scholarly journals A Rapid Electronic Cognitive Assessment Measure for Multiple Sclerosis: Validation of Cognitive Reaction, an Electronic Version of the Symbol Digit Modalities Test

10.2196/18234 ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (9) ◽  
pp. e18234
Author(s):  
Rod M Middleton ◽  
Owen R Pearson ◽  
Gillian Ingram ◽  
Elaine M Craig ◽  
William J Rodgers ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Question Answering ◽  
Wide Spectrum ◽  
Electronic Version ◽  
Cognitive Testing ◽  
Paper Test ◽  
Assessment Measure ◽  
Healthy Control ◽  
Computer Based ◽  
Highly Correlated

Background Incorporating cognitive testing into routine clinical practice is a challenge in multiple sclerosis (MS), given the wide spectrum of both cognitive and physical impairments people can have and the time that testing requires. Shortened paper and verbal assessments predominate but still are not used routinely. Computer-based tests are becoming more widespread; however, changes in how a paper test is implemented can impact what exactly is being assessed in an individual. The Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) is one validated test that forms part of the cognitive batteries used in MS and has some computer-based versions. We developed a tablet-based SDMT variant that has the potential to be ultimately deployed to patients’ own devices. Objective This paper aims to develop, validate, and deploy a computer-based SDMT variant, the Cognition Reaction (CoRe) test, that can reliably replicate the characteristics of the paper-based SDMT. Methods We carried out analysis using Pearson and intraclass correlations, as well as a Bland-Altman comparison, to examine consistency between the SDMT and CoRe tests and for test-retest reliability. The SDMT and CoRe tests were evaluated for sensitivity to disability levels and age. A novel metric in CoRe was found: question answering velocity could be calculated. This was evaluated in relation to disability levels and age for people with MS and compared with a group of healthy control volunteers. Results SDMT and CoRe test scores were highly correlated and consistent with 1-month retest values. Lower scores were seen in patients with higher age and some effect was seen with increasing disability. There was no learning effect evident. Question answering velocity demonstrated a small increase in speed over the 90-second duration of the test in people with MS and healthy controls. Conclusions This study validates a computer-based alternative to the SDMT that can be used in clinics and beyond. It enables accurate recording of elements of cognition relevant in MS but offers additional metrics that may offer further value to clinicians and people with MS.

scholarly journals A Rapid Electronic Cognitive Assessment Measure for Multiple Sclerosis: Validation of Cognitive Reaction, an Electronic Version of the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rod M Middleton ◽  
Owen R Pearson ◽  
Gillian Ingram ◽  
Elaine M Craig ◽  
William J Rodgers ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Question Answering ◽  
Wide Spectrum ◽  
Electronic Version ◽  
Cognitive Testing ◽  
Paper Test ◽  
Assessment Measure ◽  
Healthy Control ◽  
Computer Based ◽  
Highly Correlated

BACKGROUND Incorporating cognitive testing into routine clinical practice is a challenge in multiple sclerosis (MS), given the wide spectrum of both cognitive and physical impairments people can have and the time that testing requires. Shortened paper and verbal assessments predominate but still are not used routinely. Computer-based tests are becoming more widespread; however, changes in how a paper test is implemented can impact what exactly is being assessed in an individual. The Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) is one validated test that forms part of the cognitive batteries used in MS and has some computer-based versions. We developed a tablet-based SDMT variant that has the potential to be ultimately deployed to patients’ own devices. OBJECTIVE This paper aims to develop, validate, and deploy a computer-based SDMT variant, the Cognition Reaction (CoRe) test, that can reliably replicate the characteristics of the paper-based SDMT. METHODS We carried out analysis using Pearson and intraclass correlations, as well as a Bland-Altman comparison, to examine consistency between the SDMT and CoRe tests and for test-retest reliability. The SDMT and CoRe tests were evaluated for sensitivity to disability levels and age. A novel metric in CoRe was found: question answering velocity could be calculated. This was evaluated in relation to disability levels and age for people with MS and compared with a group of healthy control volunteers. RESULTS SDMT and CoRe test scores were highly correlated and consistent with 1-month retest values. Lower scores were seen in patients with higher age and some effect was seen with increasing disability. There was no learning effect evident. Question answering velocity demonstrated a small increase in speed over the 90-second duration of the test in people with MS and healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS This study validates a computer-based alternative to the SDMT that can be used in clinics and beyond. It enables accurate recording of elements of cognition relevant in MS but offers additional metrics that may offer further value to clinicians and people with MS.

Cognitive impairment in pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis is detected by the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis and computerized cognitive testing

2017 ◽  
Vol 24 (4) ◽  
pp. 512-519 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leigh E Charvet ◽  
Michael Shaw ◽  
Ariana Frontario ◽  
Dawn Langdon ◽  
Lauren B Krupp
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Cognitive Assessment ◽  
Outpatient Setting ◽  
Cognitive Testing ◽  
Cognitive Screening ◽  
Healthy Control ◽  
Computer Based ◽  
Brief Cognitive Assessment ◽  
Pediatric Onset

Background: Cognitive impairment is a common and troubling feature of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS). Brief cognitive assessment in the outpatient setting can identify and longitudinally monitor cognitive involvement so that early intervention is possible. Objectives: The goal of this study was to measure the sensitivity of two cognitive assessment approaches that are brief, repeatable, and suitable for clinical practice and for multicenter investigation. Methods: Participants with POMS ( n = 69) were consecutively evaluated as part of outpatient neurologic visits and compared to healthy control participants (HC, n = 66) using the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS (BICAMS) approach and timed information processing measures from Cogstate, a computer-based assessment. Results: There was strong agreement in the detection rate of impairment between both assessments, with 26% for the BICAMS and 27% for Cogstate. Two of the Cogstate tasks were the most sensitive individual measures. Conclusion: Both the BICAMS and Cogstate timed processing measures offer practical, sensitive, and standardized approaches for cognitive screening assessment in POMS.

scholarly journals Novel computer-based testing shows multi-domain cognitive dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis

2018 ◽  
Vol 4 (2) ◽  
pp. 205521731876745 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrew D Smith ◽  
Charles Duffy ◽  
Andrew D Goodman
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Dysfunction ◽  
Neuropsychological Testing ◽  
Poor Quality ◽  
Cognitive Testing ◽  
Routine Clinical Setting ◽  
Baseline Testing ◽  
Computer Based ◽  
Test Retest Reliability

Background Although cognitive dysfunction is a leading cause of disability and poor quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), it is infrequently tested in routine clinical evaluation. Development of a cognitive testing paradigm that captured MS-related cognitive dysfunction and could be obtained in a routine clinical setting may increase surveillance and recognition of cognitive dysfunction. Objectives This was a pilot study to determine if Cognivue could find cognitive performance differences between patients with MS and healthy controls (HC). Methods: A total of 24 patients with MS and 12 HCs between 18 and 50 years old were enrolled. Baseline testing included an Expanded Disability Scale (EDSS), paced auditory serial additions test (PASAT), symbol digit modalities test (SDMT) and Cognivue. Subjects then had repeat testing every 1–2 months for a maximum of three tests. Results Significant differences were found between MS and HC on SDMT, PASAT, and Cognivue Total score. Most Cognivue subtests showed significant differences between MS and HC. Cognivue scores correlated with both SDMT and PASAT and had high test-retest reliability in HCs. Conclusion Cognivue was able to detect multi-domain cognitive dysfunction in MS. Further studies to determine validity of Cognivue in MS with comparison with neuropsychological testing and sensitivity to clinical change are still needed.

Taking the tester out of the SDMT: A proof of concept fully automated approach to assessing processing speed in people with MS

2018 ◽  
Vol 25 (11) ◽  
pp. 1506-1513 ◽  
Author(s):  
Viral Prakash Patel ◽  
Lingkai Shen ◽  
Jonathan Rose ◽  
Anthony Feinstein
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Speech Recognition ◽  
Processing Speed ◽  
Cognitive Assessment ◽  
Convergent Validity ◽  
Cognitive Testing ◽  
Proof Of Concept ◽  
Matched Healthy Control ◽  
Automated Speech Recognition ◽  
Healthy Control

Background: One factor hindering the widespread use of cognitive testing for people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) is the need for a tester to administer tests. Objective: To undertake a proof of concept study assessing the feasibility of a fully automated speech recognition version of the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (auto-SDMT) in detecting abnormalities in processing speed in pwMS. Methods: A sample of 50 pwMS and 32 matched healthy control (HC) subjects was tested with the auto-SDMT and the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS (BICAMS). Results: The percentages of MS participants impaired on the auto-SDMT and the traditional oral SDMT were 34% and 32%, respectively. Excellent convergent validity was found between the two tests (MS: r = −0.806, p < 0.001 and HC: r = −0.629, p < 0.001). The auto-SDMT had a similar sensitivity and specificity to the traditional oral SDMT in predicting overall impairment on the BICAMS. Conclusion: The auto-SDMT is a sensitive measure for detecting processing speed deficits in pwMS. The test, the first entirely computer administrated oral response version of the SDMT, uses speech recognition technology, thereby eliminating the need for a human tester. Replication of the results is required in a larger representative sample of pwMS.

Upper Extremity Motor Fatigability as an Early Indicator in Pediatric Onset Multiple Sclerosis

2021 ◽  
pp. 088307382199988
Author(s):  
Giuseppina Pilloni ◽  
Martin Malik ◽  
Raghav Malik ◽  
Lauren Krupp ◽  
Leigh Charvet
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Grip Strength ◽  
Upper Extremity ◽  
Static Fatigue ◽  
Healthy Controls ◽  
Fatigue Index ◽  
Left Hand ◽  
Right Hand ◽  
Computer Based ◽  
Pediatric Onset

Aim: To adopt a computer-based protocol to assess grip fatigability in patients with pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis to provide detection of subtle motor involvement identifying those patients most at risk for future decline. Method: Pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis patients were recruited during routine outpatient visits to complete a grip assessment and compared to a group of healthy age- and sex-matched controls. All participants completed a computer-based measurement of standard maximal grip strength and repetitive and sustained grip performance measured by dynamic and static fatigue indices. Results: A total of 38 patients with pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis and 24 healthy controls completed the grip protocol (right-hand dominant). There were no significant group differences in maximal grip strength bilaterally (right: 21.8 vs 19.9 kg, P = .25; left: 20.4 vs 18.7 kg, P = .33), although males with pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis were significantly less strong than healthy controls (right: 26.53 vs 21.23 kg, P = .009; left; 25.13 vs 19.63 kg, P = .003). Both dynamic and static fatigue indices were significantly higher bilaterally in pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis compared with healthy control participants (left-hand dynamic fatigue index: 18.6% vs 26.7%, P = .003; right-hand static fatigue index: 28.3% vs 41.3%, P < .001; left-hand static fatigue index: 31.9% vs 42.6%, P < .001). Conclusion: Brief repeatable grip assessment including measures of dynamic and sustained static output can be a sensitive indicator of upper extremity motor involvement in pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis, potentially identifying those in need of intervention to prevent future disability.

scholarly journals Cervical cord myelin abnormality is associated with clinical disability in multiple sclerosis

2021 ◽  
pp. 135245852110017
Author(s):  
Lisa Eunyoung Lee ◽  
Irene M Vavasour ◽  
Adam Dvorak ◽  
Hanwen Liu ◽  
Shawna Abel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Progressive Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Dorsal Column ◽  
Cervical Cord ◽  
In Vivo Measurement ◽  
Subclinical Disease ◽  
Healthy Control ◽  
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Mri ◽  
Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis

Background: Myelin water imaging (MWI) was recently optimized to provide quantitative in vivo measurement of spinal cord myelin, which is critically involved in multiple sclerosis (MS) disability. Objective: To assess cervical cord myelin measurements in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and progressive multiple sclerosis (ProgMS) participants and evaluate the correlation between myelin measures and clinical disability. Methods: We used MWI data from 35 RRMS, 30 ProgMS, and 28 healthy control (HC) participants collected at cord level C2/C3 on a 3 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. Myelin heterogeneity index (MHI), a measurement of myelin variability, was calculated for whole cervical cord, global white matter, dorsal column, lateral and ventral funiculi. Correlations were assessed between MHI and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), 9-Hole Peg Test (9HPT), timed 25-foot walk, and disease duration. Results: In various regions of the cervical cord, ProgMS MHI was higher compared to HC (between 9.5% and 31%, p ⩽ 0.04) and RRMS (between 13% and 26%, p ⩽ 0.02), and ProgMS MHI was associated with EDSS ( r = 0.42–0.52) and 9HPT ( r = 0.45–0.52). Conclusion: Myelin abnormalities within clinically eloquent areas are related to clinical disability. MWI metrics have a potential role for monitoring subclinical disease progression and adjudicating treatment efficacy for new therapies targeting ProgMS.

Association between circulating leptin levels and multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

2018 ◽  
Vol 94 (1111) ◽  
pp. 278-283 ◽  
Author(s):  
Xue-Feng Xie ◽  
Xiao-Hui Huang ◽  
Ai-Zong Shen ◽  
Jun Li ◽  
Ye-Huan Sun
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Random Effect ◽  
Random Effect Model ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Sample Type ◽  
Healthy Controls ◽  
Eligibility Criteria ◽  
Effect Model ◽  
Healthy Control

AimLeptin, synthesised by adipocytes, has been identified as a hormone that can influence inflammatory activity. Several studies have investigated leptin levels in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), but the results are not consistent. This study aims to derive a more precise evaluation on the relationship between circulating leptin levels and MS.DesignA comprehensive literature searched up to July 2017 was conducted to evaluate the association of circulating leptin levels and MS. The random-effect model was applied to calculate pooled standardised mean difference (SMD) and its 95% CI.Main outcome measuresCirculating leptin levels of patients with MS and healthy controls.ResultsOf 2155 studies identified, 33 met eligibility criteria and 9 studies with 645 patients with MS and 586 controls were finally included in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis revealed that, compared with the healthy control group, the MS group had significantly higher plasma/serum leptin levels, with the SMD of 0.70% and 95% CI (0.24 to 1.15). Subgroup analyses suggested that the leptin levels of patients with MS were associated with region, age, study sample size, measurement type, gender and blood sample type.ConclusionOverall, our study suggests that patients with MS have a significantly higher leptin level than in healthy controls. Further mechanism studies and longitudinal large cohort studies are still needed to further reveal the role of leptin in the pathogenesis of MS.

scholarly journals Validity of Computer Based Administration of Cognitive Assessments compared to Traditional Paper-based Administration

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Siao Ye ◽  
Brian Ko ◽  
Huy Phi ◽  
David Eagleman ◽  
Benjamin Flores ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Neuropsychological Testing ◽  
Verbal Learning ◽  
Screening Tools ◽  
Cognitive Assessments ◽  
Saint Louis ◽  
Saint Louis University ◽  
Stroop Color Word Test ◽  
Computer Based ◽  
Highly Correlated ◽  
Composite Scores

Traditional pen and paper based neuropsychological tests (NPT) for cognition assessment have several challenges limiting their use. They are time consuming, expensive, and require highly trained specialists to administer. This leads to testing being available to only a small portion of the population and often with wait times of several months. In clinical practice, we have found results tend not to be integrated effectively into assessment and plans of the ordering provider. Here we compared several tests using BrainCheck (BC), a computer-based NPT battery, to traditional paper-based NPT, by evaluating individual tests as well as comparing composite scores to scores on traditional screening tools. 26 volunteers took both paper-based tests and BC. We found scores of four assessments (Ravens Matrix, Digit Symbol Modulation, Stroop Color Word Test and Trails Making A&B Test) were highly correlated. The Balance Examination and Immediate/Delayed Hopkins Verbal Learning, however, were not correlated. The BC composite score was correlated to results of the Saint Louis University Mental Status (SLUMS) exam [1], the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) [2], and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Our results suggest BC may offer a computer-based avenue to address the gap between basic screening and formal neuropsychological testing.

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