Evaluating multiple sclerosis severity loci 30 years after a clinically isolated syndrome.

The first genome-wide significant multiple sclerosis severity locus, rs10191329, has been pathologically linked to cortical lesion load and brain atrophy. However, observational cohorts such as MSBase have not replicated associations with disability outcomes, instead finding other loci. We evaluated rs10191329 and MSBase loci in a unique cohort of 53 people followed for 30 years after a clinically isolated syndrome, with deep clinical phenotyping and MRI measures of inflammation and neurodegeneration.

Reaping what we sow: Centering values in food systems transformations research.

In many transdisciplinary research settings, a lack of attention to the values underpinning project aims can inhibit stakeholder engagement and ultimately slow or undermine project outcomes. As a research collective (The Careoperative), we have developed a set of four shared values through a facilitated visioning process, as central to the way we work together: care, reflexivity, inclusivity, and collectivity. In this paper, we explore the implications of a values-centered approach to collaboration in food system transformation research.

Paramagnetic rim lesions are associated with inner retinal layer thinning and progression independent of relapse activity in multiple sclerosis.

Background And Purpose: Paramagnetic rim lesions (PRLs) are chronic active lesions associated with a severe disease course in multiple sclerosis (MS). This study was undertaken to investigate an association between retinal layer thinning (annualized loss of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer [aLpRNFL] and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer [aLGCIPL]) and PRLs in patients with MS (pwMS).

Methods: In this study, pwMS with brain magnetic resonance imaging and ≥2 optical coherence tomography scans were included.

Association of Disease-Modifying Treatment With Outcome in Patients With Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis and Isolated MRI Activity.

Background And Objectives: Isolated value of MRI metrics in relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) as a surrogate marker of response to disease-modifying treatment (DMT) and, thus, as decision criteria for DMT escalation in the absence of clinical signs of disease activity is still a matter of debate. The aim of this study was to investigate whether DMT escalation based on isolated MRI activity affects clinical outcome.

Methods: Combining data from 5 MS centers in Austria and Switzerland, we included patients with RMS aged at least 18 years who (1) had initiated first-line, low-to-moderate-efficacy DMT (interferon β, glatiramer acetate, teriflunomide, or dimethyl fumarate) continued for ≥12 months, (2) were clinically stable (no relapses or disability progression) on DMT for 12 months, (3) had MRI at baseline and after 12 months on DMT, and (4) had available clinical follow-up for ≥2 years after the second MRI.