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Marques MJ, Woods B, Jelley H, Kerpershoek L, Hopper L, Irving K, Bieber A, Stephan A, Sköldunger A, Sjölund BM, Selbaek G, Røsvik J, Zanetti O, Portolani DM, Marôco J, Janssen N, Tan EYL, de Vugt M, Verhey F, Gonçalves-Pereira M. Addressing relationship quality of people with dementia and their family carers: which profiles require most support? Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1394665. [PMID: 39323968 PMCID: PMC11422148 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1394665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective The quality of the relationship between persons with dementia and family carers influences health and quality-of-life outcomes. Little is known regarding those at higher risk of experiencing a decline in relationship quality, who could potentially benefit the most from interventions. We aimed to identify these risk profiles and explore the underlying factors. Methods We applied a latent profile analysis to relationship quality data from a 1-year follow-up of 350 dyads of persons with dementia and their informal carers from the Actifcare cohort in eight European countries. Assessments included sociodemographic, clinical, functional, psychosocial and quality-of-life measures. Relationship quality was assessed with the Positive Affect Index. A discriminant analysis explored factors influencing the risk profiles. Results There were two relationship quality profiles among persons with dementia (gradually decreasing, 74.0%; low but improving, 26%) and two among carers (steadily poor, 57.7%; consistently positive, 42.3%). The 'gradually decreasing' profile (persons with dementia) was related to their levels of dependence and unmet needs, along with carers' social distress and negative feelings, lower baseline RQ and sense of coherence. The 'steadily poor' profile (carers) was influenced by their social distress and negative feelings, lower sense of coherence and perceived social support. These two predominant profiles showed significant decreases in quality-of-life over one year. Conclusions Specific profiles of persons with dementia and their carers are at risk of worse relationship quality trajectories. By considering modifiable related factors (e.g., carers' stress), our findings can help develop tailored, effective interventions.
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Ter Huurne D, Ramakers I, Possemis N, König A, Linz N, Tröger J, Langel K, Verhey F, de Vugt M. User Experience of a (Semi-) Automated Cognitive Phone-Based Assessment Within a Memory Clinic Population. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2024:acae063. [PMID: 39221892 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acae063] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined the user experience in different modalities (face-to-face, semi-automated phone-based, and fully automated phone-based) of cognitive testing in people with subjective cognitive decline and mild cognitive impairment. METHOD A total of 67 participants from the memory clinic of the Maastricht University Medical Center+ participated in the study. The study consisted of cognitive tests in different modalities, namely, face-to-face, semi-automated phone-based guided by a researcher, and fully automated phone-based without the involvement of a researcher. After each assessment, a user experience questionnaire was administered, including questions about, for example, satisfaction, simplicity, and missing personal contact, on a seven-point Likert scale. Non-parametric tests were used to compare user experiences across different modalities. RESULTS In all modalities, user experiences were rated above average. The face-to-face ratings were comparable to the ratings of the semi-automated phone-based assessment, except for the satisfaction and recommendation items, which were rated higher for the face-to-face assessment. The face-to-face assessment was preferred above the fully automated phone-based assessment on all items. In general, the semi- and fully automated phone-based assessments were comparable (simplicity, conceivability, quality of sound, visiting the hospital, and missing personal contact), while on all the other items, the semi-automated phone-based assessment was preferred. CONCLUSIONS User experience was rated high within all modalities. Simplicity, conceivability, comfortability, and participation scores were comparable in the semi-automated phone-based and face-to-face assessment. Based on these findings and earlier research on validation of the semi-automated phone-based assessment, the semi-automated assessment could be useful for screening for clinical trials, and after more research, in clinical practice.
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Koetsier J, Cavill R, Reijnders R, Harvey J, Homann J, Kouhsar M, Deckers K, Köhler S, Eijssen LMT, van den Hove DLA, Demuth I, Düzel S, Smith RG, Smith AR, Burrage J, Walker EM, Shireby G, Hannon E, Dempster E, Frayling T, Mill J, Dobricic V, Johannsen P, Wittig M, Franke A, Vandenberghe R, Schaeverbeke J, Freund-Levi Y, Frölich L, Scheltens P, Teunissen CE, Frisoni G, Blin O, Richardson JC, Bordet R, Engelborghs S, de Roeck E, Martinez-Lage P, Tainta M, Lleó A, Sala I, Popp J, Peyratout G, Verhey F, Tsolaki M, Andreasson U, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Streffer J, Vos SJB, Lovestone S, Visser PJ, Lill CM, Bertram L, Lunnon K, Pishva E. Blood-based multivariate methylation risk score for cognitive impairment and dementia. Alzheimers Dement 2024. [PMID: 39193899 DOI: 10.1002/alz.14061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The established link between DNA methylation and pathophysiology of dementia, along with its potential role as a molecular mediator of lifestyle and environmental influences, positions blood-derived DNA methylation as a promising tool for early dementia risk detection. METHODS In conjunction with an extensive array of machine learning techniques, we employed whole blood genome-wide DNA methylation data as a surrogate for 14 modifiable and non-modifiable factors in the assessment of dementia risk in independent dementia cohorts. RESULTS We established a multivariate methylation risk score (MMRS) for identifying mild cognitive impairment cross-sectionally, independent of age and sex (P = 2.0 × 10-3). This score significantly predicted the prospective development of cognitive impairments in independent studies of Alzheimer's disease (hazard ratio for Rey's Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT)-Learning = 2.47) and Parkinson's disease (hazard ratio for MCI/dementia = 2.59). DISCUSSION Our work shows the potential of employing blood-derived DNA methylation data in the assessment of dementia risk. HIGHLIGHTS We used whole blood DNA methylation as a surrogate for 14 dementia risk factors. Created a multivariate methylation risk score for predicting cognitive impairment. Emphasized the role of machine learning and omics data in predicting dementia. The score predicts cognitive impairment development at the population level.
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Smith RG, Pishva E, Kouhsar M, Imm J, Dobricic V, Johannsen P, Wittig M, Franke A, Vandenberghe R, Schaeverbeke J, Freund-Levi Y, Frölich L, Scheltens P, Teunissen CE, Frisoni G, Blin O, Richardson JC, Bordet R, Engelborghs S, de Roeck E, Martinez-Lage P, Altuna M, Tainta M, Lleó A, Sala I, Popp J, Peyratout G, Winchester L, Nevado-Holgado A, Verhey F, Tsolaki M, Andreasson U, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Streffer J, Vos SJB, Lovestone S, Visser PJ, Bertram L, Lunnon K. Blood DNA methylomic signatures associated with CSF biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease in the EMIF-AD study. Alzheimers Dement 2024. [PMID: 39193893 DOI: 10.1002/alz.14098] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We investigated blood DNA methylation patterns associated with 15 well-established cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathophysiology, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration. METHODS We assessed DNA methylation in 885 blood samples from the European Medical Information Framework for Alzheimer's Disease (EMIF-AD) study using the EPIC array. RESULTS We identified Bonferroni-significant differential methylation associated with CSF YKL-40 (five loci) and neurofilament light chain (NfL; seven loci) levels, with two of the loci associated with CSF YKL-40 levels correlating with plasma YKL-40 levels. A co-localization analysis showed shared genetic variants underlying YKL-40 DNA methylation and CSF protein levels, with evidence that DNA methylation mediates the association between genotype and protein levels. Weighted gene correlation network analysis identified two modules of co-methylated loci correlated with several amyloid measures and enriched in pathways associated with lipoproteins and development. DISCUSSION We conducted the most comprehensive epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) of AD-relevant CSF biomarkers to date. Future work should explore the relationship between YKL-40 genotype, DNA methylation, and protein levels in the brain. HIGHLIGHTS Blood DNA methylation was assessed in the EMIF-AD MBD study. Epigenome-wide association studies (EWASs) were performed for 15 Alzheimer's disease (AD)-relevant cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker measures. Five Bonferroni-significant loci were associated with YKL-40 levels and seven with neurofilament light chain (NfL). DNA methylation in YKL-40 co-localized with previously reported genetic variation. DNA methylation potentially mediates the effect of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in YKL-40 on CSF protein levels.
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Wesenhagen KEJ, de Leeuw DM, Tomassen J, Gobom J, Bos I, Vos SJB, Martinez-Lage P, Tainta M, Popp J, Peyratout G, Tsolaki M, Vandenberghe R, Freund-Levi Y, Verhey F, Lovestone S, Streffer J, Dobricic V, Blennow K, Scheltens P, Smit AB, Bertram L, Teunissen CE, Zetterberg H, Tijms BM. Synaptic protein CSF levels relate to memory scores in individuals without dementia. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4607202. [PMID: 39108495 PMCID: PMC11302699 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4607202/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We investigated how cerebrospinal fluid levels of synaptic proteins associate with memory function in normal cognition (CN) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and investigated the effect of amyloid positivity on these associations. METHODS We included 242 CN (105(43%) abnormal amyloid), and 278 MCI individuals (183(66%) abnormal amyloid) from EMIF-AD MBD and ADNI. For 181 (EMIF-AD MBD) and 36 (ADNI) proteins with a synaptic annotation in SynGO, associations with word learning recall were analysed with linear models. RESULTS Subsets of synaptic proteins showed lower levels with worse recall in preclinical AD (EMIF-AD MBD: 7, ADNI: 5 proteins, none overlapping), prodromal AD (EMIF-AD MBD only, 27 proteins) and non-AD MCI (EMIF-AD MBD: 1, ADNI: 7 proteins). The majority of these associations were specific to these groups. DISCUSSION Synaptic disturbance-related memory impairment occurred very early in AD, indicating it may be relevant to develop therapies targeting the synapse early in the disease.
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Delvenne A, Vandendriessche C, Gobom J, Burgelman M, Dujardin P, De Nolf C, Tijms BM, Teunissen CE, Schindler SE, Verhey F, Ramakers I, Martinez-Lage P, Tainta M, Vandenberghe R, Schaeverbeke J, Engelborghs S, De Roeck E, Popp J, Peyratout G, Tsolaki M, Freund-Levi Y, Lovestone S, Streffer J, Bertram L, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Visser PJ, Vandenbroucke RE, Vos SJB. Involvement of the choroid plexus in Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology: findings from mouse and human proteomic studies. Fluids Barriers CNS 2024; 21:58. [PMID: 39020361 PMCID: PMC11256635 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-024-00555-3] [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: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Structural and functional changes of the choroid plexus (ChP) have been reported in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Nonetheless, the role of the ChP in the pathogenesis of AD remains largely unknown. We aim to unravel the relation between ChP functioning and core AD pathogenesis using a unique proteomic approach in mice and humans. METHODS We used an APP knock-in mouse model, APPNL-G-F, exhibiting amyloid pathology, to study the association between AD brain pathology and protein changes in mouse ChP tissue and CSF using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Mouse proteomes were investigated at the age of 7 weeks (n = 5) and 40 weeks (n = 5). Results were compared with previously published human AD CSF proteomic data (n = 496) to identify key proteins and pathways associated with ChP changes in AD. RESULTS ChP tissue proteome was dysregulated in APPNL-G-F mice relative to wild-type mice at both 7 and 40 weeks. At both ages, ChP tissue proteomic changes were associated with epithelial cells, mitochondria, protein modification, extracellular matrix and lipids. Nonetheless, some ChP tissue proteomic changes were different across the disease trajectory; pathways related to lysosomal function, endocytosis, protein formation, actin and complement were uniquely dysregulated at 7 weeks, while pathways associated with nervous system, immune system, protein degradation and vascular system were uniquely dysregulated at 40 weeks. CSF proteomics in both mice and humans showed similar ChP-related dysregulated pathways. CONCLUSIONS Together, our findings support the hypothesis of ChP dysfunction in AD. These ChP changes were related to amyloid pathology. Therefore, the ChP could become a novel promising therapeutic target for AD.
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Gonçalves-Pereira M, Marques MJ, F Alves R, Verdelho A, Balsinha C, Alves L, Alves Reis T, Woods B, De Vugt M, Verhey F. Needs for Care, Service Use and Quality of Life in Dementia: 12-Month Follow-Up of the Actifcare Study in Portugal. ACTA MEDICA PORT 2024; 37:355-367. [PMID: 38457746 DOI: 10.20344/amp.20427] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The intermediate stages of dementia are relatively under-researched, including in Portugal. The Actifcare (ACcess to TImely Formal Care) EU-JPND project studied people with mild-moderate dementia, namely their needs, access to and use of community services (e.g., day centers, home support). In our baseline assessment of the Portuguese Actifcare cohort, the unmet needs of some participants would call for formal support, which was not always accessible or used. We now report the main results of the 12-month follow-up, analyzing changes in needs, service (non)use, quality of life and related variables. METHODS This was a longitudinal, observational study using a convenience sample of 54 dyads of people with dementia and their family carers. Our main outcomes were the Camberwell Assessment of Need for the Elderly (CANE) and the Resources Utilization in Dementia. Clinical-functional, quality of life, psychological distress and caregiving-related assessments were also used. RESULTS At follow-up, the cognitive and functional status of people with dementia declined (p < 0.001), and their neuropsychiatric symptoms increased (p = 0.033). Considering CANE interviewers' ratings, the total needs of people with dementia increased at follow-up (p < 0.001) but not the unmet needs. Quality of life was overall stable. The use of formal care did not increase significantly, but informal care did in some domains. Carers' depressive symptoms increased (p = 0.030) and perseverance time decreased (p = 0.045). However, carers' psychological distress unmet needs were lower (p = 0.007), and their stress and quality of life remained stable. CONCLUSION People with dementia displayed complex biopsychosocial unmet needs. Their cognitive-functional decline over one year was not accompanied by a corresponding increase in any pattern of unmet need, nor of service use. Reliance on informal care (namely supervision) may have contributed to this. Caregiving-related outcomes evolved according to different trends, although stability was almost the rule. Primary carers were even more present at follow-up, without an apparently heavier toll on their own needs, burden, and quality of life. Overall, this longitudinal study comprehensively assessed Portuguese community-dwelling people with dementia. Despite the lack of generalizability, participants' needs remained overall stable and partly unmet over one year. Longer follow-up periods are needed to understand such complex processes.
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Hevink M, Linden I, de Vugt M, Brodaty H, Low LF, Phillipson L, Jeon YH, Gresham M, Doucet S, Luke A, Vedel I, McAiney C, Szcześniak D, Błaszkiewicz M, Rymaszewska J, Verhey F, Wolfs C. Moving forward with dementia: an explorative cross-country qualitative study into post-diagnostic experiences. Aging Ment Health 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38656033 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2342968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This explorative cross-country qualitative study aims to describe experiences of receiving a dementia diagnosis and experiences of support following a diagnosis in Australia, Canada, the Netherlands and Poland. METHOD Qualitative study using projective techniques during online focus groups, online and telephone interviews with people with dementia and caregivers. RESULTS Twenty-three people with dementia and 53 caregivers participated. Qualitative content analysis revealed five themes; (1) 'Coming to terms with dementia' helped people deal with complex emotions to move forward. (3) 'The social network as a source of support' and (4) 'The challenges and realities of formal support' and impacted 'Coming to terms with dementia'. (2) 'Navigating life with dementia as a caregiver' highlights caregiver burden and was impacted by (4) 'The challenges and realities of formal support'. People were (5) 'Self-caring and preparing for tomorrow' as they focused on maintaining current health whilst planning the future. Despite differences in healthcare and post-diagnostic support systems, there were more similarities across countries than differences. CONCLUSION Across countries, formal support and support from friends and family are crucial for people with dementia and caregivers to come to terms with dementia and maintain carer wellbeing to ultimately live well with dementia.
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Possemis N, Verhey F, Prickaerts J, Blokland A, Ramakers I. A proof of concept phase II study with the PDE-4 inhibitor roflumilast in patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer's disease dementia (ROMEMA): study protocol of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, between-subjects trial. Trials 2024; 25:162. [PMID: 38438923 PMCID: PMC10910786 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08001-3] [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: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research into the neurobiological underpinnings of learning and memory has demonstrated the cognitive-enhancing effects associated with diverse classes of phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors. Specific PDE inhibitors have been identified to improve neuronal communication through selective inhibition of PDE activity. Roflumilast, a PDE4 inhibitor, has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing episodic memory in healthy adults and elderly participants with pronounced memory impairment, indicative of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). In alignment with these findings, the present protocol aims to provide a proof of concept phase II of the potential of roflumilast to aid patients diagnosed with (a)MCI or mild Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia. METHODS The study will be conducted according to a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled, between-subjects design. Participants with (a)MCI and mild AD dementia will be recruited through the Memory Clinic at the Maastricht University Medical Centre + (MUMC +) in Maastricht, the Netherlands, alongside outreach through regional hospitals, and social media. The study will have three arms: placebo, 50 μg roflumilast, and 100 μg roflumilast, with a treatment duration of 24 weeks. The primary outcome measure will focus on the assessment of episodic memory, as evaluated through participants' performance on the 15-word Verbal Learning Task (VLT). Our secondary objectives are multifaceted, including an exploration of various cognitive domains. In addition, insights into the well-being and daily functioning of participants will be investigated through interviews with both the participants and their (informal) caregivers, we are interested in the well-being and daily functioning of the participants. DISCUSSION The outcomes of the present study aim to elucidate the significance of the PDE4 inhibition mechanism as a prospective therapeutic target for enhancing cognitive function in individuals with (a)MCI and mild AD dementia. Identifying positive effects within these patient cohorts could extend the relevance of this treatment to encompass a broader spectrum of neurological disorders. TRIAL REGISTRATION The Medical Ethics Committee of MUMC + granted ethics approval for the 4th version of the protocol on September 10th, 2020. The trial was registered at the European Drug Regulatory Affairs Clinical Trials (EudraCT) registered on the 19th of December 2019 ( https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2019-004959-36/NL ) and ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT04658654, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04658654?intr=roflumilast&cond=mci&rank=1 ) on the 8th of December 2020. The Central Committee on Research Involving Human Subjects (CCMO) granted approval on the 30th of September 2020.
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Frisoni GB, Festari C, Massa F, Cotta Ramusino M, Orini S, Aarsland D, Agosta F, Babiloni C, Borroni B, Cappa SF, Frederiksen KS, Froelich L, Garibotto V, Haliassos A, Jessen F, Kamondi A, Kessels RP, Morbelli SD, O'Brien JT, Otto M, Perret-Liaudet A, Pizzini FB, Vandenbulcke M, Vanninen R, Verhey F, Vernooij MW, Yousry T, Boada Rovira M, Dubois B, Georges J, Hansson O, Ritchie CW, Scheltens P, van der Flier WM, Nobili F. European intersocietal recommendations for the biomarker-based diagnosis of neurocognitive disorders. Lancet Neurol 2024; 23:302-312. [PMID: 38365381 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(23)00447-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
The recent commercialisation of the first disease-modifying drugs for Alzheimer's disease emphasises the need for consensus recommendations on the rational use of biomarkers to diagnose people with suspected neurocognitive disorders in memory clinics. Most available recommendations and guidelines are either disease-centred or biomarker-centred. A European multidisciplinary taskforce consisting of 22 experts from 11 European scientific societies set out to define the first patient-centred diagnostic workflow that aims to prioritise testing for available biomarkers in individuals attending memory clinics. After an extensive literature review, we used a Delphi consensus procedure to identify 11 clinical syndromes, based on clinical history and examination, neuropsychology, blood tests, structural imaging, and, in some cases, EEG. We recommend first-line and, if needed, second-line testing for biomarkers according to the patient's clinical profile and the results of previous biomarker findings. This diagnostic workflow will promote consistency in the diagnosis of neurocognitive disorders across European countries.
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Possemis N, ter Huurne D, Banning L, Gruters A, Van Asbroeck S, König A, Linz N, Tröger J, Langel K, Blokland A, Prickaerts J, de Vugt M, Verhey F, Ramakers I. The Reliability and Clinical Validation of Automatically-Derived Verbal Memory Features of the Verbal Learning Test in Early Diagnostics of Cognitive Impairment. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 97:179-191. [PMID: 38108348 PMCID: PMC10789344 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230608] [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] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research has shown that verbal memory accurately measures cognitive decline in the early phases of neurocognitive impairment. Automatic speech recognition from the verbal learning task (VLT) can potentially be used to differentiate between people with and without cognitive impairment. OBJECTIVE Investigate whether automatic speech recognition (ASR) of the VLT is reliable and able to differentiate between subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). METHODS The VLT was recorded and processed via a mobile application. Following, verbal memory features were automatically extracted. The diagnostic performance of the automatically derived features was investigated by training machine learning classifiers to distinguish between participants with SCD versus MCI/dementia. RESULTS The ICC for inter-rater reliability between the clinical and automatically derived features was 0.87 for the total immediate recall and 0.94 for the delayed recall. The full model including the total immediate recall, delayed recall, recognition count, and the novel verbal memory features had an AUC of 0.79 for distinguishing between participants with SCD versus MCI/dementia. The ten best differentiating VLT features correlated low to moderate with other cognitive tests such as logical memory tasks, semantic verbal fluency, and executive functioning. CONCLUSIONS The VLT with automatically derived verbal memory features showed in general high agreement with the clinical scoring and distinguished well between SCD and MCI/dementia participants. This might be of added value in screening for cognitive impairment.
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van Gils V, Ramakers I, Jansen WJ, Banning L, Kučikienė D, Costa AS, Schulz JB, Visser PJ, Verhey F, Reetz K, Vos SJ. Contributions of Vascular Burden and Amyloid Abnormality to Cognitive Decline in Memory Clinic Patients. J Alzheimers Dis Rep 2023; 7:1299-1311. [PMID: 38143773 PMCID: PMC10742024 DOI: 10.3233/adr-230040] [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: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease pathology and vascular burden are highly prevalent and often co-occur in elderly. It remains unclear how both relate to cognitive decline. Objective To investigate whether amyloid abnormality and vascular burden synergistically contribute to cognitive decline in a memory clinic population. Methods We included 227 patients from Maastricht and Aachen memory clinics. Amyloid abnormality (A+) was defined by CSF Aβ42 using data-driven cut-offs. Vascular burden (V+) was defined as having moderate to severe white matter hyperintensities, or any microbleeds, macrohemorrhage or infarcts on MRI. Longitudinal change in global cognition, memory, processing speed, executive functioning, and verbal fluency was analysed across the A-V-, A-V+, A+V-, A+V+ groups by linear mixed models. Additionally, individual MRI measures, vascular risk and vascular disease were used as V definitions. Results At baseline, the A+V+ group scored worse on global cognition and verbal fluency compared to all other groups, and showed worse memory compared to A-V+ and A-V- groups. Over time (mean 2.7+ - 1.5 years), A+V+ and A+V- groups showed faster global cognition decline than A-V+ and A-V- groups. Only the A+V- group showed decline on memory and verbal fluency. The A-V+ group did not differ from the A-V- group. Individual MRI vascular measures only indicated an independent association of microbleeds with executive functioning decline. Findings were similar using other V definitions. Conclusions Our study demonstrates that amyloid abnormality predicts cognitive decline independent from vascular burden in a memory clinic population. Vascular burden shows a minor contribution to cognitive decline in these patients. This has important prognostic implications.
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Heger I, van Boxtel M, Deckers K, Bosma H, Verhey F, Köhler S. Socioeconomic position, modifiable dementia risk and cognitive decline: results of 12-year Maastricht Aging Study. Int Psychogeriatr 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37905417 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610223000819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study investigated whether the association between modifiable dementia risk and rate of cognitive decline differs across socioeconomic status (SES) strata. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Data were used from Maastricht Aging Study, a prospective cohort study with a 12-year follow-up. The baseline sample consisted of 1023 adults over 40 years old. MEASUREMENTS The "LIfestyle for BRAin health" (LIBRA) index was used to assess modifiable dementia risk. Cognitive performance was assessed at baseline, 6 and 12 years, and measured in the domains of information processing speed, executive functioning and verbal memory function. An SES score was calculated from equivalent income and educational level (tertiles). Linear mixed models were used to study the association between LIBRA, SES and their interaction on the rate of cognitive decline. RESULTS Participants in the lowest SES tertile displayed more decline in information processing speed (vs. middle SES: X2 = 7.08, P = 0.029; vs. high SES: X2 = 9.49, P = 0.009) and verbal memory (vs. middle SES: X2 = 9.28, P < 0.001; vs. high SES: X2 = 16.68, P < 0.001) over 6 years compared to their middle- and high-SES counterparts. Higher (unhealthier) LIBRA scores were associated with more decline in information processing speed (X2 = 12.66, P = 0.002) over 12 years and verbal memory (X2 = 4.63, P = 0.032) over 6 years. No consistent effect modification by SES on the association between LIBRA and cognition was found. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that lifestyle is an important determinant of cognitive decline across SES groups. Yet, people with low SES had a more unfavorable modifiable risk score suggesting more potential for lifestyle-based interventions.
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Le Guen Y, Luo G, Ambati A, Damotte V, Jansen I, Yu E, Nicolas A, de Rojas I, Peixoto Leal T, Miyashita A, Bellenguez C, Lian MM, Parveen K, Morizono T, Park H, Grenier-Boley B, Naito T, Küçükali F, Talyansky SD, Yogeshwar SM, Sempere V, Satake W, Alvarez V, Arosio B, Belloy ME, Benussi L, Boland A, Borroni B, Bullido MJ, Caffarra P, Clarimon J, Daniele A, Darling D, Debette S, Deleuze JF, Dichgans M, Dufouil C, During E, Düzel E, Galimberti D, Garcia-Ribas G, García-Alberca JM, García-González P, Giedraitis V, Goldhardt O, Graff C, Grünblatt E, Hanon O, Hausner L, Heilmann-Heimbach S, Holstege H, Hort J, Jung YJ, Jürgen D, Kern S, Kuulasmaa T, Lee KH, Lin L, Masullo C, Mecocci P, Mehrabian S, de Mendonça A, Boada M, Mir P, Moebus S, Moreno F, Nacmias B, Nicolas G, Niida S, Nordestgaard BG, Papenberg G, Papma J, Parnetti L, Pasquier F, Pastor P, Peters O, Pijnenburg YAL, Piñol-Ripoll G, Popp J, Porcel LM, Puerta R, Pérez-Tur J, Rainero I, Ramakers I, Real LM, Riedel-Heller S, Rodriguez-Rodriguez E, Ross OA, Luís Royo J, Rujescu D, Scarmeas N, Scheltens P, Scherbaum N, Schneider A, Seripa D, Skoog I, Solfrizzi V, Spalletta G, Squassina A, van Swieten J, Sánchez-Valle R, Tan EK, Tegos T, Teunissen C, Thomassen JQ, Tremolizzo L, Vyhnalek M, Verhey F, Waern M, Wiltfang J, Zhang J, Zetterberg H, Blennow K, He Z, Williams J, Amouyel P, Jessen F, Kehoe PG, Andreassen OA, Van Duin C, Tsolaki M, Sánchez-Juan P, Frikke-Schmidt R, Sleegers K, Toda T, Zettergren A, Ingelsson M, Okada Y, Rossi G, Hiltunen M, Gim J, Ozaki K, Sims R, Foo JN, van der Flier W, Ikeuchi T, Ramirez A, Mata I, Ruiz A, Gan-Or Z, Lambert JC, Greicius MD, Mignot E. Multiancestry analysis of the HLA locus in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases uncovers a shared adaptive immune response mediated by HLA-DRB1*04 subtypes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2302720120. [PMID: 37643212 PMCID: PMC10483635 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2302720120] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Across multiancestry groups, we analyzed Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) associations in over 176,000 individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) versus controls. We demonstrate that the two diseases share the same protective association at the HLA locus. HLA-specific fine-mapping showed that hierarchical protective effects of HLA-DRB1*04 subtypes best accounted for the association, strongest with HLA-DRB1*04:04 and HLA-DRB1*04:07, and intermediary with HLA-DRB1*04:01 and HLA-DRB1*04:03. The same signal was associated with decreased neurofibrillary tangles in postmortem brains and was associated with reduced tau levels in cerebrospinal fluid and to a lower extent with increased Aβ42. Protective HLA-DRB1*04 subtypes strongly bound the aggregation-prone tau PHF6 sequence, however only when acetylated at a lysine (K311), a common posttranslational modification central to tau aggregation. An HLA-DRB1*04-mediated adaptive immune response decreases PD and AD risks, potentially by acting against tau, offering the possibility of therapeutic avenues.
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Handels R, Grimm S, Blokland A, Possemis N, Ramakers I, Sambeth A, Verhey F, Vos S, Joore M, Prickaerts J, Jönsson L. The value of maintaining cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment: The innovation headroom and potential cost-effectiveness of roflumilast. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:3458-3471. [PMID: 36808801 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13001] [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: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Early health-technology assessment can support discussing scarce resource allocation among stakeholders. We explored the value of maintaining cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) by estimating: (1) the innovation headroom and (2) the potential cost effectiveness of roflumilast treatment in this population. METHODS The innovation headroom was operationalized by a fictive 100% efficacious treatment effect, and the roflumilast effect on memory word learning test was assumed to be associated with 7% relative risk reduction of dementia onset. Both were compared to Dutch setting usual care using the adapted International Pharmaco-Economic Collaboration on Alzheimer's Disease (IPECAD) open-source model. RESULTS The total innovation headroom expressed as net health benefit was 4.2 (95% bootstrap interval: 2.9-5.7) quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). The potential cost effectiveness of roflumilast was k€34 per QALY. DISCUSSION The innovation headroom in MCI is substantial. Although the potential cost effectiveness of roflumilast treatment is uncertain, further research on its effect on dementia onset is likely valuable.
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Hevink M, Wolfs C, Ponds R, Doucet S, McAiney C, Vedel I, Maćkowiak M, Rymaszewska J, Rait G, Robinson L, Poole M, Gresham M, Jeon YH, Phillipson L, Low LF, Brodaty H, de Vugt M, Verhey F. Experiences of people with dementia and informal caregivers with post-diagnostic support: Data from the international COGNISANCE study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2023; 38:e5916. [PMID: 37132330 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aims to describe people with dementia and informal caregivers' respective experiences of support after diagnosis and compares these experiences. Additionally, we determine how people with dementia and informal caregivers who are satisfied with support differ from those dissatisfied. METHODS A cross-sectional survey study in Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, Poland, and United Kingdom was carried out to examine people with dementia and informal caregivers experience with support (satisfaction with information, access to care, health literacy, and confidence in ability to live well with dementia). The separate surveys contained closed questions. Analysis consisted of descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests. RESULTS Ninety people with dementia and 300 informal caregivers participated, and 69% of people with dementia and 67% of informal caregivers said support after diagnosis helped them deal more efficiently with their concerns. Up to one-third of people with dementia and informal caregivers were dissatisfied with information about management, prognosis, and strategies for living positively. Few people with dementia (22%) and informal caregivers (35%) received a care plan. People with dementia were more often satisfied with information, had more often confidence in their ability to live well with dementia, and were less often satisfied with access to care compared to informal caregivers. Informal caregivers who were satisfied with support were more satisfied with information and access to care compared to informal caregivers not satisfied with support. CONCLUSIONS Experience of dementia support can be improved and people with dementia and informal caregiver differ in their experiences of support.
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Lo JW, Crawford JD, Desmond DW, Bae HJ, Lim JS, Godefroy O, Roussel M, Köhler S, Staals J, Verhey F, Chen C, Xu X, Chong E, Kandiah N, Bordet R, Dondaine T, Mendyk AM, Brodaty H, Traykov L, Mehrabian S, Petrova N, Lipnicki DM, Pan Lam BC, Sachdev PS. Short-term Trajectories of Poststroke Cognitive Function: A STROKOG Collaboration Study. Neurology 2023:WNL.0000000000207281. [PMID: 37072222 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000207281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Past studies on post-stroke cognitive function have focused on the average performance or change over time, but few have investigated patterns of cognitive trajectories after stroke. This project used latent class growth analysis (LCGA) to identify clusters of patients with similar patterns of cognition scores over the first-year post-stroke and the extent to which long-term cognitive outcome is predicted by the clusters ("trajectory groups"). METHODS Data were sought from the Stroke and Cognition consortium (STROKOG). LCGA was used to identify clusters of trajectories based on standardized global cognition scores at baseline (T1) and at the 1-year follow-up (T2). One-step IPD meta-analysis was used to examine risk factors for trajectory groups and association of trajectory groups with cognition at the long-term follow-up (T3). RESULTS Nine hospital-based stroke cohorts with 1149 patients (63% male; mean age 66.4 years (SD=11.0)) were included. The median time assessed at T1 was 3.6 months post-stroke, 1.0 year at T2 and 3.2 years at T3. LCGA identified 3 trajectory groups, which were characterized by different mean levels of cognition scores at T1 (low-, -3.27SD (0.94), 17%; medium-, -1.23SD (0.68), 48%; and high-performance, 0.71SD (0.77), 35%). There was significant improvement in cognition for the high-performance group (0.22 SD/year, 95% CI 0.07, 0.36), but changes for the low and medium performance groups were not significant (-0.10 SD/year, 95% CI -0.33, 0.13; 0.11 SD/year, 95% CI -0.08, 0.24 respectively). Factors associated with the low- (versus high-) performance group include age (relative risk ratio [RRR] 1.18, 95% CI 1.14, 1.23), years of education (RRR 0.61, 95% CI 0.56, 0.67), diabetes (RRR 3.78, 95% CI 2.08, 6.88), large artery versus small vessel strokes (RRR 2.77, 95% CI 1.32, 5.83), and moderate/severe strokes (RRR 3.17, 95% 1.42, 7.08). Trajectory groups were predictive of global cognition at T3, but its predictive power was comparable to scores at T1. CONCLUSION The trajectory of cognitive function over the first-year post-stroke is heterogenous. Baseline cognitive function ∼3.6 months post-stroke is a good predictor of long-term cognitive outcome. Older age, lower levels of education, diabetes, large artery strokes, and greater stroke severity are risk factors for lower cognitive performance over the first year.
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Delvenne A, Gobom J, Tijms B, Bos I, Reus LM, Dobricic V, Kate MT, Verhey F, Ramakers I, Scheltens P, Teunissen CE, Vandenberghe R, Schaeverbeke J, Gabel S, Popp J, Peyratout G, Martinez-Lage P, Tainta M, Tsolaki M, Freund-Levi Y, Lovestone S, Streffer J, Barkhof F, Bertram L, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Visser PJ, Vos SJB. Cerebrospinal fluid proteomic profiling of individuals with mild cognitive impairment and suspected non-Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:807-820. [PMID: 35698882 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suspected non-Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology (SNAP) is a biomarker concept that encompasses individuals with neuronal injury but without amyloidosis. We aim to investigate the pathophysiology of SNAP, defined as abnormal tau without amyloidosis, in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) proteomics. METHODS Individuals were classified based on CSF amyloid beta (Aβ)1-42 (A) and phosphorylated tau (T), as cognitively normal A-T- (CN), MCI A-T+ (MCI-SNAP), and MCI A+T+ (MCI-AD). Proteomics analyses, Gene Ontology (GO), brain cell expression, and gene expression analyses in brain regions of interest were performed. RESULTS A total of 96 proteins were decreased in MCI-SNAP compared to CN and MCI-AD. These proteins were enriched for extracellular matrix (ECM), hemostasis, immune system, protein processing/degradation, lipids, and synapse. Fifty-one percent were enriched for expression in the choroid plexus. CONCLUSION The pathophysiology of MCI-SNAP (A-T+) is distinct from that of MCI-AD. Our findings highlight the need for a different treatment in MCI-SNAP compared to MCI-AD.
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Havermans DC, van Alphen SP, Olff M, Van der Velden-Daamen M, Verhey F, Rutten BP, Stuijts P, Cook JM, Sobczak S. The Need for a Diagnostic Instrument to Assess Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in People with Dementia: Findings from a Delphi Study. J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2023; 36:129-142. [PMID: 35713096 PMCID: PMC9941654 DOI: 10.1177/08919887221103583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive and behavioral aspects may mask posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in people with dementia. PTSD severely lowers quality of life in people with dementia. Proper recognition of PTSD is essential to ensure adequate treatment. However, a valid diagnostic tool for PTSD in dementia is lacking. A Delphi study was conducted among 20 Dutch and 6 international experts in the field of PTSD and dementia care or research. The aim was to reach consensus in 3 rounds on the added value, form, content, and application for developing such an instrument. The first round confirmed the need for a new diagnostic tool for research and clinical practice. Consensus was reached on 23 statements regarding the support base and 19 related to content of the instrument. In the third round, opinions on several conceptual problems were gathered. Based on the experts' opinions, a draft version of an instrument, the TRAuma and DEmentia-interview (TRADE-interview), was developed. Clinical and research implications of this new measure are discussed.
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Hendriks S, Peetoom K, Bakker C, Koopmans R, van der Flier W, Papma J, Verhey F, de Vugt M, Köhler S. Global incidence of young-onset dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:831-843. [PMID: 35715891 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Reliable data on the incidence rates for young-onset dementia (YOD) are lacking, but are necessary for research on disease etiology and to raise awareness among health care professionals. METHODS We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on population-based studies on the incidence of YOD, published between January 1, 1990 and February 1, 2022, according to Meta-analyses of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines. Data were analyzed using random-effects meta-analyses. Results were age-standardized, and heterogeneity was assessed by subgroup analyses and meta-regression. RESULTS Sixty-one articles were included. Global age-standardized incidence rates increased from 0.17/100,000 in age 30 to 34 years, to 5.14/100,000 in age 60 to 64 years, giving a global total age-standardized incidence rate of 11 per 100,000 in age 30 to 64. This corresponds to 370,000 new YOD cases annually worldwide. Heterogeneity was high and meta-regression showed geographic location significantly influenced this heterogeneity. DISCUSSION This meta-analysis shows the current best estimate of YOD incidence. New prospective cohort studies are needed.
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Ter Huurne D, Ramakers I, Possemis N, Banning L, Gruters A, Van Asbroeck S, König A, Linz N, Tröger J, Langel K, Verhey F, de Vugt M. The Accuracy of Speech and Linguistic Analysis in Early Diagnostics of Neurocognitive Disorders in a Memory Clinic Setting. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF NEUROPSYCHOLOGISTS 2023:7007927. [PMID: 36705583 PMCID: PMC10369358 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acac105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether automatic analysis of the Semantic Verbal Fluency test (SVF) is reliable and can extract additional information that is of value for identifying neurocognitive disorders. In addition, the associations between the automatically derived speech and linguistic features and other cognitive domains were explored. METHOD We included 135 participants from the memory clinic of the Maastricht University Medical Center+ (with Subjective Cognitive Decline [SCD; N = 69] and Mild Cognitive Impairment [MCI]/dementia [N = 66]). The SVF task (one minute, category animals) was recorded and processed via a mobile application, and speech and linguistic features were automatically extracted. The diagnostic performance of the automatically derived features was investigated by training machine learning classifiers to differentiate SCD and MCI/dementia participants. RESULTS The intraclass correlation for interrater reliability between the clinical total score (golden standard) and automatically derived total word count was 0.84. The full model including the total word count and the automatically derived speech and linguistic features had an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.85 for differentiating between people with SCD and MCI/dementia. The model with total word count only and the model with total word count corrected for age showed an AUC of 0.75 and 0.81, respectively. Semantic switching correlated moderately with memory as well as executive functioning. CONCLUSION The one-minute SVF task with automatically derived speech and linguistic features was as reliable as the manual scoring and differentiated well between SCD and MCI/dementia. This can be considered as a valuable addition in the screening of neurocognitive disorders and in clinical practice.
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ter Huurne D, Possemis N, Banning L, Gruters A, König A, Linz N, Tröger J, Langel K, Verhey F, de Vugt M, Ramakers I. Validation of an Automated Speech Analysis of Cognitive Tasks within a Semiautomated Phone Assessment. Digit Biomark 2023; 7:115-123. [PMID: 37901366 PMCID: PMC10601928 DOI: 10.1159/000533188] [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: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction We studied the accuracy of the automatic speech recognition (ASR) software by comparing ASR scores with manual scores from a verbal learning test (VLT) and a semantic verbal fluency (SVF) task in a semiautomated phone assessment in a memory clinic population. Furthermore, we examined the differentiating value of these tests between participants with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). We also investigated whether the automatically calculated speech and linguistic features had an additional value compared to the commonly used total scores in a semiautomated phone assessment. Methods We included 94 participants from the memory clinic of the Maastricht University Medical Center+ (SCD N = 56 and MCI N = 38). The test leader guided the participant through a semiautomated phone assessment. The VLT and SVF were audio recorded and processed via a mobile application. The recall count and speech and linguistic features were automatically extracted. The diagnostic groups were classified by training machine learning classifiers to differentiate SCD and MCI participants. Results The intraclass correlation for inter-rater reliability between the manual and the ASR total word count was 0.89 (95% CI 0.09-0.97) for the VLT immediate recall, 0.94 (95% CI 0.68-0.98) for the VLT delayed recall, and 0.93 (95% CI 0.56-0.97) for the SVF. The full model including the total word count and speech and linguistic features had an area under the curve of 0.81 and 0.77 for the VLT immediate and delayed recall, respectively, and 0.61 for the SVF. Conclusion There was a high agreement between the ASR and manual scores, keeping the broad confidence intervals in mind. The phone-based VLT was able to differentiate between SCD and MCI and can have opportunities for clinical trial screening.
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Heger I, Deckers K, de Vugt M, Verhey F, Oenema A, van Boxtel M, Köhler S. Using mHealth for Primary Prevention of Dementia: A Proof-of-Concept Study on Usage Patterns, Appreciation, and Beliefs and Attitudes Regarding Prevention. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 94:935-948. [PMID: 37355903 PMCID: PMC10473134 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230225] [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] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health- and lifestyle factors account for a substantial part of all dementia cases, which opens the opportunity for primary prevention. However, the required behavioral change is complex and involves targeting multiple risk factors. mHealth interventions can potentially contribute to improving motivation in a low-cost and scalable way. OBJECTIVE To explore usage patterns, appreciation, and beliefs and attitudes regarding dementia risk reduction during the use of the MyBraincoach mobile app. METHODS Participants were community-dwelling middle-aged adults from the Netherlands and used either the standard (education) or extended (education+motivational triggers) app version for three months. Two panel studies were combined in this paper. Chi-square tests, t-tests and linear mixed models were used, adjusted for age, sex, and education. RESULTS Of all participants (n = 299, 50.2% male), 167 (55.9%) had installed the app. The most reported reason for non-use was technical problems (47%). Those who used the app were at baseline already more positive about dementia risk reduction than those who did not use the app. Of all users who completed the evaluation (n = 102), 78.4% (n = 80) stated that the app provided a positive approach towards brain health and 80.4% (n = 82) felt better informed. Younger (<60y) and lower educated participants evaluated the app most positively. CONCLUSION Usage of the app was low, but users showed more positive beliefs and attitudes regarding dementia risk reduction. Most users evaluated the app positively and stated to have gained knowledge on the topic. Improving the use of the app must keep high priority in future studies.
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Christie HL, Dam AEH, van Boxtel M, Köhler S, Verhey F, de Vugt ME. Lessons Learned From an Effectiveness Evaluation of Inlife, a Web-Based Social Support Intervention for Caregivers of People With Dementia: Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Aging 2022; 5:e38656. [PMID: 36476485 PMCID: PMC9773030 DOI: 10.2196/38656] [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: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Informal care for people with dementia not only affects the well-being of the primary caregiver but also changes their roles and interactions with the social environment. New online interventions might facilitate access to social support. Recently, an online social support platform, Inlife, was developed in the Netherlands and aims to enhance social support and positive interactions in informal support networks. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Inlife for caregivers of people with dementia. METHODS A randomized controlled trial with 96 caregivers of people with dementia was performed. Participants were randomly assigned to the Inlife intervention or the waiting list control group. After 16 weeks of Inlife use, the waiting list control group could start using Inlife. Effects were evaluated at baseline (T0), 8 weeks (T1), and 16 weeks (T2). The 16-week follow-up assessment (T2) served as the primary endpoint to evaluate the results for the primary and secondary outcome variables evaluated with online self-report questionnaires. The primary outcomes included feelings of caregiver competence and perceived social support. The secondary outcomes included received support, feelings of loneliness, psychological complaints (eg, anxiety, stress), and quality of life. RESULTS No significant improvements were demonstrated for the intervention group (n=48) relative to the control group (n=48) for the primary outcomes (feeling of carer competence: b=-0.057, 95% CI -0.715 to 0.602, P=.87; perceived social support: b=-15.877, 95% CI -78.284 to 46.530, P=.62) or any secondary outcome. This contrasts with our qualitative findings showing the potential of Inlife to facilitate the care process in daily life. Adherence was not optimal for all Inlife users. Additional per-protocol and sensitivity analyses also revealed no beneficial results for high active Inlife users or specific subgroups. Inlife users were more active when part of a larger network. CONCLUSIONS Researchers should be modest regarding the effectiveness of online caregiver interventions in terms of quantitative measures of well-being and quality of life. Nevertheless, online tools have the potential to facilitate the caregiver process in daily life. Lessons learned include the importance of harnessing the power of human interaction in eHealth, making use of the user's social capital, and the need to develop research methods that can identify benefits in daily life that are ecologically valid for caregivers. TRIAL REGISTRATION Netherlands Trial Register NTR6131; https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=NTR6131. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1186/s13063-017-2097-y.
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Küçükali F, Neumann A, Van Dongen J, De Pooter T, Joris G, De Rijk P, Ohlei O, Dobricic V, Bos I, Vos SJB, Engelborghs S, De Roeck E, Vandenberghe R, Gabel S, Meersmans K, Tsolaki M, Verhey F, Martinez‐Lage P, Tainta M, Frisoni G, Blin O, Richardson JC, Bordet R, Scheltens P, Popp J, Peyratout G, Johannsen P, Frölich L, Freund‐Levi Y, Streffer J, Lovestone S, Legido‐Quigley C, Kate MT, Barkhof F, Zetterberg H, Bertram L, Strazisar M, Visser PJ, Van Broeckhoven C, Sleegers K. Whole‐exome rare‐variant analysis of Alzheimer's disease and related biomarker traits. Alzheimers Dement 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/alz.12842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
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