scholarly journals T1 Relaxation Times in the Cortex and Thalamus Are Associated With Working Memory and Information Processing Speed in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christian Thaler ◽  
Isabelle Hartramph ◽  
Jan-Patrick Stellmann ◽  
Christoph Heesen ◽  
Maxim Bester ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Working Memory ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Information Processing ◽  
Processing Speed ◽  
T1 Mapping ◽  
Relaxation Times ◽  
Healthy Controls ◽  
Information Processing Speed ◽  
T1 Relaxation

Background: Cortical and thalamic pathologies have been associated with cognitive impairment in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).Objective: We aimed to quantify cortical and thalamic damage in patients with MS using a high-resolution T1 mapping technique and to evaluate the association of these changes with clinical and cognitive impairment.Methods: The study group consisted of 49 patients with mainly relapsing-remitting MS and 17 age-matched healthy controls who received 3T MRIs including a T1 mapping sequence (MP2RAGE). Mean T1 relaxation times (T1-RT) in the cortex and thalami were compared between patients with MS and healthy controls. Additionally, correlation analysis was performed to assess the relationship between MRI parameters and clinical and cognitive disability.Results: Patients with MS had significantly decreased normalized brain, gray matter, and white matter volumes, as well as increased T1-RT in the normal-appearing white matter, compared to healthy controls (p < 0.001). Partial correlation analysis with age, sex, and disease duration as covariates revealed correlations for T1-RT in the cortex (r = −0.33, p < 0.05), and thalami (right thalamus: r = −0.37, left thalamus: r = −0.50, both p < 0.05) with working memory and information processing speed, as measured by the Symbol-Digit Modalities Test.Conclusion: T1-RT in the cortex and thalamus correlate with information processing speed in patients with MS.

Difficulties in Planning Among Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Relative Consequence of Deficits in Information Processing Speed

2013 ◽  
Vol 19 (5) ◽  
pp. 613-620 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emily M. Owens ◽  
Douglas R. Denney ◽  
Sharon G. Lynch
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Information Processing ◽  
Processing Speed ◽  
Healthy Controls ◽  
Problem Difficulty ◽  
Sufficient Time ◽  
Information Processing Speed ◽  
Tower Of London ◽  
Planning Ability

AbstractPrevious studies show that MS patients take longer than healthy controls to plan their solutions to Tower of London (TOL) problems but yield conflicting results regarding the quality of their solutions. The present study evaluated performance under untimed or timed conditions to assess the possibility that differences in planning ability only occur when restrictions in solution times are imposed. MS patients (n = 39) and healthy controls (n = 43) completed a computerized version of the TOL under one of two conditions. In the untimed condition, participants were allowed as much time as needed on each problem. In the timed condition, limits were imposed on solution times and time remaining was displayed with each problem. Patients exhibited longer planning times than controls, and the disparity between groups increased with problem difficulty. Planning performance depended upon condition. In the untimed condition, patients and controls performed equally well. When solution times were restricted, however, patients solved fewer problems than controls. MS patients’ planning ability is intact when permitted sufficient time to formulate the required plan. Deficiencies in planning are only evident when time is restricted, and, therefore, are more accurately considered a relative consequence of disease-related problems in information processing speed. (JINS, 2013, 19, 1–8)

Altered functional connectivity and performance variability in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis

2014 ◽  
Vol 20 (11) ◽  
pp. 1453-1463 ◽  
Author(s):  
Magdalena Wojtowicz ◽  
Erin L Mazerolle ◽  
Virender Bhan ◽  
John D Fisk
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Information Processing ◽  
Functional Connectivity ◽  
Processing Speed ◽  
Resting State ◽  
Healthy Controls ◽  
Information Processing Speed ◽  
Frontal Pole ◽  
Performance Variability ◽  
Relapsing Remitting

Background: Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) demonstrate slower and more variable performance on attention and information processing speed tasks. Greater variability in cognitive task performance has been shown to be an important predictor of neurologic status and provides a unique measure of cognitive performance in MS patients. Objectives: This study investigated alterations in resting-state functional connectivity associated with within-person performance variability in MS patients. Methods: Relapsing–remitting MS patients and matched healthy controls completed structural MRI and resting-state fMRI (rsfMRI) scans, as well as tests of information processing speed. Performance variability was calculated from reaction time tests of processing speed. rsfMRI connectivity was investigated within regions associated with the default mode network (DMN). Relations between performance variability and functional connectivity in the DMN within MS patients were evaluated. Results: MS patients demonstrated greater reaction time performance variability compared to healthy controls ( p<0.05). For MS patients, more stable performance on a complex processing speed task was associated with greater resting-state connectivity between the ventral medial prefrontal cortex and the frontal pole. Conclusions: Among MS patients, greater functional connectivity between medial prefrontal and frontal pole regions appears to facilitate performance stability on complex speed-dependent information processing tasks.

Neuropsychological Assessment in Multiple Sclerosis

2017 ◽  
Vol 28 (2) ◽  
pp. 117-148 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sascha Hansen ◽  
Stefan Lautenbacher
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Working Memory ◽  
Information Processing ◽  
Processing Speed ◽  
Diagnostic Procedures ◽  
Study Data ◽  
Information Processing Speed ◽  
The Past ◽  
Extensive Test ◽  
Screening Procedures

Abstract. Neuropsychological deficits in multiple sclerosis (MS) are common. Over the past decades, many different procedures have been employed in diagnosing these deficits. Even though certain aspects of cognitive performance such as information processing speed and working memory may be affected more frequently than other cognitive functions, no specific deficit profile has been established in MS. This article provides an overview of the neuropsychological diagnostic procedures in MS and allows the reader to reach an informed decision on the applicability of specific procedures and the availability of study data in the context of MS. Additionally, it makes recommendations on the compilation of both screening procedures and extensive test batteries.

scholarly journals Patients with paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis are at higher risk of cognitive impairment in adulthood: An Italian collaborative study

2017 ◽  
Vol 24 (9) ◽  
pp. 1234-1242 ◽  
Author(s):  
Luis Ruano ◽  
Mariana Branco ◽  
Emilio Portaccio ◽  
Benedetta Goretti ◽  
Claudia Niccolai ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Information Processing ◽  
Processing Speed ◽  
Collaborative Study ◽  
Cognitive Disability ◽  
Information Processing Speed ◽  
Neuropsychological Profile ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
History Of

Background: Patients with paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) could be at an increased risk for cognitive impairment (CI), given the potential harmful effects of disease activity in neurodevelopment. However, there is scarce information on their long-term cognitive outcomes. Objective: To compare the prevalence and profile of CI between adults with a history of POMS and those with classic, adult-onset multiple sclerosis (AOMS). Methods: Cognitive performance was assessed through the Brief Repeatable Battery (BRB) and the Stroop Test in consecutive patients referred to six Italian MS centres. CI was defined as impairment in ⩾2 cognitive domains. Results: In all, 119 patients with POMS and 712 with AOMS were included in this analysis. The prevalence of CI was 48.0% in AOMS, 44.5% in POMS; with similar neuropsychological profile between the two groups. However, when adjusting for current age, we found a significantly increased risk for CI (odds ratio (OR) = 1.71; p = 0.02) and for impairment in information processing speed (OR = 1.86; p < 0.01) in patients with POMS. A higher Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was also identified in POMS ( p = 0.03) compared with AOMS patients. Conclusion: Patients with a history of POMS appear to be at higher risk of physical and cognitive disability than AOMS patients, after correcting for age effects, with particular involvement of information processing speed.

scholarly journals A comparison of cognitive performances between neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and multiple sclerosis patients in Indian context

2021 ◽  
Vol 57 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Swati Kumar ◽  
Goutam Gangopadhyay ◽  
Atanu Biswas ◽  
Souvik Dubey ◽  
Alak Pandit ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Information Processing ◽  
Executive Function ◽  
Neuromyelitis Optica ◽  
Processing Speed ◽  
Verbal Fluency ◽  
Spectrum Disorder ◽  
Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder ◽  
Information Processing Speed

Abstract Background To compare the frequency and pattern of cognitive impairment in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Results Twenty NMOSD and forty MS patients were included. Clinical and detailed neuropsychological assessment was done using frontal assessment battery and Kolkata cognitive battery supplemented with additional standard tests for different domains of cognitive functions. Domain wise tests were performed and compared. 15/20 (75%) NMOSD and 32/40 (80%) MS patients had cognitive impairment (p = 0.65). Executive function, verbal fluency, information processing speed, visuo-constructional ability, attention, complex calculation, and memory were more commonly involved in NMOSD in decreasing order. Compared to MS, the pattern was similar except that verbal fluency was more impaired in NMOSD. Expanded Disability Status scale (EDSS) correlated with cognitive involvement in NMOSD (p = 0.02) as against MS. Conclusions Executive function, verbal fluencies, and information processing speed were more affected compared to visual and verbal memory in NMOSD patients. The pattern of cognitive performance was similar in the MS group, even though clinical and radiological characteristics and pathophysiology is different, suggesting similar brain involvement.

Targeted Cognitive Game Training Enhances Cognitive Performance in Multiple Sclerosis Patients Treated With Interferon Beta 1-a

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shay Menascu ◽  
Roy Aloni ◽  
Mark Dolev ◽  
David Magalashvili ◽  
Keren Gutman ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Information Processing ◽  
Executive Function ◽  
Mild Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Cognitive Performance ◽  
Processing Speed ◽  
Interferon Beta ◽  
Training Group ◽  
Information Processing Speed

Abstract BackgroundPrevention of cognitive decline in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is of major importance. We explored the effect of short-term computerized game training on cognitive performance in MS patients with mild cognitive impairment.MethodsWe enrolled in this prospective study 100 eligible MS patients treated with Interferon-beta-1a (Rebif). All had mild cognitive impairment in either executive function or information processing speed. Patients were randomized 1:1 to either use the cognitive games platform byHappyNeuron (HN) or receive no intervention. Executive function and information processing speed scores were measured at 3 and 6 months from baseline to evaluate the effect of game training on cognitive scores.ResultsIn both executive function and information processing speed, the game Training group showed significant improvement after 3 and 6 months. The Non-Training group showed mild deterioration in both domains at 3 months, and further deterioration that became significant at 6 months in executive function. Furthermore, at 6 months, the percent of patients in the Training group that improved or remained stable in both cognitive domains was significantly higher compared to the Non-Training group.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that cognitive game training has a beneficial effect on cognitive performance in MS patients suffering from mild cognitive impairment. While further evaluation is required to assess the longevity of that effect, we nonetheless recommend to MS patients to be engaged in cognitive gaming practice as part of a holistic approach to treating their condition.

scholarly journals Design, Development, and Testing of an App for Dual-Task Assessment and Training Regarding Cognitive-Motor Interference (CMI-APP) in People With Multiple Sclerosis: Multicenter Pilot Study

10.2196/15344 ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. e15344 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrea Tacchino ◽  
Renee Veldkamp ◽  
Karin Coninx ◽  
Jens Brulmans ◽  
Steven Palmaers ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Working Memory ◽  
Information Processing ◽  
Pilot Study ◽  
Processing Speed ◽  
Perceived Exertion ◽  
Rehabilitation Program ◽  
Information Processing Speed ◽  
Motor Tasks ◽  
Assessment Tests

Background Interest toward dual-task training (DTT) is increasing as traditional interventions may not prepare patients to adequately face the challenges of most activities of daily living. These usually involve simultaneous cognitive and motor tasks, and they often show a decline in performance. Cognitive-motor interference (CMI) has been investigated in different neurological populations, but limited evidence is present for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The use of computerized tools is mandatory to allow the application of more standardized assessment and rehabilitation intervention protocols and easier implementation of multicenter and multilanguage studies. Objective To describe the design and development of CMI-APP, an adaptive and interactive technology tablet-based app, and to present the preliminary results of a multicenter pilot study involving people with MS performed in several European centers for evaluating the feasibility of and adherence to a rehabilitation program based on CMI-APP. Methods CMI-APP includes user-friendly interfaces for personal data input and management, assessment of CMI, and DTT. A dedicated team developed CMI-APP for Android tablets above API level 14 (version 4.0), using C# as the programming language and Unity and Visual Studio as development tools. Three cognitive assessment tests for working memory, information processing speed, and sustained attention and four motor assessment tests for walking at different difficulty levels were implemented. Dual cognitive-motor tasks were performed by combining single cognitive and motor tasks. CMI-APP implements exercises for DTT involving the following 12 cognitive functions: sustained attention, text comprehension, verbal fluency, auditory discrimination, visual discrimination, working memory, information processing speed, auditory memory, visual memory, verbal analog reasoning, visual analog reasoning, and visual spatial planning, which can be performed during walking or stepping on the spot. Fifteen people with MS (mean age 52.6, SD 8.6 years; mean disease duration 9.4, SD 8.4 years; mean Expanded Disability Status Scale score 3.6, SD 1.1) underwent DTT (20 sessions). Adherence to the rehabilitation program was evaluated according to the percentage of performed sessions, perceived exertion during the training (Borg 15-point Ratings of Perceived Exertion [RPE] Scale), and subjective experience of the training (Intrinsic Motivation Inventory [IMI]). Results The adherence rate was 91%. DTT was perceived as “somewhat difficult” (mean RPE Scale score 12.6, SD 1.9). IMI revealed that participants enjoyed the training and felt that it was valuable and, to some extent, important, without feelings of pressure. They felt competent, although they did not always feel they could choose the exercises, probably because the therapist chose the exercises and many exercises had few difficulty levels. Conclusions CMI-APP is safe, highly usable, motivating, and well accepted for DTT by people with MS. The findings are fundamental for the preparation of future large-sample studies examining CMI and the effectiveness of DTT interventions with CMI-APP in people with MS.

Can we define a rehabilitation strategy for cognitive impairment in progressive multiple sclerosis? A critical appraisal

2016 ◽  
Vol 22 (5) ◽  
pp. 581-589 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emanuele D’Amico ◽  
Carmela Leone ◽  
Tumani Hayrettin ◽  
Francesco Patti
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Information Processing ◽  
Processing Speed ◽  
Cognitive Rehabilitation ◽  
Critical Appraisal ◽  
Progressive Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Information Processing Speed ◽  
Specific Approach ◽  
Rehabilitation Strategy

Cognitive impairment (CI) has been shown to be severe in patients with progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), and the most frequently impaired domains are sustained attention, information processing speed, memory, and executive functions. In contrast to relapsing forms of MS, where studies have shown favorable results from cognitive rehabilitation, there is a lack of data on cognitive rehabilitation in progressive forms of MS. A specific approach in assessing CI and in designing and administering rehabilitation training for patients with progressive forms of MS is needed.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document