Journal of Parkinson's Disease - Volume 10, issue 3

Authors: Alarcón, Fernando | Maldonado, Juan-Carlos | Cañizares, Miguel | Molina, José | Noyce, Alastair J. | Lees, Andrew J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Recognition of motor signs in the prodromal stage could help identify those at risk of developing Parkinson’s disease (PD). Objective: This study identified motor symptoms and signs in individuals suspected of having PD but who did not have a progressive reduction in the speed and amplitude of finger tapping or other physical signs indicative of bradykinesia. Methods: 146 patients, who had symptoms or signs suggestive of PD, were serially evaluated by a movement disorder specialist, using the Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) Part III and video recordings. If the patients ‘converted’ …to PD during follow-up, they were categorized as cases and compared with those who did not meet PD criteria during follow-up (non-cases). Results: The 82 cases were more likely to have action dystonia or postural/action/rest tremor of a limb (OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.1–7.1; p  = 0.02), a reduced blink rate at rest (OR 2.3; 95% CI 1.2–4.6; p  = 0.01), anxiety (OR 8.9; 95% CI 2.6–31.1; p  < 0.001), depression (OR 7.0; 95% CI 2.9–17.2; p  < 0.001), or a frozen shoulder (OR 3.1; 95% CI 1.6–6.2) than the 64 ‘non-cases’.A reduction of the fast blink rate was common in patients who met the criteria for PD (p  < 0.001). Conclusions: This study emphasizes that motor dysfunction is a component of the clinical prodrome seen in some patients with PD. Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, prodrome, motor dysfunction

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-191851

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1067-1073, 2020

Authors: Lewis, Mechelle M. | Harkins, Elias | Lee, Eun-Young | Stetter, Christy | Snyder, Bethany | Corson, Tyler | Du, Guangwei | Kong, Lan | Huang, Xuemei

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background/Objective: To synchronize data collection, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) recommended Common Data Elements (CDEs) for use in Parkinson’s disease (PD) research. This study delineated the progression patterns of these CDEs in a cohort of PD patients. Methods: One hundred-twenty-five PD patients participated in the PD Biomarker Program (PDBP) at Penn State. CDEs, including MDS-Unified PD Rating Scale (UPDRS)-total, questionnaire-based non-motor (-I) and motor (-II), and rater-based motor (-III) subscales; Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA); Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS); University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT); and PD Questionnaire (PDQ-39) were obtained at baseline …and three annual follow-ups. Annual change was delineated for PD or subgroups [early = PDE, disease duration (DD) <1 y; middle = PDM, DD = 1–5 y; and late = PDL, DD > 5 y] using mixed effects model analyses. Results: UPDRS-total, -II, and PDQ-39 scores increased significantly, and UPSIT decreased, whereas UPDRS-I, -III, MoCA, and HDRS did not change, over 36 months in the overall PD cohort. In the PDE subgroup, UPDRS-II increased and UPSIT decreased significantly, whereas MoCA and UPSIT decreased significantly in the PDM subgroup. In the PDL subgroup, UPDRS-II and PDQ-39 increased significantly. Other metrics within each individual subgroup did not change. Sensitivity analyses using subjects with complete data confirmed these findings. Conclusion: Among CDEs, UPDRS-total, -II, PDQ-39, and UPSIT all are sensitive metrics to track PD progression. Subgroup analyses revealed that these CDEs have distinct stage-dependent sensitivities, with UPSIT for DD < 5 y, PDQ-39 for DD > 5 y, UPDRS-II for early (DD < 1) or later stages (DD > 5). Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, common data elements, clinical progression, disease stage

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-201932

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1075-1085, 2020

Authors: Radder, Danique L.M. | Nonnekes, Jorik | van Nimwegen, Marlies | Eggers, Carsten | Abbruzzese, Giovanni | Alves, Guido | Browner, Nina | Chaudhuri, K. Ray | Ebersbach, Georg | Ferreira, Joaquim J. | Fleisher, Jori E. | Fletcher, Peter | Frazzitta, Giuseppe | Giladi, Nir | Guttman, Mark | Iansek, Robert | Khandhar, Suketu | Klucken, Jochen | Lafontaine, Anne-Louise | Marras, Connie | Nutt, John | Okun, Michael S. | Parashos, Sotirios A. | Munneke, Marten | Bloem, Bastiaan R.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Optimal management in expert centers for Parkinson’s disease (PD) usually involves pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, delivered by a multidisciplinary approach. However, there is no guideline specifying how this model should be organized. Consequently, the nature of multidisciplinary care varies widely. Objective: To optimize care delivery, we aimed to provide recommendations for the organization of multidisciplinary care in PD. Methods: Twenty expert centers in the field of multidisciplinary PD care participated. Their leading neurologists completed a survey covering eight themes: elements for optimal multidisciplinary care; team members; role of patients and care partners; team coordination; team …meetings; inpatient versus outpatient care; telehealth; and challenges towards multidisciplinary care. During a consensus meeting, outcomes were incorporated into concept recommendations that were reviewed by each center’s multidisciplinary team. Three patient organizations rated the recommendations according to patient priorities. Based on this feedback, a final set of recommendations (essential elements for delivery of multidisciplinary care) and considerations (desirable elements) was developed. Results: We developed 30 recommendations and 10 considerations. The patient organizations rated the following recommendations as most important: care is organized in a patient-centered way; every newly diagnosed patient has access to a core multidisciplinary team; and each team has a coordinator. A checklist was created to further facilitate its implementation. Conclusion: We provide a practical tool to improve multidisciplinary care for persons with PD at the organizational level. Future studies should focus on implementing these recommendations in clinical practice, evaluating their potential applicability and effectiveness, and comparing alternative models of PD care. Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, organization of care, guideline, practice-based evidence

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-202078

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1087-1098, 2020

Authors: Shah, Vrutangkumar V. | McNames, James | Mancini, Martina | Carlson-Kuhta, Patricia | Nutt, John G. | El-Gohary, Mahmoud | Lapidus, Jodi A. | Horak, Fay B. | Curtze, Carolin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Identifying digital biomarkers of mobility is important for clinical trials in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Objective: To determine which digital outcome measures of mobility discriminate mobility in people with PD from healthy control (HC) subjects over a week of continuous monitoring. Methods: We recruited 29 people with PD, and 27 age-matched HC subjects. Subjects were asked to wear three inertial sensors (Opal by APDM) attached to both feet and to the lumbar region, and a subset of subjects also wore two wrist sensors, for a week of continuous monitoring. We derived 43 digital outcome measures of …mobility grouped into five domains. An Area Under Curve (AUC) was calculated for each digital outcome measures of mobility, and logistic regression employing a ‘best subsets selection strategy’ was used to find combinations of measures that discriminated mobility in PD from HC. Results: Duration of recordings was 66±14 hours in the PD and 59±16 hours in the HC. Out of a total of 43 digital outcome measures of mobility, we found six digital outcome measures of mobility with AUC > 0.80. Turn angle (AUC = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.79–0.97) and swing time variability (AUC = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.75–0.96) were the most discriminative individual measures. Turning measures were most consistently selected via the best subsets strategy to discriminate people with PD from HC, followed by gait variability measures. Conclusion: Clinical studies and clinical practice with digital biomarkers of daily life mobility in PD should include turning and variability measures. Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, digital outcome measures of mobility, inertial sensors, biomarkers, continuous monitoring

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-201914

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1099-1111, 2020

Authors: Shalash, Ali | Okubadejo, Njideka U. | Doumbe, Jacques | Ojo, Oluwadamilola O. | Hamid, Eman | Kuate, Callixte | Calvo, Sara | Helmi, Asmaa | Agabi, Osigwe P. | Essam, Mohamed | Aguado, Laura | Elrassas, Hanan | Roushdy, Tamer | Tanner, Caroline M. | Cubo, Esther

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Availability of validated Parkinson’s disease (PD) questionnaires in languages spoken in Africa will enable the conduct of epidemiological studies. Objective: The aims of the current study were to develop cross-cultural translated and validated Arabic and French versions of a PD screening questionnaire, and determine its diagnostic accuracy for recognition of parkinsonism in early and moderate-advanced PD in three countries (Cameroon (French), Egypt (Arabic), and Nigeria (English)). Methods: This cross-sectional study screened 159 participants (81 PD and 78 controls) using the PD screening questionnaire. The questionnaire was translated into Arabic and French versions using standard protocols. …Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and the Identification and Intervention for Dementia in Elderly Africans cognitive screen. Co-morbidity burden was documented using the Charlson Comorbidity Index. PD severity and stage were evaluated using the MDS Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale and the Hoehn and Yahr scale respectively. Results: Both PD patients and controls were matched regarding age, gender, education, and co-morbidity burden. The PD screening questionnaire scores were significantly higher in PD (median 8.0, IQR 6.0–10.0) in contrast to controls (0.0, IQR 0.0–0.0) (p  < 0.0001), with a similar pattern and level of significance across all country sites. In ROC analysis, the questionnaire demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy for PD overall, with an AUC of 0.992 (95% CI 0.981–1.002). Conclusion: The Arabic, French, and English versions of this PD screening questionnaire are valid and accurate screening instruments for recognition of Parkinsonism. This paves the way for conducting epidemiological studies in many African countries. Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, screening, questionnaire, African countries, translation, validation

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-202040

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1113-1122, 2020

Authors: Yahalom, Gilad | Rigbi, Amihai | Israeli-Korn, Simon | Krohn, Lynne | Rudakou, Uladzislau | Ruskey, Jennifer A. | Benshimol, Lior | Tsafnat, Tal | Gan-Or, Ziv | Hassin-Baer, Sharon | Greenbaum, Lior

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to Parkinson’s disease (PD) risk. Objective: We investigated the potential association of several relevant variables with PD age at onset (AAO), focusing on LRRK2 p.G2019S and GBA p.N370S mutations. Methods: Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) PD patients, screened for LRRK2 and GBA mutations, underwent an interview regarding exposure to the following environmental and lifestyle factors: cigarette smoking, consumption of coffee, tea and alcohol, head injury and rural living. Multivariate linear regression (adjusted for sex) was used to examine the association with AAO, and models included LRRK2 …p.G2019S and GBA p.N370S mutation status (carrier/non-carriers), single environmental variable and their interactions terms, as independent variables. Results: 225 Israeli AJ PD patients were enrolled: 65 LRRK2 p.G2019S mutation carriers, 60 GBA p.N370S carriers and 100 non-carries of these mutations. In the dichotomized exposure/non-exposure analyses, positive LRRK2 p.G2019S status was associated with younger AAO in all models, at nominal or near significant levels (p  = 0.033–0.082). Smoking was associated with older AAO (p  = 0.032), and the interaction between GBA p.N370S and history of head injury was associated with younger AAO (p  = 0.049), both at nominal significance. There was no indication of a consistent main effect for GBA p.N370S status or significant LRRK2 p.G2019S-environmental factor interaction. In the dose-dependent analyses, increased coffee and tea consumption levels were associated with older AAO (p  = 0.001 and p  = 0.002, respectively). Conclusions: Our results suggest that genetic and environmental factors may affect AAO in PD patients, but validation in additional samples is required. Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, age at onset, LRRK2 p.G2019S, GBA p.N370S, environmental factors, lifestyle habits, smoking, coffee, tea, head injury, gene-environment interaction

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-191829

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1123-1132, 2020

Authors: Wändell, Per | Fredrikson, Sten | Carlsson, Axel C. | Li, Xinjun | Sundquist, Jan | Sundquist, Kristina

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: There is a lack of studies of Parkinson’s disease (PD) in immigrants. Objective: To study the association between country of birth and incident PD in immigrants in Sweden versus Swedish-born individuals. Methods: Study population included all adults aged 50 years and older in Sweden (n  = 2775736). PD was defined as having at least one registered diagnosis of PD in the National Patient Register. The incidence of PD in different first-generation immigrant groups versus Swedish-born individuals was assessed by Cox regression, expressed as hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The models were stratified by …sex and adjusted for age, geographical residence in Sweden, educational level, marital status, neighbourhood socioeconomic status and co-morbidity. Results: Totally 35833 individuals had an incident diagnosis of PD (20401 men and 15432 women). Incidence rates per 100,000 person-years were for all Swedish-born 95.9 and for all foreign-born 60.1; for all men 112.3 and for all women 73.4, with a male to female ratio of 1.53, with the highest incidence rates for the group 80–84 years of age. After adjusting for potential confounders, the overall relative risk of PD was lower in immigrant men (HR 0.78; 95% CI 0.74–0.82) and women (HR 0.92; 95% CI 0.87–0.98). Among immigrant subgroups, a higher risk of PD was found among women from Finland (HR 1.13; 95% CI 1.05–1.23). Conclusion: In general, the risk of PD was lower in first-generation immigrant men and women compared to Swedish-born. The only group with a higher risk of PD was women from Finland. Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, gender, immigrants, neighborhood, socioeconomic status

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-201962

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1133-1141, 2020

Authors: Su, Fang-Te | Tai, Chun-Hwei | Tan, Chun-Hsiang | Hwang, Wen-Juh | Yu, Rwei-Ling

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Social functioning is crucial for the determinants of Parkinson’s disease (PD) with dementia; however, there is no social functioning scale applicable to PD. Objective: This study aimed to develop a social functioning scale specific to PD (PDSFS) and provide a cut-off score to improve diagnosis accuracy. Methods: The items were developed through literature, interview patients, and PD expertise. After the pilot study, one hundred fifty-seven patients and 74 healthy participants were enrolled and completed the Mini-Mental State Examination, Clock Drawing Test, Activities of Daily Living, Neuropsychiatric Inventory, Adaptive Behavior Assessment System–Second Edition (ABAS–II) and part …III of the Movement Disorder Society-sponsored revision of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS–UPDRS). Results: The final PDSFS has 23 items. The exploratory factor analysis revealed three factors, including “Family Life, Hobbies and Self-Care”, “Interpersonal Relationship and Recreational Leisure”, and “Social Bond”. The internal consistency coefficient was 0.883, and the test-retest reliability was 0.774, respectively. The total score of the PDSFS was significantly related to the total score of ABAS–II (r  = 0.609, p  < 0.001), and was not correlated with the third part of MDS–UPDRS (p  = 0.736). A significant intergroup difference was found (p  < 0.001), and the healthy controls had the highest PDSFS score, followed by non-demented PD and PD dementia. The optimal cut-off score for PD patients with dementia was 39 (sensitivity: 0.735; specificity: 0.857). Conclusions: PDSFS is a practical and psychometrically sound tool to access the social functioning of the PD population. Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, cognitive impairment, social functioning, inventory, reliability, validity

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-201930

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1143-1151, 2020

Authors: Dumican, Matthew | Watts, Christopher

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Dysphagia in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common manifestation, particularly in advanced disease stages. However, the pathophysiology and time course of dysphagia progression remains unclear in non-advanced disease stages (e.g., Hoehn & Yahr stages I–III). Conflicting reports from investigations of the perception of dysphagia in people with PD further complicates our understanding of dysphagia in this population. Objective: The objectives of this research were to evaluate the ability of screening tools to detect swallowing impairments and how laryngeal kinematics predict the occurrence of abnormal swallowing events. Methods: 14 individuals with non-advanced PD, no previous history …of dysphagia diagnosis, and self-reported difficulty swallowing participated. The Swallow Disturbance Questionnaire (SDQ) and 3-oz water swallow test (WSST) were administered, along with a videoflouroscopic swallow study (VFSS). Laryngeal kinematics were represented by laryngeal vestibule closure reaction time (LVrt) and laryngeal vestibule closure duration (LVCd). The Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS) was used to quantify airway invasion. Results: A logistic regression indicated a significant model of predicting airway invasion from our predictors (p  = 0.003). LVrt and SDQ (p  < 0.05) provided the largest impact (OR = 1.11; 1.17). The WSST showed no significance in predicting swallow impairment (p  > 0.05). Conclusion: Decreased airway safety related to laryngeal kinematic function in PD may be manifesting at non-advanced disease stages to varied degrees. Our results support expectations of dysphagia manifestation in PD although screening practices may not adequately identify impairment. Future research should target specific laryngeal characteristics within this population to better understand the physiological cause of swallowing impairment and developof targeted interventions. Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, speech-language pathology, deglutition, deglutition disorders

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-202044

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1153-1160, 2020

Authors: Nguy, Vanessa | Barry, Benjamin K. | Moloney, Niamh | Hassett, Leanne M. | Canning, Colleen G. | Lewis, Simon J.G. | Allen, Natalie E.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Pain is common in Parkinson’s disease (PD). In general and chronic pain populations, physical inactivity, poor sleep, and anxiety are associated with worse pain. However, little is known about these potential predictors of pain in PD. Objective: This cross-sectional observational study investigated associations between measures of physical activity, sleep, and mood with pain in people with PD. Methods: Pain was measured using the King’s PD Pain Scale and the Brief Pain Inventory (pain severity and interference) in 52 participants with PD. Independent variables were categorised by demographics (age, gender), disease severity (MDS-UPDRS) and duration, central …sensitization (Central Sensitization Inventory), physical activity (Incidental and Planned Exercise Questionnaire), sleep (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), and mood (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). Results: Univariate regression analyses showed that increased disease severity, longer disease duration, greater central sensitization, increased physical activity, poor sleep, anxiety, and depression were associated with worse pain in one or more pain measures (p  < 0.05). Multivariate regression models accounted for 56% of the variance in the King’s Pain Scale, 25% pain severity and 36% in pain interference. Poor sleep independently contributed to worse pain scores in all models (β 0.3–0.4, p  < 0.05). Conclusion: Increased physical activity, poor sleep, anxiety, and depression are associated with worse pain scores in people with PD. For optimal management of pain in people with PD, sleep and mood may need to be addressed. Further, the nature of the relationship between physical activity and pain in PD requires further investigation. Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, pain, physical activity, sleep, depression, anxiety

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-201938

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1161-1170, 2020

Authors: Hommel, Adrianus L.A.J. | Meinders, Marjan J. | Weerkamp, Nico J. | Richinger, Carmen | Schmotz, Christian | Lorenzl, Stefan | Dodel, Richard | Coelho, Miguel | Ferreira, Joaquim J. | Tison, Francois | Boraud, Thomas | Meissner, Wassilios G. | Rosqvist, Kristina | Timpka, Jonathan | Odin, Per | Wittenberg, Michael | Bloem, Bas R. | Koopmans, Raymond T. | Schragand, Anette | the CLaSP consortium

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Treatment of patients with late-stage parkinsonism is often sub-optimal. Objective: To test the effectiveness of recommendations by a movement disorder specialist with expertise in late-stage parkinsonism. Methods: Ninety-one patients with late-stage parkinsonism considered undertreated were included in apragmatic a pragmatic multi-center randomized-controlled trial with six-month follow-up. The intervention group received a letter with treatment recommendations to their primary clinician based on an extensive clinical assessment. Controls received care as usual. The primary outcome was the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS)part-II (Activities of Daily Living). Other outcomes included quality-of-life (PDQ-8), mental health (UPDRS-I), motor function …(UPDRS-III), treatment complications (UPDRS-IV), cognition (Mini-mental-state-examination), non-motor symptoms (Non-Motor-Symptoms-scale), health status (EQ-5D-5L) and levodopa-equivalent-daily-dose (LEDD). We also assessed adherence to recommendations. In addition to intention-to-treat analyses, a per-protocol analysis was conducted. Results: Sample size calculation required 288 patients, but only 91 patients could be included. Treating physicians followed recommendations fully in 16 (28%) and partially in 21 (36%) patients. The intention-to-treat analysis showed no difference in primary outcome (between-group difference = –1.2, p  = 0.45), but there was greater improvement for PDQ-8 in the intervention group (between-group difference = –3.7, p  = 0.02). The per-protocol analysis confirmed these findings, and showed less deterioration in UPDRS-part I, greater improvement on UPDRS-total score and greater increase in LEDD in the intervention group. Conclusions: The findings suggest that therapeutic gains may be reached even in this vulnerable group of patients with late-stage parkinsonism, but also emphasize that specialist recommendations need to be accompanied by better strategies to implement these to further improve outcomes. Show more

Keywords: Parkinsonian disorders, randomized controlled trial, treatment, activities of daily living, quality of life

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-202033

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1171-1184, 2020

Authors: Mantri, Sneha | Klawson, Emily | Albert, Steven | Nabieva, Karina | Lepore, Madeline | Kahl, Stephen | Daeschler, Margaret | Mamikonyan, Eugenia | Kopil, Catherine | Marras, Connie | Chahine, Lana M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Fatigue in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is multifaceted and associated with reduced quality of life. In turn, the language used by people with PD to describe fatigue is variable and poorly understood. We sought to elucidate the lexicon of fatigue using a qualitative grounded theory approach. Objective: The objective of this study was to understand how patients with PD describe fatigue. Methods: A pre-study phase of online journaling (Phase 1) provided information regarding topics of importance to patients. Following this, two independent samples of fatigued subjects were studied. Individuals with PD participated in a telephone interview …(Phase 2); interview transcripts were analyzed to develop a detailed codebook. To ensure trustworthiness of the findings, an online survey (Phase 3) was administered to individuals with self-reported PD participating in the online study Fox Insight. The survey included the following question: “How do you define fatigue? Please provide your definition in the space below.” The codebook developed from Phase 2 was applied to the Phase 3 responses. Results: Fifteen individuals participated in Phase 2 and 413 individuals completed Phase 3. Fatigue was subdivided into three domains: cognitive, emotional, and physical. Nearly all individuals experienced more than one domain of fatigue. The most common themes included tiredness, lack of energy, and negative motivation. Conclusion: Fatigue in PD is multidimensional. Questionnaires that only assess the physical impact of fatigue may not be adequate to capture the broad range of experiences of fatigue among people with PD. Show more

Keywords: Fatigue, Parkinson’s disease, qualitative research

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-202029

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1185-1193, 2020

Authors: Schneider, Ruth B. | Myers, Taylor L. | Rowbotham, Helen M. | Luff, Marie K. | Amodeo, Katherine | Sharma, Saloni | Wilson, Renee | Jensen-Roberts, Stella | Auinger, Peggy | McDermott, Michael P. | Alcalay, Roy N. | Biglan, Kevin | Kinel, Daniel | Tanner, Caroline | Winter-Evans, Reni | Augustine, Erika F. | Cannon, Paul | 23andMe Research Team | Holloway, Robert G. | Dorsey, E. Ray

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: The rise of direct-to-consumer genetic testing has enabled many to learn of their possible increased risk for rare diseases, some of which may be suitable for gene-targeted therapies. However, recruiting a large and representative population for rare diseases or genetically defined sub-populations of common diseases is slow, difficult, and expensive. Objective: To assess the feasibility of recruiting and retaining a cohort of individuals who carry a genetic mutation linked to Parkinson’s disease (G2019S variant of LRRK2 ); to characterize this cohort relative to the characteristics of traditional, in-person studies; and to evaluate this model’s ability to create …an engaged study cohort interested in future clinical trials of gene-directed therapies. Methods: This single-site,3-year national longitudinal observational study will recruit between 250 to 350 LRRK2 carriers without Parkinson’s disease and approximately 50 with the condition. Participants must have undergone genetic testing by the personal genetics company, 23andMe, Inc., have knowledge of their carrier status, and consent to be contacted for research studies. All participants undergo standardized assessments, including video-based cognitive and motor examination, and complete patient-reported outcomes on an annual basis. Results: 263 individuals living in 33 states have enrolled. The cohort has a mean (SD) age of 56.0 (15.9) years, 59% are female, and 76% are of Ashkenazi Jewish descent. 233 have completed the baseline visit: 47 with self-reported Parkinson’s disease and 186 without. Conclusions: This study establishes a promising model for developing a geographically dispersed and well-characterized cohort ready for participation in future clinical trials of gene-directed therapies. Show more

Keywords: Clinical trials as topic, cohort studies, genetic testing, LRRK2, Parkinson’s disease, rare disease, remote consultation, telemedicine

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-202019

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1195-1207, 2020

Authors: Tang, Yilin | Liang, Xiaoniu | Han, Linlin | Peng, Fang | Shen, Bo | Yu, Huiling | Shen, Yan | Shen, Cong | Yu, Jintai | Wang, Jian

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Parkinson’s disease with mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI) or dementia (PDD) has been shown to be correlated with poor quality of life (QoL). The association between specific cognitive domains and QoL is less clear. Objective: To determine how the cognitive domains affect QoL in different cognitive states in PD. Methods: We recruited 600 PD patients, including 185 PD patients with normal cognition (PD-NC), 336 PD-MCI patients, and 79 PDD patients. All patients underwent a scale-based assessment (PDQ-39) for QoL, as well as clinical evaluations and neuropsychological tests. Results: Compared to PD-NC group, QoL became …more impaired in the PD-MCI and PDD groups. Generalized linear model revealed that no neuropsychological test was significantly associated with QoL in PD-NC group; neuropsychological tests in attention and language domains were significantly associated with QoL in PD-MCI patients; neuropsychological tests in memory and language domains were significantly associated with QoL in PDD patients. Conclusions: Cognitive domains contribute differently to QoL in PD. These findings may prompt clinicians to target specific cognitive domains for improving QoL in the PD patients. Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, mild cognitive impairment, dementia, quality of life

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-202097

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1209-1216, 2020

Authors: Tamplin, Jeanette | Morris, Meg E. | Marigliani, Caterina | Baker, Felicity A. | Noffs, Gustavo | Vogel, Adam P.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) frequently causes progressive deterioration in speech, voice and cognitive aspects of communication. These affect wellbeing and quality of life and are associated with caregiver strain and burden. Therapeutic singing groups can ameliorate PD-related communication disorders and increase social interaction and wellbeing for caregivers and care recipients. Objective: To analyse the effects of ParkinSong group singing sessions on Parkinson’s communication and wellbeing outcomes for people with PD and caregivers over 12 months. Methods: A 4-armed controlled clinical trial compared ParkinSong with active non-singing control conditions over 12 months. Two dosage levels (weekly versus …monthly) were available for each condition. ParkinSong comprised high-effort vocal, respiratory and speech exercises, group singing, and social interaction. PD-specific outcomes included vocal loudness, speech intelligibility, maximum phonation time, respiratory muscle strength, and voice related quality of life (QoL). Wellbeing outcomes were also measured for caregivers and care recipients. Results: We recruited 75 people with PD and 44 caregivers who attended weekly ParkinSong, monthly ParkinSong, weekly control or monthly control groups. We found significant improvements in the primary outcome of vocal loudness (p  = 0.032), with weekly singers 5.13 dB louder (p  = 0.044) and monthly singers 5.69 dB louder (p  = 0.015) than monthly controls at 12 months. ParkinSong participants also showed greater improvements in voice-related QoL and anxiety. Caregivers who attended ParkinSong showed greater reductions in depression and stress scores. Conclusions: This 12-month controlled clinical trial of ParkinSong demonstrated improvements in speech loudness and voice-related QoL for participants with PD, and enhanced wellbeing for both caregivers and care recipients. No adverse effects were reported over 12 months and improvements were sustained. Show more

Keywords: Clinical Trial Registry number: ACTRN12617000528358, Parkinson’s disease, movement disorders, rehabilitation, communication, speech, loudness, singing, music therapy, voice-related quality of life, non-motor symptoms

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-191838

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1217-1230, 2020

Authors: Aye, Yin Minn | Liew, Gerald M. | Ng, Samuel Y.E. | Wen, Ming-Ching | Lim, Linda L.H. | Chua, Shu-Ting | Chotphoksap, Usanee | Chao, Yinxia | Ng, Adeline S.Y. | Tan, Eng King | Tan, Louis Chew Seng | Xu, Zheyu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Mild parkinsonian signs (MPS) are common in the older adult and associated with a wide range of adverse health outcomes. There is limited data on the prevalence of MPS and its significance. Objective: To determine the prevalence of MPS in the community ambulant population and to evaluate the relationship of MPS with prodromal features of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and cognition. Methods: This cross-sectional community-based study involved participants aged ≥50 years. Parkinsonian signs were assessed using the modified Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (mUPDRS) and cognition using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Premotor symptoms of PD …were screened using a self-reported questionnaire. Linear regression was used to assess the association of MPS with premotor symptoms of PD and cognitive impairment. Results: Of 392 eligible participants, MPS was present in 105 (26.8%). Mean age of participants with MPS was 68.8±6.9 years and without MPS was 66.1±5.9 years (p  < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that MoCA scores were significantly lower in the MPS group (β= –0.152, 95% CI = –0.009, –0.138, p  < 0.05). A significant correlation between the presence of REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) and total MPS scores (β= 0.107, 95% CI = 0.053, 1.490, p  < 0.05) was also found. Neither vascular risk factors nor other premotor symptoms were significantly associated with MPS. Conclusion: MPS is common and closely related to cognitive impairment and increasing age. Presence of RBD is predictive of higher MPS scores. This study highlights the necessity of other investigations or sensitive risk markers to identify subjects at future risk of PD. Show more

Keywords: Mild parkinsonian signs, REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), premotor symptoms

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-191849

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1231-1237, 2020

Authors: Javidnia, Monica | Shoulson, Ira | Kieburtz, Karl | Venuto, Charles S.

Article Type: Short Communication

Abstract: Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients experience a range of non-motor symptoms that are believed to be related to disease pathophysiology, many of which are treatable by medications. Among newly-diagnosed PD participants in the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative study, we describe (1) the frequency of medication use for common non-motor symptoms, and (2) when non-motor symptomatic treatment was initiated relative to PD diagnosis. Non-motor medication use was reported by 73% of participants, most commonly for depression, constipation, and anxiety. Treatment of some non-motor symptoms, notably depression, antedated diagnosis. These data may be useful for studies of non-motor symptoms in PD.

Keywords: Non-motor symptoms, pharmacotherapies, anxiety, depression, sleep

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-201973

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1239-1243, 2020

Authors: Nonnekes, Jorik | Bloem, Bastiaan R.

Article Type: Short Communication

Abstract:  The relation between freezing of gait in Parkinson’s disease and levodopa is complex. Here, we describe a new phenotype of freezing of gait, namely levodopa-induced freezing of gait with a biphasic pattern. Our observation supports the idea that freezing of gait might emerge because of a mismatch between cognitive/limbic loops and motor loops involved in gait control. Moreover, it underscores the importance of assessing the influence of dopaminergic medication in daily clinical practice, including objective assessment in all three dopaminergic states. The possibility of biphasic freezing will only emerge after such a comprehensive evaluation, and will have immediate therapeutic consequences.

Keywords: Gait, freezing of gait, levodopa, Parkinson’s disease, parkinsonism, biphasic

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-201997

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1245-1248, 2020

Authors: Fedorova, Tatyana D. | Knudsen, Karoline | Sommerauer, Michael | Svendsen, Kristina B. | Otto, Marit | Borghammer, Per

Article Type: Short Communication

Abstract: Isolated REM sleep behaviour disorder (iRBD) is a predictive marker of prodromal Lewy body disease. iRBD prevalence in the general population is around 1%, but it remains under-diagnosed, even though symptoms are alleviated by medication. We developed a population screening strategy and identified 16 iRBD patients by conducting telephone interviews and polysomnography examinations. We compared our population-screened cohort with sleep-center referred patients and found higher MoCA scores and lower MDS-UPDRS-III scores in our patients. In conclusion, screening can be used to identify iRBD patients in a cost-effective manner with the benefit of identifying patients at a very early disease stage.

Keywords: REM sleep behavior disorder, Lewy body disease, Parkinson’s disease, screening, polysomnography

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-202020

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1249-1253, 2020

Authors: Vorderwülbecke, Bernd J. | Lehmann, Rebekka | Breuer, Eva

Article Type: Short Communication

Abstract: REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) might render patients with Parkinson’s disease prone to sleep-disordered breathing. This retrospective polysomonographic study assessed the prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing in 108 consecutive patients with either both Parkinson’s disease and RBD (n  = 37), Parkinson’s disease without RBD (n  = 21), or isolated RBD (n  = 50). Across all patients, 25% had at least moderate sleep-related breathing disorder, without significant differences between groups. Following multivariable analysis, RBD influenced sleep-related breathing parameters modestly but not significantly, whereas body mass index had a prominent impact. Further studies with larger patient cohorts are needed, and confounders like body mass index must …adequately be controlled for. Show more

Keywords: Body mass index, Parkinson’s disease, REM sleep behavior disorder, sleep apnea syndromes

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-201996

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1255-1259, 2020

Authors: Cools, Caro I. | de Vries, Nienke M. | Bloem, Bastiaan R.

Article Type: Short Communication

Abstract: In this viewpoint, we draw attention to using happiness in clinical studies as an interesting outcome that is highly relevant to patients with Parkinson’s disease. Quality of life (QoL) is thus far commonly used as main outcome in clinical trials. Happiness is a part of QoL, but also represents a construct on its own. While QoL mainly consists of quality perceptions of different extrinsic aspects of life, such as the environment or performance, happiness entails the intrinsic quality of the subjective enjoyment of life. Around 70% of people rate happiness as the most important thing in life. Happiness can be …a difficult construct to measure, but we argue that self-compassion and well-being could serve as reliable indicators for happiness. We expect that happiness as outcome could probe the true value of an intervention for a patient, well beyond what is captured by more traditional outcomes such as motor scores or the general concept of QoL, which better reflect external factors. Because of the apparent importance of happiness to many people, we recommend that this concept is used more widely as outcome measure in future clinical trials. Show more

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, happiness, Quality of Life, complementary therapies

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-201999

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1261-1266, 2020

Authors: Edwards, Emma | Carroll, Camille

Article Type: Letter

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-202169

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1267-1268, 2020

Article Type: Correction

DOI: 10.3233/JPD-200005

Citation: Journal of Parkinson's Disease, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 1269-1269, 2020