EXPERT OPINION Continuous monitoring of disease activity during the treatment-free period is important. Subsequent management depends on the presence or absence of inflammatory disease activity, determined in the absence of consistent guidelines via practice-driven neurological decision criteria. Persisting or newly occurring inflammatory disease activity is an indication for further treatment, i.e. either re-initiation of cladribine or switching to another highly effective disease-modifying therapy. The decision to retreat or switch should be based on clinical and radiological evaluation considering disease course, treatment history, and safety aspects. In the absence of disease activity, either retreatment can be offered, or the treatment-free period can be extended under structured monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven G Meuth
- Klinik für Neurologie des Universitätsklinikums Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Antonios Bayas
- Klinik für Neurologie und Klinische Neurophysiologie, Medizinische Fakultät, Universität Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | | | - Ralf Linker
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Peter Rieckmann
- Abteilung für Neurologie, Medical Park Loipl, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Mike P Wattjes
- Department of diagnostic and interventional Neuroradiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Mathias Mäurer
- Klinik für Neurologie, Juliusspital Würzburg Klinikum Würzburg Mitte gGmbH, Würzburg, Germany
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Makowiecki K, Stevens N, Cullen CL, Zarghami A, Nguyen PT, Johnson L, Rodger J, Hinder MR, Barnett M, Young KM, Taylor BV. Safety of low-intensity repetitive transcranial magneTic brAin stimUlation foR people living with mUltiple Sclerosis (TAURUS): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Trials 2022; 23:626. [PMID: 35922816 PMCID: PMC9347125 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06526-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease, characterised by oligodendrocyte death and demyelination. Oligodendrocyte progenitor cells can differentiate into new replacement oligodendrocytes; however, remyelination is insufficient to protect neurons from degeneration in people with MS. We previously reported that 4 weeks of daily low-intensity repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in an intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) pattern increased the number of new myelinating oligodendrocytes in healthy adult mice. This study translates this rTMS protocol and aims to determine its safety and tolerability for people living with MS. We will also perform magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and symptom assessments as preliminary indicators of myelin addition following rTMS. Methods Participants (N = 30, aged 18–65 years) will have a diagnosis of relapsing-remitting or secondary progressive MS. ≤2 weeks before the intervention, eligible, consenting participants will complete a physical exam, baseline brain MRI scan and participant-reported MS symptom assessments [questionnaires: Fatigue Severity Scale, Quality of Life (AQoL-8D), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; and smartphone-based measures of cognition (electronic symbol digit modalities test), manual dexterity (pinching test, draw a shape test) and gait (U-Turn test)]. Participants will be pseudo-randomly allocated to rTMS (n=20) or sham (placebo; n=10), stratified by sex. rTMS or sham will be delivered 5 days per week for 4 consecutive weeks (20 sessions, 6 min per day). rTMS will be applied using a 90-mm circular coil at low-intensity (25% maximum stimulator output) in an iTBS pattern. For sham, the coil will be oriented 90° to the scalp, preventing the magnetic field from stimulating the brain. Adverse events will be recorded daily. We will evaluate participant blinding after the first, 10th and final session. After the final session, participants will repeat symptom assessments and brain MRI, for comparison with baseline. Participant-reported assessments will be repeated at 4-month post-allocation follow-up. Discussion This study will determine whether this rTMS protocol is safe and tolerable for people with MS. MRI and participant-reported symptom assessments will serve as preliminary indications of rTMS efficacy for myelin addition to inform further studies. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12619001196134. Registered on 27 August 2019
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalina Makowiecki
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
| | - Natasha Stevens
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Carlie L Cullen
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Amin Zarghami
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Phuong Tram Nguyen
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Lewis Johnson
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Jennifer Rodger
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Mark R Hinder
- Sensorimotor Neuroscience and Ageing Research Lab, School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Michael Barnett
- Sydney Neuroimaging Analysis Centre (SNAC), Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Brain & Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kaylene M Young
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Bruce V Taylor
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
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An Update on the Measurement of Motor Cerebellar Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis. THE CEREBELLUM 2022:10.1007/s12311-022-01435-y. [PMID: 35761144 PMCID: PMC9244122 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-022-01435-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive disease that often affects the cerebellum. It is characterised by demyelination, inflammation, and neurodegeneration within the central nervous system. Damage to the cerebellum in MS is associated with increased disability and decreased quality of life. Symptoms include gait and balance problems, motor speech disorder, upper limb dysfunction, and oculomotor difficulties. Monitoring symptoms is crucial for effective management of MS. A combination of clinical, neuroimaging, and task-based measures is generally used to diagnose and monitor MS. This paper reviews the present and new tools used by clinicians and researchers to assess cerebellar impairment in people with MS (pwMS). It also describes recent advances in digital and home-based monitoring for people with MS.
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Clay I, Cormack F, Fedor S, Foschini L, Gentile G, van Hoof C, Kumar P, Lipsmeier F, Sano A, Smarr B, Vandendriessche B, De Luca V. Measuring Health-Related Quality of Life With Multimodal Data: Viewpoint. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e35951. [PMID: 35617003 PMCID: PMC9185357 DOI: 10.2196/35951] [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: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to objectively measure aspects of performance and behavior is a fundamental pillar of digital health, enabling digital wellness products, decentralized trial concepts, evidence generation, digital therapeutics, and more. Emerging multimodal technologies capable of measuring several modalities simultaneously and efforts to integrate inputs across several sources are further expanding the limits of what digital measures can assess. Experts from the field of digital health were convened as part of a multi-stakeholder workshop to examine the progress of multimodal digital measures in two key areas: detection of disease and the measurement of meaningful aspects of health relevant to the quality of life. Here we present a meeting report, summarizing key discussion points, relevant literature, and finally a vision for the immediate future, including how multimodal measures can provide value to stakeholders across drug development and care delivery, as well as three key areas where headway will need to be made if we are to continue to build on the encouraging progress so far: collaboration and data sharing, removal of barriers to data integration, and alignment around robust modular evaluation of new measurement capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ieuan Clay
- Digital Medicine Society, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Akane Sano
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Benjamin Smarr
- Department of Bioengineering and Halicioglu Data Science Institute, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | | | - Valeria De Luca
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
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Thompson AJ, Carroll W, Ciccarelli O, Comi G, Cross A, Donnelly A, Feinstein A, Fox RJ, Helme A, Hohlfeld R, Hyde R, Kanellis P, Landsman D, Lubetzki C, Marrie RA, Morahan J, Montalban X, Musch B, Rawlings S, Salvetti M, Sellebjerg F, Sincock C, Smith KE, Strum J, Zaratin P, Coetzee T. Charting a global research strategy for progressive MS-An international progressive MS Alliance proposal. Mult Scler 2021; 28:16-28. [PMID: 34850641 PMCID: PMC8688983 DOI: 10.1177/13524585211059766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) affect more than 1 million individuals globally. Recent approvals of ocrelizumab for primary progressive MS and siponimod for active secondary progressive MS have opened the therapeutic door, though results from early trials of neuroprotective agents have been mixed. The recent introduction of the term 'active' secondary progressive MS into the therapeutic lexicon has introduced potential confusion to disease description and thereby clinical management. OBJECTIVE This paper reviews recent progress, highlights continued knowledge and proposes, on behalf of the International Progressive MS Alliance, a global research strategy for progressive MS. METHODS Literature searches of PubMed between 2015 and May, 2021 were conducted using the search terms "progressive multiple sclerosis", "primary progressive multiple sclerosis", "secondary progressive MS". Proposed strategies were developed through a series of in-person and virtual meetings of the International Progressive MS Alliance Scientific Steering Committee. RESULTS Sustaining and accelerating progress will require greater understanding of underlying mechanisms, identification of potential therapeutic targets, biomarker discovery and validation, and conduct of clinical trials with improved trial design. Encouraging developments in symptomatic and rehabilitative interventions are starting to address ongoing challenges experienced by people with progressive MS. CONCLUSION We need to manage these challenges and realise the opportunities in the context of a global research strategy, which will improve quality of life for people with progressive MS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Anne Cross
- Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Reinhard Hohlfeld
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Xavier Montalban
- Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Marco Salvetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Centre for Experimental Neurological Therapies (CENTERS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy/Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo (INM) Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Finn Sellebjerg
- Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | | | | | - Jon Strum
- International Progressive MS Alliance, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Woelfle T, Pless S, Wiencierz A, Kappos L, Naegelin Y, Lorscheider J. Practice Effects of Mobile Tests of Cognition, Dexterity, and Mobility on Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: Data Analysis of a Smartphone-Based Observational Study. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e30394. [PMID: 34792480 PMCID: PMC8663564 DOI: 10.2196/30394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Smartphones and their built-in sensors allow for measuring functions in disease-related domains through mobile tests. This could improve disease characterization and monitoring, and could potentially support treatment decisions for multiple sclerosis (MS), a multifaceted chronic neurological disease with highly variable clinical manifestations. Practice effects can complicate the interpretation of both improvement over time by potentially exaggerating treatment effects and stability by masking deterioration. Objective The aim of this study is to identify short-term learning and long-term practice effects in 6 active tests for cognition, dexterity, and mobility in user-scheduled, high-frequency smartphone-based testing. Methods We analyzed data from 264 people with self-declared MS with a minimum of 5 weeks of follow-up and at least 5 repetitions per test in the Floodlight Open study, a self-enrollment study accessible by smartphone owners from 16 countries. The collected data are openly available to scientists. Using regression and bounded growth mixed models, we characterized practice effects for the following tests: electronic Symbol Digit Modalities Test (e-SDMT) for cognition; Finger Pinching and Draw a Shape for dexterity; and Two Minute Walk, U-Turn, and Static Balance for mobility. Results Strong practice effects were found for e-SDMT (n=4824 trials), Finger Pinching (n=19,650), and Draw a Shape (n=19,019) with modeled boundary improvements of 40.8% (39.9%-41.6%), 86.2% (83.6%-88.7%), and 23.1% (20.9%-25.2%) over baseline, respectively. Half of the practice effect was reached after 11 repetitions for e-SDMT, 28 repetitions for Finger Pinching, and 17 repetitions for Draw a Shape; 90% was reached after 35, 94, and 56 repetitions, respectively. Although baseline performance levels were highly variable across participants, no significant differences between the short-term learning effects in low performers (5th and 25th percentile), median performers, and high performers (75th and 95th percentile) were found for e-SDMT up to the fifth trial (β=1.50-2.00). Only small differences were observed for Finger Pinching (β=1.25-2.5). For U-Turn (n=15,051) and Static Balance (n=16,797), only short-term learning effects could be observed, which ceased after a maximum of 5 trials. For Two Minute Walk (n=14,393), neither short-term learning nor long-term practice effects were observed. Conclusions Smartphone-based tests are promising for monitoring the disease trajectories of MS and other chronic neurological diseases. Our findings suggest that strong long-term practice effects in cognitive and dexterity functions have to be accounted for to identify disease-related changes in these domains, especially in the context of personalized health and in studies without a comparator arm. In contrast, changes in mobility may be more easily interpreted because of the absence of long-term practice effects, even though short-term learning effects might have to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Woelfle
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Silvan Pless
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Wiencierz
- Clinical Trial Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ludwig Kappos
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yvonne Naegelin
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Lorscheider
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Dillenseger A, Weidemann ML, Trentzsch K, Inojosa H, Haase R, Schriefer D, Voigt I, Scholz M, Akgün K, Ziemssen T. Digital Biomarkers in Multiple Sclerosis. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11111519. [PMID: 34827518 PMCID: PMC8615428 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11111519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
For incurable diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), the prevention of progression and the preservation of quality of life play a crucial role over the entire therapy period. In MS, patients tend to become ill at a younger age and are so variable in terms of their disease course that there is no standard therapy. Therefore, it is necessary to enable a therapy that is as personalized as possible and to respond promptly to any changes, whether with noticeable symptoms or symptomless. Here, measurable parameters of biological processes can be used, which provide good information with regard to prognostic and diagnostic aspects, disease activity and response to therapy, so-called biomarkers Increasing digitalization and the availability of easy-to-use devices and technology also enable healthcare professionals to use a new class of digital biomarkers-digital health technologies-to explain, influence and/or predict health-related outcomes. The technology and devices from which these digital biomarkers stem are quite broad, and range from wearables that collect patients' activity during digitalized functional tests (e.g., the Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test, dual-tasking performance and speech) to digitalized diagnostic procedures (e.g., optical coherence tomography) and software-supported magnetic resonance imaging evaluation. These technologies offer a timesaving way to collect valuable data on a regular basis over a long period of time, not only once or twice a year during patients' routine visit at the clinic. Therefore, they lead to real-life data acquisition, closer patient monitoring and thus a patient dataset useful for precision medicine. Despite the great benefit of such increasing digitalization, for now, the path to implementing digital biomarkers is widely unknown or inconsistent. Challenges around validation, infrastructure, evidence generation, consistent data collection and analysis still persist. In this narrative review, we explore existing and future opportunities to capture clinical digital biomarkers in the care of people with MS, which may lead to a digital twin of the patient. To do this, we searched published papers for existing opportunities to capture clinical digital biomarkers for different functional systems in the context of MS, and also gathered perspectives on digital biomarkers under development or already existing as a research approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tjalf Ziemssen
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-351-458-5934; Fax: +49-351-458-5717
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Rose DR, Amin M, Ontaneda D. Prediction in treatment outcomes in multiple sclerosis: challenges and recent advances. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2021; 17:1187-1198. [PMID: 34570656 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2021.1986005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system with a course dependent on early treatment response. Increasing evidence also suggests that despite eliminating disease activity (relapses and lesions), many patients continue to accrue disability, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive definition of treatment success. Optimizing disability outcome measures, as well as continuously improving our understanding of neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative biomarkers is required. AREAS COVERED This review describes the challenges inherent in classifying and monitoring disease phenotype in MS. The review also provides an assessment of clinical, radiological, and blood biomarker tools for current and future practice. EXPERT OPINION Emerging MRI techniques and standardized patient outcome assessments will increase the accuracy of initial diagnosis and understanding of disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deja R Rose
- Cleveland Clinic, Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Cleveland Ohio, United States
| | - Moein Amin
- Cleveland Clinic, Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Cleveland Ohio, United States.,Department of Neurology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Ohio, United States
| | - Daniel Ontaneda
- Cleveland Clinic, Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Cleveland Ohio, United States.,Department of Neurology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Ohio, United States
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van der Walt A, Butzkueven H, Shin RK, Midaglia L, Capezzuto L, Lindemann M, Davies G, Butler LM, Costantino C, Montalban X. Developing a Digital Solution for Remote Assessment in Multiple Sclerosis: From Concept to Software as a Medical Device. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11091247. [PMID: 34573267 PMCID: PMC8471038 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11091247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the development and deployment of digital solutions to improve patient care and facilitate monitoring in medical practice, e.g., by remote observation of disease symptoms in the patients’ home environment. Digital health solutions today range from non-regulated wellness applications and research-grade exploratory instruments to regulated software as a medical device (SaMD). This paper discusses the considerations and complexities in developing innovative, effective, and validated SaMD for multiple sclerosis (MS). The development of SaMD requires a formalised approach (design control), inclusive of technical verification and analytical validation to ensure reliability. SaMD must be clinically evaluated, characterised for benefit and risk, and must conform to regulatory requirements associated with device classification. Cybersecurity and data privacy are also critical. Careful consideration of patient and provider needs throughout the design and testing process help developers overcome challenges of adoption in medical practice. Here, we explore the development pathway for SaMD in MS, leveraging experiences from the development of Floodlight™ MS, a continually evolving bundled solution of SaMD for remote functional assessment of MS. The development process will be charted while reflecting on common challenges in the digital space, with a view to providing insights for future developers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneke van der Walt
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia;
- The Alfred, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-3-99030555
| | - Helmut Butzkueven
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia;
| | - Robert K. Shin
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC 20007, USA;
| | - Luciana Midaglia
- Servei de Neurologia-Neuroimmunologia, Centre d’Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Institut de Recerca Vall d’Hebron (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Luca Capezzuto
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (L.C.); (M.L.); (G.D.); (L.M.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Michael Lindemann
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (L.C.); (M.L.); (G.D.); (L.M.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Geraint Davies
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (L.C.); (M.L.); (G.D.); (L.M.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Lesley M. Butler
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (L.C.); (M.L.); (G.D.); (L.M.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Cristina Costantino
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (L.C.); (M.L.); (G.D.); (L.M.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Xavier Montalban
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Department of Neurology/Neuroimmunology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
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