Validation of a Brief Computerized Cognitive Assessment in Multiple Sclerosis (BCCAMS) and comparison with reference batteries.

Background: The Brief Computerized Cognitive Assessment in Multiple Sclerosis (BCCAMS) is a short neuropsychological battery for persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).

Objectives: The main objective of the study is to validate the BCCAMS.

Methods: PwMS and healthy subjects (HS) were evaluated using the BCCAMS which include two computerized tests, the Computerized Speed Cognitive Test and the Computerized Episodic Visual Memory Test (CEVMT), a newly developed visuospatial memory test, and the French learning test.

Altered M1/M2 activation patterns of monocytes in severe relapsing experimental rat model of multiple sclerosis. Amelioration of clinical status by M2 activated monocyte administration.

Objectives: We investigated proinflammatory M1 and immunomodulatory M2 activation profiles of circulating monocytes in relapsing experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of multiple sclerosis, and tested whether altered M1/M2 equilibrium promotes CNS inflammation.

Results: Approaches of MRI macrophage tracking with USPIO nanoparticles and expression patterns of M1/M2 macrophages and microglia in brain and M1/M2 monocytes in blood samples at various disease stages revealed that M1/M2 equilibrium in blood and CNS favors mild EAE, while imbalance towards M1 promotes relapsing EAE. We consequently investigated whether M2 activated monocyte restoration in peripheral blood could cure acute clinical EAE disease.