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Ilg W, Milne S, Schmitz-Hübsch T, Alcock L, Beichert L, Bertini E, Mohamed Ibrahim N, Dawes H, Gomez CM, Hanagasi H, Kinnunen KM, Minnerop M, Németh AH, Newman J, Ng YS, Rentz C, Samanci B, Shah VV, Summa S, Vasco G, McNames J, Horak FB. Quantitative Gait and Balance Outcomes for Ataxia Trials: Consensus Recommendations by the Ataxia Global Initiative Working Group on Digital-Motor Biomarkers. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 23:1566-1592. [PMID: 37955812 PMCID: PMC11269489 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-023-01625-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
With disease-modifying drugs on the horizon for degenerative ataxias, ecologically valid, finely granulated, digital health measures are highly warranted to augment clinical and patient-reported outcome measures. Gait and balance disturbances most often present as the first signs of degenerative cerebellar ataxia and are the most reported disabling features in disease progression. Thus, digital gait and balance measures constitute promising and relevant performance outcomes for clinical trials.This narrative review with embedded consensus will describe evidence for the sensitivity of digital gait and balance measures for evaluating ataxia severity and progression, propose a consensus protocol for establishing gait and balance metrics in natural history studies and clinical trials, and discuss relevant issues for their use as performance outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winfried Ilg
- Section Computational Sensomotorics, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Otfried-Müller-Straße 25, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.
- Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN), Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Sarah Milne
- Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Melbourne University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Physiotherapy Department, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Frankston, VIC, Australia
| | - Tanja Schmitz-Hübsch
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation of Max-Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lisa Alcock
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Lukas Beichert
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases and Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Enrico Bertini
- Research Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Bambino Gesu' Children's Research Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Helen Dawes
- NIHR Exeter BRC, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | | | - Hasmet Hanagasi
- Behavioral Neurology and Movement Disorders Unit, Department of Neurology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Martina Minnerop
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1)), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty & University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Center for Movement Disorders and Neuromodulation, Medical Faculty & University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Andrea H Németh
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jane Newman
- NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Yi Shiau Ng
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Clara Rentz
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1)), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
| | - Bedia Samanci
- Behavioral Neurology and Movement Disorders Unit, Department of Neurology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Vrutangkumar V Shah
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- APDM Precision Motion, Clario, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Susanna Summa
- Movement Analysis and Robotics Laboratory (MARLab), Neurorehabilitation Unit, Neurological Science and Neurorehabilitation Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Gessica Vasco
- Movement Analysis and Robotics Laboratory (MARLab), Neurorehabilitation Unit, Neurological Science and Neurorehabilitation Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - James McNames
- APDM Precision Motion, Clario, Portland, OR, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Portland State University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Fay B Horak
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- APDM Precision Motion, Clario, Portland, OR, USA
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Castiglia SF, Trabassi D, Conte C, Gioiosa V, Sebastianelli G, Abagnale C, Ranavolo A, Di Lorenzo C, Coppola G, Casali C, Serrao M. Local Dynamic Stability of Trunk During Gait is Responsive to Rehabilitation in Subjects with Primary Degenerative Cerebellar Ataxia. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 23:1478-1489. [PMID: 38279000 PMCID: PMC11269439 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-024-01663-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the responsiveness to the rehabilitation of three trunk acceleration-derived gait indexes, namely the harmonic ratio (HR), the short-term longest Lyapunov's exponent (sLLE), and the step-to-step coefficient of variation (CV), in a sample of subjects with primary degenerative cerebellar ataxia (swCA), and investigate the correlations between their improvements (∆), clinical characteristics, and spatio-temporal and kinematic gait features. The trunk acceleration patterns in the antero-posterior (AP), medio-lateral (ML), and vertical (V) directions during gait of 21 swCA were recorded using a magneto-inertial measurement unit placed at the lower back before (T0) and after (T1) a period of inpatient rehabilitation. For comparison, a sample of 21 age- and gait speed-matched healthy subjects (HSmatched) was also included. At T1, sLLE in the AP (sLLEAP) and ML (sLLEML) directions significantly improved with moderate to large effect sizes, as well as SARA scores, stride length, and pelvic rotation. sLLEML and pelvic rotation also approached the HSmatched values at T1, suggesting a normalization of the parameter. HRs and CV did not significantly modify after rehabilitation. ∆sLLEML correlated with ∆ of the gait subscore of the SARA scale (SARAGAIT) and ∆stride length and ∆sLLEAP correlated with ∆pelvic rotation and ∆SARAGAIT. The minimal clinically important differences for sLLEML and sLLEAP were ≥ 36.16% and ≥ 28.19%, respectively, as the minimal score reflects a clinical improvement in SARA scores. When using inertial measurement units, sLLEAP and sLLEML can be considered responsive outcome measures for assessing the effectiveness of rehabilitation on trunk stability during walking in swCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Filippo Castiglia
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Corso Della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy.
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Dante Trabassi
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Corso Della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy
| | - Carmela Conte
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Corso Della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy
| | - Valeria Gioiosa
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Corso Della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy
| | - Gabriele Sebastianelli
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Corso Della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy
| | - Chiara Abagnale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Corso Della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy
| | - Alberto Ranavolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Corso Della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, INAIL, Via Fontana Candida, 1, Monte Porzio Catone, 00078, Rome, Italy
| | - Cherubino Di Lorenzo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Corso Della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy
| | - Gianluca Coppola
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Corso Della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy
| | - Carlo Casali
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Corso Della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy
| | - Mariano Serrao
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Corso Della Repubblica 79, 04100, Latina, Italy
- Movement Analysis Laboratory, Policlinico Italia, Piazza del Campidano, 6, 00162, Rome, Italy
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Honda T, Matsumura K, Hashimoto Y, Yokota T, Mizusawa H, Nagao S, Ishikawa K. Temporal Relationship between Impairment of Cerebellar Motor Learning and Deterioration of Ataxia in Patients with Cerebellar Degeneration. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 23:1280-1292. [PMID: 37115382 PMCID: PMC11269492 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-023-01545-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Ataxia and impaired motor learning are both fundamental features in diseases affecting the cerebellum. However, it remains unclarified whether motor learning is impaired only when ataxia clearly manifests, nor it is known whether the progression of ataxia, the speed of which often varies among patients with the same disease, can be monitored by examining motor learning. We evaluated motor learning and ataxia at intervals of several months in 40 patients with degenerative conditions [i.e., multiple system atrophy (MSA), Machado-Joseph disease (MJD)/spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3), SCA6, and SCA31]. Motor learning was quantified as the adaptability index (AI) in the prism adaptation task and ataxia was scored using the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA). We found that AI decreased most markedly in both MSA-C and MSA-P, moderately in MJD, and mildly in SCA6 and SCA31. Overall, the AI decrease occurred more rapidly than the SARA score increase. Interestingly, AIs remained normal in purely parkinsonian MSA-P patients (n = 4), but they dropped into the ataxia range when these patients started to show ataxia. The decrease in AI during follow-up (dAI/dt) was significant in patients with SARA scores < 10.5 compared with patients with SARA scores ≥ 10.5, indicating that AI is particularly useful for diagnosing the earlier phase of cerebellar degeneration. We conclude that AI is a useful marker for progressions of cerebellar diseases, and that evaluating the motor learning of patients can be particularly valuable for detecting cerebellar impairment, which is often masked by parkinsonisms and other signs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeru Honda
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
- Basic Technology Research Center, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-Ku, Tokyo, 156-8506, Japan
- Laboratory for Higher Brain Function, Nozomi Hospital, Ina, Kitaadachi-Gun, Saitama, 362-0806, Japan
- The Center for Personalized Medicine for Healthy Aging, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Ken Matsumura
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Metropolitan Komagome Hospital, 3-18-22 Honkomagome, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8677, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Matsuzawa Hospital, 2-1-1 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-Ku, Tokyo, 156-0057, Japan
| | - Yuji Hashimoto
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Takanori Yokota
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Hidehiro Mizusawa
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
- National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, 4-1-1 Ogawahigashicho, Kodaira, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan
| | - Soichi Nagao
- Laboratory for Higher Brain Function, Nozomi Hospital, Ina, Kitaadachi-Gun, Saitama, 362-0806, Japan
| | - Kinya Ishikawa
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan.
- The Center for Personalized Medicine for Healthy Aging, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan.
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Torri F, Vadi G, Meli A, Loprieno S, Schirinzi E, Lopriore P, Ricci G, Siciliano G, Mancuso M. The use of digital tools in rare neurological diseases towards a new care model: a narrative review. Neurol Sci 2024:10.1007/s10072-024-07631-4. [PMID: 38856822 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-024-07631-4] [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: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Rare neurological diseases as a whole share peculiar features as motor and/or cognitive impairment, an elevated disability burden, a frequently chronic course and, in present times, scarcity of therapeutic options. The rarity of those conditions hampers both the identification of significant prognostic outcome measures, and the development of novel therapeutic approaches and clinical trials. Collection of objective clinical data through digital devices can support diagnosis, care, and therapeutic research. We provide an overview on recent developments in the field of digital tools applied to rare neurological diseases, both in the care setting and as providers of outcome measures in clinical trials in a representative subgroup of conditions, including ataxias, hereditary spastic paraplegias, motoneuron diseases and myopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Torri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Vadi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Adriana Meli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sara Loprieno
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Erika Schirinzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Piervito Lopriore
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Ricci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Siciliano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Michelangelo Mancuso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neurology Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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Seemann J, Daghsen L, Cazier M, Lamy JC, Welter ML, Giese MA, Synofzik M, Durr A, Ilg W, Coarelli G. Digital Gait Measures Capture 1-Year Progression in Early-Stage Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2. Mov Disord 2024; 39:788-797. [PMID: 38419144 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29757] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With disease-modifying drugs in reach for cerebellar ataxias, fine-grained digital health measures are highly warranted to complement clinical and patient-reported outcome measures in upcoming treatment trials and treatment monitoring. These measures need to demonstrate sensitivity to capture change, in particular in the early stages of the disease. OBJECTIVE Our aim is to unravel gait measures sensitive to longitudinal change in the-particularly trial-relevant-early stage of spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2). METHODS We performed a multicenter longitudinal study with combined cross-sectional and 1-year interval longitudinal analysis in early-stage SCA2 participants (n = 23, including nine pre-ataxic expansion carriers; median, ATXN2 CAG repeat expansion 38 ± 2; median, Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia [SARA] score 4.8 ± 4.3). Gait was assessed using three wearable motion sensors during a 2-minute walk, with analyses focused on gait measures of spatio-temporal variability that have shown sensitivity to ataxia severity (eg, lateral step deviation). RESULTS We found significant changes for gait measures between baseline and 1-year follow-up with large effect sizes (lateral step deviation P = 0.0001, effect size rprb = 0.78), whereas the SARA score showed no change (P = 0.67). Sample size estimation indicates a required cohort size of n = 43 to detect a 50% reduction in natural progression. Test-retest reliability and minimal detectable change analysis confirm the accuracy of detecting 50% of the identified 1-year change. CONCLUSIONS Gait measures assessed by wearable sensors can capture natural progression in early-stage SCA2 within just 1 year-in contrast to a clinical ataxia outcome. Lateral step deviation represents a promising outcome measure for upcoming multicenter interventional trials, particularly in the early stages of cerebellar ataxia. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Seemann
- Section Computational Sensomotorics, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lina Daghsen
- Sorbonne Université, Paris Brain Institute-ICM, Inserm, CNRS, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Matthieu Cazier
- Sorbonne Université, Paris Brain Institute-ICM, Inserm, CNRS, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Charles Lamy
- Sorbonne Université, Paris Brain Institute-ICM, Inserm, CNRS, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Laure Welter
- Sorbonne Université, Paris Brain Institute-ICM, Inserm, CNRS, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Martin A Giese
- Section Computational Sensomotorics, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Matthis Synofzik
- Division Translational Genomics of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research and Center of Neurology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Alexandra Durr
- Sorbonne Université, Paris Brain Institute-ICM, Inserm, CNRS, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Winfried Ilg
- Section Computational Sensomotorics, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Giulia Coarelli
- Sorbonne Université, Paris Brain Institute-ICM, Inserm, CNRS, AP-HP, Paris, France
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Yabe I. [Recent clinical advances in hereditary spinocerebellar degeneration]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2024; 64:135-147. [PMID: 38382935 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.cn-001931] [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: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar degeneration (SCD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cerebellar ataxia and other multisystem manifestations, such as Parkinsonism and pyramidal tract symptoms. No effective treatment is available for SCD. Approximately one-third of the cases of SCD are inherited, and the remaining two-third are sporadic, including multiple system atrophy. This article provides an overview of hereditary SCD, its clinical features, recent treatment advances, biomarkers, role of genomic medicine, and future treatment prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ichiro Yabe
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University
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Lipponen J, Tiulpin A, Majamaa K, Rusanen H. Quantification of Upper Limb Movements in Patients with Hereditary or Idiopathic Ataxia. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 22:1182-1191. [PMID: 36269527 PMCID: PMC10657283 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-022-01485-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Assessment of ataxic movements is usually based on clinical judgment. Technical devices can be employed in the quantification of ataxic movements in addition to clinical evaluation. The effect of maximal speed in upper limb movements in ataxia patients has not been quantified. The aim was to quantify upper limb movements in patients with hereditary or idiopathic ataxia and to find features of movement that are characteristic for ataxia. We examined 19 patients with degenerative ataxia and 21 healthy controls. An ad hoc system comprising a touch screen, an accelerometer, and a gyroscope was used to measure speed, angular acceleration, consistency, and accuracy of upper limb movements. The movements were quantified during finger-to-nose test that the patients were asked to perform at their own pace and as fast as possible. Disease severity was estimated by using the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA). The mean SARA score of the patients was 13.5. Compared to the controls the performance of the patients was slow (p < 0.001) and arrhythmic (p < 0.001), but end-point accuracy on the touch screen was intact. The SARA score correlated with the standard deviation of amplitude of angular acceleration in Z-axis (F(1,17) = 15.00, p < 0.001 with R2 = 0.47). Upper limb movements of the patients with degenerative ataxia were slower and more arrhythmic than those in the controls. The patients retained spatial end-point accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joonas Lipponen
- Research Unit of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014, Oulu, Finland.
- Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland.
- Department of Neurology, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland.
| | - Aleksei Tiulpin
- Physics and Technology, Research Unit of Medical Imaging, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
- Ailean Technologies Oy, Oulu, Finland
- Department of Electrical Engineering, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Kari Majamaa
- Research Unit of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014, Oulu, Finland
- Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
- Department of Neurology, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Harri Rusanen
- Research Unit of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014, Oulu, Finland
- Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
- Department of Neurology, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
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8
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Dominguez-Vega ZT, de Quiros MB, Elting JWJ, Sival DA, Maurits NM. Instrumented Gait Classification Using Meaningful Features in Patients with Impaired Coordination. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:8410. [PMID: 37896504 PMCID: PMC10611111 DOI: 10.3390/s23208410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Early onset ataxia (EOA) and developmental coordination disorder (DCD) both affect cerebellar functioning in children, making the clinical distinction challenging. We here aim to derive meaningful features from quantitative SARA-gait data (i.e., the gait test of the scale for the assessment and rating of ataxia (SARA)) to classify EOA and DCD patients and typically developing (CTRL) children with better explainability than previous classification approaches. We collected data from 18 EOA, 14 DCD and 29 CTRL children, while executing both SARA gait tests. Inertial measurement units were used to acquire movement data, and a gait model was employed to derive meaningful features. We used a random forest classifier on 36 extracted features, leave-one-out-cross-validation and a synthetic oversampling technique to distinguish between the three groups. Classification accuracy, probabilities of classification and feature relevance were obtained. The mean classification accuracy was 62.9% for EOA, 85.5% for DCD and 94.5% for CTRL participants. Overall, the random forest algorithm correctly classified 82.0% of the participants, which was slightly better than clinical assessment (73.0%). The classification resulted in a mean precision of 0.78, mean recall of 0.70 and mean F1 score of 0.74. The most relevant features were related to the range of the hip flexion-extension angle for gait, and to movement variability for tandem gait. Our results suggest that classification, employing features representing different aspects of movement during gait and tandem gait, may provide an insightful tool for the differential diagnoses of EOA, DCD and typically developing children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeus T. Dominguez-Vega
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (Z.T.D.-V.); (M.B.d.Q.); (J.W.J.E.)
| | - Mariano Bernaldo de Quiros
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (Z.T.D.-V.); (M.B.d.Q.); (J.W.J.E.)
| | - Jan Willem J. Elting
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (Z.T.D.-V.); (M.B.d.Q.); (J.W.J.E.)
| | - Deborah A. Sival
- Department of Paediatrics, Beatrix Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Natasha M. Maurits
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (Z.T.D.-V.); (M.B.d.Q.); (J.W.J.E.)
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Cabaraux P, Agrawal SK, Cai H, Calabro RS, Casali C, Damm L, Doss S, Habas C, Horn AKE, Ilg W, Louis ED, Mitoma H, Monaco V, Petracca M, Ranavolo A, Rao AK, Ruggieri S, Schirinzi T, Serrao M, Summa S, Strupp M, Surgent O, Synofzik M, Tao S, Terasi H, Torres-Russotto D, Travers B, Roper JA, Manto M. Consensus Paper: Ataxic Gait. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 22:394-430. [PMID: 35414041 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-022-01373-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this consensus paper is to discuss the roles of the cerebellum in human gait, as well as its assessment and therapy. Cerebellar vermis is critical for postural control. The cerebellum ensures the mapping of sensory information into temporally relevant motor commands. Mental imagery of gait involves intrinsically connected fronto-parietal networks comprising the cerebellum. Muscular activities in cerebellar patients show impaired timing of discharges, affecting the patterning of the synergies subserving locomotion. Ataxia of stance/gait is amongst the first cerebellar deficits in cerebellar disorders such as degenerative ataxias and is a disabling symptom with a high risk of falls. Prolonged discharges and increased muscle coactivation may be related to compensatory mechanisms and enhanced body sway, respectively. Essential tremor is frequently associated with mild gait ataxia. There is growing evidence for an important role of the cerebellar cortex in the pathogenesis of essential tremor. In multiple sclerosis, balance and gait are affected due to cerebellar and spinal cord involvement, as a result of disseminated demyelination and neurodegeneration impairing proprioception. In orthostatic tremor, patients often show mild-to-moderate limb and gait ataxia. The tremor generator is likely located in the posterior fossa. Tandem gait is impaired in the early stages of cerebellar disorders and may be particularly useful in the evaluation of pre-ataxic stages of progressive ataxias. Impaired inter-joint coordination and enhanced variability of gait temporal and kinetic parameters can be grasped by wearable devices such as accelerometers. Kinect is a promising low cost technology to obtain reliable measurements and remote assessments of gait. Deep learning methods are being developed in order to help clinicians in the diagnosis and decision-making process. Locomotor adaptation is impaired in cerebellar patients. Coordinative training aims to improve the coordinative strategy and foot placements across strides, cerebellar patients benefiting from intense rehabilitation therapies. Robotic training is a promising approach to complement conventional rehabilitation and neuromodulation of the cerebellum. Wearable dynamic orthoses represent a potential aid to assist gait. The panel of experts agree that the understanding of the cerebellar contribution to gait control will lead to a better management of cerebellar ataxias in general and will likely contribute to use gait parameters as robust biomarkers of future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Cabaraux
- Unité Des Ataxies Cérébelleuses, Department of Neurology, CHU de Charleroi, Charleroi, Belgium.
| | | | - Huaying Cai
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | | | - Carlo Casali
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome Sapienza, Latina, Italy
| | - Loic Damm
- EuroMov Digital Health in Motion, Univ Montpellier, IMT Mines Ales, Montpellier, France
| | - Sarah Doss
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
| | - Christophe Habas
- Université Versailles Saint-Quentin, Versailles, France.,Service de NeuroImagerie, Centre Hospitalier National des 15-20, Paris, France
| | - Anja K E Horn
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology I, Ludwig Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Winfried Ilg
- Section Computational Sensomotorics, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Hiroshi Mitoma
- Department of Medical Education, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Vito Monaco
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Petracca
- Department of Human Neurosciences, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Ranavolo
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, INAIL, Monte Porzio Catone, Rome, Italy
| | - Ashwini K Rao
- Department of Rehabilitation & Regenerative Medicine (Programs in Physical Therapy), Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Serena Ruggieri
- Department of Human Neurosciences, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome, Italy.,Neuroimmunology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Tommaso Schirinzi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariano Serrao
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome Sapienza, Latina, Italy.,Movement Analysis LAB, Policlinico Italia, Rome, Italy
| | - Susanna Summa
- MARlab, Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Michael Strupp
- Department of Neurology and German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, Hospital of the Ludwig Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Olivia Surgent
- Neuroscience Training Program and Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Matthis Synofzik
- Department of Neurodegeneration, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research and Centre of Neurology, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Shuai Tao
- Dalian Key Laboratory of Smart Medical and Health, Dalian University, Dalian, 116622, China
| | - Hiroo Terasi
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Diego Torres-Russotto
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
| | - Brittany Travers
- Department of Kinesiology and Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jaimie A Roper
- School of Kinesiology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Mario Manto
- Unité Des Ataxies Cérébelleuses, Department of Neurology, CHU de Charleroi, Charleroi, Belgium.,Service Des Neurosciences, University of Mons, UMons, Mons, Belgium
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Kishimoto Y, Hashizume A, Imai Y, Nakatochi M, Yamada S, Ito D, Torii R, Nagano Y, Fujimoto H, Katsuno M. Quantitative evaluation of upper limb ataxia in spinocerebellar ataxias. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2022; 9:529-539. [PMID: 35293156 PMCID: PMC8994984 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To quantitatively evaluate upper limb ataxia using a novel pen‐like sensor device in patients with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) and to assess its validity, reliability, and sensitivity to disease progression. Methods We designed a cross‐sectional and longitudinal study of patients with SCA and healthy controls. Upper limb ataxia was evaluated using a device that measures the three‐dimensional position every 10 msec. Participants were instructed to move a pen‐like part of the device iteratively between two buttons. We evaluated the time, length, velocity, and variation coefficient of the stroke, and calculated the distortion index using the mean squared error. The following scales were also evaluated: Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA), the International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale (ICARS), and the nine‐hole pegboard test. Subjects were followed 12 months after the baseline evaluation. Results A total of 42 patients with SCA and 33 healthy controls were enrolled and evaluated. For all ataxia indices measured using the device there were significant differences between healthy controls and patients with SCA. Among the ataxia indices, the distortion index showed the strongest correlation with the SARA and ICARS upper limb score (Pearson's r = 0.647 and 0.722, respectively). Test–retest reliability was high for most of the ataxia indices. In the longitudinal analysis, the distortion index showed high standardized response mean and adjusted effect size, regardless of disease severity. Interpretation Our study demonstrated that the distortion index is a reliable functional marker that is sensitive to longitudinal change in patients with SCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiyuki Kishimoto
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Atsushi Hashizume
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Clinical Research Education, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yuta Imai
- Department of Basic Medicinal Sciences, Nagoya University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masahiro Nakatochi
- Public Health Informatics Unit, Department of Integrated Health Sciences, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Yamada
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Daisuke Ito
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Ryota Torii
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Nagano
- Department of Electronic Robot Engineering, Aichi University of Technology, Gamagori, Japan
| | - Hideo Fujimoto
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Nagoya Institute of Technology Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masahisa Katsuno
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
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11
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Smith Fine A, Kaufman M, Goodman J, Turk B, Bastian A, Lin D, Fatemi A, Keller J. Wearable sensors detect impaired gait and coordination in LBSL during remote assessments. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2022; 9:468-477. [PMID: 35257509 PMCID: PMC8994975 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Leukoencephalopathy with brainstem and spinal cord involvement and lactate elevation (LBSL) is a rare leukodystrophy with motor impairment due to biallelic mutations in DARS2, which encodes mitochondrial aspartyl tRNA synthetase. Progressive ataxia is the primary feature. Objective The study objective is to determine the feasibility of remotely collecting quantitative gait and balance measures in LBSL. Methods The study design uses wearable accelerometers and the scale for the assessment and rating of ataxia (SARA) scale to assess gait and postural sway in LBSL and control participants' homes through video conferencing. Results Lateral step variability (LSV), which indicates stride variability, and elevation of the step at mid‐swing are increased for LBSL patients during brief walking tests. During stance with the eyes closed, LBSL participants show rapid accelerations and decelerations of body movement covering a large sway area and path. Both the LSV and sway area during stance with the feet together and eyes closed correlate strongly with the SARA. Conclusions Wearable accelerometers are valid and sensitive for detecting ataxia in LBSL patients during remote assessments. The finding of large increases in the sway area during stance with the eyes closed is intriguing since dorsal column dysfunction is universally seen in LBSL. This approach can be applied to related rare diseases that feature ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amena Smith Fine
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Miriam Kaufman
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jordan Goodman
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Bela Turk
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Amy Bastian
- Center for Movement Studies, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Doris Lin
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ali Fatemi
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jennifer Keller
- Center for Movement Studies, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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12
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Thomas-Black G, Dumitrascu A, Garcia-Moreno H, Vallortigara J, Greenfield J, Hunt B, Walther S, Wells M, Lynch DR, Montgomery H, Giunti P. The attitude of patients with progressive ataxias towards clinical trials. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:1. [PMID: 34983593 PMCID: PMC8729009 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-02091-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The development of new therapies may rely on the conduct of human experimentation as well as later clinical trials of therapeutic interventions. Ethical considerations seek to protect the patient from risk but few have sought to ascertain the attitude to such risk of patients with progressive debilitating or terminal conditions, for which no mitigating or curative therapies exist. Such understanding is also important if recruitment is to be maximized. We therefore sought to define the motivations for and barriers to trial participation amongst patients with progressive ataxias, as well as their condition-specific trial preferences. Methods We conducted an online survey consisting of 29 questions covering four key domains (demographics, personal motivation, drug therapy and study design) relating to the design of clinical trials. Two major ataxia charities, Ataxia UK and the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) sent the survey to their members. Responses were analysed by disease and by ambulatory status. Results Of 342 respondents, 204 reported a diagnosis of Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA), 55 inherited cerebellar ataxia (CA) and 70 idiopathic CA. The most important symptoms to be addressed by a trial were considered to be balance problems and ambulation, although these were superseded by speech problems in wheelchair users. Common motivations for participation were potential benefits to self and others. Reasons for non-participation included concerns about side effects, and the burden and cost of travel. Financial reimbursement for expenses was reported to be likely to increase trial engagement, Phase two trials were the most popular to participate in, and the use of a placebo arm was seen as a disincentive. Across all disease subgroups, drug repurposing trials proved popular and just under 70% of participants would be prepared to undergo intrathecal drug administration. Conclusions Knowledge of motivations for and barriers to trial participation as well as the acceptability of investigations, time commitments and routes of drug administration should inform better, more patient focused trial design. This in turn may improve recruitment and retention of participants to future trials. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13023-021-02091-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilbert Thomas-Black
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, The Ataxia Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK.,National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Andrada Dumitrascu
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, The Ataxia Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Hector Garcia-Moreno
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, The Ataxia Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK.,National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Julie Vallortigara
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, The Ataxia Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Barry Hunt
- Ataxia UK, 12 Broadbent Close, N6 5JW, London, UK
| | - Susan Walther
- Friedreich'S Ataxia Research Alliance, 533 W Uwchlan Ave, Downingtown, PA, 19335, USA
| | - Mackenzie Wells
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - David R Lynch
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Hugh Montgomery
- Institute of Sport Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paola Giunti
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, The Ataxia Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK. .,National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust, London, UK.
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13
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Velázquez-Pérez L, Rodriguez-Labrada R, González-Garcés Y, Arrufat-Pie E, Torres-Vega R, Medrano-Montero J, Ramirez-Bautista B, Vazquez-Mojena Y, Auburger G, Horak F, Ziemann U, Gomez CM. Prodromal Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 Subjects Have Quantifiable Gait and Postural Sway Deficits. Mov Disord 2020; 36:471-480. [PMID: 33107647 DOI: 10.1002/mds.28343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The search for valid preclinical biomarkers of cerebellar dysfunction is a key research goal for the upcoming era of early interventional approaches in spinocerebellar ataxias. This study aims to describe novel preclinical biomarkers of subtle gait and postural sway abnormalities in prodromal spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (pre-SCA2). METHODS Thirty pre-SCA2 patients and their matched healthy controls underwent quantitative assessments of gait and postural sway using a wearable sensor-based system and semiquantitative evaluation of cerebellar features by SARA (Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia) score. RESULTS Quantitative analysis of natural gait showed a significantly larger variability of the swing period, toe-off angle and toe-out angle in pre-SCA2, and larger mean coronal and transverse ranges of motion of the trunk at the lumbar location and of the sagittal range of motion of the trunk at the sternum location compared to controls. During tandem gait, pre-SCA2 subjects showed larger lumbar, trunk, and arm ranges of motion than controls. Postural sway analysis showed excessive body oscillation that was increased in tandem stance. Overall, these abnormalities were detected in pre-SCA2 patients without clinical evidence of abnormalities in SARA. The toe-off angle and swing time variability were significantly correlated with the time to ataxia onset, whereas the toe-off angle and transverse range of motion at trunk position during tandem gait were significantly associated with the SARA score. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates early alteration of gait and postural sway control in prodromal SCA2 using a wearable sensor-based system. This offers new pathophysiological hints into this early disease stage and provides novel potential biomarkers for future clinical trials. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Velázquez-Pérez
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias, Holguín, Cuba.,Cuban Academy of Sciences, La Habana Vieja, Cuba
| | - Roberto Rodriguez-Labrada
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias, Holguín, Cuba.,Department of Molecular Biology, Cuban Neuroscience Centre, Playa, Cuba
| | - Yasmani González-Garcés
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias, Holguín, Cuba
| | - Eduardo Arrufat-Pie
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, Clinical & Surgical Hospital "Manuel Piti Fajardo,", Plaza de la Revolución, Cuba
| | - Reidenis Torres-Vega
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias, Holguín, Cuba
| | - Jacqueline Medrano-Montero
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias, Holguín, Cuba
| | | | - Yaimeé Vazquez-Mojena
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias, Holguín, Cuba.,Department of Molecular Biology, Cuban Neuroscience Centre, Playa, Cuba
| | - Georg Auburger
- Experimental Neurology, Department of Neurology, Experimental Neurology, Medical School, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Fay Horak
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Ulf Ziemann
- Department of Neurology & Stroke, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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14
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Ilg W, Seemann J, Giese M, Traschütz A, Schöls L, Timmann D, Synofzik M. Real-life gait assessment in degenerative cerebellar ataxia. Neurology 2020; 95:e1199-e1210. [DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000010176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesWith disease-modifying drugs on the horizon for degenerative ataxias, ecologically valid motor biomarkers are highly warranted. In this observational study, we aimed to unravel and validate markers of ataxic gait in real life by using wearable sensors.MethodsWe assessed gait characteristics of 43 patients with degenerative cerebellar disease (Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia [SARA] 9.4 ± 3.9) compared with 35 controls by 3 body-worn inertial sensors in 3 conditions: (1) laboratory-based walking; (2) supervised free walking; (3) real-life walking during everyday living (subgroup n = 21). Movement analysis focused on measures of spatiotemporal step variability and movement smoothness.ResultsA set of gait variability measures was identified that allowed us to consistently identify ataxic gait changes in all 3 conditions. Lateral step deviation and a compound measure of spatial step variability categorized patients vs controls with a discrimination accuracy of 0.86 in real life. Both were highly correlated with clinical ataxia severity (effect size ρ = 0.76). These measures allowed detecting group differences even for patients who differed only 1 point in the clinical SARAposture&gait subscore, with highest effect sizes for real-life walking (d = 0.67).ConclusionsWe identified measures of ataxic gait that allowed us not only to capture the gait variability inherent in ataxic gait in real life, but also to demonstrate high sensitivity to small differences in disease severity, with the highest effect sizes in real-life walking. They thus represent promising candidates for motor markers for natural history and treatment trials in ecologically valid contexts.Classification of evidenceThis study provides Class I evidence that a set of gait variability measures, even if accessed in real life, correlated with the clinical severity of ataxia in patients with degenerative cerebellar disease.
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15
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Vienne-Jumeau A, Quijoux F, Vidal PP, Ricard D. Wearable inertial sensors provide reliable biomarkers of disease severity in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Phys Rehabil Med 2020; 63:138-147. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rehab.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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16
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Gandini J, Manto M. How does editing the genome improve targeting DNA and RNA for cerebellar ataxias? FUTURE NEUROLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.2217/fnl-2019-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Gandini
- Cerebellar Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology, CHU-Charleroi, Charleroi, Belgium
| | - Mario Manto
- Cerebellar Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology, CHU-Charleroi, Charleroi, Belgium
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
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