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Rocca MA, Romanò F, Tedone N, Filippi M. Advanced neuroimaging techniques to explore the effects of motor and cognitive rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis. J Neurol 2024; 271:3806-3848. [PMID: 38691168 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12395-0] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Progress in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology and analyses is improving our comprehension of multiple sclerosis (MS) pathophysiology. These advancements, which enable the evaluation of atrophy, microstructural tissue abnormalities, and functional plasticity, are broadening our insights into the effectiveness and working mechanisms of motor and cognitive rehabilitative treatments. AREAS COVERED This narrative review with selected studies discusses findings derived from the application of advanced MRI techniques to evaluate structural and functional neuroplasticity modifications underlying the effects of motor and cognitive rehabilitative treatments in people with MS (PwMS). Current applications as outcome measure in longitudinal trials and observational studies, their interpretation and possible pitfalls and limitations in their use are covered. Finally, we examine how the use of these techniques could evolve in the future to improve monitoring of motor and cognitive rehabilitative treatments. EXPERT COMMENTARY Despite substantial variability in study design and participant characteristics in rehabilitative studies for PwMS, improvements in motor and cognitive functions accompanied by structural and functional brain modifications induced by rehabilitation can be observed. However, significant enhancements to refine rehabilitation strategies are needed. Future studies in this field should strive to implement standardized methodologies regarding MRI acquisition and processing, possibly integrating multimodal measures. This will help identifying relevant markers of treatment response in PwMS, thus improving the use of rehabilitative interventions at individual level. The combination of motor and cognitive strategies, longer periods of treatment, as well as adequate follow-up assessments will contribute to enhance the quality of evidence in support of their routine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Rocca
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.
| | - Francesco Romanò
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicolò Tedone
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurophysiology Service, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Wong D, Pike K, Stolwyk R, Allott K, Ponsford J, McKay A, Longley W, Bosboom P, Hodge A, Kinsella G, Mowszowski L. Delivery of Neuropsychological Interventions for Adult and Older Adult Clinical Populations: An Australian Expert Working Group Clinical Guidance Paper. Neuropsychol Rev 2023:10.1007/s11065-023-09624-0. [PMID: 38032472 DOI: 10.1007/s11065-023-09624-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Delivery of neuropsychological interventions addressing the cognitive, psychological, and behavioural consequences of brain conditions is increasingly recognised as an important, if not essential, skill set for clinical neuropsychologists. It has the potential to add substantial value and impact to our role across clinical settings. However, there are numerous approaches to neuropsychological intervention, requiring different sets of skills, and with varying levels of supporting evidence across different diagnostic groups. This clinical guidance paper provides an overview of considerations and recommendations to help guide selection, delivery, and implementation of neuropsychological interventions for adults and older adults. We aimed to provide a useful source of information and guidance for clinicians, health service managers, policy-makers, educators, and researchers regarding the value and impact of such interventions. Considerations and recommendations were developed by an expert working group of neuropsychologists in Australia, based on relevant evidence and consensus opinion in consultation with members of a national clinical neuropsychology body. While the considerations and recommendations sit within the Australian context, many have international relevance. We include (i) principles important for neuropsychological intervention delivery (e.g. being based on biopsychosocial case formulation and person-centred goals); (ii) a description of clinical competencies important for effective intervention delivery; (iii) a summary of relevant evidence in three key cohorts: acquired brain injury, psychiatric disorders, and older adults, focusing on interventions with sound evidence for improving activity and participation outcomes; (iv) an overview of considerations for sustainable implementation of neuropsychological interventions as 'core business'; and finally, (v) a call to action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Wong
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Kerryn Pike
- School of Psychology and Public Health & John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Rene Stolwyk
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kelly Allott
- , Orygen, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Jennie Ponsford
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Adam McKay
- School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- MERRC, Rehabilitation and Mental Health Division, Epworth HealthCare, Richmond, Australia
| | - Wendy Longley
- Rehabilitation Studies Unit, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- The Uniting War Memorial Hospital, Waverley, Sydney, Australia
| | - Pascalle Bosboom
- MindLink Psychology, West Perth, Australia
- School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | | | - Glynda Kinsella
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Loren Mowszowski
- Faculty of Science, School of Psychology & Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Amiri S, Hassani-Abharian P, Vaseghi S, Kazemi R, Nasehi M. Effect of RehaCom cognitive rehabilitation software on working memory and processing speed in chronic ischemic stroke patients. Assist Technol 2023; 35:41-47. [PMID: 34033513 DOI: 10.1080/10400435.2021.1934608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke survivors need assistance to overcome cognitive impairments. Working memory (WM) and processing speed (PS) as two critical cognitive functions are disrupted by stroke. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of RehaCom rehabilitation software on WM and PS in participants with chronic ischemic stroke with hemiplegia (right/left side). Participants were selected among stroke patients who were referred to our special rehabilitation clinic. Fifty participants were assigned to control (n = 25) and experimental (n = 25) groups. The results of the experimental group were compared with the control group before and after the treatment with RehaCom (ten 45-min sessions across five weeks, two sessions per week). The results showed a significant improvement in WM and PS in the experimental group in comparison with the control group after a 5-week training with RehaCom. In conclusion, our findings indicate that treatment with RehaCom software improves WM and PS in chronic ischemic stroke participants with hemiplegia. The exact mechanism of RehaCom is largely unknown and further studies are needed, but its effects on the function of brain regions involved in modulating cognitive functions such as the prefrontal cortex, cingulate cortex, and parietal cortex may be mechanisms of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Amiri
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peyman Hassani-Abharian
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Salar Vaseghi
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rouzbeh Kazemi
- TABASOM Rehabilitation Center for Stroke Patients, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nasehi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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Argento O, Piacentini C, Bossa M, Caltagirone C, Santamato A, Saraceni V, Nocentini U. Motor, cognitive, and combined rehabilitation approaches on MS patients' cognitive impairment. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:1109-1118. [PMID: 36542204 PMCID: PMC9769485 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06552-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND At the moment, the possible options for the management of cognitive dysfunctions in patients with MS (pMS) are pharmacological interventions, cognitive rehabilitation (CR), and physical exercise. However, worldwide, multimodal programs are infrequently applied in pMS and CR is not easily accessible through the National Health System as MR. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to explore if the combination of motor and cognitive rehabilitation may favor better outcomes on cognitive efficiency compared to separate trainings. METHODS Forty-eight pMS were submitted to detailed neuropsychological and motor assessments, before (T0) and after (T1) having performed one of three rehabilitation conditions (two cognitive trainings/week-Reha1; one cognitive and one motor training/week-Reha2; two motor trainings/week-Reha3, for 12 weeks); they were randomly assigned to one condition or another. The CR was focused on memory functioning and performed with the Rehacom program. RESULTS No significant differences in age, sex, education, and disease course were found between the three groups (sig. > .05). Reha1 patients increased only their cognitive performance, and Reha3 only increased their motor performance, while Reha2 increased both cognitive and motor performances. This benefit was also confirmed by the cognitive efficiency expressed by the Cognitive Impairment Index. CONCLUSIONS These data confirm that to include cognitive training within rehabilitation programs may induce important benefits in pMS. Furthermore, pMS seem to benefit from a combined approach (cognitive and motor) more than from CR and motor rehabilitation separately (ClinicalTrial.gov ID: NCT05462678; 14 July 2022, retrospectively registered).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornella Argento
- Behavioral Neuropsychology Unit, I.R.C.C.S. "Santa Lucia" Foundation, Via Ardeatina, 306, 00179, Rome, Italy.
| | - Chiara Piacentini
- Behavioral Neuropsychology Unit, I.R.C.C.S. “Santa Lucia” Foundation, Via Ardeatina, 306, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Bossa
- Behavioral Neuropsychology Unit, I.R.C.C.S. “Santa Lucia” Foundation, Via Ardeatina, 306, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Caltagirone
- Scientific Direction, I.R.C.C.S. “Santa Lucia” Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Santamato
- Rehabilitation Centre-Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Section, OORR-Hospital-University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Saraceni
- Scientific Direction, “Filippo Turati” Foundation, Rehabilitation Centre, Pistoia, Italy
| | - Ugo Nocentini
- Behavioral Neuropsychology Unit, I.R.C.C.S. “Santa Lucia” Foundation, Via Ardeatina, 306, 00179 Rome, Italy ,Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
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Rocca MA, Schoonheim MM, Valsasina P, Geurts JJG, Filippi M. Task- and resting-state fMRI studies in multiple sclerosis: From regions to systems and time-varying analysis. Current status and future perspective. Neuroimage Clin 2022; 35:103076. [PMID: 35691253 PMCID: PMC9194954 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.103076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Functional MRI is able to detect adaptive and maladaptive abnormalities at different MS stages. Increased fMRI activity is a feature of early MS, while progressive exhaustion of adaptive mechanisms is detected later on in the disease. Collapse of long-range connections and impaired hub integration characterize MS network reorganization. Time-varying connectivity analysis provides useful and complementary pieces of information to static functional connectivity. New perspectives might be the use of multimodal MRI and artificial intelligence.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disorder affecting the central nervous system and features extensive functional brain changes that are poorly understood but relate strongly to clinical impairments. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a non-invasive, powerful technique able to map activity of brain regions and to assess how such regions interact for an efficient brain network. FMRI has been widely applied to study functional brain changes in MS, allowing to investigate functional plasticity consequent to disease-related structural injury. The first studies in MS using active fMRI tasks mainly aimed to study such plastic changes by identifying abnormal activity in salient brain regions (or systems) involved by the task. In later studies the focus shifted towards resting state (RS) functional connectivity (FC) studies, which aimed to map large-scale functional networks of the brain and to establish how MS pathology impairs functional integration, eventually leading to the hypothesized network collapse as patients clinically progress. This review provides a summary of the main findings from studies using task-based and RS fMRI and illustrates how functional brain alterations relate to clinical disability and cognitive deficits in this condition. We also give an overview of longitudinal studies that used task-based and RS fMRI to monitor disease evolution and effects of motor and cognitive rehabilitation. In addition, we discuss the results of studies using newer technologies involving time-varying FC to investigate abnormal dynamism and flexibility of network configurations in MS. Finally, we show some preliminary results from two recent topics (i.e., multimodal MRI analysis and artificial intelligence) that are receiving increasing attention. Together, these functional studies could provide new (conceptual) insights into disease stage-specific mechanisms underlying progression in MS, with recommendations for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Rocca
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.
| | - Menno M Schoonheim
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paola Valsasina
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Jeroen J G Geurts
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Neurophysiology Service, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Ayala OD, Banta D, Hovhannisyan M, Duarte L, Lozano A, García JR, Montañés P, Davis SW, De Brigard F. Episodic Past, Future, and counterfactual thinking in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple sclerosis. Neuroimage Clin 2022; 34:103033. [PMID: 35561552 PMCID: PMC9112031 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.103033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Performance in episodic past, future or counterfactual thinking in relapsing-remitting MS and controls was explored. Behavioral and diffusion weighted imaging were used to evaluate associations between white matter integrity and group differences in performance. Relative to controls, MS patients showed reductions in episodic details across all three simulations. Reduced white matter integrity in three association tracts predicted this reduction in episodic details during counterfactual simulations.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive disease characterized by widespread white matter lesions in the brain and spinal cord. In addition to well-characterized motor deficits, MS results in cognitive impairments in several domains, notably in episodic autobiographical memory. Recent studies have also revealed that patients with MS exhibit deficits in episodic future thinking, i.e., our capacity to imagine possible events that may occur in our personal future. Both episodic memory and episodic future thinking have been shown to share cognitive and neural mechanisms with a related kind of hypothetical simulation known as episodic counterfactual thinking: our capacity to imagine alternative ways in which past personal events could have occurred but did not. However, the extent to which episodic counterfactual thinking is affected in MS is still unknown. The current study sought to explore this issue by comparing performance in mental simulation tasks involving either past, future or counterfactual thoughts in relapsing-remitting MS. Diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) measures were also extracted to determine whether changes in structural pathways connecting the brain’s default mode network (DMN) would be associated with group differences in task performance. Relative to controls, patients showed marked reductions in the number of internal details across all mental simulations, but no differences in the number of external and semantic-based details. It was also found that, relative to controls, patients with relapsing-remitting MS reported reduced composition ratings for episodic simulations depicting counterfactual events, but not so for actual past or possible future episodes. Additionally, three DWI measures of white matter integrity—fractional anisotropy, radial diffusivity and streamline counts—showed reliable differences between patients with relapsing-remitting MS and matched healthy controls. Importantly, DWI measures associated with reduced white matter integrity in three association tracts on the DMN—the right superior longitudinal fasciculus, the left hippocampal portion of the cingulum and the left inferior longitudinal fasciculus—predicted reductions in the number of internal details during episodic counterfactual simulations. Taken together, these results help to illuminate impairments in episodic simulation in relapsing-remitting MS and show, for the first time, a differential association between white matter integrity and deficits in episodic counterfactual thinking in individuals with relapsing-remitting MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Daniel Ayala
- Department of Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia; Clínica de Marly, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Daisy Banta
- Department of Neurology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mariam Hovhannisyan
- Department of Neurology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | - Patricia Montañés
- Department of Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Simon W Davis
- Department of Neurology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Felipe De Brigard
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Center for Cognitive Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Philosophy, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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Frieske J, Pareto D, García-Vidal A, Cuypers K, Meesen RL, Alonso J, Arévalo MJ, Galán I, Renom M, Vidal-Jordana Á, Auger C, Montalban X, Rovira À, Sastre-Garriga J. Can cognitive training reignite compensatory mechanisms in advanced multiple sclerosis patients? An explorative morphological network approach. Neuroscience 2022; 495:86-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Abstract
Cognitive impairment and related abnormal brain activity are common in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Adaptive training based on working memory (WM) has been shown to ameliorate cognitive symptoms, although the effects at a neural level are unclear. The aim of this study was to expand the existing research on the effects of an adaptive WM rehabilitative intervention on brain functional activity in PwMS. A sample of eighteen PwMS performed an 8-week home-based cognitive rehabilitation treatment based on adaptive WM training. PwMS were assessed before and after treatment using a validated neuropsychological battery and undergoing an fMRI session while carrying out a cognitive task (i.e., Paced Visual Serial Addition Test - PVSAT). fMRI activations were compared to the activation pattern elicited by eighteen matched healthy subjects performing the same task. At baseline, we found abnormal brain activity during PVSAT in PwMS when compared to healthy subjects, with a pattern including several bilateral activation clusters. Following rehabilitation, PwMS improved cognitive performance, as evaluated by the neuropsychological battery, and showed a different activation map with clusters mainly located in the right cerebellum and in the left hemisphere. The only significant cluster in the right hemisphere was located in the inferior parietal lobule, and the BOLD signal extracted in this area significantly correlated with cognitive performance both before and after the treatment. We suggest that WM training can improve the cognitive performance and reduce the abnormal activation of PwMS by partially maintaining or even restoring brain cognitive function.
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Messinis L, Kosmidis MH, Nasios G, Konitsiotis S, Ntoskou A, Bakirtzis C, Grigoriadis N, Patrikelis P, Panagiotopoulos E, Gourzis P, Malefaki S, Papathanasopoulos P. Do Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis patients benefit from Computer- based cognitive neurorehabilitation? A randomized sham controlled trial. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2020; 39:101932. [PMID: 31927200 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2020.101932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairment is common in multiple sclerosis (MS), but deficits tend to be more pronounced in progressive MS, negatively impacting daily functional capacity. Despite this, most cognitive rehabilitation (CR) interventions to date have focused on relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). Moreover, information on the efficacy of CR in progressive MS is limited and controversial. The present study investigated the efficacy of a home based, computer assisted cognitive rehabilitation (HBCACR) intervention (RehaComTM software) exclusively in a Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS) sample. METHODS This was a randomized, multi site, sham controlled trial. Thirty six (36) individuals with SPMS, naïve to the RehaCom software, with cognitive deficits were randomized to the treatment (IG; n= 19) or control group condition (CG; n=17). Treatment with the RehaCom modules consisted of 24 domain and task specific, 45 minute session's over an 8-week period, three sessions per week, applied by each patient at home. The CG completed non specific computer based activities at home with the same frequency and duration. Primary cognitive outcome measures included the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) battery, and secondary outcome measures for depression (BDI-FS), fatigue (MFIS), and quality of life (EuroQol EQ-5D) visual analogue scale (VAS). RESULTS The two groups were well matched on demographic and clinical characteristics, cognitive reserve and severity of cognitive deficits at baseline assessment. At post treatment assessment the IG group showed significant improvements with large effect sizes; in verbal learning [z = -4.759, p <.0005, g = 2.898], visuospatial memory [z = -3.940, p <.0005, g = 1.699] and information processing speed [z= -4.792, p <.0005, g = 2.980], compared with the sham control group. We also found significant between group differences on physical [z=-3.308, p = .001, g= -.604], cognitive [z = -4.011, p <.0005, g = -1.654], psychosocial [z= 3.308, p = .010, g = -.940], and general fatigue impact [z= -2.623, p = .008, g = -.519], depression severity [z = -2.730, p = .006, g = -.519], and quality of life [z= -4.239, p <.0005, g = -1.885] in favor of the treated group. CONCLUSION These data provide the first evidence supporting the efficacy of computer based restorative cognitive rehabilitation applied at home exclusively in SPMS patients, suggesting that adaptive neuroplasticity may occur after functional cognitive training in progressive MS. Improved cognitive functioning in combination with mood augmentation appear to have ameliorated fatigue, which impacted daily functioning activity and culminated in improved health related quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lambros Messinis
- Neuropsychology Section, Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, University Hospital of Patras and University of Patras Medical School.
| | - Mary H Kosmidis
- Lab of Cognitive Neuroscience, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Grigorios Nasios
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina
| | | | - Aikaterini Ntoskou
- Rehabilitation Unit for patients with Spinal Cord Injury, "Demetrios and Vera Sfikas" Department of Medicine, University of Patras Medical School
| | - Christos Bakirtzis
- B'Department of Neurology and the MS Center, AHEPA University Hospital, Central Macedonia, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Grigoriadis
- B'Department of Neurology and the MS Center, AHEPA University Hospital, Central Macedonia, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Panayiotis Patrikelis
- First Department of Neurosurgery, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
| | - Elias Panagiotopoulos
- Rehabilitation Unit for patients with Spinal Cord Injury, "Demetrios and Vera Sfikas" Department of Medicine, University of Patras Medical School
| | | | - Sonia Malefaki
- Department of Mechanical Engineering & Aeronautics, University of Patras (statistics)
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Aguirre N, Cruz-Gómez ÁJ, Miró-Padilla A, Bueichekú E, Broseta Torres R, Ávila C, Sanchis-Segura C, Forn C. Repeated Working Memory Training Improves Task Performance and Neural Efficiency in Multiple Sclerosis Patients and Healthy Controls. Mult Scler Int 2019; 2019:2657902. [PMID: 31139470 PMCID: PMC6500632 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2657902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE To explore the effectiveness of a specific working memory (WM) training program in MS patients and healthy controls (HC). METHOD 29 MS patients and 29 matched HC were enrolled in the study. MS and HC were randomly split into two groups: nontraining groups (15HC/14 MS) and training groups (14 HC/15 MS). Training groups underwent adaptive n-back training (60 min/day; 4 days). Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to monitor brain activity during n-back performance (conditions: 0-back, 2-back, and 3-back) at 3 time points: (1) baseline, (2) post-training (+7days), and (3) follow-up (+35days). RESULTS In post-training and follow-up fMRI sessions, trained groups (HC and MS patients) exhibited significant reaction time (RT) reductions and increases in Correct Responses (CRs) during 2-back and 3-back performance. This improvement of task performance was accompanied by a decrease in brain activation in the WM frontoparietal network. The two effects were significantly correlated. CONCLUSIONS After WM training, both cognitively preserved MS patients and HC participants showed task performance improvement made possible by neuroplastic processes that enhanced neural efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naiara Aguirre
- Universitat Jaume I. Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Clínica i Psicobiología, Castelló de la Plana 12006, Spain
| | - Álvaro Javier Cruz-Gómez
- Universitat Jaume I. Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Clínica i Psicobiología, Castelló de la Plana 12006, Spain
| | - Anna Miró-Padilla
- Universitat Jaume I. Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Clínica i Psicobiología, Castelló de la Plana 12006, Spain
| | - Elisenda Bueichekú
- Universitat Jaume I. Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Clínica i Psicobiología, Castelló de la Plana 12006, Spain
| | | | - César Ávila
- Universitat Jaume I. Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Clínica i Psicobiología, Castelló de la Plana 12006, Spain
| | - Carla Sanchis-Segura
- Universitat Jaume I. Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Clínica i Psicobiología, Castelló de la Plana 12006, Spain
| | - Cristina Forn
- Universitat Jaume I. Departament de Psicología Bàsica, Clínica i Psicobiología, Castelló de la Plana 12006, Spain
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The Role of fMRI in the Assessment of Neuroplasticity in MS: A Systematic Review. Neural Plast 2018; 2018:3419871. [PMID: 30693023 PMCID: PMC6332922 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3419871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroplasticity, which is the ability of the brain to adapt to internal and external environmental changes, physiologically occurs during growth and in response to damage. The brain's response to damage is of particular interest in multiple sclerosis, a chronic disease characterized by inflammatory and neurodegenerative damage to the central nervous system. Functional MRI (fMRI) is a tool that allows functional changes related to the disease and to its evolution to be studied in vivo. Several studies have shown that abnormal brain recruitment during the execution of a task starts in the early phases of multiple sclerosis. The increased functional activation during a specific task observed has been interpreted mainly as a mechanism of adaptive plasticity designed to contrast the increase in tissue damage. More recent fMRI studies, which have focused on the activity of brain regions at rest, have yielded nonunivocal results, suggesting that changes in functional brain connections represent mechanisms of either adaptive or maladaptive plasticity. The few longitudinal studies available to date on disease evolution have also yielded discrepant results that are likely to depend on the clinical features considered and the length of the follow-up. Lastly, fMRI has been used in interventional studies to investigate plastic changes induced by pharmacological therapy or rehabilitation, though whether such changes represent a surrogate of neuroplasticity remains unclear. The aim of this paper is to systematically review the existing literature in order to provide an overall description of both the neuroplastic process itself and the evolution in the use of fMRI techniques as a means of assessing neuroplasticity. The quantitative and qualitative approach adopted here ensures an objective analysis of published, peer-reviewed research and yields an overview of up-to-date knowledge.
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Strikwerda‐Brown C, Mothakunnel A, Hodges JR, Piguet O, Irish M. External details revisited – A new taxonomy for coding ‘non‐episodic’ content during autobiographical memory retrieval. J Neuropsychol 2018; 13:371-397. [DOI: 10.1111/jnp.12160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cherie Strikwerda‐Brown
- Brain and Mind Centre The University of Sydney Camperdown New South Wales Australia
- School of Psychology The University of Sydney Camperdown New South Wales Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Cognition and its Disorders Camperdown New South Wales Australia
| | - Annu Mothakunnel
- Brain and Mind Centre The University of Sydney Camperdown New South Wales Australia
- School of Psychology The University of Sydney Camperdown New South Wales Australia
| | - John R. Hodges
- Brain and Mind Centre The University of Sydney Camperdown New South Wales Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Cognition and its Disorders Camperdown New South Wales Australia
- Sydney Medical School The University of Sydney Camperdown New South Wales Australia
| | - Olivier Piguet
- Brain and Mind Centre The University of Sydney Camperdown New South Wales Australia
- School of Psychology The University of Sydney Camperdown New South Wales Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Cognition and its Disorders Camperdown New South Wales Australia
| | - Muireann Irish
- Brain and Mind Centre The University of Sydney Camperdown New South Wales Australia
- School of Psychology The University of Sydney Camperdown New South Wales Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Cognition and its Disorders Camperdown New South Wales Australia
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Efficacy of a Computer-Assisted Cognitive Rehabilitation Intervention in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial. Behav Neurol 2017; 2017:5919841. [PMID: 29463950 PMCID: PMC5804109 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5919841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment is frequently encountered in multiple sclerosis (MS) affecting between 40-65% of individuals, irrespective of disease duration and severity of physical disability. In the present multicenter randomized controlled trial, fifty-eight clinically stable RRMS patients with mild to moderate cognitive impairment and relatively low disability status were randomized to receive either computer-assisted (RehaCom) functional cognitive training with an emphasis on episodic memory, information processing speed/attention, and executive functions for 10 weeks (IG; n = 32) or standard clinical care (CG; n = 26). Outcome measures included a flexible comprehensive neuropsychological battery of tests sensitive to MS patient deficits and feedback regarding personal benefit gained from the intervention on four verbal questions. Only the IG group showed significant improvements in verbal and visuospatial episodic memory, processing speed/attention, and executive functioning from pre - to postassessment. Moreover, the improvement obtained on attention was retained over 6 months providing evidence on the long-term benefits of this intervention. Group by time interactions revealed significant improvements in composite cognitive domain scores in the IG relative to the demographically and clinically matched CG for verbal episodic memory, processing speed, verbal fluency, and attention. Treated patients rated the intervention positively and were more confident about their cognitive abilities following treatment.
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Ernst A, Sourty M, Roquet D, Noblet V, Gounot D, Blanc F, de Seze J, Manning L. Benefits from an autobiographical memory facilitation programme in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients: a clinical and neuroimaging study. Neuropsychol Rehabil 2016; 28:1110-1130. [PMID: 27718890 DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2016.1240697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
While the efficacy of mental visual imagery (MVI) to alleviate autobiographical memory (AM) impairment in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients has been documented, nothing is known about the brain changes sustaining that improvement. To explore this issue, 20 relapsing-remitting MS patients showing AM impairment were randomly assigned to two groups, experimental (n = 10), who underwent the MVI programme, and control (n = 10), who followed a sham verbal programme. Besides the stringent AM assessment, the patients underwent structural and functional MRI sessions, consisting in retrieving personal memories, within a pre-/post-facilitation study design. Only the experimental group showed a significant AM improvement in post-facilitation, accompanied by changes in brain activation (medial and lateral frontal regions), functional connectivity (posterior brain regions), and grey matter volume (parahippocampal gyrus). Minor activations and functional connectivity changes were observed in the control group. The MVI programme improved AM in MS patients leading to functional and structural changes reflecting (1) an increase reliance on brain regions sustaining a self-referential process; (2) a decrease of those reflecting an effortful research process; and (3) better use of neural resources in brain regions sustaining MVI. Functional changes reported in the control group likely reflected ineffective attempts to use the sham strategy in AM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Ernst
- a Cognitive Neuropsychology and Physiopathology of Schizophrenia (INSERM UMR 1114) , University of Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France
| | - Marion Sourty
- b ICube (CNRS UMR 7357) , University of Strasbourg, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS) , Strasbourg , France
| | - Daniel Roquet
- b ICube (CNRS UMR 7357) , University of Strasbourg, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS) , Strasbourg , France
| | - Vincent Noblet
- b ICube (CNRS UMR 7357) , University of Strasbourg, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS) , Strasbourg , France
| | - Daniel Gounot
- b ICube (CNRS UMR 7357) , University of Strasbourg, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS) , Strasbourg , France
| | - Frédéric Blanc
- b ICube (CNRS UMR 7357) , University of Strasbourg, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS) , Strasbourg , France.,c Department of Neurology and Centre Mémoire de Ressources et de Recherche (CMRR) , University Hospital of Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France.,d Clinical Investigation Centre (CIC, INSERM 1434) , University Hospital of Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France
| | - Jérôme de Seze
- c Department of Neurology and Centre Mémoire de Ressources et de Recherche (CMRR) , University Hospital of Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France.,d Clinical Investigation Centre (CIC, INSERM 1434) , University Hospital of Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France
| | - Liliann Manning
- a Cognitive Neuropsychology and Physiopathology of Schizophrenia (INSERM UMR 1114) , University of Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France
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Ernst A, Noblet V, Gounot D, Blanc F, de Seze J, Manning L. Neural correlates of episodic future thinking impairment in multiple sclerosis patients. J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 2016; 37:1107-23. [PMID: 26378725 DOI: 10.1080/13803395.2015.1080228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent clinical investigations showed impaired episodic future thinking (EFT) abilities in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. On these bases, the aim of the current study was to explore the structural and functional correlates of EFT impairment in nondepressed MS patients. METHOD Twenty-one nondepressed MS patients and 20 matched healthy controls were assessed with the adapted Autobiographical Interview (AI), and patients were selected on the bases of an EFT impaired score criterion. The 41 participants underwent a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) session, distinguishing the construction and elaboration phases of the experimental EFT, and the categorical control tests. Structural images were also acquired. RESULTS During the EFT fMRI task, increased cerebral activations were observed in patients (relative to healthy controls) within the EFT core network. These neural changes were particularly important during the construction phase of future events and involved mostly the prefrontal region. This was accompanied by an increased neural response mostly in anterior, and also posterior, cerebral regions, in association with the amount of detail produced by patients. In parallel, structural measures corroborated a main positive association between the prefrontal regions' volume and EFT performance. However, no association between the hippocampus and EFT performance was observed in patients, at both structural and functional levels. CONCLUSION We have documented significant overlaps between the structural and functional underpinnings of EFT impairment, with a main role of the prefrontal region in its clinical expression in MS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Ernst
- a Cognitive Neuropsychology and Physiopathology of Schizophrenia (INSERM UMR 1114) , Strasbourg University , Strasbourg , France
| | - Vincent Noblet
- c ICube (CNRS UMR 7357) , Strasbourg University , Strasbourg , France.,d Fédération de Médecine translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS) , Strasbourg , France
| | - Daniel Gounot
- c ICube (CNRS UMR 7357) , Strasbourg University , Strasbourg , France
| | - Frédéric Blanc
- b Department of Neurology and Centre Mémoire de Ressources et de Recherche (CMRR) , University Hospital of Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France.,c ICube (CNRS UMR 7357) , Strasbourg University , Strasbourg , France.,d Fédération de Médecine translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS) , Strasbourg , France
| | - Jérôme de Seze
- b Department of Neurology and Centre Mémoire de Ressources et de Recherche (CMRR) , University Hospital of Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France.,e Clinical Investigation Centre (CIC, INSERM 1434), University Hospital of Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France
| | - Liliann Manning
- a Cognitive Neuropsychology and Physiopathology of Schizophrenia (INSERM UMR 1114) , Strasbourg University , Strasbourg , France
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Dobryakova E, Wylie GR, DeLuca J, Chiaravalloti ND. A pilot study examining functional brain activity 6 months after memory retraining in MS: the MEMREHAB trial. Brain Imaging Behav 2015; 8:403-6. [PMID: 24928632 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-014-9309-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) is now well recognized. One of the most common cognitive deficits is found in memory functioning, largely due to impaired acquisition. We examined functional brain activity 6 months after memory retraining in individuals with MS. The current report presents long term follow-up results from a randomized clinical trial on a memory rehabilitation protocol known as the modified Story Memory Technique. Behavioral memory performance and brain activity of all participants were evaluated at baseline, immediately after treatment, and 6 months after treatment. Results revealed that previously observed increases in patterns of cerebral activation during learning immediately after memory training were maintained 6 months post training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Dobryakova
- Kessler Foundation Research Center, 300 Executive Drive, Suite 70, West Orange, NJ, 07052, USA
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Prosperini L, Piattella MC, Giannì C, Pantano P. Functional and Structural Brain Plasticity Enhanced by Motor and Cognitive Rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis. Neural Plast 2015; 2015:481574. [PMID: 26064692 PMCID: PMC4438192 DOI: 10.1155/2015/481574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Rehabilitation is recognized to be important in ameliorating motor and cognitive functions, reducing disease burden, and improving quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). In this systematic review, we summarize the existing evidences that motor and cognitive rehabilitation may enhance functional and structural brain plasticity in patients with MS, as assessed by means of the most advanced neuroimaging techniques, including diffusion tensor imaging and task-related and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In most cases, the rehabilitation program was based on computer-assisted/video game exercises performed in either an outpatient or home setting. Despite their heterogeneity, all the included studies describe changes in white matter microarchitecture, in task-related activation, and/or in functional connectivity following both task-oriented and selective training. When explored, relevant correlation between improved function and MRI-detected brain changes was often found, supporting the hypothesis that training-induced brain plasticity is specifically linked to the trained domain. Small sample sizes, lack of randomization and/or an active control group, as well as missed relationship between MRI-detected changes and clinical performance, are the major drawbacks of the selected studies. Knowledge gaps in this field of research are also discussed to provide a framework for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Prosperini
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University, Viale dell'Università 30, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Piattella
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University, Viale dell'Università 30, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Costanza Giannì
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Pathology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Pantano
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University, Viale dell'Università 30, 00185 Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
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Hubacher M, Kappos L, Weier K, Stöcklin M, Opwis K, Penner IK. Case-Based fMRI Analysis after Cognitive Rehabilitation in MS: A Novel Approach. Front Neurol 2015; 6:78. [PMID: 25904893 PMCID: PMC4389546 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2015.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive decline in multiple sclerosis (MS) negatively impacts patients' everyday functioning and quality of life. Since symptomatic pharmacological treatment is not yet available alternative treatment strategies such as cognitive rehabilitation are of particular interest. OBJECTIVES To analyse the ways in which MS patients respond to cognitive training, by combining behavioral and fMRI data in a case-based triangulation approach. METHODS Ten relapsing-remitting (RR) MS patients aged between 39 and 58 years and between 1 and 8 years post MS diagnosis were included. EDSS ranged from 1 to 3.5. Participants had normal to high intelligence levels. Six patients were assigned to the training group (TG) and four to the control group (CG) without intervention. The TG received a 4-week computerized working memory (WM) training, consisting of 16 training sessions of 45 min duration each. Before and after the training a neuropsychological examination and fMRI investigation by using an N-back task of different complexity was applied. RESULTS Patients in the TG responded differently to cognitive training. Four participants did not meet the triangulation criteria for being treatment responders. The two responders showed two distinct changes regarding activation patterns after training: (I) decreased brain activation associated with increased processing speed and (II) increased brain activation associated with higher processing speed and WM performance. CONCLUSION The occurrence of different and opposed response patterns after the same training indicates a risk in applying classical group statistics. Different and especially opposed patterns within the same sample may distort results of classical statistical comparisons. Thus, underlying processes may not be discovered and lead to misinterpretation of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Hubacher
- Department of Cognitive Psychology and Methodology, University of Basel , Basel , Switzerland
| | - Ludwig Kappos
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel , Basel , Switzerland
| | - Katrin Weier
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel , Basel , Switzerland
| | - Markus Stöcklin
- Department of Cognitive Psychology and Methodology, University of Basel , Basel , Switzerland
| | - Klaus Opwis
- Department of Cognitive Psychology and Methodology, University of Basel , Basel , Switzerland
| | - Iris-Katharina Penner
- Department of Cognitive Psychology and Methodology, University of Basel , Basel , Switzerland
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Chiaravalloti ND, Genova HM, DeLuca J. Cognitive rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis: the role of plasticity. Front Neurol 2015; 6:67. [PMID: 25883585 PMCID: PMC4383043 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2015.00067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2015] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive deficits are common in multiple sclerosis (MS), documented at many stages of the disease. Both structural and functional neuroimaging have demonstrated a relationship with cognitive abilities in MS. Significant neuroplasticity of cognitive functions in individuals with MS is evident. Homologous region adaptation, local activation expansion, and extra-region recruitment all occur in an effort to maintain cognitive functioning. While much of this neuroplasticity is adaptive, it may also be maladaptive, particularly in individuals that are demonstrating significant cognitive impairment and/or with disease progression. This maladaptive neuroplasticity may come at the cost of other cognitive functions. Studies of cognitive rehabilitation efficacy have also recently applied neuroimaging techniques to establish outcome. Researchers have successfully applied various neuroimaging techniques to study the effects of cognitive rehabilitation in MS including task-based fMRI and resting state functional connectivity across multiple realms of cognition including episodic memory, executive functioning, attention, and processing speed. These studies have demonstrated neuroplasticity in the brains of persons with MS through the documentation of changes at the level of the cerebral substrate from before to after non-invasive, non-pharmacological, behavioral treatment for deficits in cognition. Future research should seek to identify adaptive versus maladaptive neuroplasticity associated with specific cognitive rehabilitation programs within all MS phenotypes to foster the validation of the most effective cognitive rehabilitation interventions for persons with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy D Chiaravalloti
- Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Laboratory, Kessler Foundation , West Orange, NJ , USA ; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School , Newark, NJ , USA
| | - Helen M Genova
- Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Laboratory, Kessler Foundation , West Orange, NJ , USA ; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School , Newark, NJ , USA
| | - John DeLuca
- Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Laboratory, Kessler Foundation , West Orange, NJ , USA ; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School , Newark, NJ , USA ; Department of Neurology and Neurosciences, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School , Newark, NJ , USA
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Ernst A, Blanc F, de Seze J, Sellal F, Chauvin B, Manning L. Impaired mental simulation of specific past and future personal events in non-depressed multiple sclerosis patients. J Neurol Sci 2014; 345:68-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2014.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2014] [Revised: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/02/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Ernst A, Noblet V, Denkova E, Blanc F, de Seze J, Gounot D, Manning L. Functional cerebral changes in multiple sclerosis patients during an autobiographical memory test. Memory 2014; 23:1123-39. [DOI: 10.1080/09658211.2014.955805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Denkova EJ, Manning L. FMRI contributions to addressing autobiographical memory impairment in temporal lobe pathology. World J Radiol 2014; 6:93-105. [PMID: 24778771 PMCID: PMC4000613 DOI: 10.4329/wjr.v6.i4.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Revised: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Episodic autobiographical memory (AM) allows one, through the recollection of sensory-perceptual details, thoughts and feelings, to become aware of an event as belonging to one’s own past as well as being able to project into one’s future. Because AM provides a sense of self-continuity, contributes to the integrity of the self, and helps predicting future experiences, any deficit of AM may have debilitating consequences for everyday life functioning. Understanding AM failure and the underlying neural mechanisms has the potential to shed light on brain reorganization mechanisms and engagement of compensatory processes. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) provides the most promising imaging method to tackle these issues. We reviewed evidence from the few studies that used fMRI to investigate the functionality of the residual tissue, the neural reorganization and compensatory mechanisms in patients with neurological conditions due to impaired medial temporal lobe. Overall, these studies highlight the importance of the left hippocampus, which when atrophied and not functional leads to AM deficits but its residual functionality may support relatively normal AM recollection. When damaged hippocampal tissue is not functional, other brain regions (e.g., the medial prefrontal cortex) may be involved to compensate impairment, but they appear generally ineffective to support detailed episodic recollection.
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Potheegadoo J, Cordier A, Berna F, Danion JM. Effectiveness of a specific cueing method for improving autobiographical memory recall in patients with schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2014; 152:229-34. [PMID: 24268933 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2013.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2013] [Revised: 09/27/2013] [Accepted: 10/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Autobiographical memory deficits in schizophrenia have a significant impact on patients' daily life. Our study was aimed at testing the effectiveness of a specific cueing (SC) method for improving autobiographical memory recall in patients with schizophrenia, particularly the phenomenological details of their memories. Twenty-five patients with schizophrenia and 25 comparison participants took part in the study. They recalled 6 specific autobiographical events which occurred during 3 different life periods. After each memory recall, participants were given a general cue which allowed them to add further information to their narration. The SC was then applied by means of a series of specific questions to elicit more precise memory detail. The overall memory specificity as well as the number and richness of 5 categories of memory detail (perceptual/sensory, temporal, contextual, emotional, and cognitive) were assessed before and after the SC phase. Before SC, patients' memories were less specific and less detailed. SC had a beneficial effect on patients' memory recall. The overall memory specificity of patients improved. The gain in the number and richness of memory details was comparable between patients and comparison participants. The difference between groups in terms of the number of memory details was not significant. Richness of details was still lower in patients, except for emotional and cognitive details, which were similarly rich in both groups. The cueing method reduces the autobiographical memory impairment of patients with schizophrenia and paves the way for developing specific cognitive remediation therapies to help patients in their daily life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jevita Potheegadoo
- Unité INSERM 1114, Neuropsychologie Cognitive et Physiopathologie de la Schizophrénie, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, 1 place de l'Hôpital, BP 426, 67091 Strasbourg Cedex, France; Université de Strasbourg, Faculté de Médecine, 4 rue Kirchleger, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Adrian Cordier
- Unité INSERM 1114, Neuropsychologie Cognitive et Physiopathologie de la Schizophrénie, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, 1 place de l'Hôpital, BP 426, 67091 Strasbourg Cedex, France; Université de Strasbourg, Faculté de Médecine, 4 rue Kirchleger, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Fabrice Berna
- Unité INSERM 1114, Neuropsychologie Cognitive et Physiopathologie de la Schizophrénie, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, 1 place de l'Hôpital, BP 426, 67091 Strasbourg Cedex, France; Université de Strasbourg, Faculté de Médecine, 4 rue Kirchleger, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean-Marie Danion
- Unité INSERM 1114, Neuropsychologie Cognitive et Physiopathologie de la Schizophrénie, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, 1 place de l'Hôpital, BP 426, 67091 Strasbourg Cedex, France; Université de Strasbourg, Faculté de Médecine, 4 rue Kirchleger, 67000 Strasbourg, France.
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Chiaravalloti ND, Moore NB, Nikelshpur OM, DeLuca J. An RCT to treat learning impairment in multiple sclerosis: The MEMREHAB trial. Neurology 2013; 81:2066-72. [PMID: 24212393 DOI: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000437295.97946.a8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the efficacy of the modified Story Memory Technique (mSMT), a 10-session behavioral intervention teaching context and imagery to facilitate learning, to improve learning and memory abilities in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS This double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial included 86 participants with clinically definite MS, 41 in the treatment group and 45 in the placebo control group. Participants completed a baseline neuropsychological assessment, including questionnaires assessing everyday memory, a repeat assessment immediately posttreatment, and a long-term follow-up assessment 6 months after treatment. After completion of the treatment phase, persons in the treatment group were assigned to a booster session or a non-booster session group to examine the efficacy of monthly booster sessions in facilitating the treatment effect over time. RESULTS The treatment group showed a significantly improved learning slope relative to the placebo group posttreatment. Similar results were noted on objective measures of everyday memory, general contentment, and family report of apathy and executive dysfunction. Long-term follow-up data showed that posttreatment improvement in the treatment group continued to be noted on the list learning and self-report measures. The provision of booster sessions demonstrated little benefit. CONCLUSION The mSMT is effective for improving learning and memory in MS. CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE This study provides Class I evidence that the mSMT behavioral intervention improves both objective memory and everyday memory in patients with MS over 5 weeks, with treatment effects lasting over a 6-month period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy D Chiaravalloti
- From the Kessler Foundation Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Laboratory (N.D.C., N.B.M., O.M.N., J.D.), West Orange; and Departments of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (N.D.C., O.M.N., J.D.) and Neurology & Neurosciences (J.D.), Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
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