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Johnson KA, Bandera VM, Diehl M, Leach HJ, Fling BW. Walking performance differs between people with multiple sclerosis who perform distinct types of exercise. Neurodegener Dis Manag 2024; 14:75-85. [PMID: 39155765 DOI: 10.1080/17582024.2024.2389037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: To determine whether walking performance differed between people with multiple sclerosis (MS) who performed distinct types, volumes and intensities of exercise.Materials & methods: Forty-five people with relapsing-remitting MS performed two trials of the 2-min walk test, one at a preferred speed and another at a fast speed. Gait metrics were measured by wireless inertial sensors. Participants reported the type (aerobic, resistance), volume and intensity of exercise performed.Results: Walking speed reserve and gait variability were better in participants who performed combined aerobic and resistance exercises compared with those who performed aerobic-only exercise.Conclusion: Walking performance differs in people with mild MS disability based on the type and volume of exercise performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin A Johnson
- Department of Health & Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
| | - Victoria M Bandera
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, 84112, Utah
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, 84108, Utah
| | - Manfred Diehl
- Department of Human Development & Family Studies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Heather J Leach
- Department of Health & Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
| | - Brett W Fling
- Department of Health & Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
- Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Neurosciences Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
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MacKenzie EG, Snow NJ, Chaves AR, Reza SZ, Ploughman M. Weak grip strength among persons with multiple sclerosis having minimal disability is not related to agility or integrity of the corticospinal tract. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 88:105741. [PMID: 38936325 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mobility impairment is common in multiple sclerosis (MS); however, agility has received less attention. Agility requires strength and neuromuscular coordination to elicit controlled propulsive rapid whole-body movement. Grip strength is a common method to assess whole body force production, but also reflects neuromuscular integrity and global brain health. Impaired agility may be linked to loss of neuromuscular integrity (reflected by grip strength or corticospinal excitability). OBJECTIVES We aimed to determine whether grip strength would be associated with agility and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)-based indices of corticospinal excitability and inhibition in persons with MS having low disability. We hypothesized that low grip strength would predict impaired agility and reflect low corticospinal excitability. METHODS We recruited 34 persons with relapsing MS (27 females; median [range] age 45.5 [21.0-65.0] years) and mild disability (median [range] Expanded Disability Status Scale 2.0 [0-3.0]), as well as a convenience sample of age- and sex-matched apparently healthy controls. Agility was tested by measuring hop length during bipedal hopping on an instrumented walkway. Grip strength was measured using a calibrated dynamometer. Corticospinal excitability and inhibition were examined using TMS-based motor evoked potential (MEP) and corticospinal silent period (CSP) recruitment curves, respectively. RESULTS MS participants had significantly lower grip strength than controls independent of sex. Females with and without MS had weaker grip strength than males. There were no statistically significant sex or group differences in agility. After controlling for sex, weaker grip strength was associated with shorter hop length in controls only (r = 0.645, p < .05). Grip strength did not significantly predict agility in persons with MS, nor was grip strength predicted by corticospinal excitability or inhibition. CONCLUSIONS In persons with MS having low disability, grip strength (normalized to body mass) was reduced despite having intact agility and walking performance. Grip strength was not associated with corticospinal excitability or inhibition, suggesting peripheral neuromuscular function, low physical activity or fitness, or other psychosocial factors may be related to weakness. Low grip strength is a putative indicator of early neuromuscular aging in persons with MS having mild disability and normal mobility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan G MacKenzie
- Faculty of Medicine, Recovery & Performance Laboratory, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, Room 400, L.A. Miller Center, 100 Forest Road, St. John's, St. John's, NL A1A 1E5, Canada
| | - Nicholas J Snow
- Faculty of Medicine, Recovery & Performance Laboratory, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, Room 400, L.A. Miller Center, 100 Forest Road, St. John's, St. John's, NL A1A 1E5, Canada
| | - Arthur R Chaves
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON, Canada; Neuromodulation Research Clinic, The Royal's Institute of Mental Health Research, ON, Canada; Département de Psychoéducation et de Psychologie, Université du Québec en Outaouais, QC, Canada
| | - Syed Z Reza
- Faculty of Medicine, Recovery & Performance Laboratory, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, Room 400, L.A. Miller Center, 100 Forest Road, St. John's, St. John's, NL A1A 1E5, Canada
| | - Michelle Ploughman
- Faculty of Medicine, Recovery & Performance Laboratory, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, Room 400, L.A. Miller Center, 100 Forest Road, St. John's, St. John's, NL A1A 1E5, Canada.
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Cofré Lizama LE, Panisset MG, Peng L, Tan Y, Kalincik T, Galea MP. Postural behaviour in people with multiple sclerosis: A complexity paradox. Gait Posture 2024; 111:14-21. [PMID: 38608470 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2024.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Balance deficits are a major concern for people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Measuring complexity of motor behaviour can offer an insight into MS-related changes in adaptability of the balance control system when dealing with increasingly complex tasks. QUESTION Does postural behaviour complexity differ between pwMS at early stages of the disease and healthy controls (HC)? Does postural behaviour complexity change across increasingly complex tasks? METHODS Forty-eight pwMS and 24 HC performed four increasingly complex postural tasks with eyes open (EO), eyes closed (EC), on firm (FS) and compliant surface (CS). Lumbar and sternum sensors recorded 3D acceleration, from which complexity index (CI) was calculated using multiscale sample entropy (MSE) in the frontal and sagittal planes. RESULTS We found that only the complexity index in both planes during the eyes closed on compliant surface (EC-CS) task was significantly lower in pwMS compared to HC. We also found that complexity in pwMS was significantly lower during EC-CS compared to the other three tasks when using both lumbar and sternum sensors. SIGNIFICANCE Increasing the complexity of postural tasks reduces the complexity of postural behaviour in pwMS. This paradox may reflect reduced adaptability of the sensorimotor integration processes at early stages of MS. CI can provide a different perspective on balance deficits and could potentially be a more sensitive biomarker of MS progression and an early indicator of balance deficit.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maya G Panisset
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia
| | - Liuhua Peng
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia
| | - Ying Tan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Tomas Kalincik
- Clinical Outcomes Research Unit, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; Neuroimmunology Centre, Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Mary P Galea
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia; Australian Rehabilitation Research Centre, Royal Park Campus, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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Netukova S, Horakova L, Szabo Z, Krupicka R. Beyond timing and step counting in 360° turning-in-place assessment: a scoping review. Biomed Eng Online 2024; 23:13. [PMID: 38297359 PMCID: PMC10832107 DOI: 10.1186/s12938-024-01208-0] [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: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Turning in place is a challenging motor task and is used as a brief assessment test of lower limb function and dynamic balance. This review aims to examine how research of instrumented analysis of turning in place is implemented. In addition to reporting the studied population, we covered acquisition systems, turn detection methods, quantitative parameters, and how these parameters are computed. METHODS Following the development of a rigorous search strategy, the Web of Science and Scopus were systematically searched for studies involving the use of turning-in-place. From the selected articles, the study population, types of instruments used, turn detection method, and how the turning-in-place characteristics were calculated. RESULTS Twenty-one papers met the inclusion criteria. The subject groups involved in the reviewed studies included young, middle-aged, and older adults, stroke, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease patients. Inertial measurement units (16 studies) and motion camera systems (5 studies) were employed for gathering measurement data, force platforms were rarely used (2 studies). Two studies used commercial software for turn detection, six studies referenced previously published algorithms, two studies developed a custom detector, and eight studies did not provide any details about the turn detection method. The most frequently used parameters were mean angular velocity (14 cases, 7 studies), turn duration (13 cases, 13 studies), peak angular velocity (8 cases, 8 studies), jerkiness (6 cases, 5 studies) and freezing-of-gait ratios (5 cases, 5 studies). Angular velocities were derived from sensors placed on the lower back (7 cases, 4 studies), trunk (4 cases, 2 studies), and shank (2 cases, 1 study). The rest (9 cases, 8 studies) did not report sensor placement. Calculation of the freezing-of-gait ratio was based on the acceleration of the lower limbs in all cases. Jerkiness computation employed acceleration in the medio-lateral (4 cases) and antero-posterior (1 case) direction. One study did not reported any details about jerkiness computation. CONCLUSION This review identified the capabilities of turning-in-place assessment in identifying movement differences between the various subject groups. The results, based on data acquired by inertial measurement units across studies, are comparable. A more in-depth analysis of tests developed for gait, which has been adopted in turning-in-place, is needed to examine their validity and accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slavka Netukova
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Informatics, Czech Technical University, Nam Sitna 3105, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Lucie Horakova
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Informatics, Czech Technical University, Nam Sitna 3105, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zoltan Szabo
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Informatics, Czech Technical University, Nam Sitna 3105, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radim Krupicka
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Informatics, Czech Technical University, Nam Sitna 3105, Prague, Czech Republic
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Cofré Lizama LE, He X, Kalincik T, Galea MP, Panisset MG. Sample Entropy Improves Assessment of Postural Control in Early-Stage Multiple Sclerosis. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:872. [PMID: 38339590 PMCID: PMC10857195 DOI: 10.3390/s24030872] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Postural impairment in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) is an early indicator of disease progression. Common measures of disease assessment are not sensitive to early-stage MS. Sample entropy (SE) may better identify early impairments. We compared the sensitivity and specificity of SE with linear measurements, differentiating pwMS (EDSS 0-4) from healthy controls (HC). 58 pwMS (EDSS ≤ 4) and 23 HC performed quiet standing tasks, combining a hard or foam surface with eyes open or eyes closed as a condition. Sway was recorded at the sternum and lumbar spine. Linear measures, mediolateral acceleration range with eyes open, mediolateral jerk with eyes closed, and SE in the anteroposterior and mediolateral directions were calculated. A multivariate ANOVA and AUC-ROC were used to determine between-groups differences and discriminative ability, respectively. Mild MS (EDSS ≤ 2.0) discriminability was secondarily assessed. Significantly lower SE was observed under most conditions in pwMS compared to HC, except for lumbar and sternum SE when on a hard surface with eyes closed and in the anteroposterior direction, which also offered the strongest discriminability (AUC = 0.747), even for mild MS. Overall, between-groups differences were task-dependent, and SE (anteroposterior, hard surface, eyes closed) was the best pwMS classifier. SE may prove a useful tool to detect subtle MS progression and intervention effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Eduardo Cofré Lizama
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; (X.H.); (M.P.G.); (M.G.P.)
| | - Xiangyu He
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; (X.H.); (M.P.G.); (M.G.P.)
| | - Tomas Kalincik
- Neuroimmunology Centre, Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia;
- Clinical Outcomes Research Unit, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Mary P. Galea
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; (X.H.); (M.P.G.); (M.G.P.)
- Department of Rehabilitation, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
- Australian Rehabilitation Research Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Maya G. Panisset
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; (X.H.); (M.P.G.); (M.G.P.)
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Contartese D, Di Sarno L, Salamanna F, Martini L, Fini M, Giavaresi G, Veronesi F. Exploring In Vivo Models of Musculoskeletal Frailty: A Comprehensive Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16948. [PMID: 38069274 PMCID: PMC10706801 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Musculoskeletal frailty-a common and debilitating condition linked to aging and chronic diseases-presents a major public health issue. In vivo models have become a key tool for researchers as they investigate the condition's underlying mechanisms and develop effective interventions. This systematic review examines the current body of research on in vivo models of musculoskeletal frailty, without any time constraints. To achieve this aim, we utilized three electronic databases and incorporated a total of 11 studies. Our investigation delves into varied animal models that simulate specific features of musculoskeletal frailty, including muscle loss, bone density reduction, and functional decline. Furthermore, we examine the translational prospects of these models in augmenting our comprehension of musculoskeletal frailty and streamlining the production of groundbreaking therapeutic approaches. This review provides significant insights and guidance for healthcare researchers and practitioners who aim to combat musculoskeletal frailty, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for older adults and individuals affected by this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deyanira Contartese
- Surgical Sciences and Technologies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (D.C.); (F.S.); (L.M.); (G.G.); (F.V.)
| | - Laura Di Sarno
- Surgical Sciences and Technologies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (D.C.); (F.S.); (L.M.); (G.G.); (F.V.)
| | - Francesca Salamanna
- Surgical Sciences and Technologies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (D.C.); (F.S.); (L.M.); (G.G.); (F.V.)
| | - Lucia Martini
- Surgical Sciences and Technologies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (D.C.); (F.S.); (L.M.); (G.G.); (F.V.)
| | - Milena Fini
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Gianluca Giavaresi
- Surgical Sciences and Technologies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (D.C.); (F.S.); (L.M.); (G.G.); (F.V.)
| | - Francesca Veronesi
- Surgical Sciences and Technologies, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (D.C.); (F.S.); (L.M.); (G.G.); (F.V.)
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Swanson CW, Fling BW. Links between Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology with Turning Performance in People with Multiple Sclerosis. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:7629. [PMID: 37688084 PMCID: PMC10490793 DOI: 10.3390/s23177629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is accompanied by decreased mobility and various adaptations affecting neural structure and function. Therefore, the purpose of this project was to understand how motor cortex thickness and corticospinal excitation and inhibition contribute to turning performance in healthy controls and people with multiple sclerosis. In total, 49 participants (23 controls, 26 multiple sclerosis) were included in the final analysis of this study. All participants were instructed to complete a series of turns while wearing wireless inertial sensors. Motor cortex gray matter thickness was measured via magnetic resonance imaging. Corticospinal excitation and inhibition were assessed via transcranial magnetic stimulation and electromyography place on the tibialis anterior muscles bilaterally. People with multiple sclerosis demonstrated reduced turning performance for a variety of turning variables. Further, we observed significant cortical thinning of the motor cortex in the multiple sclerosis group. People with multiple sclerosis demonstrated no significant reductions in excitatory neurotransmission, whereas a reduction in inhibitory activity was observed. Significant correlations were primarily observed in the multiple sclerosis group, demonstrating lateralization to the left hemisphere. The results showed that both cortical thickness and inhibitory activity were associated with turning performance in people with multiple sclerosis and may indicate that people with multiple sclerosis rely on different neural resources to perform dynamic movements typically associated with fall risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clayton W. Swanson
- Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA;
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Brett W. Fling
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Neuroscience Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
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Monaghan PG, Monaghan AS, Hooyman A, Fling BW, Huisinga JM, Peterson DS. Using the Instrumented Sway System (ISway) to Identify and Compare Balance Domain Deficits in People With Multiple Sclerosis. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2023; 104:1456-1464. [PMID: 37037293 PMCID: PMC10524722 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2023.02.018] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop a multiple sclerosis (MS)-specific model of balance and examine differences between (1) MS and neurotypical controls and (2) people with MS (PwMS) with (MS-F) and without a fall history (MS-NF). DESIGN AND SETTING A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Gait and Balance Laboratory at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Balance was measured from the instrumented sway system (ISway) assessment. PARTICIPANTS In total, 118 people with relapsing-remitting MS (MS-F=39; MS-NF=79) and 46 age-matched neurotypical controls. INTERVENTION Not applicable. OUTCOME MEASURES A total of 22 sway measures obtained from the ISway were entered into an exploratory factor analysis to identify underlying balance domains. The model-derived balance domains were compared between (1) PwMS and age-matched, neurotypical controls and (2) MS-F and MS-NF. RESULTS Three distinct balance domains were identified: (1) sway amplitude and velocity, (2) sway frequency and jerk mediolateral, and (3) sway frequency and jerk anteroposterior, explaining 81.66% of balance variance. PwMS exhibited worse performance (ie, greater amplitude and velocity of sway) in the sway velocity and amplitude domain compared to age-matched neurotypical controls (P=.003). MS-F also exhibited worse performance in the sway velocity and amplitude domain compared to MS-NF (P=.046). The anteroposterior and mediolateral sway frequency and jerk domains were not different between PwMS and neurotypical controls nor between MS-F and MS-NF. CONCLUSIONS This study identified a 3-factor, MS-specific balance model, demonstrating that PwMS, particularly those with a fall history, exhibit disproportionate impairments in sway amplitude and velocity. Identifying postural stability outcomes and domains that are altered in PwMS and clinically relevant (eg, related to falls) would help isolate potential treatment targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrew Hooyman
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
| | - Brett W Fling
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Jessie M Huisinga
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Kansas Medical Center, KS
| | - Daniel S Peterson
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ; Phoenix VA Health Care Center, Phoenix, AZ.
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Woelfle T, Bourguignon L, Lorscheider J, Kappos L, Naegelin Y, Jutzeler CR. Wearable Sensor Technologies to Assess Motor Functions in People With Multiple Sclerosis: Systematic Scoping Review and Perspective. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44428. [PMID: 37498655 PMCID: PMC10415952 DOI: 10.2196/44428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wearable sensor technologies have the potential to improve monitoring in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and inform timely disease management decisions. Evidence of the utility of wearable sensor technologies in people with MS is accumulating but is generally limited to specific subgroups of patients, clinical or laboratory settings, and functional domains. OBJECTIVE This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of all studies that have used wearable sensors to assess, monitor, and quantify motor function in people with MS during daily activities or in a controlled laboratory setting and to shed light on the technological advances over the past decades. METHODS We systematically reviewed studies on wearable sensors to assess the motor performance of people with MS. We scanned PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases until December 31, 2022, considering search terms "multiple sclerosis" and those associated with wearable technologies and included all studies assessing motor functions. The types of results from relevant studies were systematically mapped into 9 predefined categories (association with clinical scores or other measures; test-retest reliability; group differences, 3 types; responsiveness to change or intervention; and acceptability to study participants), and the reporting quality was determined through 9 questions. We followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) reporting guidelines. RESULTS Of the 1251 identified publications, 308 were included: 176 (57.1%) in a real-world context, 107 (34.7%) in a laboratory context, and 25 (8.1%) in a mixed context. Most publications studied physical activity (196/308, 63.6%), followed by gait (81/308, 26.3%), dexterity or tremor (38/308, 12.3%), and balance (34/308, 11%). In the laboratory setting, outcome measures included (in addition to clinical severity scores) 2- and 6-minute walking tests, timed 25-foot walking test, timed up and go, stair climbing, balance tests, and finger-to-nose test, among others. The most popular anatomical landmarks for wearable placement were the waist, wrist, and lower back. Triaxial accelerometers were most commonly used (229/308, 74.4%). A surge in the number of sensors embedded in smartphones and smartwatches has been observed. Overall, the reporting quality was good. CONCLUSIONS Continuous monitoring with wearable sensors could optimize the management of people with MS, but some hurdles still exist to full clinical adoption of digital monitoring. Despite a possible publication bias and vast heterogeneity in the outcomes reported, our review provides an overview of the current literature on wearable sensor technologies used for people with MS and highlights shortcomings, such as the lack of harmonization, transparency in reporting methods and results, and limited data availability for the research community. These limitations need to be addressed for the growing implementation of wearable sensor technologies in clinical routine and clinical trials, which is of utmost importance for further progress in clinical research and daily management of people with MS. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42021243249; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=243249.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Woelfle
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lucie Bourguignon
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Lorscheider
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ludwig Kappos
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yvonne Naegelin
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Alenazy MS, Al-Jaafari R, Folkesson-Dey A, Enoka RM. Influence of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on walking kinematics and standing balance of older adults who differ in walking speed. Exp Brain Res 2023:10.1007/s00221-023-06615-8. [PMID: 37310476 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-023-06615-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The purpose was to determine the impact of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on measures of walking kinematics and standing balance of healthy older adults who were stratified into two groups based on differences in the distance walked during the 6-min test of walking endurance. Regression models were developed to explain the variance in the 6-min distance and to assess the predictive power of balance metrics to categorize the 26 older adults (72 ± 5.4 yrs) as either slow or fast walkers. Walking kinematics were measured during 6- and 2-min walk tests that were performed with and without the concurrent application of TENS to the hip flexor and ankle dorsiflexor muscles. Participants walked briskly during the 6-min test and at a preferred pace during the 2-min test. The supplementary sensory stimulation provided by TENS did not alter the power of the models to explain the variance in the Baseline 6-min distance: Baseline, R2 = 0.85; TENS, R2 = 0.83. In contrast, TENS improved the explanatory power of the data obtained during the 2-min walk to account for the variance in the Baseline 6-min distance: no TENS, R2 = 0.40; TENS, R2 = 0.64. Logistic regression models based on force-plate and kinematic data obtained during the balance tasks were able to discriminate between the two groups with excellent certainty. The impact of TENS was greatest when older adults walked at a preferred speed but not when they walked at a brisk pace or performed tests of standing balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed S Alenazy
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, USA.
- College of Medicine, Majmaah University, Al Majma'ah, 15342, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Rehab Al-Jaafari
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, USA
| | - Anneli Folkesson-Dey
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, USA
| | - Roger M Enoka
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, USA
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Sato SD, Hiroi Y, Zoppo D, Buonaccorsi J, Miehm JD, van Emmerik REA. Spatiotemporal gait changes in people with multiple sclerosis with different disease progression subtypes. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2022; 100:105818. [PMID: 36435079 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2022.105818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gait impairment is common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), but less is known about gait differences between MS disease progression subtypes. The objective here was to examine differences in spatiotemporal gait in MS and between relapsing-remitting and progressive subtypes during the timed-25-ft-walk test. Our specific aims were to investigate (1) spatiotemporal, (2) spatiotemporal variability, and (3) gait modulation differences between healthy controls and MS subtypes at preferred and fast walking speed. METHODS This study included 27 controls, 18 relapsing-remitting MS, and 13 progressive MS participants. Participants wore six inertial sensors and walked overground without walking aids at preferred and fast-as-possible speeds. FINDINGS Both MS groups had significantly lower walking speed than controls, with a trend towards lower preferred gait speed in progressive compared to relapsing-remitting MS (ES = 0.502). Although most spatiotemporal gait parameters differed between controls and MS groups, differences were not significant between MS subtypes in these parameters and their variability, with low to moderate effect sizes during preferred and fast walking. Both MS groups showed reduced modulation in gait compared to controls and no significant differences between MS subtypes. INTERPRETATION Gait in MS is altered compared to controls. Although gait may change with progressive MS, the overall small differences in the gait parameters between the MS subtypes observed in this sample suggests that those with the progressive form of MS who are independently ambulatory and without further clinically meaningful changes in gait speed may not show gait decrements greater than the relapsing-remitting form of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumire D Sato
- Neuroscience and Behavior Program, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA; Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Yeun Hiroi
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Danielle Zoppo
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - John Buonaccorsi
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Jules D Miehm
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Richard E A van Emmerik
- Neuroscience and Behavior Program, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA; Department of Kinesiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
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Discriminative Mobility Characteristics between Neurotypical Young, Middle-Aged, and Older Adults Using Wireless Inertial Sensors. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21196644. [PMID: 34640963 PMCID: PMC8512820 DOI: 10.3390/s21196644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Age-related mobility research often highlights significant mobility differences comparing neurotypical young and older adults, while neglecting to report mobility outcomes for middle-aged adults. Moreover, these analyses regularly do not determine which measures of mobility can discriminate groups into their age brackets. Thus, the current study aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis for commonly performed aspects of mobility (walking, turning, sit-to-stand, and balance) to determine which variables were significantly different and furthermore, able to discriminate between neurotypical young adults (YAs), middle-aged adults (MAAs), and older adults (OAs). This study recruited 20 YAs, 20 MAAs, and 20 OAs. Participants came into the laboratory and completed mobility testing while wearing wireless inertial sensors. Mobility tests assessed included three distinct two-minute walks, 360° turns, five times sit-to-stands, and a clinical balance test, capturing 99 distinct mobility metrics. Of the various mobility tests assessed, only 360° turning measures demonstrated significance between YAs and MAAs, although the capacity to discriminate between groups was achieved for gait and turning measures. A variety of mobility measures demonstrated significance between MAAs and OAs, and furthermore discrimination was achieved for each mobility test. These results indicate greater mobility differences between MAAs and OAs, although discrimination is achievable for both group comparisons.
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Ribeiro AR, Barros C, Barateiro A, Howlett SE, Fernandes A. Improved assessment of overall health in variably aged murine models of Multiple Sclerosis with a novel frailty index tool. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2021; 77:1-9. [PMID: 34181005 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glab185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model is the most commonly used animal model of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). However, phenotypic characterization of mice based on the traditional 5-point clinical paralysis scale does not fully capture disease progression. The frailty index (FI) conceptualizes frailty as the accumulation of health deficits and it is widely used to assess overall health in aging humans and pre-clinical models. Here we adapted an established mouse FI tool for use in EAE mice and determined whether this could evaluate general signs of health in variably aged female EAE mice. The EAE-Clinical FI included 34 items related to clinical signs and deficits characteristic of aging and MS. This tool clearly showed more detailed EAE progression and severity at all ages, highlighting changes in systems other than motor paralysis measured with the traditional 5-point paralysis scale. When we induced disease at 3- and 6-months-of-age, mice showed typical EAE clinical manifestations with peak disease severity between 17-19 days post-induction and mean frailty scores of 0.36 ± 0.04 (3-month-old) and 0.43 ± 0.05 (6-month-old). By contrast, disease severity peaked after 14 days in 12-month-old mice. They showed atypical signs including wobbling, early belly drag, and splayed hindlegs that were better captured with the EAE-Clinical FI. Peak frailty scores also were higher than those of younger animals (0.54 ± 0.04). As MS most often develops in young to middle-aged people, this new tool may have significant value for use in EAE animal studies as first step towards translation to people with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Rita Ribeiro
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Catarina Barros
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Andreia Barateiro
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Susan E Howlett
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Department of Medicine (Geriatric Medicine), Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Adelaide Fernandes
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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