Computer-assisted cognitive rehabilitation in persons with multiple sclerosis: Results of a multi-site randomized controlled trial with six month follow-up

Perceived Cognitive Function and Glycemic Variability: Baseline Results From a Cognitive Rehabilitation Intervention

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine the association between glucose variability, diabetes self-management, and cognitive function in participants enrolled in a cognitive rehabilitation intervention for people with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Baseline data from the Memory, Attention, and Problem-Solving Skills for Diabetes randomized controlled trial (n = 95; mean age 65.6 years, SD 5.99; 59.3% female; 59% non-Hispanic White) were analyzed and included scores from the PROMIS Cognitive Function version 2, a measure of perceived cognitive function; glucose variability measurements from continuous glucose monitors; and scores on the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities Survey.

RESULTS

Participants had higher levels of perceived cognitive dysfunction than the US average. Lower PROMIS scores were associated with higher levels of glucose variability. Better perceived cognitive health was related to better diabetes self-management. Glucose variability, measured by the coefficient of variation, was a significant predictor of perceived cognitive function.

CONCLUSIONS

Perceived cognitive function was associated with diabetes self-management and glucose variability. Understanding this association can support the development of interventions to mitigate effects associated with glucose variability and changes in cognitive function. Including measurements of perceived cognitive function in assessments has the potential to alert health care providers about the need for additional support in diabetes management and the possibility of cognitive impairment that may need further objective assessment.

Exploring the Efficacy of a Remote Strategy-Based Intervention for People With Multiple Sclerosis With Everyday Memory Impairments: A Pilot Study

IMPORTANCE

This pilot study evaluates a remote strategy-based intervention for individuals with multiple sclerosis who experience everyday memory impairments. The intervention can potentially inform cognitive rehabilitation for this population.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of an intervention (TELE-Self-GEN) to determine whether it can alleviate everyday memory impairments of individuals with multiple sclerosis.

DESIGN

Pretest-posttest.

SETTING

Community.

PARTICIPANTS

Ten adults with multiple sclerosis.

INTERVENTION

Six synchronous treatment sessions were delivered online via Zoom. The treatment protocol embedded a memory strategy (self-generated learning) within a metacognitive framework, including self-awareness and self-management strategies. The treatment emphasizes when and how self-generation should be used.

OUTCOME

Measurements assessed feasibility and participants' satisfaction with the intervention and its delivery method, as well as memory, everyday memory, and functional performance.

RESULTS

Participants expressed high satisfaction with the virtual treatment, highlighting its convenience as a key factor. Treatment resulted in improvements in memory performance, perceived memory ability in daily life, and functional performance.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Results provide initial proof of concept in the utilization of a remotely delivered, strategy-based treatment approach to improve memory performance and functional abilities. The pilot data support a larger randomized clinical trial of the TELE-self-GEN. Plain-Language Summary: The results of this pilot study highlight the promising potential of TELE-self-GEN for people with multiple sclerosis (MS), who face memory challenges every day. This remotely delivered, strategy-based occupational therapy treatment approach, TELE-self-GEN, has the potential to significantly improve functional memory. The study participants reported improvements in their memory performance, perceived memory ability in daily life, and functional performance. These encouraging results serve as a foundation for more extensive clinical trials using TELE-self-GEN for people with MS.

Use of pragmatic randomized trials in multiple sclerosis: A systematic overview

BACKGROUND

Pragmatic trials are increasingly recognized for providing real-world evidence on treatment choices.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to investigate the use and characteristics of pragmatic trials in multiple sclerosis (MS).

METHODS

Systematic literature search and analysis of pragmatic trials on any intervention published up to 2022. The assessment of pragmatism with PRECIS-2 (PRagmatic Explanatory Continuum Indicator Summary-2) is performed.

RESULTS

We identified 48 pragmatic trials published 1967-2022 that included a median of 82 participants (interquartile range (IQR) = 42-160) to assess typically supportive care interventions (n = 41; 85%). Only seven trials assessed drugs (15%). Only three trials (6%) included >500 participants. Trials were mostly from the United Kingdom (n = 18; 38%), Italy (n = 6; 13%), the United States and Denmark (each n = 5; 10%). Primary outcomes were diverse, for example, quality-of-life, physical functioning, or disease activity. Only 1 trial (2%) used routinely collected data for outcome ascertainment. No trial was very pragmatic in all design aspects, but 14 trials (29%) were widely pragmatic (i.e. PRECIS-2 score ⩾ 4/5 in all domains).

CONCLUSION

Only few and mostly small pragmatic trials exist in MS which rarely assess drugs. Despite the widely available routine data infrastructures, very few trials utilize them. There is an urgent need to leverage the potential of this pioneering study design to provide useful randomized real-world evidence.

Effects of home-based virtual reality telerehabilitation system in people with multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory and neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system that can lead to severe motor disability. The aim of this study was to verify the health care effects of an integrated telerehabilitation approach involving dual-domains (motor and cognitive) in people with multiple sclerosis using a virtual reality rehabilitation system compared to a home-based conventional rehabilitative intervention usual care for patient-relevant outcomes (motor, cognitive and participation).

METHODS

This multicentre interventional, randomized controlled trial included 70 participants with multiple sclerosis, 35 in the telerehabilitation group (30 sessions of home-based virtual reality rehabilitation system training, five sessions for week each lasting 45 min) and 35 in the usual care group (30 sessions of conventional treatment, five sessions for week). Participants completed the assessment of motor, cognitive and participation outcomes at baseline and after 6 weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

In total, 63.3% of the telerehabilitation group exhibited improvement in the physical domain of the quality of life (p = 0.045). The telerehabilitation group showed greater improvement than the usual care group in Mini-BESTest domains of balance (p = 0.014), postural control (p = 0.024), and dynamic walking (p = 0.020) at post-treatment. Higher adherence was registered for telerehabilitation compared with usual care (86.67% vs. 80.0%).

DISCUSSION

This study provides evidence that people with multiple sclerosis can benefit from telerehabilitation treatment in the physical domain of the quality of life and motor symptoms. Moreover, considering the persistent COVID-19 emergency, telerehabilitation can represent an effective telemedicine solution for safely delivering effective rehabilitation care to people with multiple sclerosis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER AND TRIAL REGISTER

This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03444454).

Computer-assisted cognitive rehabilitation in neurological patients: state-of-art and future perspectives

Background and aim

Advances in computing technology enabled researchers and clinicians to exploit technological devices for cognitive training and rehabilitation interventions. This expert review aims to describe the available software and device used for cognitive training or rehabilitation interventions of patients with neurological disorders.

Methods

A scoping review was carried out to analyze commercial devices/software for computerized cognitive training (CCT) in terms of feasibility and efficacy in both clinical and home settings. Several cognitive domains responding to the different patients' needs are covered.

Results

This review showed that cognitive training for patients with neurological diseases is largely covered by several devices that are widely used and validated in the hospital setting but with few translations to remote/home applications. It has been demonstrated that technology and software-based devices are potential and valuable tools to administer remotely cognitive rehabilitation with accessible costs.

Conclusion

According to our results, CCT entails the possibility to continue cognitive training also in different settings, such as home, which is a significant breakthrough for the improvement of community care. Other possible areas of use should be the increase in the amount of cognitive therapy in the free time during the hospital stay.

Evaluation of a web-based program for the adoption of wellness behaviors to self-manage fatigue and improve quality of life among people with multiple sclerosis: A randomized waitlist-control trial

BACKGROUND

Wellness is a promising area of research in multiple sclerosis (MS); however, considerable questions remain regarding the efficacy of behavioral interventions to improve wellness and which delivery methods yield favorable results.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of a wellness intervention consisting of diet, stress reduction techniques, sleep hygiene, and exercise, delivered via a 7-week web-based program with no tailored intervention support (e.g., counseling or resources) from the study team, on quality of life (QoL) and fatigue among people with MS.

METHODS

Individuals (n = 100) with self-reported physician's diagnosis of relapsing-remitting MS or clinically isolated syndrome were recruited to enroll in this randomized waitlist-control trial consisting of three timepoints at 0, 12, and 24 weeks. Participants were randomized to begin the intervention at baseline (INT; n = 51) or to a waitlist to begin the intervention after the 12-week timepoint (WLC; n = 49), and both groups were followed for 24 weeks.

RESULTS

At 12-weeks, 95 participants (46 INT and 49 WLC) completed the primary endpoint and 86 (42 INT and 44 WLC) completed the 24-week follow-up. Compared to baseline, the INT group had a significant increase in physical QoL (5.43 ± 1.85; P = 0.003) at 12-weeks which was maintained at 24-weeks. Physical QoL values in the WLC group did not significantly increase between weeks 12 and 24 (3.24 ± 2.03; P = 0.11); however, physical QoL values significantly improved compared to week 0 values (4.00 ± 1.87; P = 0.033). Neither group had significant changes in mental QoL. The INT group had a mean baseline to 12-week change of ‑5.06 ± 1.79 (P = 0.005) for MFIS and -0.68 ± 0.21 (P = 0.002) for FSS, both of which were maintained at 24-weeks. The 12- to 24-week changes for the WLC group were -4.50 ± 1.81 (P = 0.013) for MFIS and -0.44 ± 0.17 (P = 0.011) for FSS. At 12-weeks, the INT group had significantly greater reductions in fatigue compared to the WLC (P = 0.009 for both MFIS and FSS). There were no between-group mean differences for physical or mental QoL, but a significantly higher proportion of participants had clinically significant improvement in physical QoL in the INT group (50%) compared to the WLC group (22.5%) at 12-weeks (P = 0.006). The 12-week intervention effect was similar during the active intervention phase (i.e., baseline to 12 weeks for INT and 12 to 24 weeks for WLC) in each group. Course completion rates significantly differed between groups with 47.9% of the INT group and 18.8% of the WLC group completing the course (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

A wellness intervention delivered via a web-based program, without tailored support, resulted in significant improvements in fatigue compared to control.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT05057676.

Non-pharmacological randomized intervention trial for the management of neuropsychological symptoms in outpatients with progressive multiple sclerosis

PURPOSE

Despite typically more pronounced cognitive and mental health issues in progressive disease courses of multiple sclerosis (PMS), rehabilitation research in this subgroup is rare. The efficacy of two non-pharmacological interventions with positive results from prior investigations was therefore examined in PMS specifically.

METHODS

Persons with PMS (pwPMS) received either computerized cognitive training (BrainStim), standardized cognitive-behavioral group sessions (Metacognitive Training [MaTiMS]), or a combination of both in an ambulatory setting. Neuropsychological assessment was conducted before and after the four-week intervention.

RESULTS

37 participants (13 with primary/24 with secondary PMS, meanage = 52.87, SDage = 7.11, meanEDSS = 4.02, SDEDSS = 1.35) entered analyses. The BrainStim group improved in immediate and delayed verbal memory, recognition, verbal working memory, and perceived cognitive deficits while experiencing increased anxiety post-intervention. MaTiMS participants reported high program satisfaction and less cognitive difficulties at retest. The Combination group performed better in immediate and delayed verbal memory, and in information processing speed after training. Descriptive data further indicated positive effects on anxiety and depression in the MaTiMS and Combination group.

CONCLUSIONS

While objective cognitive performance improved when explicitly trained, psychoeducative sessions contributed to subjective mental health. The combination of both approaches is thus suggested, considering the specific needs of pwPMS treated in an ambulatory setting.

The role of cognitive rehabilitation in people with type 2 diabetes: A study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Today, the prevalence of cognitive dysfunction and the prevalence of diabetes are increasing. Research shows that diabetes increases cognitive impairment risk, and cognitive impairment makes diabetes self-management more challenging. Diabetes self-management, essential to good glycemic control, requires patients to assimilate knowledge about their complex disease and to engage in activities such as glucose self-monitoring and the management of their medications. To test a comprehensive cognitive rehabilitation intervention-the Memory, Attention, and Problem-Solving Skills for Persons with Diabetes (MAPSS-DM) program. Our central hypothesis is that participants who take part in the MAPSS-DM intervention will have improved memory and executive function, increased use of compensatory cognitive skills, and improved self-management. We will also explore the role of glucose variability in those changes. This is a randomized controlled trial. Sixty-six participants with cognitive concerns and type 2 diabetes will be assigned to either the full MAPSS-DM intervention or an active control. Participants will use continuous glucose monitoring pre- and post-intervention to identify changes in glycemic variability. All participants will also be evaluated systematically via questionnaires and neuropsychological tests at three timepoints: baseline, immediately post-intervention, and 3 months post-intervention. This study will fill an important gap by addressing cognitive function in the management of diabetes. Diabetes is related to accelerated cognitive aging, cognitive deficits are related to poorer self-management, and improvements in cognitive performance as a result of cognitive rehabilitation can translate into improved performance in everyday life and, potentially, diabetes self-management. The results of the proposed study will therefore potentially inform strategies to support cognitive function and diabetes self-management, as well as offer new mechanistic insights into cognitive function through the use of continuous glucose monitoring. Trial registration: This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04831775).

Mapping two decades of multiple sclerosis rehabilitation trials: A systematic scoping review and call to action to advance the study of race and ethnicity in rehabilitation research

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS), is prevalent across many racial and ethnic groups, and disproportionately impacts racially minoritized populations. Rehabilitation interventions are an important component of comprehensive MS care. Yet, we do not know the extent to which MS rehabilitation trials consider race and ethnicity in defining eligibility criteria, planning recruitment strategies, selecting outcome measures, supporting intervention delivery, and designing approaches to promote adherence and retention.

METHODS

We conducted a scoping review of five databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central, EMBASE, and Web of Science) to locate randomized controlled rehabilitation trials published from January 2002 to March 2022. We extracted data from relevant studies, assessed their methodological quality, and narratively summarized results. Reporting of this review is in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR).

RESULTS

Fifty-six studies of neurorehabilitation (n = 3), cognitive rehabilitation (n = 6), exercise training (n = 9) and self-management (n = 38) interventions were included in this review. The studies were predominantly from North America (n = 44; 73%) or Europe (n = 12; 20%) and included 4280 participants. Most participants (n = 3669; 86%) were Caucasians. Less than 10% of participants were Black (n = 282), Latinx/Hispanic (n = 60), Asian (n = 46), Indigenous (n = 7), or Arab (n = 2). Few studies discussed how race and/or ethnicity were considered in trial planning or execution.

CONCLUSIONS

Without consistent and systematic attention to race and ethnicity, both in terms of trial design and reporting, it is impossible to know how MS rehabilitation interventions will translate into real-world applications. This call to action - to the MS rehabilitation research community to ensure trial and intervention processes that accommodate the needs of diverse racial and ethnic groups - is an important first step in addressing inequities in rehabilitation care for persons with MS.

Non-Pharmacological Treatments of Cognitive Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis: A Review

Cognitive impairment (CI) represents a common symptom in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS), which can affect every stage of the disease course. Recent studies seem to support cognitive rehabilitation (CR) for minimizing the CI consequences. We reviewed the currently available evidence on the non-pharmacological approaches to CI, with the aim of giving an overview of the treatments used worldwide, from the traditional methods to the most recent techniques. A search of the literature was conducted on PubMed (articles in English performed in the last five years on humans). A total of 37 articles met our eligibility criteria after screening titles, abstracts and full-text and were divided into three main groups: in-presence interventions; studies performed via tele-rehabilitation and miscellaneous. Despite the great heterogeneity of the intervention and assessment methods, the evidence suggests that a non-pharmacological approach can improve MS-related CI. Cognitive rehabilitation seems effective and well established, as well as the use of computerized CR having the benefit of being even more appealing. Limited conclusions can be drawn on group CR due to the small number of studies focused on this kind of intervention. Some of the innovative approaches (virtual reality, EEG-based neurofeedback, brain stimulation, exercise, diet modification) may play a role in future studies and should be deeply explored.

The Feasibility of a Web-Based Educational Lifestyle Program for People With Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Modifiable lifestyle factors are important to aid people with multiple sclerosis in the self-management of their disease. Current self-management programs are limited by their face-to-face mode of delivery but there is immense potential with the internet to deliver these programs effectively.

Objective

The aims of this study are to assess the feasibility of a digitalized educational lifestyle self-management program for people with MS.

Methods

In this randomized controlled trial, people with MS were randomly allocated to participate in a 6-week tailored web-based educational lifestyle program or 6-week generic standard-care educational course, and were blinded to their allocation. Participants were recruited through multiple sclerosis (MS) Societies in four countries: Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States. The primary outcome was to assess acceptability of the program defined as percentage completion of all modules at 6-weeks post-course commencement. Secondary outcomes included evaluating participant responses to the follow-up survey across three domains: accessibility, learnability, and desirability.

Results

Thirty-five participants from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the US completed the baseline survey and were randomized. Four participants were deemed ineligible due to incomplete baseline data; therefore, nine out of 15 and eight out of 16 participants completed 100% of the course in the intervention and standard-care arm courses, respectively.

Conclusions

This study found that this web-based educational lifestyle program is a feasible means of delivering educational content to people with MS via the internet according to our a priori targets of >40% of participants in the intervention arm, and >25% in the control arm to completing 100% of the course. It is therefore appropriate to evaluate this intervention further in a large, randomized controlled trial.

Trial registration

This study was prospectively registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ID: ACTRN12621000245897).

Returning to basic principles to develop more effective treatments for central nervous system disorders

Development of new treatments for diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) is stalled. Of candidate drugs developed through costly preclinical research, 93% fail clinical trials. Hoped-for improvements in diagnosis or treatment from decades of positron emission tomography (PET) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) imaging have yet to materialize. To understand what we are doing wrong, I begin with recognition that all aspects of life, including the brain and mind, are physical phenomena consistent with processes described by physicists. Two processes, emergence and entropy, are of particular relevance in complex arrangements of matter that constitute life in general and the brain in particular. The human brain functions through dynamically reconfiguring and hierarchically organized neural functional systems with emergent properties of cognition, emotion, and conscious experience. These systems are shaped and maintained by negentropic environmental input transformed by sensory receptors into neural signals that trigger epigenetic neuroplastic processes. CNS diseases produce clinical disorders by disrupting these systems. As researchers seek appropriate levels of system organization at which to characterize and treat illness, focus has been on medications that impact processes at lower levels or transcranial electric or magnetic stimulation that impact broad contiguous swaths of tissue. Neither align with the brain’s neurosystem organization and therefore lack specificity necessary to be effective and to limit side effects. Digital neurotherapies (DNTs), in contrast, align with neurosystem organization and achieve the needed specificity using the same input pathways and neuroplastic processes that created the neural systems organization to repair it. The omission of DNTs from major systems-based initiatives represents powerful residua of dualist thinking. Interventions based on perceptual and cognitive processes are not thought of as being as physical as drugs or electric or magnetic stimulation through the skull. In fact, they are examples of the most basic processes that create and support life itself.

Attrition Within Digital Health Interventions for People With Multiple Sclerosis: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background

Digital health interventions have revolutionized multiple sclerosis (MS) care by supporting people with MS to better self-manage their disease. It is now understood that the technological elements that comprise this category of digital health interventions can influence participant engagement in self-management programs, and people with MS can experience significant barriers, influenced by these elements, to remaining engaged during a period of learning. It is essential to explore the influence of technological elements in mitigating attrition.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the study design and technological elements of documented digital health interventions targeted at people with MS—digital health interventions that were intended to support a program of engagement over a defined period—and to explore how these correlated with attrition among participants of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs (n=32) describing digital health self-management interventions for people with MS. We analyzed attrition in included studies, using a random-effects model and meta-regression to measure the association between potential moderators.

Results

There were no measured differences in attrition between the intervention and control arms; however, some of the heterogeneity observed was explained by the composite technological element score. The pooled attrition rates for the intervention and control arms were 14.7% and 15.6%, respectively.

Conclusions

This paper provides insight into the technological composition of digital health interventions designed for people with MS and describes the degree of attrition in both study arms. This paper will aid in the design of future studies in this area, particularly for digital health interventions of this type.

Cognitive Rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis in the Period from 2013 and 2021: A Narrative Review

Background: In recent years, several blinded randomized controlled trials (RCT) have been conducted on cognitive rehabilitation (CR) in adults with multiple sclerosis (MS). Objective: To review all blinded RCTs on CR in MS published since 2013. Methods: The National Library of Medicine database (Medline) and PSYCINFO were searched using the keywords MS and CR or cognitive training or NP rehabilitation or memory rehabilitation or attention rehabilitation. Results: After the exclusion of some papers not specifically focused on CR, a final list of 26 studies was established. The papers belong to three main categories: individual specific rehabilitation (8studies), group rehabilitation (4 studies), and computerized training (CT) (14 studies), while one study combined group rehabilitation and CT. Among the individual rehabilitation studies, 5 were devoted to memory, and most of the 19 other selected studies were about several cognitive domains. Most of the studies mainly concerned RRMS patients, except for 2 studies that were carried out exclusively in progressive forms. Despite the methodological limitations of some studies and the great heterogeneity of the protocols, the results are generally in favor of the efficacy of CR in neuropsychological tests. Conclusion: Recent blinded RCTs about CR in MS show promising results.

Memory rehabilitation for people with multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Problems with cognition, particularly memory, are common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and can affect their ability to complete daily activities and can negatively affect quality of life. Over the last few years, there has been considerable growth in the number of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of memory rehabilitation in MS. To guide clinicians and researchers, this review provides an overview of the effectiveness of memory rehabilitation for people with MS.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether people with MS who received memory rehabilitation compared to those who received no treatment, or an active control showed better immediate, intermediate, or longer-term outcomes in their: 1. memory functions, 2. other cognitive abilities, and 3. functional abilities, in terms of activities of daily living, mood, and quality of life.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL which includes Clinicaltrials.gov, World Health Organization (The Whoqol) International Clinical Trials Registry Portal, Embase and PubMed (MEDLINE), and the following electronic databases (6 September 2020): CINAHL, LILACS, the NIHR Clinical Research Network Portfolio database, The Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, PsycINFO, and CAB Abstracts.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We selected RCTs or quasi-RCTs of memory rehabilitation or cognitive rehabilitation for people with MS in which a memory rehabilitation treatment group was compared with a control group. Selection was conducted independently first and then confirmed through group discussion. We excluded studies that included participants whose memory deficits were the result of conditions other than MS, unless we could identify a subgroup of participants with MS with separate results.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Eight review authors were involved in this update in terms of study selection, quality assessment, data extraction and manuscript review. We contacted investigators of primary studies for further information where required. We conducted data analysis and synthesis in accordance with Cochrane methods. We performed a 'best evidence' synthesis based on the methodological quality of the primary studies included. Outcomes were considered separately for 'immediate' (within the first month after completion of intervention), 'intermediate' (one to six months), and 'longer-term' (more than six months) time points.

MAIN RESULTS

We added 29 studies during this update, bringing the total to 44 studies, involving 2714 participants. The interventions involved various memory retraining techniques, such as computerised programmes and training on using internal and external memory aids. Control groups varied in format from assessment-only groups, discussion and games, non-specific cognitive retraining, and attention or visuospatial training. The risk of bias amongst the included studies was generally low, but we found eight studies to have high risk of bias related to certain aspects of their methodology. In this abstract, we are only reporting outcomes at the intermediate timepoint (i.e., between one and six months). We found a slight difference between groups for subjective memory (SMD 0.23, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.35; 11 studies; 1045 participants; high-quality evidence) and quality of life (SMD 0.30, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.58; 6 studies; 683 participants; high-quality evidence) favoring the memory rehabilitation group. There was a small difference between groups for verbal memory (SMD 0.25, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.40; 6 studies; 753 participants; low-quality evidence) and information processing (SMD 0.27, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.54; 8 studies; 933 participants; low-quality evidence), favoring the memory rehabilitation group.  We found little to no difference between groups for visual memory (SMD 0.20, 95% CI -0.11 to 0.50; 6 studies; 751 participants; moderate-quality evidence), working memory (SMD 0.16, 95% CI -0.09 to 0.40; 8 studies; 821 participants; moderate-quality evidence), or activities of daily living (SMD 0.06, 95% CI -0.36 to 0.24; 4 studies; 400 participants; high-quality evidence).  AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There is evidence to support the effectiveness of memory rehabilitation on some outcomes assessed in this review at intermediate follow-up. The evidence suggests that memory rehabilitation results in between-group differences favoring the memory rehabilitation group at the intermediate time point for subjective memory, verbal memory, information processing, and quality of life outcomes, suggesting that memory rehabilitation is beneficial and meaningful to people with MS. There are differential effects of memory rehabilitation based on the quality of the trials, with studies of high risk of bias inflating (positive) outcomes. Further robust, large-scale, multi-centre RCTs, with better quality reporting, using ecologically valid outcome assessments (including health economic outcomes) assessed at longer-term time points are still needed to be certain about the effectiveness of memory rehabilitation in people with MS.

Is mHealth a Useful Tool for Self-Assessment and Rehabilitation of People with Multiple Sclerosis? A Systematic Review

The development of mobile technology and mobile Internet offers new possibilities in rehabilitation and clinical assessment in a longitudinal perspective for multiple sclerosis management. However, because the mobile health applications (mHealth) have only been developed recently, the level of evidence supporting the use of mHealth in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) is currently unclear. Therefore, this review aims to list and describe the different mHealth available for rehabilitation and self-assessment of pwMS and to define the level of evidence supporting these interventions for functioning problems categorized within the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). In total, 36 studies, performed with 22 different mHealth, were included in this review, 30 about rehabilitation and six for self-assessment, representing 3091 patients. For rehabilitation, most of the studies were focusing on cognitive function and fatigue. Concerning the efficacy, we found a small but significant effect of the use of mHealth for cognitive training (Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) = 0.28 [0.12; 0.45]) and moderate effect for fatigue (SMD = 0.61 [0.47; 0.76]). mHealth is a promising tool in pwMS but more studies are needed to validate these solutions in the other ICF categories. More replications studies are also needed as most of the mHealth have only been assessed in one single study.

Focus on neglected features of cognitive rehabilitation in MS: Setting and mode of the treatment

Cognitive rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis (MS) aims at reducing patients’ cognitive impairments, improving their awareness and ability to take cognitive difficulties into account in their daily living. However, at this moment, more high-quality randomized trials are needed to draw conclusion about the effectiveness of cognitive interventions in MS. Although existing studies provide clear descriptions of intervention key ingredients (e.g. targeted cognitive domain as well as treatment frequency and duration) and the practical details needed to manage these key elements (e.g. restorative approaches, compensatory strategies, or environmental modifications), other crucial aspects received less attention in rehabilitation research. The aim of this topical review is to try to elucidate some critical issues that were only partly addressed and analyzed by the scientific literature: setting (center-based vs home-based) and mode (individual vs group) of the cognitive rehabilitation treatment.

Effect of cognitive rehabilitation on neuropsychological and semiecological testing and on daily cognitive functioning in multiple sclerosis: The REACTIV randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND

Specific cognitive rehabilitation (SCR) has been suggested for multiple sclerosis (MS). A randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating the therapeutic effects of SCR is necessary.

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate the superiority of a SCR program (REACTIV) over nonspecific intervention (NSI) for neuropsychological (NP) assessment, virtual reality (VR) cognitive testing and daily cognitive functioning.

METHODS

A single-blind RCT compared SCR and NSI in patients with MS with cognitive complaint. Both programs included 50 individual sessions, 3 times a week for 17 weeks in a real-world setting. The primary end-point was NP assessment. Secondary end-points included semiecological VR tasks (Urban Daily Cog®) and daily cognitive functioning assessment. Maintenance of the effects at 8 months was studied.

RESULTS

Of the 35 patients, 18 completed the SCR, and 17 completed the NSI. Several NP and semiecological scores improved significantly more after SCR than after NSI. More NP scores improved significantly after SCR than after NSI. SCR improved daily cognitive functioning. Most improvements were maintained at 8 months.

CONCLUSION

SCR performed in a real-world setting is superior to NSI for improving performance in specific cognitive domains and information processing speed, and for improving cognitive functioning, as evaluated by ecological tools close to daily life and a daily cognitive functioning questionnaire.

Online Cognitive Training: An Adaptation of the Memory, Attention, and Problem Solving Skills for Persons With Diabetes Intervention

Research shows the risk for cognitive impairment and the rate of cognitive decline double after type 2 diabetes mellitus is diagnosed and can make self-management more difficult. Cognitive training has been found to be one way to improve self-management and cognitive function, and this article reports the adaptation of one such intervention to an online format. Ten adults with diabetes participated in an 8-week intervention that combined webinar classes with online computer game training. Perceived memory ability, executive function, self-management, and self-efficacy were measured. Evaluation of recruitment, data collection, and implementation demonstrated good feasibility and reduced barriers to engagement. Although the intervention did not result in significant changes in cognitive function, scores on all surveys improved. Adherence to diet, exercise, and foot care recommendations also improved. Most participants stated they preferred the intervention's online format to "traditional" in-person formats. Online technology in this 8-week intervention helped improve recruitment, retention, participant engagement, and use of cognitive strategies in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Overall, participants found the intervention helpful and said it reduced the time and travel burden associated with educational interventions. A larger randomized controlled trial is needed to further explore the intervention's potential impact over a longer period.

Beyond supervised therapy: Promoting behavioral changes in people with MS

A critical aspect of many rehabilitation interventions for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) is incorporating strategies that support behavior change. The main purpose of this topical review was to summarize recent randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of rehabilitation interventions in which participants learn and apply skills or engage in healthy behaviors. The Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, and Behavior (COM-B) framework was used to broadly classify behavior-change strategies. The included RCTs varied widely in terms of dosing, delivery format, and types of interventionist. Commonly used behavior-change strategies include education, persuasion, and training. We recommend that researchers and clinicians use frameworks like Behavior Change Wheel and Behavior Change Technique Taxonomy to describe and classify intervention strategies used to promote behavior change. We also recommend more sophisticated RCTs be conducted (e.g. sequential multiple assignment randomized trial and three-arm RCTs) to better understand ways of promoting behavior change in rehabilitation interventions.

Treatment and management of cognitive dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis

Cognitive impairment is a common and devastating manifestation of multiple sclerosis (MS). Although disease-modifying therapies have been efficacious for reducing relapse rates in MS, such treatments are ineffective for treating cognitive dysfunction. Alternative treatment approaches for mitigating cognitive problems are greatly needed in this population. To date, cognitive rehabilitation and exercise training have been identified as possible candidates for treating MS-related cognitive impairment; however, cognitive dysfunction is still often considered to be poorly managed in patients with MS. This Review provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments in the treatment and management of cognitive impairment in people with MS. We describe the theoretical rationales, current states of the science, field-wide challenges and recent advances in cognitive rehabilitation and exercise training for treating MS-related cognitive impairment. We also discuss future directions for research into the treatment of cognitive impairment in MS that should set the stage for the inclusion of cognitive rehabilitation and exercise training into clinical practice within the next decade.

Automatized follow-up and alert system for patients with chronic hypertension

This article presents the development and implementation of a monitoring system for patients with chronic hypertension. Technological advances in wireless communication are increasingly used today to send and receive information through smartphones. This also applies to devices for measuring blood pressure, which can be efficiently integrated with smartphones. Telemedicine is used in a variety of health fields, and in the past 5 years, it has extended its reach to the online monitoring of patients. The objective of this study is to create an integrated system capable of conducting the follow-up, through mobile communication (smartphones), of patients with chronic diseases such as hypertension. An iHealth equipment certified by the Food and Drug Administration is used. The blood pressure values from users are uploaded via Internet and stored in an integral system for processing. The monitoring system developed not only informs users about their disease status but also sends them alerts generated during monitoring. This work uses the telecommunication technology existing through smartphones. The integrated system developed ensures the follow-up of the blood pressure of a large number of users. In addition, this system can be further applied to diseases such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome. The system developed was easy to use and efficient to monitor patients with chronic diseases such as high blood pressure.

Experiences of African American Women with Multiple Sclerosis

Background

Despite growing understanding that African American patients may have a more aggressive course of multiple sclerosis (MS) and experience disparities in diagnosis and treatment, fewer studies have examined how African Americans experience MS and its effect on their lives. This study explored the experiences of African American women with MS to inform future research and practice.

Methods

Face-to-face semistructured interviews were conducted with 19 African American women. Inductive content analysis was used to identify major categories and subcategories.

Results

The analyses yielded three major categories: no one could believe I had MS, it is tough living with MS, and you have to keep going. Many women reported that the MS diagnosis was a surprise to them and their doctors because of the common belief that MS is a "Caucasian disease." For this reason, many women felt their diagnosis had been delayed while their physicians initially focused on other diseases considered more typical in African American individuals. Living with losses related to social and family activities, independence, and employment was especially challenging for them. Faith in God, coming to grips with the diagnosis, and health promotion behaviors were key strategies for dealing with their MS. Women also spoke of pushing forward, working through MS challenges, and taking care of themselves, thus preserving their identity as strong Black women, a culturally important construct in the African American community.

Conclusions

Future research should explore the interactions of culture with coping strategies and the development of useful and valued resources and supports for African American people with MS.

Neuropsychological management of multiple sclerosis: evaluation of a supervised and customized cognitive rehabilitation program for self-used at home (SEPIA): protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background

Cognitive and mood disorders negatively impact daily life in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Pharmacological treatments did not demonstrate any effect on cognition compared with cognitive rehabilitation (CR). However, if CR programs offer promising results on cognition, they are less consistent concerning mood and quality of life (QoL). In this context, we designed a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of an innovative computerized CR program, conducted at home, on QoL. Secondary objectives will estimate the improvement, or the stabilization over time, of patients’ cognitive performances and their emotional affects.

Methods

Forty MS patients (relapsing-remitting or secondary progressive forms) who have cognitive impairment will be recruited for the trial (called SEPIA-NCT03471338) and randomly assigned to either the experimental group or the control group. Patients randomly assigned in the experimental group will perform a home-based CR program with psychological support during eight consecutive weeks. CR will be based on computerized cognitive exercises from the PRESCO® software developed by HAPPYneuron^©. Training sessions (three sessions of 45 min per week) will consist of short exercises evaluating a broad range of cognitive domains and will be personalized for each patient (tracking tool and supervised guidance). The control group, designed to control for non-specific elements of the intervention, will receive only psychological support consisting of various issues related to MS, such as everyday cognitive-related difficulties or management of emotions. QoL, assessed by the MUSIQOL (Multiple Sclerosis International Quality Of Life) questionnaire, will be evaluated three times (at baseline and after 1 week and 25 weeks after home-based intervention) as well as secondary outcomes measuring self-esteem, cognition, depression, anxiety, metacognition, fatigue, and sleep quality. Given the expected MUSIQOL variation, the inclusion of 20 patients per group (alpha risk 5% and power 80%) will be required.

Discussion

Evidence suggests that computerized programs may be a practice option for CR for people with MS, but there is a paucity of studies evaluating QoL. We hope that this innovative program will highlight such benefits over time in patients’ daily life. In the future, such programs will allow a wider range of available therapeutic options for MS patients with cognitive impairment and for practitioners in charge of their care.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03471338. Retrospectively registered on 25 April 2018. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03471338?term=NCT03471338&cond=Multiple+Sclerosis&draw=2&rank=1.

Computerized Cognitive Training in Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background. Cognitive impairments are common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Systematic reviews reported promising evidence for various cognitive interventions in this population. Computerized cognitive training (CCT) has strong evidence for safety and efficacy in several populations, but its effects in MS have yet to be specified. Objective. We aimed to synthesize the evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of CCT on cognitive, psychosocial, and functional outcomes in adults with MS. Method. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and CENTRAL from inception to March 2019. We calculated standardized mean difference (Hedges' g) of change from baseline in untrained measures of cognition, individual domains, psychosocial functioning, and daily function between CCT and control groups using a random-effects model. Results. A total of 20 RCTs encompassing 982 participants (78% with relapsing-remitting MS) were included. The overall cognitive effect size was moderate (g = 0.30; 95% CI = 0.18-0.43), with no evidence of small-study effect or between-study heterogeneity (prediction interval = 0.17-0.44). Small to moderate effect sizes were found for attention/processing speed, executive functions, and verbal and visuospatial memory. Evidence for working memory, fatigue, and psychosocial and daily functioning were inconclusive. Cognitive effects waned without further training. Conclusions. CCT is efficacious for overall and key cognitive domains in adults with MS, but efficacy on other outcomes and in progressive subtypes remains unclear. Long-term and well-powered trials with diverse cohorts are needed to optimize and maintain the efficacy of CCT, investigate transfer to daily living, and determine who can benefit and whether CCT is a cost-effective strategy to attenuate cognitive decline in MS.

Integrated telerehabilitation approach in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system and a major cause of disability in young adults. Recently, there has been a growing interest in the development of innovative ways to deliver rehabilitation care outside of a hospital setting. The aim was to conduct a systematic review and a meta-analysis of the efficacy of an integrated telerehabilitation approach (ITA) on motor, cognitive and participation outcomes delivered to people with MS (pwMS).

METHODS

We systematically searched for original manuscripts regarding ITA in pwMS. Efficacy on motor, cognitive and participation outcomes was measured as the standardized mean difference (Hedges' g) of pre and post training.

RESULTS

Nine studies encompassing 716 pwMS diagnosis were included. The overall effect of ITA was: large for motor outcomes (g = 1.05; p = 0.013); small for cognitive performance outcomes (g = 0.16; p = 0.237); and small for participation outcomes (g = 0.15; p = 0.259). Domain-specific results showed that the effect on motor disability was large (g = 1.18), while on gait and balance was medium (g = 0.32 and g = 0.48, respectively). Moreover, all effects on single cognitive domains were small. Finally, among the single participation outcomes considered (depression, fatigue, daily functioning, quality of life and self-efficacy) only depression showed a nearly medium effect (g = 0.30).

CONCLUSIONS

PwMS can benefit from ITA in the treatment of motor symptoms according to the current model of continuity of care. However, the low efficacy of ITA on cognition and participation domains suggests the necessity to develop intervention models that include a broader spectrum of needs and objectives.

Will behavioral treatments for cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis become standards-of-care?

Cognitive impairment is common and debilitating in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS), and further is poorly-managed by pharmacotherapy. Cognitive rehabilitation and exercise training have been identified as promising behavioral approaches for managing MS-related cognitive impairment based on systematic reviews and meta-analyses. However, each body of literature is associated with similar sets of methodological shortcomings, as has been identified by periodic systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Thus, there is little generalizability or transportability research supporting either behavioral approach for managing cognitive dysfunction in this population under real-world conditions (i.e., as a standard-of-care). To that end, this paper aims to catalyze the advancement of cognitive rehabilitation and exercise training research in MS, respectively, towards the successful implementation of generalizability/transportability trials. This first involves critical examinations of the respective cognitive rehabilitation and exercise training literatures in MS from a chronological perspective, with particular emphasis on how the fields have each evolved in response to systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Accordingly, the current paper then provides a roadmap for harmonizing research in those areas to systematically and efficiently inform the development of generalizability/transportability trials for behavioral approaches to manage MS-related cognitive dysfunction. This involves the recognition of overlapping facilitators and impediments for progress in each field, including considerations for the implementation of neuroimaging. Ultimately, the provision of such a framework aims to shorten the timeline for research to influence clinical practice and improve the lives of cognitively-impaired persons with MS.