Imaging the Interplay Between Axonal Damage and Repair in Multiple Sclerosis

MRI- change in axonal integrity and organization over 2 years in aMS, naPMS and HC, by using machine learning techniques

After magnetic resonance (MR) data preprocessing (image denoising, standardization, bias field correction) classical machine learning techniques will be used to classify a number of MRI metrics which will be averaged over a number of regions of interest (ROIs) including (i) normal-appearing white and brain matter in brain lobes and cervical spinal cord, (ii) basal ganglia, (iii) thalamus, (vi) cerebellum, MS lesions. Complex input data (voxels/patches) will be generated to learn from, then a deep learning model for supervised classification will be defined to identify the combination of aMRI parameters that characterize aMS, naPMS and HC.

Change in MUSIC Test

Neurocognitive examination. MUSIC is a rapid (about 10-12 min) multiple domain cognitive screening test reflecting the most frequently impaired cognitive domains in MS. At 20-30 points the performance is in the normal range, at 16-19 points there is at most slight cognitive dysfunction, at 11-15 points there is moderate cognitive dysfunction and at \<= 10 points there is a clear cognitive dysfunction.

Change in auditory verbal learning and memory test/ Verbaler Lern- und Merkfähigkeitstest (VLMT)

Questionnaire to investigate memory performance, learning and recall information. Five presentations of a 15-word list are given, each followed by attempted recall. This is followed by a second 15-word interference list (list B), followed by recall of list A. Delayed recall and recognition are also tested.

Change in Symbol Digital Modalities Test (SDMT)

The SDMT detects cognitive impairment by measuring the time to pair abstracts. Using a reference key, the test taker has 90 seconds to pair specific numbers with given geometric figures.

Change in Brief Visuospatial Memory Test (BVMT)

The BVMT measures visuospatial memory In three Learning Trials, the respondent views the stimulus page for 10 seconds and is asked to draw as many of the figures as possible in their correct location on a page in the response booklet. A Delayed Recall Trial is administered after a 25-minute delay. Last, a Recognition Trial, in which the respondent is asked to identify which of 12 figures were included among the original geometric figures, is administered. Slower processing speed is associated with poorer learning and memory performance.