1
|
Miyazaki Y, Niino M, Takahashi E, Sato C, Naganuma R, Amino I, Akimoto S, Minami N, Kikuchi S. Japanese translation and validation of the 12-item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale version 2. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 89:105768. [PMID: 39003823 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105768] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disability in ambulation has a critical impact on activities of daily living in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The 12-item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale (MSWS-12) is a self-reported instrument developed to assess the impact of MS on walking. The scale's 12 items assess various aspects of walking-related tasks during the past 2 weeks. MSWS-12 has been used in multiple clinical studies and translated into several languages. In the present study, we translated the MSWS-12 into Japanese and evaluated its psychometric properties in a cross-sectional study. METHODS The original English MSWS-12 version 2 (v2) was translated into Japanese through a standard procedure. Sixty consecutive Japanese MS patients completed the newly prepared Japanese MSWS-12v2 questionnaire and repeated the test 14 days later. Physical disability was assessed by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Timed 25-foot Walk (T25FW), and 9-hole Peg Test (9HPT). Cognitive performance was evaluated using the Processing Speed Test (PST). Fatigue and health-related quality of life were assessed using the Japanese versions of the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and the Functional Assessment of MS (FAMS). RESULTS The mean age of the patients was 42.5 years, with median disease duration of 10 years, and median EDSS of 2.0 (range 0, 6.5). Forty-seven patients (78.3 %) had relapsing-remitting, 9 (15.0 %) had secondary-progressive, and 4 (6.7 %) had primary-progressive phenotypes. The median score of the MSWS-12v2 was 5.95 (interquartile range 0, 50.6). Twenty-seven patients (45 %) scored the lowest possible score (0 points), while one (1.7 %) scored the highest possible score (100 points). Cronbach's alpha was 0.98 (95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.97, 0.98), and the test-retest intraclass correlation was 0.95 (95%CI 0.94, 0.96). MSWS-12v2 score was strongly correlated with EDSS (Spearman's ρ = 0.73 [95%CI 0.58, 0.83]), T25FW (ρ = 0.70 [95%CI 0.55, 0.81]), and total FAMS score (ρ = -0.80 [95%CI -0.88, -0.69]), and moderately correlated with 9HPT (ρ = 0.65 [95%CI 0.47, 0.77] for the dominant hand; ρ = 0.62 [95%CI 0.43, 0.75] for the non-dominant hand), PST (ρ = -0.65 [95%CI -0.78, -0.47]), and FSS (ρ = 0.68 [95%CI 0.52, 0.80]). Among the subcomponents of FAMS, the mobility subcomponent showed the most robust correlation with MSWS-12v2 score (ρ = -0.91 [95%CI -0.94, -0.81]). In patients with minimal or no objective disability (EDSS < 3.0, n = 40), only the mobility subcomponent of FAMS was strongly correlated with MSWS-12v2 score (ρ = -0.76 [95% CI -0.87, -0.58]). In contrast, correlations of MSWS-12v2 score with EDSS and T25FW were weak in this subgroup (ρ = 0.28 [95%CI -0.03, 0.55] for EDSS; ρ = 0.25 [95%CI -0.06, 0.52] for T25FW). Response patterns for the single items showed that 32.5 % of the patients with EDSS below 3.0 reported having problems with balance, followed by climbing stairs and standing while doing things (both 25 %). CONCLUSION The Japanese version of the MSWS-12v2 developed in this study is reliable, valid, and helpful for screening walking disability in Japanese MS patients, including those with minimal objective disability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yusei Miyazaki
- Departments of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Hokkaido Medical Center, 1-1 Yamanote, 5-jo 7-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0005, Japan; Departments of Clinical Research, National Hospital Organization Hokkaido Medical Center, 1-1 Yamanote, 5-jo 7-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0005, Japan.
| | - Masaaki Niino
- Departments of Clinical Research, National Hospital Organization Hokkaido Medical Center, 1-1 Yamanote, 5-jo 7-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0005, Japan
| | - Eri Takahashi
- Departments of Clinical Research, National Hospital Organization Hokkaido Medical Center, 1-1 Yamanote, 5-jo 7-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0005, Japan
| | - Chika Sato
- Departments of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Hokkaido Medical Center, 1-1 Yamanote, 5-jo 7-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0005, Japan
| | - Ryoji Naganuma
- Departments of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Hokkaido Medical Center, 1-1 Yamanote, 5-jo 7-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0005, Japan
| | - Itaru Amino
- Departments of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Hokkaido Medical Center, 1-1 Yamanote, 5-jo 7-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0005, Japan
| | - Sachiko Akimoto
- Departments of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Hokkaido Medical Center, 1-1 Yamanote, 5-jo 7-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0005, Japan
| | - Naoya Minami
- Departments of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Hokkaido Medical Center, 1-1 Yamanote, 5-jo 7-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0005, Japan
| | - Seiji Kikuchi
- Departments of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Hokkaido Medical Center, 1-1 Yamanote, 5-jo 7-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0005, Japan; Hokuyukai Neurological Hospital, 4-30 Nijuyonken, 2-jo 2-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0802, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Reid K, Beswick E, Tam J, Symonds A, Lyle D, Newton J, Perry D, Neale J, Chandran S, Pal S. Perceptions of digital technology use for monitoring health in people living with neurological disorders. J Neurol Sci 2024; 462:123072. [PMID: 38885541 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2024.123072] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital technology offers individuals the opportunity to monitor their symptoms. Information gathered from apps, devices, and web platforms may be used to direct clinical care and to support research. AIM Using this survey, we aim to explore the views of people attending the Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic (ARRNC) and their relatives/caregivers regarding the use of digital health technologies to monitor health. METHOD People attending the ARRNC were invited to complete a structured 18-item questionnaire evaluating their experience and attitudes to using technology for monitoring health. People with neurodegenerative disease (pwND) and their caregivers completed a mix of closed and open-ended questions. RESULTS 249 people responded, 51 relatives/caregivers and 198 pwND. 67.1% (n= 167) of respondents do not use technology for monitoring their health, but 98.2% (n = 164) of these are interested in their future use. 29.7% (n = 74) respondents currently use a smartphone for health monitoring, 20.9% (n = 52) use a wearable device, and 13.3% (n = 33) use a tablet. 79.3% (n = 65) of users use their technology for monitoring physical activity, 37.8% (n = 31) use it for assisting with self-management, and 41.5% (n = 34) use it for tracking sleep. Factors which would encourage use of technology are ease of access to devices and ability to monitor health. Respondents reported data security concerns and difficulty using technology as potential barriers. CONCLUSION People attending a neurology clinic, and their relatives/caregivers, support the use of digital technologies as an adjunct to routine care. There is a need for coordinated digital strategies for development and delivery of validated measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie Reid
- The College of Medicine and Vet Medicine, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Beswick
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| | - Johnny Tam
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Symonds
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| | - Dawn Lyle
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| | - Judy Newton
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| | - David Perry
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Neale
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| | - Siddharthan Chandran
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; United Kingdom Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| | - Suvankar Pal
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Preziosa P, Rocca MA, Filippi M. Information from ecological momentary assessments leads to over-medicalization: No. Mult Scler 2024; 30:970-972. [PMID: 38751215 DOI: 10.1177/13524585241253080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Preziosa
- 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
| | - 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
| | - 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
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Klein M. Monitoring cognitive functioning in MS will trigger anxiety in patients: No. Mult Scler 2024:13524585241261199. [PMID: 38880937 DOI: 10.1177/13524585241261199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Klein
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Grijalvo M, Ordieres-Meré J, Villalba-Díez J, Aladro-Benito Y, Martín-Ávila G, Simon-Hurtado A, Vivaracho-Pascual C. Sufficiency for PSS tracking gait disorders in multiple sclerosis: A managerial perspective. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30001. [PMID: 38707444 PMCID: PMC11066638 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This study primarily aimed to explore the capabilities of digitalisation in the healthcare context, focusing on a specific disease. In this case, the study examined the potential of remote monitoring of gait to address the sensitivity of multiple sclerosis progression to gait characteristics by adopting a non-invasive approach to remotely quantify gait disturbances in a patient's daily life. To better understand the managerial aspects associated with this approach, the researchers conducted a literature review along with a set of semi-structured interviews. The target population included MS patients as well as the key agents involved in their care: patients' family members, neurologists, MS nurses, physiotherapists, medical directors, and pharmacist. The study identifies the perceived barriers and drivers that could contribute to the successful deployment of PSS remote gait monitoring as a healthcare service: i) At mega-level governance. Implications on privacy and security data are notable barriers missing on the speech. ii) At macro level, funding is highlighted as main barrier. The cost and lack of health system subsidies may render initiatives unsustainable, as emphasised by the interviewees. iii) At meso level, useable data is recognised as a driver. The data collection process can align with diverse interests to create value and business opportunities for the ecosystem actors, enhance care, attract stakeholders, such as insurers and pharma, and form partnerships. iv) At micro-level processes, we find two potential barriers: wearable device and app usability (comfort, navigation, efficiency) and organisational/behavioural aspects (training, digital affinity, skills), which are crucial for value creation in innovation ecosystems among patients and healthcare professionals. Finally, we find an interesting gap in the literature and interviews. Stakeholders' limited awareness of technological demands, especially from information technologies, for a successful long-term service, can be consider two key barriers for PSS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Grijalvo
- Department of Organizational Engineering, Business Administration and Statistics, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joaquín Ordieres-Meré
- Department of Organizational Engineering, Business Administration and Statistics, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Yolanda Aladro-Benito
- Department of Neurology, Getafe University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, European University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Arancha Simon-Hurtado
- Departamento de Informática, Escuela de Ingeniería Informática de Valladolid, Universidad de Valladolid, Paseo de Belén 15, 47011, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Carlos Vivaracho-Pascual
- Departamento de Informática, Escuela de Ingeniería Informática de Valladolid, Universidad de Valladolid, Paseo de Belén 15, 47011, Valladolid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sieber C, Haag C, Polhemus A, Haile SR, Sylvester R, Kool J, Gonzenbach R, von Wyl V. Exploring the Major Barriers to Physical Activity in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis: Observational Longitudinal Study. JMIR Rehabil Assist Technol 2024; 11:e52733. [PMID: 38498024 PMCID: PMC10985607 DOI: 10.2196/52733] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity (PA) represents a low-cost and readily available means of mitigating multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms and alleviating the disease course. Nevertheless, persons with MS engage in lower levels of PA than the general population. OBJECTIVE This study aims to enhance the understanding of the barriers to PA engagement in persons with MS and to evaluate the applicability of the Barriers to Health Promoting Activities for Disabled Persons (BHADP) scale for assessing barriers to PA in persons with MS, by comparing the BHADP score with self-reported outcomes of fatigue, depression, self-efficacy, and health-related quality of life, as well as sensor-measured PA. METHODS Study participants (n=45; median age 46, IQR 40-51 years; median Expanded Disability Status Scale score 4.5, IQR 3.5-6) were recruited among persons with MS attending inpatient neurorehabilitation. They wore a Fitbit Inspire HR (Fitbit Inc) throughout their stay at the rehabilitation clinic (phase 1; 2-4 wk) and for the 4 following weeks at home (phase 2; 4 wk). Sensor-based step counts and cumulative minutes in moderate to vigorous PA were computed for the last 7 days at the clinic and at home. On the basis of PA during the last 7 end-of-study days, we grouped the study participants as active (≥10,000 steps/d) and less active (<10,000 steps/d) to explore PA barriers compared with PA level. PA barriers were repeatedly assessed through the BHADP scale. We described the relevance of the 18 barriers of the BHADP scale assessed at the end of the study and quantified their correlations with the Spearman correlation test. We evaluated the associations of the BHADP score with end-of-study reported outcomes of fatigue, depression, self-efficacy, and health-related quality of life with multivariable regression models. We performed separate regression analyses to examine the association of the BHADP score with different sensor-measured outcomes of PA. RESULTS The less active group reported higher scores for the BHADP items Feeling what I do doesn't help, No one to help me, and Lack of support from family/friends. The BHADP items Not interested in PA and Impairment were positively correlated. The BHADP score was positively associated with measures of fatigue and depression and negatively associated with self-efficacy and health-related quality of life. The BHADP score showed an inverse relationship with the level of PA measured but not when dichotomized according to the recommended PA level thresholds. CONCLUSIONS The BHADP scale is a valid and well-adapted tool for persons with MS because it reflects common MS symptoms such as fatigue and depression, as well as self-efficacy and health-related quality of life. Moreover, decreases in PA levels are often related to increases in specific barriers in the lives of persons with MS and should hence be addressed jointly in health care management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloé Sieber
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christina Haag
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ashley Polhemus
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sarah R Haile
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Jan Kool
- Valens Rehabilitation Centre, Valens, Switzerland
| | | | - Viktor von Wyl
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Monteiro IR, Moccia M. Mobile health interventions in multiple sclerosis: Bringing empowerment into clinical practice. Mult Scler 2023; 29:1697-1698. [PMID: 37982247 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231214879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Rovisco Monteiro
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Policlinico Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- Neurology Department, Coimbra University Hospital Center, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marcello Moccia
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Policlinico Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dorsch EM, Röhling HM, Zocholl D, Hafermann L, Paul F, Schmitz-Hübsch T. Progression events defined by home-based assessment of motor function in multiple sclerosis: protocol of a prospective study. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1258635. [PMID: 37881311 PMCID: PMC10597627 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1258635] [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: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study relates to emerging concepts of appropriate trial designs to evaluate effects of intervention on the accumulation of irreversible disability in multiple sclerosis (MS). Major starting points of our study are the known limitations of current definitions of disability progression by rater-based clinical assessment and the high relevance of gait and balance dysfunctions in MS. The study aims to explore a novel definition of disease progression using repeated instrumental assessment of relevant motor functions performed by patients in their home setting. Methods The study is a prospective single-center observational cohort study with the primary outcome acquired by participants themselves, a home-based assessment of motor functions based on an RGB-Depth (RGB-D) camera, a camera that provides both depth (D) and color (RGB) data. Participants are instructed to perform and record a set of simple motor tasks twice a day over a one-week period every 6 months. Assessments are complemented by a set of questionnaires. Annual research grade assessments are acquired at dedicated study visits and include clinical ratings as well as structural imaging (MRI and optical coherence tomography). In addition, clinical data from routine visits is provided semiannually by treating neurologists. The observation period is 24 months for the primary endpoint with an additional clinical assessment at 27 month to confirm progression defined by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Secondary analyses aim to explore the time course of changes in motor parameters and performance of the novel definition against different alternative definitions of progression in MS. The study was registered at Deutsches Register für Klinische Studien (DRKS00027042). Discussion The study design presented here investigates disease progression defined by marker-less home-based assessment of motor functions against 3-month confirmed disease progression (3 m-CDP) defined by the EDSS. The technical approach was chosen due to previous experience in lab-based settings. The observation time per participant of 24, respectively, 27 months is commonly conceived as the lower limit needed to study disability progression. Defining a valid digital motor outcome for disease progression in MS may help to reduce observation times in clinical trials and add confidence to the detection of progression events in MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Dorsch
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hanna Marie Röhling
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Motognosis GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dario Zocholl
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lorena Hafermann
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Friedemann Paul
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tanja Schmitz-Hübsch
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pinarello C, Elmers J, Inojosa H, Beste C, Ziemssen T. Management of multiple sclerosis fatigue in the digital age: from assessment to treatment. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1231321. [PMID: 37869507 PMCID: PMC10585158 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1231321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatigue is one of the most disabling symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), affecting more than 80% of patients over the disease course. Nevertheless, it has a multi-faceted and complex nature, making its diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment extremely challenging in clinical practice. In the last years, digital supporting tools have emerged to support the care of people with MS. These include not only smartphone or table-based apps, but also wearable devices or novel techniques such as virtual reality. Furthermore, an additional effective and cost-efficient tool for the therapeutic management of people with fatigue is becoming increasingly available. Virtual reality and e-Health are viable and modern tools to both assess and treat fatigue, with a variety of applications and adaptability to patient needs and disability levels. Most importantly, they can be employed in the patient's home setting and can not only bridge clinic visits but also be complementary to the monitoring and treatment means for those MS patients who live far away from healthcare structures. In this narrative review, we discuss the current knowledge and future perspectives in the digital management of fatigue in MS. These may also serve as sources for research of novel digital biomarkers in the identification of disease activity and progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pinarello
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Julia Elmers
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Hernán Inojosa
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian Beste
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Tjalf Ziemssen
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kister I, Oh C, Douglas EA, Bacon TE, O'Shea IL, Parrotta EH, Bouley A, Lathi E, Katz J. No Increase in Symptoms Toward the End of the Ocrelizumab Infusion Cycle in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: Symptom Burden on Ocrelizumab: A Longitudinal Study (SymBOLS). Neurol Clin Pract 2023; 13:e200185. [PMID: 37674871 PMCID: PMC10479935 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000200185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Some patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) receiving ocrelizumab (OCR) report worsening symptoms toward the end of the 6-month infusion cycle ('wearing off'). The objective of our study was to comprehensively assess changes in symptom burden across 2 consecutive OCR infusion cycles. Methods SYMptom Burden on Ocrelizumab, a Longitudinal Study (SymBOLS; NCT04855617) was an investigator-initiated, 2-center study of patients with MS starting or receiving OCR. Patients' symptoms were assessed with NeuroQoL short forms, SymptoMScreen, and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire at the start-cycle, mid-cycle, and end-cycle time points in each of the 2 infusion cycles. Symptom scores at the 3 time points within each cycle were compared with repeated-measures ANOVA or the Friedman rank-sum test for non-normal variables. The proportions of patients with a meaningful symptomatic change from the start to the end of each infusion cycle were calculated, and patients whose symptoms improved, worsened, and stayed the same from the start to the end of the cycle were compared with respect to demographic and clinical characteristics. Results One hundred three patients with MS provided longitudinal data for analyses (mean age [SD]: 46.7 [12.2] years, 68% female, 33% non-White, disease duration: 15.5 [5] years, 41% with the Extended Disability Status Scale score >3). On a group level, NeuroQoL and SymptoMScreen scores mostly remained stable or even improved slightly toward the end of each cycle. On an individual level, symptoms remained unchanged across either cycle for most patients, and meaningful symptom worsening from the start to the end of the cycle was no more common than improvement. Meaningful change in symptoms in both cycles was very rare and generally in the direction of improvement toward the end cycle. Despite the lack of evidence for symptom worsening with a longer time from infusion, 54% of patients endorsed feeling of "wearing off" at least sometimes, most commonly as an increase in fatigue. Discussion Our prospective study failed to uncover evidence for the worsening of symptoms with a longer time from OCR infusion. These findings cast doubt on the existence of wearing off as a physiologic phenomenon in OCR-treated patients with MS. The perception of wearing off is likely the result of natural fluctuations in MS symptoms and attribution bias.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilya Kister
- NYU Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center (IK, TEB), Department of Neurology; Department of Population Health (CO), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York; The Elliot Lewis Center for Multiple Sclerosis Care (EAD, ILOS, AB, EL, JK), Wellesley, MA; and St. Peter's MS and Headache Center (EHP), Albany, NY
| | - Cheongeun Oh
- NYU Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center (IK, TEB), Department of Neurology; Department of Population Health (CO), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York; The Elliot Lewis Center for Multiple Sclerosis Care (EAD, ILOS, AB, EL, JK), Wellesley, MA; and St. Peter's MS and Headache Center (EHP), Albany, NY
| | - Elizabeth A Douglas
- NYU Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center (IK, TEB), Department of Neurology; Department of Population Health (CO), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York; The Elliot Lewis Center for Multiple Sclerosis Care (EAD, ILOS, AB, EL, JK), Wellesley, MA; and St. Peter's MS and Headache Center (EHP), Albany, NY
| | - Tamar E Bacon
- NYU Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center (IK, TEB), Department of Neurology; Department of Population Health (CO), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York; The Elliot Lewis Center for Multiple Sclerosis Care (EAD, ILOS, AB, EL, JK), Wellesley, MA; and St. Peter's MS and Headache Center (EHP), Albany, NY
| | - Isabella L O'Shea
- NYU Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center (IK, TEB), Department of Neurology; Department of Population Health (CO), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York; The Elliot Lewis Center for Multiple Sclerosis Care (EAD, ILOS, AB, EL, JK), Wellesley, MA; and St. Peter's MS and Headache Center (EHP), Albany, NY
| | - Erica H Parrotta
- NYU Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center (IK, TEB), Department of Neurology; Department of Population Health (CO), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York; The Elliot Lewis Center for Multiple Sclerosis Care (EAD, ILOS, AB, EL, JK), Wellesley, MA; and St. Peter's MS and Headache Center (EHP), Albany, NY
| | - Andrew Bouley
- NYU Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center (IK, TEB), Department of Neurology; Department of Population Health (CO), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York; The Elliot Lewis Center for Multiple Sclerosis Care (EAD, ILOS, AB, EL, JK), Wellesley, MA; and St. Peter's MS and Headache Center (EHP), Albany, NY
| | - Ellen Lathi
- NYU Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center (IK, TEB), Department of Neurology; Department of Population Health (CO), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York; The Elliot Lewis Center for Multiple Sclerosis Care (EAD, ILOS, AB, EL, JK), Wellesley, MA; and St. Peter's MS and Headache Center (EHP), Albany, NY
| | - Joshua Katz
- NYU Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center (IK, TEB), Department of Neurology; Department of Population Health (CO), NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York; The Elliot Lewis Center for Multiple Sclerosis Care (EAD, ILOS, AB, EL, JK), Wellesley, MA; and St. Peter's MS and Headache Center (EHP), Albany, NY
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Arenas-Vargas LE, López-Reyes L, Cárdenas-Robledo S. Multiple sclerosis functional tests and their comparability with self-administered values: A pilot study. BIOMEDICA : REVISTA DEL INSTITUTO NACIONAL DE SALUD 2023; 43:406-417. [PMID: 37871567 PMCID: PMC10644983 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.6873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Neurological impairment in multiple sclerosis is highly variable among patients and over time it is difficult to quantify. The Multiple Sclerosis Outcome Assessment Consortium established sensitive, cost-effective, clinically significant, and reproducible measures of different functional systems to measure outcomes in clinical trials. However, their use in clinical care routines is not widespread due to time and training constraints. Objective To evaluate the self-administration feasibility of the timed 25-foot walking, symbol-digit-modality, and 9-peg hole tests in healthy individuals. Materials and methods We performed a descriptive pilot study. Healthy individuals between 18 and 80 years of age were included. The Timed 25-Foot Walking Test (T25- FWT), the Symbol Digit Modality Test (SDMT), and the Nine-Hole Peg Test (9-HPT) (using the dominant and non-dominant hand) were administered by a trained physician, who also instructed the subjects about test self-administration. The correlation and agreement, between the guided and self-administered tests were assessed with Pearson and Spearman coefficients and the Bland-Altman method. Results Thirty-eight healthy volunteers were included. The median age was 36 (range: 23-55) years old, and 55.26% were female. The correlation coefficient between guided and selfadministered tests was 0.37 for the T25-FWT (p=0.01), 0.54 for the SDMT (p<0.001), and 0.64 and 0.65 for the 9-HPT, in the dominant and non-dominant hands, respectively (p<0,001). Both forms of administration were concordant for the T25-FWT (95%CI: -1,49 to 1,43), the 9-HPT with dominant hand (95%CI: -5,23 to 4,09), the 9-HPT with non-dominant hand (95%CI: -7,75 to 7,14) and the SDMT (95% CI: -20,94 to 24,10). Conclusions We provide a proof of concept related to the feasibility of the selfadministration of the T25-FWT, the 9-HPT, and the SDMT, as a tool to improve monitoring in routine clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Estefanía Arenas-Vargas
- Centro de Esclerosis Múltiple, Hospital Universitario Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia; Departamento de Medicina Interna, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia.
| | - Lorena López-Reyes
- Centro de Esclerosis Múltiple, Hospital Universitario Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia.
| | - Simón Cárdenas-Robledo
- Centro de Esclerosis Múltiple, Hospital Universitario Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia; Departamento de Medicina Interna, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Woelfle T, Bourguignon L, Lorscheider J, Kappos L, Naegelin Y, Jutzeler CR. Wearable Sensor Technologies to Assess Motor Functions in People With Multiple Sclerosis: Systematic Scoping Review and Perspective. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44428. [PMID: 37498655 PMCID: PMC10415952 DOI: 10.2196/44428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wearable sensor technologies have the potential to improve monitoring in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and inform timely disease management decisions. Evidence of the utility of wearable sensor technologies in people with MS is accumulating but is generally limited to specific subgroups of patients, clinical or laboratory settings, and functional domains. OBJECTIVE This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of all studies that have used wearable sensors to assess, monitor, and quantify motor function in people with MS during daily activities or in a controlled laboratory setting and to shed light on the technological advances over the past decades. METHODS We systematically reviewed studies on wearable sensors to assess the motor performance of people with MS. We scanned PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases until December 31, 2022, considering search terms "multiple sclerosis" and those associated with wearable technologies and included all studies assessing motor functions. The types of results from relevant studies were systematically mapped into 9 predefined categories (association with clinical scores or other measures; test-retest reliability; group differences, 3 types; responsiveness to change or intervention; and acceptability to study participants), and the reporting quality was determined through 9 questions. We followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) reporting guidelines. RESULTS Of the 1251 identified publications, 308 were included: 176 (57.1%) in a real-world context, 107 (34.7%) in a laboratory context, and 25 (8.1%) in a mixed context. Most publications studied physical activity (196/308, 63.6%), followed by gait (81/308, 26.3%), dexterity or tremor (38/308, 12.3%), and balance (34/308, 11%). In the laboratory setting, outcome measures included (in addition to clinical severity scores) 2- and 6-minute walking tests, timed 25-foot walking test, timed up and go, stair climbing, balance tests, and finger-to-nose test, among others. The most popular anatomical landmarks for wearable placement were the waist, wrist, and lower back. Triaxial accelerometers were most commonly used (229/308, 74.4%). A surge in the number of sensors embedded in smartphones and smartwatches has been observed. Overall, the reporting quality was good. CONCLUSIONS Continuous monitoring with wearable sensors could optimize the management of people with MS, but some hurdles still exist to full clinical adoption of digital monitoring. Despite a possible publication bias and vast heterogeneity in the outcomes reported, our review provides an overview of the current literature on wearable sensor technologies used for people with MS and highlights shortcomings, such as the lack of harmonization, transparency in reporting methods and results, and limited data availability for the research community. These limitations need to be addressed for the growing implementation of wearable sensor technologies in clinical routine and clinical trials, which is of utmost importance for further progress in clinical research and daily management of people with MS. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42021243249; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=243249.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim Woelfle
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lucie Bourguignon
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Lorscheider
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ludwig Kappos
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yvonne Naegelin
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Liuzzi P, Carpinella I, Anastasi D, Gervasoni E, Lencioni T, Bertoni R, Carrozza MC, Cattaneo D, Ferrarin M, Mannini A. Machine learning based estimation of dynamic balance and gait adaptability in persons with neurological diseases using inertial sensors. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8640. [PMID: 37244933 PMCID: PMC10224964 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35744-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor dynamic balance and impaired gait adaptation to different contexts are hallmarks of people with neurological disorders (PwND), leading to difficulties in daily life and increased fall risk. Frequent assessment of dynamic balance and gait adaptability is therefore essential for monitoring the evolution of these impairments and/or the long-term effects of rehabilitation. The modified dynamic gait index (mDGI) is a validated clinical test specifically devoted to evaluating gait facets in clinical settings under a physiotherapist's supervision. The need of a clinical environment, consequently, limits the number of assessments. Wearable sensors are increasingly used to measure balance and locomotion in real-world contexts and may permit an increase in monitoring frequency. This study aims to provide a preliminary test of this opportunity by using nested cross-validated machine learning regressors to predict the mDGI scores of 95 PwND via inertial signals collected from short steady-state walking bouts derived from the 6-minute walk test. Four different models were compared, one for each pathology (multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and stroke) and one for the pooled multipathological cohort. Model explanations were computed on the best-performing solution; the model trained on the multipathological cohort yielded a median (interquartile range) absolute test error of 3.58 (5.38) points. In total, 76% of the predictions were within the mDGI's minimal detectable change of 5 points. These results confirm that steady-state walking measurements provide information about dynamic balance and gait adaptability and can help clinicians identify important features to improve upon during rehabilitation. Future developments will include training of the method using short steady-state walking bouts in real-world settings, analysing the feasibility of this solution to intensify performance monitoring, providing prompt detection of worsening/improvements, and complementing clinical assessments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piergiuseppe Liuzzi
- AIRLab, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 50143, Florence, Italy
- Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Istituto di BioRobotica, 56025, Pontedera, Italy
| | - Ilaria Carpinella
- LAMoBIR and LaRiCE, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 20148, Milan, Italy.
| | - Denise Anastasi
- LAMoBIR and LaRiCE, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 20148, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Gervasoni
- LAMoBIR and LaRiCE, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 20148, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Lencioni
- LAMoBIR and LaRiCE, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 20148, Milan, Italy
| | - Rita Bertoni
- LAMoBIR and LaRiCE, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 20148, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Davide Cattaneo
- LAMoBIR and LaRiCE, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 20148, Milan, Italy
- Dipartimento di Fisiopatologia Medico-Chirurgica e dei Trapianti, Università di Milano, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Maurizio Ferrarin
- LAMoBIR and LaRiCE, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 20148, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Mannini
- AIRLab, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 50143, Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hadouiri N, Monnet E, Gouelle A, Sagawa Y, Decavel P. Locomotor Strategy to Perform 6-Minute Walk Test in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Prospective Observational Study. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:3407. [PMID: 37050467 PMCID: PMC10099238 DOI: 10.3390/s23073407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Two-thirds of people with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) have walking disabilities. Considering the literature, prolonged tests, such as the 6 min walk test, better reflect their everyday life walking capacities and endurance. However, in most studies, only the distance traveled during the 6MWT was measured. This study aims to analyze spatio-temporal (ST) walking patterns of PwMS and healthy people in the 6MWT. Participants performed a 6MWT with measures of five ST variables during three 1 min intervals (initial: 0'-1', middle: 2'30″-3'30″, end: 5'-6') of the 6MWT, using the GAITRite system. Forty-five PwMS and 24 healthy people were included. We observed in PwMS significant changes between initial and final intervals for all ST parameters, whereas healthy people had a rebound pattern but the changes between intervals were rather negligible. Moreover, ST variables' changes were superior to the standard measurement error only for PwMS between initial and final intervals for all ST parameters. This result suggests that the modification in PwMS' walking pattern is effectively due to their walking ability and not to a measurement, and suggests that PwMS could not manage their walking efficiently compared to healthy people, who could maintain their rhythm throughout the 6MWT. Further studies are needed to detect these patterns changes in the early evolution of the disease, identify clinical determinants involved in PwMS' walking pattern, and investigate whether interventions can positively impact this pattern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nawale Hadouiri
- Laboratory of Clinical Functional Exploration of Movement, University Hospital of Besançon, 25000 Besançon, France
- Clinical Investigation Center, INSERM 1431, University Hospital of Besançon, 25000 Besançon, France
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Dijon-Bourgogne University Hospital, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Elisabeth Monnet
- Clinical Investigation Center, INSERM 1431, University Hospital of Besançon, 25000 Besançon, France
- EA4266 Agents Pathogènes et Inflammation, University of Bourgogne-Franche-Comte, 25000 Besançon, France
| | - Arnaud Gouelle
- Laboratory Performance, Santé, Métrologie, Société (PSMS), UFR STAPS, 51000 Reims, France
| | - Yoshimasa Sagawa
- Laboratory of Clinical Functional Exploration of Movement, University Hospital of Besançon, 25000 Besançon, France
- Clinical Investigation Center, INSERM 1431, University Hospital of Besançon, 25000 Besançon, France
- Integrative and Clinical Neurosciences EA481, Bourgogne Franche-Comte University, 25000 Besançon, France
| | - Pierre Decavel
- Laboratory of Clinical Functional Exploration of Movement, University Hospital of Besançon, 25000 Besançon, France
- Integrative and Clinical Neurosciences EA481, Bourgogne Franche-Comte University, 25000 Besançon, France
- Rehabilitation Department, HFR, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lam KH, Bucur IG, van Oirschot P, de Graaf F, Strijbis E, Uitdehaag B, Heskes T, Killestein J, de Groot V. Personalized monitoring of ambulatory function with a smartphone 2-minute walk test in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2023; 29:606-614. [PMID: 36755463 PMCID: PMC10152211 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231152433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Remote smartphone-based 2-minute walking tests (s2MWTs) allow frequent and potentially sensitive measurements of ambulatory function. OBJECTIVE To investigate the s2MWT on assessment of, and responsiveness to change in ambulatory function in MS. METHODS One hundred two multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and 24 healthy controls (HCs) performed weekly s2MWTs on self-owned smartphones for 12 and 3 months, respectively. The timed 25-foot walk test (T25FW) and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) were assessed at 3-month intervals. Anchor-based (using T25FW and EDSS) and distribution-based (curve fitting) methods were used to assess responsiveness of the s2MWT. A local linear trend model was used to fit weekly s2MWT scores of individual patients. RESULTS A total of 4811 and 355 s2MWT scores were obtained in patients (n = 94) and HC (n = 22), respectively. s2MWT demonstrated large variability (65.6 m) compared to the average score (129.5 m), and was inadequately responsive to anchor-based change in clinical outcomes. Curve fitting separated the trend from noise in high temporal resolution individual-level data, and statistically reliable changes were detected in 45% of patients. CONCLUSIONS In group-level analyses, clinically relevant change was insufficiently detected due to large variability with sporadic measurements. Individual-level curve fitting reduced the variability in s2MWT, enabling the detection of statistically reliable change in ambulatory function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ka-Hoo Lam
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ioan Gabriel Bucur
- Institute for Computing and Information Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Frank de Graaf
- Orikami Digital Health Products, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Strijbis
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bernard Uitdehaag
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tom Heskes
- Institute for Computing and Information Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joep Killestein
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Vincent de Groot
- MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chougale A, Vedante S, Kulkarni G, Patnawar S. Recent Progress on Biosensors for the Early Detection of Neurological Disorders. ChemistrySelect 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202203155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amit Chougale
- Department of Chemical Engineering University of Adelaide SA Australia 5000
| | - Shruti Vedante
- Department of Chemical Engineering University of Adelaide SA Australia 5000
| | - Guruprasad Kulkarni
- Department of Biotechnology Kolhapur Institute of Technology's College of Engineering Kolhapur Maharashtra India 416234
| | - Sneha Patnawar
- Department of Biotechnology Kolhapur Institute of Technology's College of Engineering Kolhapur Maharashtra India. 416234
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Carpinella I, Anastasi D, Gervasoni E, Di Giovanni R, Tacchino A, Brichetto G, Confalonieri P, Rovaris M, Solaro C, Ferrarin M, Cattaneo D. Balance Impairments in People with Early-Stage Multiple Sclerosis: Boosting the Integration of Instrumented Assessment in Clinical Practice. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:9558. [PMID: 36502265 PMCID: PMC9736931 DOI: 10.3390/s22239558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The balance of people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) is commonly assessed during neurological examinations through clinical Romberg and tandem gait tests that are often not sensitive enough to unravel subtle deficits in early-stage PwMS. Inertial sensors (IMUs) could overcome this drawback. Nevertheless, IMUs are not yet fully integrated into clinical practice due to issues including the difficulty to understand/interpret the big number of parameters provided and the lack of cut-off values to identify possible abnormalities. In an attempt to overcome these limitations, an instrumented modified Romberg test (ImRomberg: standing on foam with eyes closed while wearing an IMU on the trunk) was administered to 81 early-stage PwMS and 38 healthy subjects (HS). To facilitate clinical interpretation, 21 IMU-based parameters were computed and reduced through principal component analysis into two components, sway complexity and sway intensity, descriptive of independent aspects of balance, presenting a clear clinical meaning and significant correlations with at least one clinical scale. Compared to HS, early-stage PwMS showed a 228% reduction in sway complexity and a 63% increase in sway intensity, indicating, respectively, a less automatic (more conscious) balance control and larger and faster trunk movements during upright posture. Cut-off values were derived to identify the presence of balance abnormalities and if these abnormalities are clinically meaningful. By applying these thresholds and integrating the ImRomberg test with the clinical tandem gait test, balance impairments were identified in 58% of PwMS versus the 17% detected by traditional Romberg and tandem gait tests. The higher sensitivity of the proposed approach would allow for the direct identification of early-stage PwMS who could benefit from preventive rehabilitation interventions aimed at slowing MS-related functional decline during neurological examinations and with minimal modifications to the tests commonly performed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Denise Anastasi
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Gervasoni
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Rachele Di Giovanni
- Department of Rehabilitation, Centro di Recupero e Rieducazione Funzionale (CRRF) “Mons. Luigi Novarese”, 13040 Moncrivello, Italy
| | - Andrea Tacchino
- Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Scientific Research Area, 16126 Genoa, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Brichetto
- Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Scientific Research Area, 16126 Genoa, Italy
| | - Paolo Confalonieri
- IRCCS Foundation “Carlo Besta” Neurological Institute, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Rovaris
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Solaro
- Department of Rehabilitation, Centro di Recupero e Rieducazione Funzionale (CRRF) “Mons. Luigi Novarese”, 13040 Moncrivello, Italy
| | | | - Davide Cattaneo
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, 20148 Milan, Italy
- Department of Physiopathology and Transplants, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sun S, Folarin AA, Zhang Y, Cummins N, Liu S, Stewart C, Ranjan Y, Rashid Z, Conde P, Laiou P, Sankesara H, Dalla Costa G, Leocani L, Sørensen PS, Magyari M, Guerrero AI, Zabalza A, Vairavan S, Bailon R, Simblett S, Myin-Germeys I, Rintala A, Wykes T, Narayan VA, Hotopf M, Comi G, Dobson RJ. The utility of wearable devices in assessing ambulatory impairments of people with multiple sclerosis in free-living conditions. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2022; 227:107204. [PMID: 36371974 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2022.107204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system affecting over 2.5 million people globally. In-clinic six-minute walk test (6MWT) is a widely used objective measure to evaluate the progression of MS. Yet, it has limitations such as the need for a clinical visit and a proper walkway. The widespread use of wearable devices capable of depicting patients' activity profiles has the potential to assess the level of MS-induced disability in free-living conditions. METHODS In this work, we extracted 96 features in different temporal granularities (from minute-level to day-level) from wearable data and explored their utility in estimating 6MWT scores in a European (Italy, Spain, and Denmark) MS cohort of 337 participants over an average of 10 months' duration. We combined these features with participants' demographics using three regression models including elastic net, gradient boosted trees and random forest. In addition, we quantified the individual feature's contribution using feature importance in these regression models, linear mixed-effects models, generalized estimating equations, and correlation-based feature selection (CFS). RESULTS The results showed promising estimation performance with R2 of 0.30, which was derived using random forest after CFS. This model was able to distinguish the participants with low disability from those with high disability. Furthermore, we observed that the minute-level (≤ 8 minutes) step count, particularly those capturing the upper end of the step count distribution, had a stronger association with 6MWT. The use of a walking aid was indicative of ambulatory function measured through 6MWT. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the utility of wearables devices in assessing ambulatory impairments in people with MS in free-living conditions and provides a basis for future investigation into the clinical relevance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaoxiong Sun
- The Department of Biostatistics and Health informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Amos A Folarin
- The Department of Biostatistics and Health informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Yuezhou Zhang
- The Department of Biostatistics and Health informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Nicholas Cummins
- The Department of Biostatistics and Health informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Shuo Liu
- Chair of Embedded Intelligence for Health Care & Wellbeing, University of Augsburg, Germany
| | - Callum Stewart
- The Department of Biostatistics and Health informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Yatharth Ranjan
- The Department of Biostatistics and Health informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Zulqarnain Rashid
- The Department of Biostatistics and Health informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Pauline Conde
- The Department of Biostatistics and Health informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Petroula Laiou
- The Department of Biostatistics and Health informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Heet Sankesara
- The Department of Biostatistics and Health informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Letizia Leocani
- Vita-Salute University and Experimental Neurophysiology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology-INSPE, Scientific Institute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Per Soelberg Sørensen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Melinda Magyari
- Department of Neurology, Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ana Isabel Guerrero
- Servei de Neurologia-Neuroimmunologia, Centre d'Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Zabalza
- Servei de Neurologia-Neuroimmunologia, Centre d'Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Raquel Bailon
- Biomedical Signal Interpretation & Computational Simulation (BSICoS) Group, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), IIS Aragon, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red en Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Simblett
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Inez Myin-Germeys
- Department of Neurosciences, Centre for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Aki Rintala
- Department of Neurosciences, Centre for Contextual Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Faculty of Social Services and Health Care, LAB University of Applied Sciences, Lahti, Finland
| | - Til Wykes
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Matthew Hotopf
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Giancarlo Comi
- Vita Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Casa di Cura Privata del Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Richard Jb Dobson
- The Department of Biostatistics and Health informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Guo CC, Chiesa PA, de Moor C, Fazeli MS, Schofield T, Hofer K, Belachew S, Scotland A. Digital Devices for Assessing Motor Functions in Mobility-Impaired and Healthy Populations: Systematic Literature Review. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e37683. [DOI: 10.2196/37683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
With the advent of smart sensing technology, mobile and wearable devices can provide continuous and objective monitoring and assessment of motor function outcomes.
Objective
We aimed to describe the existing scientific literature on wearable and mobile technologies that are being used or tested for assessing motor functions in mobility-impaired and healthy adults and to evaluate the degree to which these devices provide clinically valid measures of motor function in these populations.
Methods
A systematic literature review was conducted by searching Embase, MEDLINE, CENTRAL (January 1, 2015, to June 24, 2020), the United States and European Union clinical trial registries, and the United States Food and Drug Administration website using predefined study selection criteria. Study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment were performed by 2 independent reviewers.
Results
A total of 91 publications representing 87 unique studies were included. The most represented clinical conditions were Parkinson disease (n=51 studies), followed by stroke (n=5), Huntington disease (n=5), and multiple sclerosis (n=2). A total of 42 motion-detecting devices were identified, and the majority (n=27, 64%) were created for the purpose of health care–related data collection, although approximately 25% were personal electronic devices (eg, smartphones and watches) and 11% were entertainment consoles (eg, Microsoft Kinect or Xbox and Nintendo Wii). The primary motion outcomes were related to gait (n=30), gross motor movements (n=25), and fine motor movements (n=23). As a group, sensor-derived motion data showed a mean sensitivity of 0.83 (SD 7.27), a mean specificity of 0.84 (SD 15.40), a mean accuracy of 0.90 (SD 5.87) in discriminating between diseased individuals and healthy controls, and a mean Pearson r validity coefficient of 0.52 (SD 0.22) relative to clinical measures. We did not find significant differences in the degree of validity between in-laboratory and at-home sensor-based assessments nor between device class (ie, health care–related device, personal electronic devices, and entertainment consoles).
Conclusions
Sensor-derived motion data can be leveraged to classify and quantify disease status for a variety of neurological conditions. However, most of the recent research on digital clinical measures is derived from proof-of-concept studies with considerable variation in methodological approaches, and much of the reviewed literature has focused on clinical validation, with less than one-quarter of the studies performing analytical validation. Overall, future research is crucially needed to further consolidate that sensor-derived motion data may lead to the development of robust and transformative digital measurements intended to predict, diagnose, and quantify neurological disease state and its longitudinal change.
Collapse
|
20
|
Alexander S, Braisher M, Tur C, Chataway J. The mSteps pilot study: Analysis of the distance walked using a novel smartphone application in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2022; 28:2285-2293. [PMID: 36177917 DOI: 10.1177/13524585221124043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical studies in multiple sclerosis (MS) often require accurate measurement of walking distance. Utilisation of electronic devices could theoretically improve this. Mobile devices have the potential to continuously monitor health by collecting movement data. Popular fitness trackers record steps taken and distance travelled, typically using a fixed-stride length. However, applications using fixed-stride length may be less accurate in those with altered gait patterns. While useful for everyday purposes, medical monitoring requires greater accuracy. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to determine the agreement and reliability of using a smartphone application to measure distance walked. METHOD A phone application (mSteps) was developed and tested in a pilot study and then a validation study, looking at an indoor and outdoor setting with people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) and a control cohort. RESULTS In the pilot study, the 95% limits of agreement (LOA) for outdoor tracking in control cohort lay within the a priori defined limit; however, the indoor tracking in both cohorts did not meet the defined limit. The app was then successfully validated outdoors in PwMS. CONCLUSION mSteps could be used to accurately measure distance outdoors in PwMS. There is still a need for solutions to accurately and reliably measure distance walked indoors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Alexander
- Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Marie Braisher
- Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Carmen Tur
- Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jeremy Chataway
- Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK/University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, National Institute for Health Research, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Röhling HM, Althoff P, Arsenova R, Drebinger D, Gigengack N, Chorschew A, Kroneberg D, Rönnefarth M, Ellermeyer T, Rosenkranz SC, Heesen C, Behnia B, Hirano S, Kuwabara S, Paul F, Brandt AU, Schmitz-Hübsch T. Proposal for Post Hoc Quality Control in Instrumented Motion Analysis Using Markerless Motion Capture: Development and Usability Study. JMIR Hum Factors 2022; 9:e26825. [PMID: 35363150 PMCID: PMC9015782 DOI: 10.2196/26825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Instrumented assessment of motor symptoms has emerged as a promising extension to the clinical assessment of several movement disorders. The use of mobile and inexpensive technologies such as some markerless motion capture technologies is especially promising for large-scale application but has not transitioned into clinical routine to date. A crucial step on this path is to implement standardized, clinically applicable tools that identify and control for quality concerns. Objective The main goal of this study comprises the development of a systematic quality control (QC) procedure for data collected with markerless motion capture technology and its experimental implementation to identify specific quality concerns and thereby rate the usability of recordings. Methods We developed a post hoc QC pipeline that was evaluated using a large set of short motor task recordings of healthy controls (2010 recordings from 162 subjects) and people with multiple sclerosis (2682 recordings from 187 subjects). For each of these recordings, 2 raters independently applied the pipeline. They provided overall usability decisions and identified technical and performance-related quality concerns, which yielded respective proportions of their occurrence as a main result. Results The approach developed here has proven user-friendly and applicable on a large scale. Raters’ decisions on recording usability were concordant in 71.5%-92.3% of cases, depending on the motor task. Furthermore, 39.6%-85.1% of recordings were concordantly rated as being of satisfactory quality whereas in 5.0%-26.3%, both raters agreed to discard the recording. Conclusions We present a QC pipeline that seems feasible and useful for instant quality screening in the clinical setting. Results confirm the need of QC despite using standard test setups, testing protocols, and operator training for the employed system and by extension, for other task-based motor assessment technologies. Results of the QC process can be used to clean existing data sets, optimize quality assurance measures, as well as foster the development of automated QC approaches and therefore improve the overall reliability of kinematic data sets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Marie Röhling
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Motognosis GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Patrik Althoff
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Radina Arsenova
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics, St Joseph Krankenhaus Berlin-Tempelhof, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Drebinger
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Norman Gigengack
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Anna Chorschew
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Kroneberg
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Rönnefarth
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Clinical Study Center, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tobias Ellermeyer
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Vivantes Auguste-Viktoria-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sina Cathérine Rosenkranz
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Heesen
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Behnoush Behnia
- Department of Psychiatry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Shigeki Hirano
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kuwabara
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Friedemann Paul
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Ulrich Brandt
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Tanja Schmitz-Hübsch
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Gehrig J, Bergmann HJ, Fadai L, Soydaş D, Buschenlange C, Naumer MJ, Kaiser J, Frisch S, Behrens M, Foerch C, Yalachkov Y. Visual Search in Naturalistic Scenes Reveals Impaired Cognitive Processing Speed in Multiple Sclerosis. Front Neurol 2022; 13:838178. [PMID: 35237231 PMCID: PMC8884171 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.838178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Standardized neuropsychological testing serves to quantify cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. However, the exact mechanism underlying the translation of cognitive dysfunction into difficulties in everyday tasks has remained unclear. To answer this question, we tested if MS patients with intact vs. impaired information processing speed measured by the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) differ in their visual search behavior during ecologically valid tasks reflecting everyday activities. METHODS Forty-three patients with relapsing-remitting MS enrolled in an eye-tracking experiment consisting of a visual search task with naturalistic images. Patients were grouped into "impaired" and "unimpaired" according to their SDMT performance. Reaction time, accuracy and eye-tracking parameters were measured. RESULTS The groups did not differ regarding age, gender, and visual acuity. Patients with impaired SDMT (cut-off SDMT-z-score < -1.5) performance needed more time to find and fixate the target (q = 0.006). They spent less time fixating the target (q = 0.042). Impaired patients had slower reaction times and were less accurate (both q = 0.0495) even after controlling for patients' upper extremity function. Exploratory analysis revealed that unimpaired patients had higher accuracy than impaired patients particularly when the announced target was in unexpected location (p = 0.037). Correlational analysis suggested that SDMT performance is inversely linked to the time to first fixation of the target only if the announced target was in its expected location (r = -0.498, p = 0.003 vs. r = -0.212, p = 0.229). CONCLUSION Dysfunctional visual search behavior may be one of the mechanisms translating cognitive deficits into difficulties in everyday tasks in MS patients. Our results suggest that cognitively impaired patients search their visual environment less efficiently and this is particularly evident when top-down processes have to be employed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Gehrig
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Laura Fadai
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Dilara Soydaş
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Marcus J Naumer
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Jochen Kaiser
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Stefan Frisch
- Institute of Psychology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Department of Gerontopsychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine, and Psychotherapy, Pfalzklinikum, Klingenmünster, Germany
| | - Marion Behrens
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Christian Foerch
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Yavor Yalachkov
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ryabov S, Boyko A, Belayeva I, Pehova Y, Rachin A. Medical rehabilitation of gait disorders in multiple sclerosis. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2022; 122:14-18. [DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202212207214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
24
|
Motahari-Nezhad H, Fgaier M, Mahdi Abid M, Péntek M, Gulácsi L, Zrubka Z. Scoping review of systematic reviews of digital biomarker-based studies (Preprint). JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2021; 10:e35722. [DOI: 10.2196/35722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
25
|
O'Neil J, Barnes K, Morgan Donnelly E, Sheehy L, Sveistrup H. Identification and Description of Balance, Mobility, and Gait Assessments Conducted via Telerehabilitation for Individuals With Neurological Conditions: Protocol for a Scoping Review. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e27186. [PMID: 34889765 PMCID: PMC8704120 DOI: 10.2196/27186] [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: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 global pandemic pushed many rehabilitation practitioners to pivot their in-person practice to adopt telerehabilitation as their main method of delivery. In addition to documenting information on interventions used with clients, it is best practice for therapists to use reliable and validated outcome measures to inform their interventions. OBJECTIVE Through this scoping review, we aim to identify (1) which outcomes are being used remotely to assess balance, mobility, and gait in patients with neurological conditions, and (2) what psychometric data (validity, reliability, etc.) for remotely administered outcomes are available. METHODS Three main concepts will be included in our search: (1) neurological conditions; (2) administration by telerehabilitation; and (3) outcome measures for balance, mobility, and gait. Studies reporting remote assessment of neurological conditions published since 1990 will be included. The database search will be completed in MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and Cochrane. Gray literature including dissertations, conference papers, and protocol papers will also be sourced. Two reviewers will independently screen each title and abstract using pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Manuscripts that appear to meet the criteria will be subject to further review, and full-text extraction using a pre-piloted extraction sheet if all criteria are met. The data will be categorized by assessment types describing impairments (such as balance, strength, and mobility) or activity limitations or participation restriction (such as functional mobility, ambulatory functions, and activities of daily living). RESULTS This scoping review will document outcome measures currently used in the remote assessment of neurological conditions. To date, 235 titles and abstracts were screened. We are in the process of finalizing the full text screening for the inclusion of articles. We expect the full screening to be completed in November 2021 and data analysis in January 2022. Our results are expected to be published in early 2022. CONCLUSIONS The optimal use of telerehabilitation as a mode to deliver rehabilitation intervention should be coupled with the completion of validated outcome measures. Therefore, it is crucial to further our knowledge on remote outcome measures and therapeutic assessments. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/27186.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer O'Neil
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Keely Barnes
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Lisa Sheehy
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Heidi Sveistrup
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Thomas S, Pulman A, Dogan H, Jiang N, Passmore D, Pretty K, Fairbanks B, Davies Smith A, Thomas PW. Creating a Digital Toolkit to Reduce Fatigue and Promote Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis: Participatory Design and Usability Study. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e19230. [PMID: 34889744 PMCID: PMC8704114 DOI: 10.2196/19230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fatigue is one of the most common and debilitating symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), experienced by more than 80% of people with MS. FACETS (Fatigue: Applying Cognitive Behavioral and Energy Effectiveness Techniques to Lifestyle) is an evidence-based, face-to-face, 6-session group fatigue management program for people with MS. Homework tasks are an integral part of FACETS and are currently undertaken in a paper-based form. Feedback from a consultation undertaken with FACETS attendees and health care professionals with experience in delivering the FACETS program suggested that being able to complete the homework tasks digitally would be desirable, potentially enhancing engagement and adherence and enabling on-the-go access to fit into busy lifestyles. Relative to other long-term conditions, there are few apps specifically for MS and, of those available, many have been developed with little or no input from people with MS. Objective The purpose of this mixed methods study was to create a digital toolkit comprising the homework tasks (eg, activity diary, goal planner, thought diary) of the FACETS program for people with MS, considering end users’ unique requirements throughout the design, build, prototyping, and testing stages. Methods Phase 1 involved the elicitation of detailed user requirements for the toolkit via 2 focus groups with previous attendees of FACETS (n=3 and n=6) and wireframing. Phase 2 involved supervised usability testing with people with MS (n=11) with iterative prototyping. The usability sessions involved going through test scenarios using the FACETS toolkit on an Android test phone with video capture and concurrent think-aloud followed by completion of the System Usability Scale (SUS) and a semistructured interview collecting feedback about design, content, and functionality. Results The mean SUS score for the digital toolkit was 74.3 (SD 16.8, 95% CI 63.2-85.6; range 37.5-95), which equates to an adjective rating of good and a B grade (70th-79th percentile range) on the Sauro-Lewis curved grading scale. A number of usability and design issues (such as simplifying overall screen flow to better meet users’ needs) and suggestions for improvements (such as using location-based services and displaying personalized information and progress via a central dashboard) were addressed and implemented during the usability testing cycle. Conclusions This work highlights the importance of the participation of people with MS across the entire development cycle, working to a human-centered design methodology to enable a considered and MS-centered solution to be developed. Continued horizon scanning for emergent technological enhancements will enable us to identify opportunities for further improvements to the FACETS toolkit prior to launch. The toolkit supports self-monitoring and management of fatigue and has potential applicability to other long-term conditions where fatigue is a significant issue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Thomas
- Bournemouth University Clinical Research Unit, Department of Medical Science & Public Health, Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| | - Andy Pulman
- Bournemouth University Clinical Research Unit, Department of Medical Science & Public Health, Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| | - Huseyin Dogan
- Department of Computing & Informatics, Faculty of Science & Technology, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| | - Nan Jiang
- Department of Computing & Informatics, Faculty of Science & Technology, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| | - David Passmore
- Department of Computing & Informatics, Faculty of Science & Technology, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| | - Keith Pretty
- Department of Computing & Informatics, Faculty of Science & Technology, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| | - Beth Fairbanks
- Department of Computing & Informatics, Faculty of Science & Technology, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| | - Angela Davies Smith
- Bristol & Avon Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol National Health Service Trust, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Peter W Thomas
- Bournemouth University Clinical Research Unit, Department of Medical Science & Public Health, Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Woelfle T, Pless S, Wiencierz A, Kappos L, Naegelin Y, Lorscheider J. Practice Effects of Mobile Tests of Cognition, Dexterity, and Mobility on Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: Data Analysis of a Smartphone-Based Observational Study. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e30394. [PMID: 34792480 PMCID: PMC8663564 DOI: 10.2196/30394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Smartphones and their built-in sensors allow for measuring functions in disease-related domains through mobile tests. This could improve disease characterization and monitoring, and could potentially support treatment decisions for multiple sclerosis (MS), a multifaceted chronic neurological disease with highly variable clinical manifestations. Practice effects can complicate the interpretation of both improvement over time by potentially exaggerating treatment effects and stability by masking deterioration. Objective The aim of this study is to identify short-term learning and long-term practice effects in 6 active tests for cognition, dexterity, and mobility in user-scheduled, high-frequency smartphone-based testing. Methods We analyzed data from 264 people with self-declared MS with a minimum of 5 weeks of follow-up and at least 5 repetitions per test in the Floodlight Open study, a self-enrollment study accessible by smartphone owners from 16 countries. The collected data are openly available to scientists. Using regression and bounded growth mixed models, we characterized practice effects for the following tests: electronic Symbol Digit Modalities Test (e-SDMT) for cognition; Finger Pinching and Draw a Shape for dexterity; and Two Minute Walk, U-Turn, and Static Balance for mobility. Results Strong practice effects were found for e-SDMT (n=4824 trials), Finger Pinching (n=19,650), and Draw a Shape (n=19,019) with modeled boundary improvements of 40.8% (39.9%-41.6%), 86.2% (83.6%-88.7%), and 23.1% (20.9%-25.2%) over baseline, respectively. Half of the practice effect was reached after 11 repetitions for e-SDMT, 28 repetitions for Finger Pinching, and 17 repetitions for Draw a Shape; 90% was reached after 35, 94, and 56 repetitions, respectively. Although baseline performance levels were highly variable across participants, no significant differences between the short-term learning effects in low performers (5th and 25th percentile), median performers, and high performers (75th and 95th percentile) were found for e-SDMT up to the fifth trial (β=1.50-2.00). Only small differences were observed for Finger Pinching (β=1.25-2.5). For U-Turn (n=15,051) and Static Balance (n=16,797), only short-term learning effects could be observed, which ceased after a maximum of 5 trials. For Two Minute Walk (n=14,393), neither short-term learning nor long-term practice effects were observed. Conclusions Smartphone-based tests are promising for monitoring the disease trajectories of MS and other chronic neurological diseases. Our findings suggest that strong long-term practice effects in cognitive and dexterity functions have to be accounted for to identify disease-related changes in these domains, especially in the context of personalized health and in studies without a comparator arm. In contrast, changes in mobility may be more easily interpreted because of the absence of long-term practice effects, even though short-term learning effects might have to be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim Woelfle
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Silvan Pless
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Wiencierz
- Clinical Trial Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ludwig Kappos
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yvonne Naegelin
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Lorscheider
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University of Basel, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lam KH, van Oirschot P, den Teuling B, Hulst HE, de Jong BA, Uitdehaag BMJ, de Groot V, Killestein J. Reliability, construct and concurrent validity of a smartphone-based cognition test in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2021; 28:300-308. [PMID: 34037472 PMCID: PMC8795217 DOI: 10.1177/13524585211018103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background: Early detection and monitoring of cognitive dysfunction in multiple sclerosis (MS) may be enabled with smartphone-adapted tests that allow frequent measurements in the everyday environment. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the reliability, construct and concurrent validity of a smartphone-adapted Symbol Digit Modalities Test (sSDMT). Methods: During a 28-day follow-up, 102 patients with MS and 24 healthy controls (HC) used the MS sherpa® app to perform the sSDMT every 3 days on their own smartphone. Patients performed the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS at baseline. Test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients, ICC), construct validity (group analyses between cognitively impaired (CI), cognitively preserved (CP) and HC for differences) and concurrent validity (correlation coefficients) were assessed. Results: Patients with MS and HC completed an average of 23.2 (SD = 10.0) and 18.3 (SD = 10.2) sSDMT, respectively. sSDMT demonstrated high test–retest reliability (ICCs > 0.8) with a smallest detectable change of 7 points. sSDMT scores were different between CI patients, CP patients and HC (all ps < 0.05). sSDMT correlated modestly with the clinical SDMT (highest r = 0.690), verbal (highest r= 0.516) and visuospatial memory (highest r= 0.599). Conclusion: Self-administered smartphone-adapted SDMT scores were reliable and different between patients who were CI, CP and HC and demonstrated concurrent validity in assessing information processing speed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- KH Lam
- KH Lam Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, De Boelelaan, 1117 Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - P van Oirschot
- Orikami Digital Health Products, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - B den Teuling
- Orikami Digital Health Products, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - HE Hulst
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - BA de Jong
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - BMJ Uitdehaag
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - V de Groot
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Killestein
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Palotai M, Wallack M, Kujbus G, Dalnoki A, Guttmann C. Usability of a Mobile App for Real-Time Assessment of Fatigue and Related Symptoms in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: Observational Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2021; 9:e19564. [PMID: 33861208 PMCID: PMC8087974 DOI: 10.2196/19564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although fatigue is one of the most debilitating symptoms in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), its pathogenesis is not well understood. Neurogenic, inflammatory, endocrine, and metabolic mechanisms have been proposed. Taking into account the temporal dynamics and comorbid mood symptoms of fatigue may help differentiate fatigue phenotypes. These phenotypes may reflect different pathogeneses and may respond to different mechanism-specific treatments. Although several tools have been developed to assess various symptoms (including fatigue), monitor clinical status, or improve the perceived level of fatigue in patients with MS, options for a detailed, real-time assessment of MS-related fatigue and relevant comorbidities are still limited. Objective This study aims to present a novel mobile app specifically designed to differentiate fatigue phenotypes using circadian symptom monitoring and state-of-the-art characterization of MS-related fatigue and its related symptoms. We also aim to report the first findings regarding patient compliance and the relationship between compliance and patient characteristics, including MS disease severity. Methods After developing the app, we used it in a prospective study designed to investigate the brain magnetic resonance imaging correlates of MS-related fatigue. In total, 64 patients with MS were recruited into this study and asked to use the app over a 2-week period. The app features the following modules: Visual Analogue Scales (VASs) to assess circadian changes in fatigue, depression, anxiety, and pain; daily sleep diaries (SLDs) to assess sleep habits and quality; and 10 one-time questionnaires to assess fatigue, depression, anxiety, sleepiness, physical activity, and motivation, as well as several other one-time questionnaires that were created to assess those relevant aspects of fatigue that were not captured by existing fatigue questionnaires. The app prompts subjects to assess their symptoms multiple times a day and enables real-time symptom monitoring through a web-accessible portal. Results Of 64 patients, 56 (88%) used the app, of which 51 (91%) completed all one-time questionnaires and 47 (84%) completed all one-time questionnaires, VASs, and SLDs. Patients reported no issues with the usage of the app, and there were no technical issues with our web-based data collection system. The relapsing-remitting MS to secondary-progressive MS ratio was significantly higher in patients who completed all one-time questionnaires, VASs, and SLDs than in those who completed all one-time questionnaires but not all VASs and SLDs (P=.01). No other significant differences in demographics, fatigue, or disease severity were observed between the degrees of compliance. Conclusions The app can be used with reasonable compliance across patients with relapsing-remitting and secondary-progressive MS irrespective of demographics, fatigue, or disease severity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miklos Palotai
- Center for Neurological Imaging, Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Max Wallack
- Center for Neurological Imaging, Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | | | - Charles Guttmann
- Center for Neurological Imaging, Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|