Motion sensors in multiple sclerosis: Narrative review and update of applications

Heterogeneity of aerobic fitness changes with exercise training in progressive multiple sclerosis: Secondary, exploratory analysis of data from the CogEx trial

Background

There is heterogeneity of aerobic fitness (VO2peak) changes with a standardized exercise training stimulus in the general population (i.e. some participants demonstrate improvements, others no change, and some a reduction in VO2peak).

Objectives

This secondary, exploratory analysis of data examined the heterogeneity of VO2peak responses and possible correlates among persons with progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) from the CogEx trial.

Methods

CogEx was a multi-site, multi-arm, randomized, double-blinded, and sham-controlled trial undertaken by 11 sites in six different countries. Participants were randomized into one of four conditions with different combinations of exercise training and cognitive rehabilitation including respective sham conditions. The analysis focuses primarily on VO2peak change for the pooled exercise training intervention conditions compared with the pooled sham exercise control conditions.

Results

Waterfall plots for change in VO2peak suggested greater heterogeneity with exercise training than sham, and the proportions of difference in VO2peak change (i.e. improvement/worsening) were significantly different between exercise training and sham conditions(p < 0.05). The multivariable analysis indicated that lower baseline VO2peak (p < 0.001) was the only statistically significant correlate of increases in VO2peak with exercise training.

Conclusion

Our results highlight the heterogeneity of change in VO2peak with exercise training that is correlated with initial aerobic capacity in PMS, and such results may inform hypothesis testing in future clinical trials of exercise training.

Remotely-delivered exercise training program for improving physical and cognitive functions among older adults with multiple sclerosis: Protocol for an NIH stage-I randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Older adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) present with low physical activity participation, cognitive and ambulatory dysfunctions, and compromised quality of life (QOL).

OBJECTIVE

We propose a NIH Stage-I, randomized controlled trial (RCT) that examines the feasibility and efficacy of a 16-week theory-based, remotely-delivered, exercise training program for improving cognitive and physical functions in older adults with MS who have moderate mobility disability without severe cognitive impairment.

METHODS

This Stage-I study utilizes a parallel-group RCT design. Participants (N = 50; age ≥ 50 years) will be randomly assigned into exercise training (combined aerobic and resistance exercise) or active control (flexibility and stretching) conditions. The conditions will be undertaken within a participant's home/community over a 16-week period, and monitored remotely and supported by Zoom-based chats guided by social cognitive theory (SCT) via a behavioral coach. Participants will receive training manuals and equipment, one-on-one behavioral coaching, action-planning calendars, self-monitoring logs, and SCT-based newsletters. The primary outcomes include feasibility (e.g., recruitment and retention rates), exercise behavior and physical activity; other outcomes include physical function (lower-extremity function, mobility, walking), cognition (processing speed, learning and memory, executive function), MS symptoms, QOL, and vascular function. We will collect outcome data at baseline (Week 0), post-intervention (Week 16), and follow-up (Week-32). Data analysis will follow intent-to-treat principles using linear mixed-effects models.

DISCUSSION

This Stage-I trial adopts an innovative approach for exercise training via telerehabilitation and is convenient and accessible for older adults with MS. If successful, the study will provide foundations for future research using remotely-delivered exercise intervention for managing the consequences of aging with MS.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05930821.

Study protocol: exercise training for treating major depressive disorder in multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is prevalent, yet sub-optimally treated among persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). We propose that exercise training may be a promising approach for treating depression in persons with MS who have MDD. Our primary hypothesis predicts a reduction in depression severity immediately after an exercise training intervention compared with minimal change in an attention control condition, and the reduction will be maintained during a follow-up period.

METHODS

This study involves a parallel-group, assessor-blinded RCT that examines the effect of a 4-month home-based exercise training intervention on depression severity in a sample of persons with MS who have MDD based on the MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview. The primary outcomes of depression severity are the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Participants (N = 146) will be recruited from within 200 miles of the University of Illinois at Chicago and randomized (1:1) into either a home-based exercise training condition or control condition with concealed allocation. The exercise training and social-contact, attention control (i.e., stretching) conditions will be delivered remotely over a 4-month period and supported through eight, 1:1 Zoom-based behavioral coaching sessions guided by social-cognitive theory and conducted by persons who are uninvolved in screening, recruitment, random assignment, and outcome assessment. We will collect outcome data at 0, 4 and 8 months using treatment-blinded assessors, and data analyses will involve intent-to-treat principles.

DISCUSSION

If successful, the proposed study will provide the first Class I evidence supporting a home-based exercise training program for treating MDD in persons with MS. This is critical as exercise training would likely have positive secondary effects on symptoms, cognition, and quality of life, and provide a powerful, behavioral approach for managing the many negative outcomes of MDD in MS. The program in the proposed research is accessible and scalable for broad treatment of depression in MS, and provides the potential for integration in the clinical management of MS.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was registered on September 10, 2021 at clinicaltrials.gov with the identifier NCT05051618. The registration occurred before we initiated recruitment on June 2, 2023.

Internet-delivered lifestyle physical activity intervention for cognitive processing speed in multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

We propose a randomized controlled trial(RCT) of a Social Cognitive Theory-based(SCT), Internet-delivered behavioral intervention targeting lifestyle physical activity(LPA) for yielding improvements in cognitive processing speed(CPS), learning and memory(L/M), symptoms, and quality of life(QOL) among persons with mild multiple sclerosis(MS)-related ambulatory impairment who have impaired CPS.

METHODS/DESIGN

The study involves a Phase-II, parallel group, RCT design. Participants with MS(N = 300) will be randomly assigned on an equal basis(1:1) into behavioral intervention(n = 150) or attention and social contact control(n = 150) conditions. The conditions will be administered over 6-months by trained behavior coaches who will be uninvolved in screening, recruitment, random assignment, and outcome assessment. We will collect outcome data remotely every 6-months over the 12-month period(baseline, immediate follow-up, and 6-month follow-up) using a treatment blinded assessor. The primary outcome is the raw, oral Symbol Digit Modalities Test as a neuropsychological measure of CPS. The secondary outcomes include the California Verbal Learning Test-II as an objective measure of L/M, and patient-reported outcomes of fatigue, depressive symptoms, anxiety, pain, and QOL. The tertiary outcome is accelerometry as an objective, device-based measure of steps/day for generating a minimal clinically important difference(MCID) value that guides the prescription of LPA for improving CPS in clinical practice. The primary data analyses will involve intent-to-treat principles, and mixed-effects models and logistic regression.

DISCUSSION

If successful, the proposed study will provide Class I evidence for the efficacy of a theory-based, Internet-delivered behavioral intervention focusing on LPA for improving CPS and mitigating its negative impact on other outcomes in persons with MS.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov: NCT04518657.

Wearable Sensor Technologies to Assess Motor Functions in People With Multiple Sclerosis: Systematic Scoping Review and Perspective

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.

Non-equivalent, but still valid: Establishing the construct validity of a consumer fitness tracker in persons with multiple sclerosis

Tools for monitoring daily physical activity (PA) are desired by persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, current research-grade options are not suitable for longitudinal, independent use due to their cost and user experience. Our objective was to assess the validity of step counts and PA intensity metrics derived from the Fitbit Inspire HR, a consumer-grade PA tracker, in 45 persons with MS (Median age: 46, IQR: 40-51) undergoing inpatient rehabilitation. The population had moderate mobility impairment (Median EDSS 4.0, Range 2.0-6.5). We assessed the validity of Fitbit-derived PA metrics (Step count, total time in PA, time in moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA)) during scripted tasks and free-living activity at three levels of data aggregation (minute, daily, and average PA). Criterion validity was assessed though agreement with manual counts and multiple methods for deriving PA metrics via the Actigraph GT3X. Convergent and known-groups validity were assessed via relationships with reference standards and related clinical measures. Fitbit-derived step count and time in PA, but not time in MVPA, exhibited excellent agreement with reference measures during scripted tasks. During free-living activity, step count and time in PA correlated moderately to strongly with reference measures, but agreement varied across metrics, data aggregation levels, and disease severity strata. Time in MVPA weakly agreed with reference measures. However, Fitbit-derived metrics were often as different from reference measures as reference measures were from each other. Fitbit-derived metrics consistently exhibited similar or stronger evidence of construct validity than reference standards. Fitbit-derived PA metrics are not equivalent to existing reference standards. However, they exhibit evidence of construct validity. Consumer-grade fitness trackers such as the Fitbit Inspire HR may therefore be suitable as a PA tracking tool for persons with mild or moderate MS.

Validity and reliability of physical activity measures in multiple sclerosis

PURPOSE

The purpose was to evaluate the psychometric properties of physical activity measures in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).

METHODS

Adults with multiple sclerosis were recruited, n = 30 (validation) and n = 57 (test-retest). Steps measured with PiezoRX, Yamax SW200 and ActiGraph GT9X Link (AGlink) and time in different positions measured with AGlink were validated against data from video analysis. Psychometric properties of the Physical Activity and Disability Survey - Revised Swedish version (PADS-R(Sw)) was evaluated.

RESULTS

The most valid measures were AGlink using the low-frequency extension filter, and PiezoRX with median absolute percentage errors (MeAPEs) of 0.9-3.1% and 1.3-3.3%. The MeAPEs were higher for Yamax SW200 (2.9-21.0%), AGlink display (3.6-44.8%) and AGlink normal filter (8.9-48.9%), indicating low validity. AGlink was not valid in measurements of sitting (MeAPE 12.0-12.5%) or lying (MeAPE 31.0-41.7%). The correlation between PADS-R(Sw) and AGlink steps was r = 0.492 (p = .009). The relative reliability of PADS-R(Sw) was ICC_2,1 0.85 (CI 0.76-0.91), and absolute reliability was SEM 0.54.

CONCLUSION

AGlink and PiezoRX were valid measures of steps in PwMS. The questionnaire PADS-R(Sw) was valid, with high relative reliability, but its absolute reliability was unsatisfactory.

Feasibility and scalability of a fitness tracker study: Results from a longitudinal analysis of persons with multiple sclerosis

Background

Consumer-grade fitness trackers offer exciting opportunities to study persons with chronic diseases in greater detail and in their daily-life environment. However, attempts to bring fitness tracker measurement campaigns from tightly controlled clinical environments to home settings are often challenged by deteriorating study compliance or by organizational and resource limitations.

Objectives

By revisiting the study design and patient-reported experiences of a partly remote study with fitness trackers (BarKA-MS study), we aimed to qualitatively explore the relationship between overall study compliance and scalability. On that account, we aimed to derive lessons learned on strengths, weaknesses, and technical challenges for the conduct of future studies.

Methods

The two-phased BarKA-MS study employed Fitbit Inspire HR and electronic surveys to monitor physical activity in 45 people with multiple sclerosis in a rehabilitation setting and in their natural surroundings at home for up to 8 weeks. We examined and quantified the recruitment and compliance in terms of questionnaire completion and device wear time. Furthermore, we qualitatively evaluated experiences with devices according to participants' survey-collected reports. Finally, we reviewed the BarKA-MS study conduct characteristics for its scalability according to the Intervention Scalability Assessment Tool checklist.

Results

Weekly electronic surveys completion reached 96%. On average, the Fitbit data revealed 99% and 97% valid wear days at the rehabilitation clinic and in the home setting, respectively. Positive experiences with the device were predominant: only 17% of the feedbacks had a negative connotation, mostly pertaining to perceived measurement inaccuracies. Twenty-five major topics and study characteristics relating to compliance were identified. They broadly fell into the three categories: "effectiveness of support measures", "recruitment and compliance barriers", and "technical challenges". The scalability assessment revealed that the highly individualized support measures, which contributed greatly to the high study compliance, may face substantial scalability challenges due to the strong human involvement and limited potential for standardization.

Conclusion

The personal interactions and highly individualized participant support positively influenced study compliance and retention. But the major human involvement in these support actions will pose scalability challenges due to resource limitations. Study conductors should anticipate this potential compliance-scalability trade-off already in the design phase.

Wearable Sensors Applied in Movement Analysis

Recent advances in the miniaturization of electronics have resulted in sensors whose sizes and weights are such that they can be attached to living systems without interfering with their natural movements and behaviors [...].

Sedentary Behavior and Lower-Extremity Physical Function across the Lifespan of Adults with Multiple Sclerosis

One outcome of aging with multiple sclerosis (MS) involves the decline in physical function, including compromised balance, reduced walking speed, and lower-extremity strength. Sedentary behavior, the other end of the activity continuum, may be targeted for improvements in physical function among adults with MS, but less is known about the relationship between sedentary behavior and physical function with increasing age in MS. This study examined the associations between device-measured volume and pattern of sedentary behavior and physical function based on SPPB (Short Physical Performance Battery) of ambulatory persons with MS across the lifespan. We categorized participants (N = 216) into young (20-39 years), middle-aged (40-59 years), and older (60-79 years) age groups. Participants completed the SPPB during a single visit to the laboratory and wore an accelerometer for a 7-day period. The one-way analysis of variance indicated no differences in volume and pattern of sedentary behavior among the three age groups, except for average sedentary bout length. Spearman bivariate correlations indicated that pattern, but not volume, of sedentary behavior was associated with physical function in young, middle-aged, and older adults, and the magnitude of these associations varied by age group. Future interventions may reduce and break up prolonged periods of sedentary behavior for improvements in physical function and possibly other consequences in persons with MS.

Pedometers and Accelerometers in Multiple Sclerosis: Current and New Applications

Pedometers and accelerometers have become commonplace for the assessment of physical behaviors (e.g., physical activity and sedentary behavior) in multiple sclerosis (MS) research. Current common applications include the measurement of steps taken and the classification of physical activity intensity, as well as sedentary behavior, using cut-points methods. The existing knowledge and applications, coupled with technological advances, have spawned new opportunities for using those motion sensors in persons with MS, and these include the utilization of the data as biomarkers of disease severity and progression, perhaps in clinical practice. Herein, we discuss the current state of knowledge on the validity and applications of pedometers and accelerometers in MS, as well as new opportunities and strategies for the improved assessment of physical behaviors and disease progression, and consequently, personalized care.

The Effectiveness of Self-Guided Digital Interventions to Improve Physical Activity and Exercise Outcomes for People With Chronic Conditions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective

The aim of this systematic review was to determine the effectiveness of self-guided digital physical activity (PA) and exercise interventions to improve physical activity and exercise (PA&E) outcomes for people living with chronic health conditions. Digital health interventions, especially those with minimal human contact, may offer a sustainable solution to accessing ongoing services and support for this population.

Methods

A comprehensive and systematic search was conducted up to December 2021, through seven databases, for randomized trials that evaluated the effect of self-guided web- or internet-based PA interventions on physical activity or exercise outcomes. Included studies had to have interventions with minimal human contact and interaction with participants needed to be automatically generated. All studies were screened for eligibility and relevant data were extracted. Two independent reviewers assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. PA data were pooled, and forest plots were generated.

Results

Sixteen studies met the eligibility criteria and included a total of 2,439 participants. There was wide variation in health conditions and intervention characteristics in mode and parameters of delivery, and in the application of theory and behavioral strategies. Self-reported PA in the intervention group was greater than controls at the end of the intervention [standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.2, 95% CI = 0.1, 0.3] and at follow up (SMD 0.3, 95% CI 0.2-0.5). The difference in objectively measured PA was small and non-significant (SMD 0.3, 95% CI -0.2 to 0.9). All interventions included behavioral strategies and ten of the sixteen were underpinned by theory.

Conclusions

Self-guided digital PA&E interventions provided a positive effect on PA immediately after the intervention. An unexpected and positive finding was a sustained increase in PA at follow-up, particularly for interventions where the behavioral strategies were underpinned by a theoretical framework. Interventions with minimal contact have the potential to support sustained PA engagement at least as well as interventions with supervision.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42019132464.

Recent advances in the potential applications of luminescence-based, SPR-based, and carbon-based biosensors

Abstract

The need for biosensors has evolved in the detection of molecules, diseases, and pollution from various sources. This requirement has headed to the development of accurate and powerful equipment for analysis using biological sensing component as a biosensor. Biosensors have the advantage of rapid detection that can beat the conventional methods for the detection of the same molecules. Bio-chemiluminescence-based sensors are very sensitive during use in biological immune assay systems. Optical biosensors are emerging with time as they have the advantage that they act with a change in the refractive index. Carbon nanotube-based sensors are another area that has an important role in the biosensor field. Bioluminescence gives much higher quantum yields than classical chemiluminescence. Electro-generated bioluminescence has the advantage of miniature size and can produce a high signal-to-noise ratio and the controlled emission. Recent advances in biological techniques and instrumentation involving fluorescence tag to nanomaterials have increased the sensitivity limit of biosensors. Integrated approaches provided a better perspective for developing specific and sensitive biosensors with high regenerative potentials. This paper mainly focuses on sensors that are important for the detection of multiple molecules related to clinical and environmental applications.

Key points

• The review focusses on the applications of luminescence-based, surface plasmon resonance-based, carbon nanotube-based, and graphene-based biosensors

• Potential clinical, environmental, agricultural, and food industry applications/uses of biosensors have been critically reviewed

• The current limitations in this field are discussed, as well as the prospects for future advancement

The Association Between Actigraphy-Derived Behavioral Clusters and Self-Reported Fatigue in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis: Cross-sectional Study

Background

Persons with multiple sclerosis frequently report increased levels of fatigue and fatigability. However, behavioral surrogates that are strongly associated with self-reports are lacking, which limits research and treatment.

Objective

The aim of this study was to derive distinct behavioral syndromes that are reflected by self-reports concerning fatigue and fatigability.

Methods

We collected actigraphic data of 30 persons with multiple sclerosis over a period of 1 week during an inpatient stay at a neurorehabilitation facility. Further, participants completed the German fatigue severity scale. A principal component analysis of actigraphic parameters was performed to extract the latent component levels of behaviors that reflect fatigue (quantity of activity) and fatigability (fragmentation of activity). The resulting components were used in a cluster analysis.

Results

Analyses suggested 3 clusters, one with high activity (d=0.65-1.57) and low clinical disability levels (d=0.91-1.39), one with high levels of sedentary behavior (d=1.06-1.58), and one with strong activity fragmentation (d=1.39-1.94). The cluster with high levels of sedentary behavior further revealed strong differences from the other clusters concerning participants’ reported levels of fatigue (d=0.99-1.28).

Conclusions

Cluster analysis data proved to be feasible to meaningfully differentiate between different behavioral syndromes. Self-reports reflected the different behavioral syndromes strongly. Testing of additional domains (eg, volition or processing speed) and assessments during everyday life seem warranted to better understand the origins of reported fatigue symptomatology.

Sensor-based gait analyses of the six-minute walk test identify qualitative improvement in gait parameters of people with multiple sclerosis after rehabilitation

The aim of this work was to determine whether wearable inertial measurement units (IMUs) could detect gait improvements across different disability groups of people with Multiple Sclerosis (pwMS) by the six-minute walk test (6MWT) during a rehabilitation stay in a specialized rehabilitation center. Forty-six pwMS and 20 healthy controls (HC) were included in the study. They performed the 6MWT with two inertial measurement units (IMUs) placed on the feet. Thirty-two of the pwMS were retested at the end of the stay. PwMS were divided in a mild-disability and a moderate-disability group. The 6MWT was divided in six sections of 1 min each for technical analysis, and linear mixed models were used for statistical analyses. The comparison between the two disability groups and HC highlighted significant differences for each gait parameter (all p < 0.001). The crossing effect between the test–retest and the two disability groups showed greater improvement for the moderate-disability group. Finally, the gait parameter with the higher effect size, allowing the best differentiation between the disability groups, was the foot flat ratio (R² = 0.53). Gait analyses from wearable sensors identified different evolutions of gait patterns during the 6MWT in pwMS with different physical disability. The measured effect of a short-time rehabilitation on gait with 6MWT was higher for pwMS with higher degree of disability. Using IMUs in a clinical setting allowed to identify significant changes in inter-stride gait patterns. Wearable sensors and key parameters have the potential as useful clinical tools for focusing on gait in pwMS.

Wrist-based accelerometer cut-points for quantifying moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity in Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

Persons with Parkinson's disease (PD) participate in low levels of physical activity. This has prompted interest in developing interventions targeting physical activity behavior in PD. However, the current cut-points to quantify moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) developed for PD have been derived from a single, vertical axis using hip-worn accelerometers, and this cut-point may not be applicable for wrist-worn devices. Wrist-worn devices might improve accessibility and compliance with physical activity monitoring in PD.

RESEARCH QUESTION

What is the relationship between wrist-based activity counts and energy expenditure during treadmill walking in persons with PD? Do cut-points for quantifying time spent in MVPA differ between persons with PD and controls matched by age and sex?

METHODS

The sample included 26 persons with mild-to-moderate PD (Hoehn and Yahr stages 2-3) and 27 age- and sex-matched controls. Participants completed three, 6-minute bouts of walking on a treadmill at three increasing speeds. Vector magnitude was measured using ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometer worn on the more affected side for persons with PD and the non-dominant side for controls. The rate of oxygen consumption, or energy expenditure, was measured using a portable, open-circuit spirometry system.

RESULTS

Our results indicated a strong association between activity counts and energy expenditure for persons with PD and controls with R2 values of 0.94(0.07) and 0.95(0.06), respectively. Persons with PD had a cut-point of 2883(871) counts·min-1; this was significantly lower than the cut-point of 4389(1844) counts·min-1 for controls.

CONCLUSION

We generated a PD-specific cut-point for wrist-worn ActiGraph accelerometers among persons with PD, and this was lower than controls. This disease-specific cut-point may provide more accurate measurements of time spent in MVPA in PD.

Use of wrist-worn accelerometers to quantify bilateral upper limb activity and asymmetry under free-living conditions in people with multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Although upper limb (UL) dysfunctions are quite common among people with Multiple Sclerosis (pwMS), there is a scarcity of information about actual UL usage under free-living conditions. The aim of the present study is to quantitatively assess 'real-world' activity time, intensity and possible asymmetry of use among dominant and non-dominant ULs in pwMS.

METHODS

Twenty-eight pwMS (20 women, 8 men, average EDSS 4.3) and 28 age- and sex-matched unaffected individuals were required to wear a tri-axial accelerometer on each wrist 24h/day for 2 weekdays. Raw accelerations were processed to calculate parameters associated with time and intensity of use of UL both when engaged in uni- or bilateral activities.

RESULTS

During the 2-day monitoring period, pwMS were characterized by significantly lower overall activity, they used their dominant limb for a significantly longer time and, while performing bilateral activities, their dominant limb expressed movements of superior intensity in a proportion higher than what was observed in unaffected individuals.

CONCLUSION

The instrumental monitoring of UL activity with two wrist-worn sensors may represent an effective tool for assessing the contribution of each limb to uni- and bilateral movements. Such data can be employed to monitor the progression of UL dysfunctions and the effectiveness of pharmacologic and rehabilitative treatments.

Hybridized Nanogenerators for Multifunctional Self-Powered Sensing: Principles, Prototypes, and Perspectives

Sensors are a key component of the Internet of Things (IoTs) to collect information of environments or objects. Considering the tremendous number and complex working conditions of sensors, multifunction and self-powered feathers are two basic requirements. Nanogenerators are a kind of devices based on the triboelectric, piezoelectric, or pyroelectric effects to harvest ambient energy and then converting to electricity. The hybridized nanogenerators that combined multiple effects in one device have great potential in multifunctional self-powered sensors because of the unique superiority such as generating electrical signals directly, responding to diverse stimuli, etc. This review aims at introducing the latest advancements of hybridized nanogenerators for multifunctional self-powered sensing. Firstly, the principles and sensor prototypes based on TENG are summarized. To avoid signal interference and energy insufficiently, the multifunctional self-powered sensors based on hybridized nanogenerators are reviewed. At last, the challenges and future development of multifunctional self-powered sensors have prospected.

Accelerometer output and its association with energy expenditure in persons with mild-to-moderate Parkinson's disease

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the association between ActiGraph accelerometer output and energy expenditure across different speeds of walking in persons with Parkinson's disease (PD), and further generated cut-points that represent a metric for quantifying time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among persons with PD.

METHODS

The sample included 30 persons with mild-to-moderate PD (Hoehn and Yahr stages 2-3) and 30 adults without PD matched by sex and age. All participants completed 5 minutes of quiet, seated rest and then underwent three, 6-minute bouts of walking on a treadmill at three different speeds relative to the individual's self-selected pace. Activity counts were measured using an ActiGraph accelerometer worn at the waist level on the least affected side for persons with PD and the dominant side for controls. The rate of oxygen consumption, or energy expenditure, was measured using a portable, open-circuit spirometry system.

RESULTS

Our results indicated a strong association between activity counts and energy expenditure for persons with PD (R2 = 0.87) and controls (R2 = 0.89). However, the significant difference in slopes resulted in a lower cut-point of 1,354 counts·min-1 for persons with PD than the cut-point of 2,010 counts·min-1 for controls.

CONCLUSION

Our results support the application of the disease-specific cut-point for quantifying the amount of time spent in MVPA using ActiGraph accelerometers among persons with mild-to-moderate PD. Such an application may provide accurate estimates of MVPA in this population, and better inform future research examining the possible determinants and consequences of physical activity as well as testing of interventions for changing MVPA in PD.

Step-rate threshold for physical activity intensity in Parkinson's disease

OBJECTIVES

To examine the relationship between step-rate and energy expenditure during treadmill walking in persons with PD and then further develop a step-rate cut-point for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) for persons with PD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The sample consisted of 30 persons with mild-to-moderate PD and 30 controls matched by age and sex. Participants performed a 6-minute bout of over-ground walking at comfortable speed, and then completed three, 6-minute bouts of treadmill walking at 13.4 m/min slower, comfortable, and 13.4 m/min faster than comfortable speeds. The three treadmill speeds were based on the initial over-ground walking speed. The total number of steps per treadmill walking bout was recorded using a hand-tally counter, and energy expenditure was measured using a portable, indirect spirometry system.

RESULTS

The results indicated a strong association between step-rate and energy expenditure for persons with PD (R²  = .92) and controls (R²  = .92). The analyses further indicated a steeper slope of the association for persons with PD compared with controls (t(58) = -1.87, P < .05), resulting in a lower step-rate threshold (t(58) = 2.19, P < .05) for persons with PD (~80 steps·per minutes) than controls (~93 steps·per minutes).

CONCLUSION

Collectively, these results support the application of this disease-specific step-rate threshold for MVPA among persons with PD. This has important implications for physical activity promotion, prescription, and monitoring using accelerometers and pedometers for persons with PD to manage health and symptoms of PD.

Rates, patterns, and correlates of fitness tracker use among older adults with multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Older adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) engage in alarmingly low levels of physical activity. Fitness trackers may be a promising approach for promoting and monitoring physical activity among older adults with MS.

OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS

This study reports on the rates, patterns of fitness tracker use in adults with MS who are over 60 years of age. We hypothesized that older adults with MS who use fitness trackers "users" would report significantly more physical activity than those who don't "non-users."

METHODS

Participants across the United States completed an online survey that included self-reported demographic and clinical characteristics, fitness tracker use questionnaire, and Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ) for measuring total and health-promoting physical activity (GLTEQ-HCS).

RESULTS

Of the 440 participants who completed the full survey, 112 (28%) identified as fitness tracker users. The most common activity monitors were Fitbit®, Smartphone app, Apple® watch, and Garmin®. Fitness tracker users mostly reported having relapsing-remitting MS, less disability (i.e., lower Patient Determined Disability Steps), higher income, and higher rates of employment. There was a statistically significant difference in GLTEQ Total (t(438) = -3.8, p = .001) and GLTEQ-HCS (t(438) = -2.8, p = .006) scores between fitness tracker users and non-users. Self-reported step counts were strongly correlated with both GLTEQ Total (ρ = .50) and GLTEQ-HCS (ρ = 0.54) scores in fitness tracker users.

CONCLUSIONS

Further research is warranted investigating fitness tracker use and interests among older adults with MS and how technology may be applied as a behavioral tool to increase physical activity among this growing portion of the MS population.

Beyond center-based testing: Understanding and improving functioning with wearable technology in MS

Wearable sensors are designed to be worn on the body or embedded into portable devices (e.g. smartphones and smartwatches), allowing continuous patient-based monitoring, objective outcomes measuring, and feedback delivering on daily-life activities. Within the medicine domain, there has been a rapid increase in the development, testing, and use of wearable technologies especially in the context of neurological diseases. Although wearables represent promising tools also in multiple sclerosis (MS), the research on their application in MS is still ongoing, and further studies are required to assess their reliability and accuracy to monitor body functions and disability in people with MS (pwMS). Here, we provided a comprehensive overview of the opportunities, potential challenges, and limitations of the wearable technology use in MS. In particular, we classified previous findings within this field into macro-categories, considered crucial for disease management: assessment, monitoring, intervention, advice, and education. Given the increasing pivotal role played by wearables, current literature suggests that for pwMS, the time is right to shift from a center-based traditional therapeutic paradigm toward a personalized patient-based disease self-management. On this way, we present two ongoing initiatives aimed at implementing a continuous monitoring of pwMS and, consequently, providing timely and appropriate care interventions.

Human-Centered Design Strategies for Device Selection in mHealth Programs: Development of a Novel Framework and Case Study

BACKGROUND

Despite the increasing use of remote measurement technologies (RMT) such as wearables or biosensors in health care programs, challenges associated with selecting and implementing these technologies persist. Many health care programs that use RMT rely on commercially available, "off-the-shelf" devices to collect patient data. However, validation of these devices is sparse, the technology landscape is constantly changing, relative benefits between device options are often unclear, and research on patient and health care provider preferences is often lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To address these common challenges, we propose a novel device selection framework extrapolated from human-centered design principles, which are commonly used in de novo digital health product design. We then present a case study in which we used the framework to identify, test, select, and implement off-the-shelf devices for the Remote Assessment of Disease and Relapse-Central Nervous System (RADAR-CNS) consortium, a research program using RMT to study central nervous system disease progression.

METHODS

The RADAR-CNS device selection framework describes a human-centered approach to device selection for mobile health programs. The framework guides study designers through stakeholder engagement, technology landscaping, rapid proof of concept testing, and creative problem solving to develop device selection criteria and a robust implementation strategy. It also describes a method for considering compromises when tensions between stakeholder needs occur.

RESULTS

The framework successfully guided device selection for the RADAR-CNS study on relapse in multiple sclerosis. In the initial stage, we engaged a multidisciplinary team of patients, health care professionals, researchers, and technologists to identify our primary device-related goals. We desired regular home-based measurements of gait, balance, fatigue, heart rate, and sleep over the course of the study. However, devices and measurement methods had to be user friendly, secure, and able to produce high quality data. In the second stage, we iteratively refined our strategy and selected devices based on technological and regulatory constraints, user feedback, and research goals. At several points, we used this method to devise compromises that addressed conflicting stakeholder needs. We then implemented a feedback mechanism into the study to gather lessons about devices to improve future versions of the RADAR-CNS program.

CONCLUSIONS

The RADAR device selection framework provides a structured yet flexible approach to device selection for health care programs and can be used to systematically approach complex decisions that require teams to consider patient experiences alongside scientific priorities and logistical, technical, or regulatory constraints.

Exercise and lifestyle physical activity recommendations for people with multiple sclerosis throughout the disease course

Objectives:

To provide clinicians who treat multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with evidence-based or expert opinion–based recommendations for promoting exercise and lifestyle physical activity across disability levels.

Methods:

The National MS Society (“Society”) convened clinical and research experts in the fields of MS, exercise, rehabilitation, and physical activity to (1) reach consensus on optimal exercise and lifestyle physical activity recommendations for individuals with MS at disability levels 0–9.0 on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and (2) identify and address barriers/facilitators for participation.

Recommendations:

Based on current evidence and expert opinion, the Society makes the following recommendations, endorsed by the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers:

[Enhancing monitoring of disease progression-remote sensoring in multiple sclerosis]

BACKGROUND

As a result of innovations in the digitalization of healthcare new technologies, such as remote sensoring are gaining in importance for the collection of real-life data in addition to the regular medical examination. This enables a closer view into the daily lives of patients with multiple sclerosis and a more detailed monitoring of disease progression.

OBJECTIVE

This article gives a summary of sensor-based measurement technologies in the field of multiple sclerosis RESULTS: A wide variety of sensor-based measurement technologies are already available, which largely focus on gait analysis and mobility. Furthermore, there are many innovative approaches for a sensor-based collation of the multifocal symptoms of multiple sclerosis, for example technologies focus on the area of stress surveillance, the autonomic nervous system, GPS tracking and sleep monitoring.

DISCUSSION

Despite the existence of many already available technologies, the aim is now to find a practical way to integrate them into the daily routine of patient monitoring, which includes standardized data collection, evaluation and interpretation. Only at this point a perspective benefit for treating physicians and patients can be achieved.

Ecological validity of walking capacity tests following rehabilitation in people with multiple sclerosis

Background

Walking capacity tests are commonly used to evaluate interventions aiming at reducing walking impairment in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). However, their ecological validity has recently been questioned. The aim of the present study was to investigate the ecological validity of the 2- and 6-minutes walking tests (2MWT and 6MWT) and the timed 25-foot walk (T25FW) after 28 days of multidisciplinary inpatient rehabilitation (MIR) in pwMS using accelerometry.

Methods

PwMS wore an accelerometer on 7 consecutive days within a 14-day period prior to MIR, performed 2/6MWT and T25FW at the beginning and at the end of MIR, followed by another 7 consecutive days of accelerometry.

Results

Significant improvements in 2/6MWT and T25FW after MIR in a cohort of 76 pwMS (mean age = 47.9, SD 8.3 years) were overall correlated to a significant gain in everyday life mobility (total steps/day). However, the correlation was strongly dependent on pre-existing walking disability defined by EDSS and only pwMS with “mild” walking impairment (EDSS 2–3.5) were able to transfer benefits measurable by walking capacity tests into improved everyday life mobility, while pwMS with “moderate to severe” walking disability (EDSS 4–6.5) were not.

Conclusion

Ecological validity of changes in walking capacity tests following MIR is strongly dependent on pre-existing walking impairment.

Sociodemographic and clinical correlates of device-measured sedentary behaviour in multiple sclerosis

PURPOSE

This study examined sociodemographic and clinical variables as correlates of device-measured volume and pattern of sedentary behaviour in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Participants were recruited through a standardised invitation letter distributed among 1000 persons randomly selected from the North American Research Committee on MS registry. Those who volunteered wore an accelerometer for 7 d and provided sociodemographic and clinical information.

RESULTS

There were 233 persons with MS who were included in the analyses. Linear regression analyses indicated that age and MS type explained significant variance in total sedentary time per day as well as number of breaks in sedentary time. Only disability status explained significant variance in sedentary bout length, whereas age explained significant variance in both number of long sedentary bouts per day. Both age and disability status explained significant variance total time spent in long sedentary bouts per day.

CONCLUSIONS

Persons of older age, progressive MS, and higher disability status spend prolonged, uninterrupted periods of time sedentary. Such results highlight the need for targeted interventions in sub-populations of MS that reduce time spent sedentary and break up the pattern of sedentary behaviour. Implications for Rehabilitation Sedentary behaviour is highly prevalent in multiple sclerosis and may be associated with comorbid conditions. The majority of research on sedentary behaviour in multiple sclerosis has been derived from self-report instruments that only measure the volume of sitting time per day. This study indicates that persons with multiple sclerosis spend a significant amount of time sedentary, and those who are older, have progressive multiple sclerosis, and have higher disability status spend prolonged, uninterrupted periods of time sedentary. Such results highlight the need for targeted behavioural interventions in these sub-populations of multiple sclerosis to reduce time spent sedentary and break the pattern of sedentary behaviour to manage its consequences.

Technology-aided assessments of sensorimotor function: current use, barriers and future directions in the view of different stakeholders

BACKGROUND

There is growing interest in the use of technology in neurorehabilitation, from robotic to sensor-based devices. These technologies are believed to be excellent tools for quantitative assessment of sensorimotor ability, addressing the shortcomings of traditional clinical assessments. However, clinical adoption of technology-based assessments is very limited. To understand this apparent contradiction, we sought to gather the points-of-view of different stakeholders in the development and use of technology-aided sensorimotor assessments.

METHODS

A questionnaire regarding motivators, barriers, and the future of technology-aided assessments was prepared and disseminated online. To promote discussion, we present an initial analysis of the dataset; raw responses are provided to the community as Supplementary Material. Average responses within stakeholder groups were compared across groups. Additional questions about respondent's demographics and professional practice were used to obtain a view of the current landscape of sensorimotor assessments and interactions between different stakeholders.

RESULTS

One hundred forty respondents from 23 countries completed the survey. Respondents were a mix of Clinicians (27%), Research Engineers (34%), Basic Scientists (15%), Medical Industry professionals (16%), Patients (2%) and Others (6%). Most respondents were experienced in rehabilitation within their professions (67% with > 5 years of experience), and had exposure to technology-aided assessments (97% of respondents). In general, stakeholders agreed on reasons for performing assessments, level of details required, current bottlenecks, and future directions. However, there were disagreements between and within stakeholders in aspects such as frequency of assessments, and important factors hindering adoption of technology-aided assessments, e.g., Clinicians' top factor was cost, while Research Engineers indicated device-dependent factors and lack of standardization. Overall, lack of time, cost, lack of standardization and poor understanding/lack of interpretability were the major factors hindering the adoption of technology-aided assessments in clinical practice. Reimbursement and standardization of technology-aided assessments were rated as the top two activities to pursue in the coming years to promote the field of technology-aided sensorimotor assessments.

CONCLUSIONS

There is an urgent need for standardization in technology-aided assessments. These efforts should be accompanied by quality cross-disciplinary activities, education and alignment of scientific language, to more effectively promote the clinical use of assessment technologies.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NA; see Declarations section.

Monitoring Physical Activity with Wearable Technologies

Living a healthy and fulfilling life or at least carrying on the daily activities inevitably depends on some physical activity in different scales. Therefore, measuring the physical activity is necessary to evaluate both healthy people and patients in order to plan their needs for wellbeing. Objective and accurate measurements can be made with wearable sensors and related technologies. Evaluating health and wellness, efficacy of treatment, safety, physical ability and disability are in the scope of monitoring physical activity with wearable technologies.