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BackgroundMultiple sclerosis (MS) and presymptomatic axonal injury appear to develop only after an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. This association remains to be confirmed across a broad preclinical time range, for lytic and latent EBV seroreactivity, and for potential cross-reacting antigens.MethodsWe performed a case-control study with 669 individual serum samples obtained before clinical MS onset, identified through cross-linkage with the Swedish MS register. We assayed antibodies against EBV nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1), viral capsid antigen p18, glycoprotein 350 (gp350), the potential cross-reacting protein anoctamin 2 (ANO2) and the level of sNfL, a marker of axonal injury.ResultsEBNA1 (latency) seroreactivity increased in the pre-MS group, at 15-20 years before clinical MS onset, followed by gp350 (lytic) seroreactivity (p=0.001-0.009), ANO2 seropositivity appeared shortly after EBNA1-seropositivity in 16.7% of pre-MS cases and 10.0% of controls (p=0.001).With an average lag of almost a decade after EBV, sNfL gradually increased, mainly in the increasing subgroup of seropositive pre-MS cases (p=8.10-5 compared with non-MS controls). Seropositive pre-MS cases reached higher sNfL levels than seronegative pre-MS (p=0.038). In the EBNA1-seropositive pre-MS group, ANO2 seropositive cases had 26% higher sNfL level (p=0.0026).ConclusionsSeroreactivity against latent and lytic EBV antigens, and in a subset ANO2, was detectable on average a decade before the appearance of a gradually increasing axonal injury occurring in the last decade before the onset of clinical MS. These findings strengthen the hypothesis of latent EBV involvement in the pathogenesis of MS., Funding Agencies|Swedish Government [ALFGBG- 715986, 2017- 00915]; County Councils [ALFGBG- 772071, AF- 742881]; Research Foundation of the Gothenburg MS Society; Bjornsson Research Foundation; Gothenburg, Sweden; Gothenburg Society of Medicine; Visare Norr Fund; Northern County Councils Regional Federation; Research and Development Unit; Region Jaemtland Haerjedalen; Research Fund for Clinical Neuroscience at the University Hospital of Northern Sweden; Oskarfonden; NEURO Sweden; Swedish Research Council [ALFGBG- 772071]; European Research Council [ALFGBG- 715986, 2018- 02532]; Swedish State Support for Clinical Research [681712]; Alzheimer Drug Discovery Foundation-USA [101053962, 860197]; AD Strategic Fund and the Alzheimers Association [ALFGBG- 71320, 201809-2016862, RDAPB- 201809- 2016615]; Olav Thon Foundation; Erling- Persson Family Foundation; Stiftelsen foer Gamla Tjaenarinnor; Hjaernfonden-Sweden [ADSF- 21- 831376- C, UKDRI- 1003]; European Union [ADSF- 21- 831381- C]; European Union Joint Programme-Neurodegenerative Disease Research [ADSF- 21- 831377- C]; UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London [FO2019- 0228]; Swedish Research Council [FO2017- 0243]; Swedish Alzheimer Foundation [JPND2021- 00694]; European Union Joint Program for Neurodegenerative Disorders [JPND2019- 466- 236]; US National Institutes of Health [1R01AG068398- 01]; Alzheimers Association 2021 Zenith Award [ZEN- 21- 848495]; Swedish Brain Foundation; Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation; Margaretha af Ugglas Foundation; European Horizon [733161]; Swedish Research Foundation [2020- 01638]

Background We analysed the COMparison Between All immunoTherapies for Multiple Sclerosis (NCT03193866), a Swedish nationwide observational study in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), to identify trajectories of processing speed and physical disability after disease-modulating therapy (DMT) start. Methods Using a group-modelling approach, we assessed trajectories of processing speed with oral Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and physical disability with Expanded Disability Status Scale, from first DMT start among 1645 patients with RRMS followed during 2011-2022. We investigated predictors of trajectories using group membership as a multinomial outcome and calculated conditional probabilities linking membership across the trajectories. Results We identified 5 stable trajectories of processing speed: low SDMT scores (mean starting values=29.9; 5.4% of population), low/medium (44.3; 25.3%), medium (52.6; 37.9%), medium/high (63.1; 25.8%) and high (72.4; 5.6%). We identified 3 physical disability trajectories: no disability/stable (0.8; 26.8%), minimal disability/stable (1.6; 58.1%) and moderate disability (3.2; 15.1%), which increased to severe disability. Older patients starting interferons were more likely than younger patients starting rituximab to be on low processing speed trajectories. Older patients starting teriflunomide, with more than one comorbidity, and a history of pain treatment were more likely to belong to the moderate/severe physical disability trajectory, relative to the no disability one. There was a strong association between processing speed and physical disability trajectories. Conclusions In this cohort of actively treated RRMS, patients processing speed remained stable over the years following DMT start, whereas patients with moderate physical disability deteriorated in physical function. Nevertheless, there was a strong link between processing speed and disability after DMT start., Funding Agencies|Patient -Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Award [MS- 1511-33196]; Swedish Research Council for Health, Working Life, and Welfare [2020-0115]; Swedish Research Council [2021-01418]; Swedish Brain foundation

Objective: To assess comparative effectiveness, safety, and tolerability of off-label rituximab, compared with frequently used therapies approved for multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods: A Swedish cohort study of persons with relapsing–remitting MS, age 18 to 75 years at inclusion and with a first therapy start or a first therapy switch between 2011 and 2018. Low-dose rituximab was compared with MS-approved therapies. Primary outcomes were proportions with 12 months confirmed disability worsening and change in MS Impact Scale-29 (MSIS-29) scores, respectively. Secondary endpoints included relapses, therapy discontinuation, and serious adverse events. Analyses used an intention-to-treat approach and were adjusted for demographics, MS features, and health characteristics. Results: We included 2,449 participants as first therapy start and 2,463 as first therapy switch. Proportions with disability worsening at 3 years were 9.1% for rituximab as first therapy and 5.1% after therapy switch, with no differences to MS-approved comparators. Worsening on rituximab was mostly independent of relapses. MSIS-29 with rituximab at 3 years improved by 1.3/8.4 points (physical/psychological) for first disease-modifying therapy (DMT) and 0.4/3.6 for DMT switch, and was mostly similar across therapies. Rituximab had lower relapse rates and higher therapy persistence in both groups. The rate of hospital-treated infections was higher with rituximab after a therapy switch, but not as a first therapy. Interpretation: This population-based real-world cohort study found low rates of disability progression, mostly independent of relapses, and without significant differences between rituximab and MS-approved comparators. Rituximab led to lower rates of inflammatory activity and higher treatment persistence, but was associated with an increased rate of serious infections.

Background: Fatigue is a debilitating symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS), but its relation to sociodemographic and disease-related characteristics has not been investigated in larger studies. The objectives of this study were to evaluate predictors of self-reported fatigue in a Swedish nationwide register-based MS cohort.Methods: Using a repeated cross-sectional design, we included 2,165 persons with relapsing-remitting and secondary progressive MS with one or multiple Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Functions (FSMC) scores, which was modelled using multivariable linear regressions for multiple predictors.Results: Only associations to expanded disability status scale (EDSS) and Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) were considered clinically meaningful among MS-associated characteristics in our main model; compared to mild disability (EDSS 0-2.5), those with severe disability (EDSS >= 6) scored 17.6 (95% CI 13.1-22.2) FSMC points higher, while the difference was 10.7 (95% CI 8.0-13.4) points for the highest and lowest quartiles of SDMT. Differences between highest and lowest quartiles of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) instruments were even greater and considered clinically meaningful; EuroQoL Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS) 31.9 (95% CI 29.9-33.8), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29) psychological component 35.6 (95% CI 33.8-37.4) and MSIS-29 physical component 45.5 (95% CI 43.7-47.4).Conclusion: Higher self-reported fatigue is associated with higher disability level and worse cognitive processing speed, while associations to other MS-associated characteristics including MS type, line of disease modifying therapy (DMT), MS duration, relapse and new cerebral lesions are weak. Furthermore, we found a strong correlation between high fatigue rating and lower ratings on health-related quality of life instruments., Funding Agencies|Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Award [MS-1511-33196]; Swedish Research Council [2020-02700, TF 2016-01355]; Swedish Research Council for Health, Working Life, and Welfare [2020-0115]; NEURO Sweden

Introduction: Natalizumab (NTZ) is a highly effective disease modulatory treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). Post-marketing surveillance is important to evaluate the long-term safety and effectiveness in a real-world setting. To this end the “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology Study” (IMSE 1) was initiated upon launch of NTZ in Sweden (Aug 2006). Objectives/Aims: To follow-up the long-term effectiveness and safety of NTZ in a real-world setting. Methods: Adverse events (AEs), Serious AEs (SAEs), John Cunningham virus status (JCV) and clinical effectiveness measures; Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29) data were collected from the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). Effectiveness measures were assessed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Results: A total of 4011 NTZ patients were included in the IMSE 1 study from August 2006 until March 2023 (72% female; mean age 36 years; 80% RRMS; mean treatment duration 52 months) and 249 had been treated for at least 132 months. Of the 132-month cohort, 75% were female, the mean age was 36 years, 88% had RRMS, and the mean treatment duration was 160 months. The majority were treated with interferons and glatiramer acetate prior to NTZ (68%), where 30% (74/249) discontinued NTZ treatment; 43% (32/74) due to being JCV positive (JCV+), with a mean JCV index of 1.1±0.9 (n=66). Annualized relapse rates dropped from 0.40 in the year before treatment start to 0.04 during treatment, where 68% were entirely free of relapses and 21% had only 1 relapse during the entire treatment period (17% missing data). All clinical effectiveness measures, except EDSS showed statistically significant improvement between baseline and 132 months (p<0.05).From the entire IMSE1 cohort (N=4011), 132 SAEs have been reported to the Swedish MPA, including 9 cases (2 fatal) of progressive mu

Introduction: Cladribine is a deoxyadenosine analogue prodrug that induces immune reconstitution by selectively targeting B- and T-lymphocytes. Cladribine tablets (CladT) are administered in two courses, 12 months apart, for patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). Post-marketing surveillance is important for evaluation of long-term safety and effectiveness in a real-world setting. CLADCOMS (CLADribine tablets long-term Control Of MS) is a post-marketing investigator driven study. Here we report two year prospectively obtained data on the first 100 patients included in the study until April 2021. Objectives/Aims: To investigate number of patients free of disease activity until April 2023 among the first 100 RMS patients included. Methods: CLADCOMS includes patients with RMS from eight academic neurology clinics of Sweden starting Cladribine treatment after 23rd of March 2018. Data was prospectively registered in the Swedish Neuroregistry using highly structured yearly follow-up routines. Descriptive data on relapses, MRI activity, and Patient Reported Outcome Measures from the first 100 patient included in the study were obtained from the registry. Results: By April 2023, 206 patients were included in the CLADCOMS study. In April 2021 the first 100 patients had entered the study including 30% treatment naïve, 26% switched from natalizumab, 10% from dimethyl fumarate and 7% from rituximab. After the first two years after treatment initiation 87% were relapse free. MRI-activity during the first two years after treatment initiation will be analyzed.Analysis of CD19+ B-cells counts over time showed a significant drop from baseline before first dose (0.38x109/L ±0.68) to year one (0.15x109/L ±0.12) and year two (0.13x109/L ±0.09). The proportion of memory B-cells dropped from 11.8% ±9.33% at baseline to 3.0% ±2.8% after the first year and to 2.6% ±2.4% after the second year of treatment. The proportions of naïve B-cells raised over time from 61% ±18.3% at baseli

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) and presymptomatic axonal injury appears to develop only after an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. Anoctamin2 (ANO2), a chloride channel expressed in glial cells and neurons, was identified as a possible MS autoantigen. We here examine serum neurofilament (sNfL), a comprehensive EBV seroreactivity and antibodies against ANO2 in pre-symptomatic MS. Objectives/Aims: To study whether the appearance of EBV seroreactivity in the pre-symptomatic phase of MS precedes cumulating MS-induced neuroaxonal damage and whether it is associated with an incipient autoreactivity against a reported MS autoantigen (ANO2). Methods: We performed a case-control study with presymptomatic serum samples identified through cross-linkage of the Swedish MS register and Swedish biobanks. We assayed serum antibodies against EBV nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1), viral capsid antigen p18 (VCAp18), EBV glycoprotein 350 (gp350), anoctamin 2 (ANO2), and serum neurofilament light (sNfL) in 669 pre-MS cases and matched controls. Results: EBNA1 seroreactivity increased in the pre-MS group from 20–15 years before MS onset, followed by gp350 seroreactivity (p=0.001–0.002, 15–10 years before onset). This appeared before the elevation of sNfL in EBV seropositive pre-MS cases (p=8⋅10-5, 10–5 years before onset). No significant sNfL increase was observed in the EBV seronegative group (p=0.95). Pre-MS cases with the highest sNfL levels cumulated in the EBV seropositive group (p=0.038). ANO2 seropositivity appeared virtually only in the EBNA1 seropositive group, in 16.7 % of EBNA1 seropositive pre-MS samples and in 10.0 % of corresponding controls (p=0.001). Combined EBNA1 and ANO2 seropositivity showed a higher association with subsequent MS than EBNA1 independent of ANO2 (p=0.002–0.028). In the EBNA1 seropositive stratum, ANO2 seropositivity was associated with 26% higher sNfL. Conclusion: In presymptomatic MS an antibody response against EBV, associated with ANO2 autoimmunity

Introduction: Natalizumab (NTZ) is a highly effective disease modulatory treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) originally launched as an intravenous (IV) therapy in Sweden in August 2006. A new subcutaneous (SC) administration method for NTZ was launched in April 2021. Objectives/Aims: To investigate how the administration of NTZ has evolved in Sweden since the introduction of SC NTZ in 2021, and to explore potential differences in treatment discontinuation patterns between the SC or IV administration modalities. Methods: Descriptive data will be presented from the “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology Study” (IMSE 1) study cohort. Data is collected from the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). The drug survival is assessed using the Kaplan Meier one-year drug survival curve and Breslow Wilcoxon test of equality distribution. Results: A total of 4011 NTZ participants were included in the IMSE 1 study from August 2006 until March 2023 (72% female; mean age 36 years; 80% RRMS; mean treatment duration 49 months), including 295 since July 2021, of which 264 had available data on method of administration. In this cohort, 109 (41%) initiated IV NTZ, of which 16 (15%) later switched to SC administration, and 155 (59%) initiated treatment with SC NTZ. The distribution between administration methods altered over time, where IV was more common in Q3 2021 (70%) and then successively dropped to 31% in Q1 2023.The mean age at treatment start was 36 years (35 for IV and 37 for SC) and 69% (70% IV, 68% SC) were female.Out of 264 participants, 73 (28%) later discontinued treatment. Discontinuation was numerically more common in the IV group compared with the SC group, but differences in the one-year drug survival rate did not reach statistical significance.The most common reason for discontinuation in the IV group was “other reason; unspecified” followed by positive JC-virus serology (JCV+). In the SC group JCV+ was the most common reason for dis

During the last decades, more and more devices have been connected to the Internet.Today, there are more devices connected to the Internet than humans.An increasingly more common type of devices are cyber-physical devices.A device that interacts with its environment is called a cyber-physical device.Sensors that measure their environment and actuators that alter the physical environment are both cyber-physical devices.Devices connected to the Internet risk being compromised by threat actors such as hackers.Cyber-physical devices have become a preferred target for threat actors since the consequence of an intrusion disrupting or destroying a cyber-physical system can be severe.Cyber attacks against power and energy infrastructure have caused significant disruptions in recent years.Many cyber-physical devices are categorized as constrained devices.A constrained device is characterized by one or more of the following limitations: limited memory, a less powerful CPU, or a limited communication interface.Many constrained devices are also powered by a battery or energy harvesting, which limits the available energy budget.Devices must be efficient to make the most of the limited resources.Mitigating cyber attacks is a complex task, requiring technical and organizational measures.Constrained cyber-physical devices require efficient security mechanisms to avoid overloading the systems limited resources.In this thesis, we present research on efficient security protocols for constrained cyber-physical devices.We have implemented and evaluated two state-of-the-art protocols, OSCORE and Group OSCORE.These protocols allow end-to-end protection of CoAP messages in the presence of untrusted proxies.Next, we have performed a formal protocol verification of WirelessHART, a protocol for communications in an industrial control systems setting.In our work, we present a novel attack against the protocol.We have developed a novel architecture for industrial control systems utilizing the D

Axonal loss is the main cause of irreversible disability in multiple sclerosis (MS). Serum neurofilament light (sNfL) is a biomarker of axonal disintegration. In this nested case-control study, blood samples from 519 presymptomatic persons (age range 4-39 years) who later received an MS diagnosis showed higher sNfL concentrations than 519 matched controls (p < 0.0001), noticeable at least 10 years before clinical MS onset. Mean values for pre-MS and control groups were 9.6 pg/mL versus 7.4 pg/mL 0-5 years before onset, and 6.4 pg/mL versus 5.8 pg/mL 5-10 years before onset. These results support that axonal injury occurs early in MS pathogenesis., Funding Agencies|Swedish Government [ALFGBG-772071, ALFGBG-715986]; Swedish County Councils [ALFGBG-772071]; Research Foundation of the Gothenburg MS Society; Bjornsson Research Foundation, Gothenburg, Sweden; Gothenburg Society of Medicine; Swedish Research Council [2018-02532, 2017-00915]; European Research Council [681712]; Swedish State Support for Clinical Research [ALFGBG-720931]; Alzheimer Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF), USA [201809-2016862, RDAPB-201809-2016615]; AD Strategic Fund; Alzheimers Association [ADSF-21-831376-C, ADSF-21-831381-C, ADSF-21-831377-C]; Olav Thon Foundation; Erling-Persson Family Foundation; Stiftelsen for Gamla Tjanarinnor, Hjarnfonden, Sweden [FO2019-0228]; European Unions Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant [860197]; European Union Joint Program for Neurodegenerative Disorders [JPND2021-00694, JPND2019-466-236]; UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL; Swedish Alzheimer Foundation [AF-742881]; Hjarnfonden, Sweden [FO2017-0243]; Swedish County Councils, the ALFagreement [ALFGBG-715986]; National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA [1R01AG068398-01]; Alzheimers Association 2021 Zenith Award [ZEN-21-848495]

Background B-cell depleting therapies are highly efficacious in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis but one such therapy, rituximab, is not approved for multiple sclerosis and no phase 3 trial data are available. We therefore examined the safety and efficacy of rituximab compared with dimethyl fumarate in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis to obtain data that might allow inclusion of rituximab in treatment guidelines. Methods RIFUND-MS was a multicentre, rater-blinded, active-comparator, phase 3, randomised controlled trial done at 17 Swedish university and community hospitals. Key inclusion criteria for participants were: age 18-50 years; relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis or clinically isolated syndrome according to prevailing McDonald criteria; 10 years or less since diagnosis; untreated or only exposed to interferons or glatiramer acetate; and with clinical or neuroradiological disease activity in the past year. Patients were automatically randomly assigned (1:1) by the treating physician using a randomisation module in the Swedish multiple sclerosis registry, without stratification, to oral dimethyl fumarate 240 mg twice daily or to intravenous rituximab 1000 mg followed by 500 mg every 6 months. Relapse evaluation, Expanded Disability Status Scale rating, and assessment of MRI scans were done by examining physicians and radiologists masked to treatment allocation. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with at least one relapse (defined as subacute onset of new or worsening neurological symptoms compatible with multiple sclerosis with a duration of more than 24 h and preceded by at least 30 days of clinical stability), assessed in an intention-to-treat analysis using log-binomial regression with robust standard errors. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02746744. Findings Between July 1, 2016, and Dec 18, 2018, 322 patients were screened for eligibility, 200 of whom were randomly assigned to a treatment grou

Objective: To estimate risks for all-cause mortality and for severe COVID-19 in multiple sclerosis patients and across relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis patients exposed to disease-modifying therapies. Methods: We conducted a Swedish nationwide population-based multi-register linkage cohort study and followed all multiple sclerosis patients (n = 17,692 in March 2020), individually age-, sex-, and region-matched to five population-based controls (n = 86,176 in March 2020) during March 2020–June 2021. We compared annual all-cause mortality within and across cohorts, and assessed incidence rates and relative risks for hospitalization, intensive care admission, and death due to COVID-19 in relation to disease-modifying therapy use, using Cox regression. Results: Absolute all-cause mortality among multiple sclerosis patients was higher from March to December 2020 than in previous years, but relative risks versus the population-based controls were similar to preceding years. Incidence rates of hospitalization, intensive care admission, and death due to COVID-19 remained in line with those for all-cause hospitalization, intensive care admission, and mortality. Among relapsing–remitting patients on rituximab, trends for differences in risk of hospitalization due to COVID-19 remained in the demographics-, socioeconomic status-, comorbidity-, and multiple sclerosis severity-adjusted model. Interpretation: Risks of severe COVID-19-related outcomes were increased among multiple sclerosis patients as a whole compared to population controls, but risk increases were also seen for non-COVID-19 hospitalization, intensive care admission, and mortality, and did not significantly differ during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic years. The risk conveyed by disease-modifying therapies was smaller than previously assumed, likely as a consequence of the possibility to better control for confounders.

The Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) is a major application-layer protocol for the Internet of Things (IoT). The recently standardized security protocol Object Security for Constrained RESTful Environments (OSCORE) efficiently provides end-to-end security of CoAP messages at the application layer, also in the presence of untrusted intermediaries. At the same time, CoAP supports one-to-many communication, targeting use cases such as smart lighting and building automation, firmware update, or emergency broadcast. Securing group communication for CoAP has additional challenges. It can be done using the novel Group Object Security for Constrained RESTful Environments (Group OSCORE) security protocol, which fulfills the same security requirements of OSCORE in group communication environments. While evaluations of OSCORE are available, no studies exist on the performance of Group OSCORE on resource-constrained IoT devices. This article presents the results of our extensive performance evaluation of Group OSCORE over two popular constrained IoT platforms, namely Zolertia Zoul and TI Simplelink. We have implemented Group OSCORE for the Contiki-NG operating system and made our implementation available as open source software. We compared Group OSCORE against unprotected CoAP as well as OSCORE. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive and experimental evaluation of Group OSCORE over real constrained IoT devices.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: High levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25[OH]D3 ) are associated with a lower risk for multiple sclerosis (MS). The bioavailability of 25(OH)D3 is regulated by its main plasma carrier, vitamin D-binding protein (DBP). Free 25(OH)D3 can be estimated by also measuring DBP concentration. In addition, DBP has immunomodulatory functions that may independently affect MS pathogenesis. No previous studies have assessed free 25(OH)D3 or DBP in presymptomatically collected samples. This study was undertaken to assess free 25(OH)D3 and DBP as risk factors for MS. METHODS: A nested case-control study was performed with presymptomatic serum samples identified through cross-linkage of MS registries and Swedish biobanks. Concentration of 25(OH)D3 was measured with liquid chromatography and DBP levels with sandwich immunoassay. Free 25(OH)D3 was approximated as free vitamin D3 index: (25[OH]D3 /DBP) × 103 . MS risk was analyzed by conditional logistic regression, calculating odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: Serum samples from 660 pairs of matched cases and controls were included. At <20 years of age, high levels of free vitamin D3 index were associated with a lower risk of MS (highest vs. lowest quintile: OR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.15-0.91, p for trend across quintiles = 0.04). At age 30-39 years, high levels of DBP were associated with a lower MS risk (highest vs. lowest quintile: OR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.15-0.85, p for trend = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: These findings support the hypothesis that high levels of free 25(OH)D3 at a young age reduce the risk of MS later in life. They also implicate a role for DBP in MS etiology.

Background: C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker of systemic inflammation. Increased levels of CRP in young persons have been suggested to decrease the risk of multiple sclerosis (MS). Objectives: To assess CRP as a risk factor for MS. Methods: Levels of CRP were measured with a high-sensitive immunoassay in biobank samples from 837 individuals who later developed MS and 984 matched controls. The risk of developing MS was analysed by conditional logistic regression on z-scored CRP values. Results: Levels of CRP were not associated with MS risk. Conclusions: We found no association between CRP levels and risk of MS development.

Introduction: Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is an oral therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). DMF is included in the Swedish post-market surveillance study “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology” (IMSE). Objectives/Aims: To assess the effectiveness and safety of DMF with focus on patients treated at least 72 months. Methods: Descriptive data of Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), European Quality of Life - 5 Dimensions Test (EQ-5D), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Adverse Events (AEs) and Serious AEs (SAEs) is obtained from the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). Effectiveness measures were assessed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and drug survival using the Kaplan-Meier curve. Results: 2565 DMF-treated patients were included between March 2014 and March 2022 with an overall drug survival rate of 38.7% and a mean treatment duration of 37 months. The main reasons for discontinuation were AEs (47%) and lack of effect (30%). 199 AEs were reported of which 63 were serious. For both serious and non-serious AEs reported, gastrointestinal disorders were the most common (19% and 27%, respectively).509 patients had continuous treatment for at least 72 months. This cohort had a mean age of 42 years and a mean treatment duration of 84 months. The majority (51%) had switched from interferon or glatiramer acetate and 24% were treatment naïve.Significant improvements in mean values at 72 months of treatment compared to baseline were noted for MSSS, MSIS-29 Psychological, and EQ-5D (p<0.05). All other tests remained stable after 6 years of treatment. Number of relapses per 1000 patient years were improved from 199.6 before DMF treatment start to 23.0 during treatment with DMF.49 patients (10%) have discontinued DMF treatment in the 72 month cohort with a mean treatment duration of 84 months (range 70-97 months). The

Background: Cladribine is a deoxyadenosine analogue prodrug that selectively induces immune reconstitution by targeting B- and T-lymphocytes. Cladribine tablets (CladT) are administered in two courses, 12 months apart, for patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). Post-marketing surveillance is important for evaluation of long-term safety and effectiveness in a real-world setting. CLADCOMS (CLADribine tablets long-term Control Of MS) is a post-marketing investigator driven study. Here we report one year follow-up data on the first 100 patients included in the study in April 2021. Objective: 1) To investigate for how long a full dose treatment with Cladribine 10 mg tablets (3.5 mg/kg over two years) offers freedom of disease activity in relapsing MS patients.2) To collect complete data on safety and effectiveness with the help of the Swedish Neuroregistry to enable future assessment on effectiveness and safety in comparison with other in Sweden commonly used disease modifying treatments. Methods: CLADCOMS includes patients with relapsing MS from the eight academic clinics starting Cladribine treatment after 23rd of March 2018. Data is collected in the Swedish Neuroregistry using highly structured yearly follow-up routines. Descriptive data on relapses, MRI activity, Patient Reported Outcome Measures and Serious Adverse events (SAEs) from the first 100 patient included in the study are obtained from the registry. Results: Up to April 2022 1XX patients were included in the study. In April 2021 the first 100 patient entered the study. 40% of patients included were treatment naïve, 29% switched from natalizumab and 13% from rituximab. By April 2022, 5 patients experienced a relapse during the treatment initiation and showed MRT activity with contrast enhancing (CEL)lesions more than six months after initiation of treatment, of which 2 patients showed CEL more

Introduction: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection may be a pre-condition for the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). EBV antibodies, predominantly anti-EBNA1, develop in the presymp-tomatic phase of virtually all MS patients. Using material from a serum repository, studies in advance of MS onset indicated that EBV seropositivity preceded the first expression of incipient axonal lesions, serum Neurofilament Light (sNFL) . Objectives: To determine the onset and individual order of appearance of EBV seroreactivity and the serum neuroaxonal injury marker neurofilament light (sNfL) in a wide age spectrum of presymptomatic MS patients. Aims: To characterize the presymptomatic appearance of anti-bodies against an intranuclear (EBNA1) and a surface EBV anti-gen (gp350) and sNfL.Methods: A nested case-control study in 669 pre-symptomati-cally acquired blood samples from persons who later received an MS diagnosis, and from 1:1 matched control persons. Serum lev-els of EBNA1, VCA and gp350 IgG antibodies and sNFL (n=519) were measured in individual presymptomatic samples and expressed as delta scores with matched controls in relation to time until MS onset. Results: Serum levels expressed as delta scores for anti EBV and NfL IgG showed an incipient increase for anti EBNA1 and gp350 from 15-20 years before MS debut. Significant (p=0.001 and p=0.002) from 10-15 years, with consistent delta-scores succes-sively closer to MS onset. These findings contrasted to the level of sNfL which increasingly diverged from matched controls from 5-10 years before the onset of MS. None of the individual sam-ples negative for both EBNA1 and VCA IgG antibodies in the pre-MS group (n = 36) showed any elevation of the sNfL level. Conclusions: In a pre-MS material, the seroreactivity against EBNA1 was followed by VCA and gp350, before increased sNFL appeared, indicating incipient axonal injury. Togeth

Introduction: Natalizumab (NTZ) is a highly effective disease modulatory treatment for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Post-marketing surveillance is important for evaluation of long-term safety and effectiveness in a real-world setting. To this end the “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology Study” (IMSE 1) was initiated upon NTZ launch in Sweden (Aug 2006). Objectives/Aims: To follow-up the long-term effectiveness and safety of NTZ in a real-world setting. Methods: Adverse events (AEs), Serious AEs (SAEs), John Cunningham virus status (JCV) and clinical effectiveness measures; Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29) data is collected from the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). Effectiveness measures were assessed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Results: A total of 3622 NTZ patients were included in the IMSE 1 study from August 2006 until March 2022 (72% female; mean age 36 years; 80% RRMS; mean treatment duration 49 months) and 186 had been treated for at east 132 months. Of the 132-month cohort, 73% were female, the mean age was 36 years, 88% had RRMS, and the mean treatment duration was 155 months. The majority were treated with interferons and glatiramer acetate prior NTZ (64%). 25% (47/186) discontinued NTZ treatment of which 47% (n=22) discontinued due to JCV positive (JCV+). In total, 30% (55/186) of these patients were JCV+ with a mean JCV index of 1.2±1.0 (2% missing data). Relapses before treatment were reduced from 380/1000 patient years to 43/1000 during treatment, 71% were relapse-free and 18% had 1 relapse during the entire treatment period (15% missing data). Most clinical effectiveness measures, MSSS, MSIS-29 and SDMT showed statistically significant improvement between baseline and 132

Introduction: Cladribine is a deoxyadenosine analogue prodrug that selectively induces immune reconstitution by targeting B- and T-lymphocytes. Cladribine tablets (CladT) are administered in two courses, 12 months apart, for patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). CladT are included in the Swedish post-market surveillance study “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology”(IMSE). Objectives: To assess the safety and effectiveness of CladT with focus on patients treated at least 12 months. Methods: Data of Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), European Quality of Life - 5 Dimensions Test (EQ-5D), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), relapses and Adverse Events (AEs) is obtained from the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). Effectiveness measures were assessed using Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and relapse rates were tested using paired samples T-test. Results: 208 patients were included in the IMSE 10 study since the Swedish market launch in April 2018 with an overall drug survival rate of 94.2%. 12 patients discontinued treatment, of which 1 later restarted. The most common reason for discontinuation was lack of effect (83%). 21 AEs were reported of which 7 were serious. The most common AE reported were infection and infestation (8 reports).139 patients were treated for at least 12 months. 29 % of the patients was treated with CladT as their first MS drug. 19 % were treated with natalizumab and 10 % with dimethyl fumarate prior to CladT. The number of relapses decreased significantly from 249 per 1,000 patient years before treatment start to 73 during treatment. 12 patients in this cohort have experienced a relapse during treatment. Significant improvements in mean values at 12 months of tre

Introduction: Some multiple sclerosis (MS) disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are associated with blunted humoral vaccination responses, but relevance for SARS-CoV-2 infection is unclear. Objectives: To determine SARS-CoV-2 exposure rates and formation of antibody memory among participants of the COMparison Between All immunoTherapies for MS (COMBAT-MS; NCT03193866) and the Immunomodulation and MS Epidemiology (IMSE) studies. Aim: To determine SARS-CoV2 serological response of people living with MS (pwMS). Methods: Using a multiplex bead-based assay we determined SARS-CoV-2 spike and nucleocapsid antibody levels in 3,723 pwMS in paired serum samples (n=7,157) donated prior (

BACKGROUND: The use of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in multiple sclerosis (MS) has been associated with reduced relapse rates and accumulation of disability. However, studies examining impact of DMT on risk of transition to secondary progressive MS (SPMS) leveraging population-based nationwide data are still rare. Here, we determine the population incidence of conversion to SPMS using two consecutive nation-wide cohorts, one immediately before and one after the introduction of DMT in Sweden. METHODS: We included two consecutive population cohorts of relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) from the Swedish national MS register for the periods 1975-1994 (n = 2161), before DMT availability, and 1995-2011 (n = 3510), in which DMTs, mainly first generation DMT (injectables), became available and eventually were used by 70% of patients. We explored the risk of transition to SPMS as a calendar year function encompassing the two cohorts. In addition, we determined the incidence of transition to SPMS through age strata below and above 50 years in untreated and treated patient subgroups. RESULTS: The risk of conversion to SPMS (adjusted for current age, current time since onset, calendar year and sex) was significantly lower in the second compared with the first population cohort (hazard ratio 0.58; CI 0.48, 0.70). The risk of SPMS conversion per calendar year decreased by 2.6% annually (p < 0.001) after 1995. The risk of SPMS conversion increased with age until age 50. Thereafter, it was unchanged or decreased among those with early MS onset age (<35 years), but continued to increase with onset at higher age, with similar trends in treated and untreated subgroups. CONCLUSION: The incidence of SPMS conversion significantly decreased at the population level after introduction of first generation DMTs by 1995. DMT efficiency was confirmed by a downward turn of the annual trajectory of the risk of SPMS conversion after 1995. An onset age determined pattern of variable SPMS inc, Funding agencies:Swedish MS SocietySanofi-Aventis Genzyme Corporation Merck KGaA UCB Pharma SA DMC Parexel Biogen Novartis

BACKGROUND: Obesity early in life has been linked to increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). Leptin and insulin are both associated with obesity, making them suitable candidates for investigating this connection. OBJECTIVE: To determine if leptin and insulin are risk factors for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). METHODS: In this nested case-control study using blood samples from Swedish biobanks, we compared concentrations of leptin and insulin in 649 individuals who later developed RRMS with 649 controls matched for biobank, sex, age and date of sampling. Only pre-symptomatically drawn samples from individuals below the age of 40 years were included. Conditional logistic regression was performed on z-scored values to calculate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: A 1-unit leptin z-score increase was associated with increased risk of MS in individuals younger than 20 years (OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.1-1.9) and in all men (OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.0-2.0). In contrast, for women aged 30-39 years, there was a lower risk of MS with increased leptin levels (OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.54-1.0) when adjusting for insulin levels. CONCLUSION: We show that the pro-inflammatory adipokine leptin is a risk factor for MS among young individuals.

Background and purpose: Infections with human herpesvirus 6A (HHV‐6A) and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) have been linked to multiple sclerosis (MS) development. For EBV, late infection has been proposed as a risk factor, but serological support is lacking. The objective of this study was to investigate how age affects the EBV and HHV‐6A associated risks of developing MS. Methods: In this nested case–control study, Swedish biobanks were accessed to find pre‐symptomatically collected blood samples from 670 individuals who later developed relapsing MS and 670 matched controls. A bead‐based multiplex assay was used to determine serological response against EBV and HHV‐6A. Conditional logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Results: Seropositivity against EBV exhibited a pattern where associations switched from a decreased risk of developing MS in the group below 20 years of age to an increased risk amongst individuals aged 20–29 and 30–39 years (p for trend 0.020). The age of transition was estimated to be 18.8 years. In contrast, HHV‐6A was associated with increased MS risk in all age groups (total cohort odds ratio 2.1, 95% confidence interval 1.6–2.7). Conclusions: This study suggests EBV infection after adolescence and age independent HHV‐6A infection as risk factors for MS.

Background and purpose Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human herpesvirus 6A (HHV-6A) are associated with increased risk of multiple sclerosis (MS). Conversely, infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV) has been suggested to reduce the risk of MS but supporting data from presymptomatic studies are lacking. Here, it was sought to increase the understanding of CMV in MS aetiology. Methods A nested case-control study was performed with presymptomatically collected blood samples identified through crosslinkage of MS registries and Swedish biobanks. Serological antibody response against CMV, EBV and HHV-6A was determined using a bead-based multiplex assay. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for CMV seropositivity as a risk factor for MS was calculated by conditional logistic regression and adjusted for EBV and HHV-6A seropositivity. Potential interactions on the additive scale were analysed by calculating the attributable proportion due to interaction (AP). Results Serum samples from 670 pairs of matched cases and controls were included. CMV seropositivity was associated with a reduced risk for MS (OR = 0.70, 95% CI 0.56-0.88, p = 0.003). Statistical interactions on the additive scale were observed between seronegativity for CMV and seropositivity against HHV-6A (AP 0.34, 95% CI 0.06-0.61) and EBV antigen EBNA-1 (amino acid 385-420) at age 20-39 years (AP 0.37, 95% CI 0.09-0.65). Conclusions Cytomegalovirus seropositivity is associated with a decreased risk for MS. The protective role for CMV infection in MS aetiology is further supported by the interactions between CMV seronegativity and EBV and HHV-6A seropositivity., Funding Agencies|Swedish Research CouncilSwedish Research CouncilEuropean Commission [2015-02419, 2018-03918]; Visare Norr Fund, Northern County Councils Regional Federation [940405]; Research and Development Unit, Region Jamtland Harjedalen [JLL-939768]; Margaretha af Ugglas stiftelse; Swedish Neuro Foundation; MS Research fund; Swedish Research CouncilSwedish Research CouncilEuropean Commission; Swedish Brain Foundation; Horizon 2020 MultipleMS Grant [733161]

The construction industry has been hesitant for a long time to apply new technologies. In property development, the industry relies heavily on employees bringing experience from one project to another. These employees learn to manage risks in connection with the acquisition of land, but when these people retire, the knowledge disappears. An AI-based decision-support system that takes the risks and the market into account when acquiring land can learn from each project and bring this knowledge into future projects. In facility management, artificial intelligence could increase the efficiency of the allocation of staff in the ongoing operations. The purpose of the study is to analyse how companies in the real estate industry can improve their decision-making with the help of AI in property development and property management. In this study, two case studies of two different players in the real estate industry have been performed. One player, Bygg-Fast, represents property development and the other player, VGR, represents facility management. The study is based on interviews, discussions, and collected data. By mapping and then quantifying the risks and market indicators that are input data in the process, a basis can be created. The data can be used for a model that lays the foundation for an AI-based decision support system that will help the property developer to make calculated decisions in the land acquisition process. By mapping what a flow through a property looks like, measuring points can be set out to analyse how long the activities take in the specific business. These measured values provide a collection of data that makes it easier to plan the activities conducted in the property. A more efficient flow can be achieved by visualizing the entire process so staff can be allocated to the right part of the flow. By being flexible and being able to re-plan the business quickly if planning is disrupted, a high level of efficiency can be achieved. This could be don, Byggbranschen har länge varit tveksamt till att applicera nya tekniker. Inom fastighetsutveckling bygger branschen mycket på att anställda tar med sig erfarenheter från ett projekt till ett annat. Dessa anställda lär sig hantera risker i samband med förvärv av mark men när dessa personer slutar eller går i pension försvinner kunskapen. Ett AI baserat beslutssystem som tar risk och marknad i beaktning vid förvärv av mark kan lära sig av varje projekt och ta med dessa kunskaper till framtida projekt. Inom fastighetsförvaltning skulle artificiell intelligens kunna effektivisera allokerandet av personal i den pågående verksamheten. Syftet med studien är att analysera hur företag i fastighetsbranschen kan förbättra sitt beslutstagande med hjälp av AI i utveckling av fastigheter samt fastighetsförvaltning. I denna studien har två fallstudier av två olika aktörer i fastighetsbranschen utförts. Ena aktören, Bygg-Fast, representerar fastighetsutveckling och den andra aktören, VGR, representerar fastighetsförvaltning. Studien bygger på intervjuer, diskussioner och insamlade data. Genom att kartlägga och sedan kvantifiera de risker samt marknadsindikatorer som är indata i processen kan ett underlag skapas. Underlaget kan användas för en modell som lägger grunden för ett AI baserat beslutsstödsystem som ska hjälpa fastighetsutvecklaren med att ta kalkylerade beslut i mark förvärvsprocessen. Genom att kartlägga hur ett flöde genom en fastighet ser ut kan mätpunkter sättas ut för att analysera hur lång tid aktiviteterna tar i den specifika verksamheten. Dessa mätvärden ger en samlad data som gör det lättare att planera verksamheten som bedrivs i fastigheten. Ett effektivare flöde kan uppnås genom att visualisera hela processen så personal kan allokeras till rätt del av flödet. Genom att vara flexibel och kunna planera om verksamheten snabbt ifall planering störs kan en hög effektivitet nås. Detta skulle kunna göras av ett AI baserat beslutsstödsystem som simulerar alternativa dag

Background: In patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), there is a decline in muscle strength and physical capacity due to demyelination and axonal loss in the central nervous system. In patients with advanced MS or in a later stage of the disease, also respiratory impairment may occur. The degree of pulmonary dysfunction in the earlier stages of MS has not been thoroughly described. Therefore, the primary aims of this study are to describe pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength in patients with a moderate disease course and to identify associations between respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity. Methods: A sample of 48 patients with a diagnosis of MS and mean age 56 +/- 11 years was studied using a descriptive cross-sectional design. The patients had a disease duration of 24 +/- 11 years and a median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 4.5 (interquartile range 4.0-6.5). Pulmonary function assessed by spirometry, respiratory muscle strength, peak cough flow and peripheral oxygen saturation, subjective breathing and coughing ability, and physical capacity measured using the 6MWT were evaluated. Results: The patients had normal pulmonary function with no significant abnormalities in dynamic spirometry (vital capacity 103 +/- 16% predicted, forced expiratory volume in 1 second 95 +/- 15% predicted). Peak expiratory flow rate 89 +/- 17% predicted was in the lower limit of normal. Respiratory muscle strength, determined by maximal inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory (MEP) static pressures, was normal but with large differences between individuals. MIP ranged from 26 to 143 cmH(2)O (98 +/- 31% predicted); the MEP values ranged from 43 to 166 cmH(2)O (104 +/- 29% predicted), with two patients having values below the lower limit of normal. Significant positive associations between MIP as well as MEP were found in several pulmonary function variables. A significant negative association was found between EDSS score and MEP (r=-0.312, p=0.031).

Introduction: Data on how processing speed of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients (RRMS) evolve over time and its association with disability progression is scarce. We analysed the COMparison Between All immunoTherapies for Multiple Sclerosis (CombatMS; NCT03193866), a nationwide observational drug trial in RRMS. Objectives: Identify trajectories of processing speed and disability and their connections after disease modulatory treatment (DMT) start within the RRMS population.Describe patient characteristics associated with trajectory groups. Aim: Model trajectories of processing speed and disability. Methods: We assessed trajectories of oral Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and expanded disability status scale (EDSS) from first DMT start using a group-based modeling approach among 1,800 RRMS patients followed 2010-2021. We investigated predictors of trajectories using group membership assignments as a multinomial outcome and calculated conditional probabilities linking membership across the trajectories. Results: We identified four trajectories of processing speed: low SDMT score (mean starting values; MSV=36.7, standard deviation; SD=8.4)-stable (13%), medium score (MSV =50.8, SD=6.7)-minor decrease (52%), medium/high score (MSV=62.9, SD=8.6)-minor decrease (32%), and high score (MSV= 75.2, SD=9.7)-moderate decrease (3%), and four trajectories of disability: no disability-stable (23%), minimal signs-minor increase (45%), minimal disability-moderate increase (27%), and relatively severe disability-moderate increase (5%). Patients with natalizumab as first DMT were less likely to belong to the medium and high processing speed trajectories, relative to the low SDMT score-stable one. Sex, age at DMT start, and geographical region of treatment were associated with medium and high processing speed and with minimal signs and minimal dis-ability trajectories. There was 0% probability of belonging to the relatively severe disability-moderate increase EDSS tra

Background: Teriflunomide (TFM) is an oral therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) included in the Swedish post-market surveillance study “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology” (IMSE). Objectives: To assess the safety and effectiveness of TFM with focus on patients treated at least 48 months. Methods: Descriptive data of Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), European Quality of Life - 5 Dimensions Test (EQ-5D), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Adverse Events (AEs) is obtained from the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). Effectiveness measures were assessed using Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and drug survival using Kaplan-Meier curve. Results: 645 patients were included in the IMSE 4 study from March 2014 to April 2021, 70% were female, mean age at treatment start was 46 years and mean treatment duration was 31 months. The most common prior treatment was interferon beta or glatiramer acetate (34%) and 17% were treatment naïve. One- two- and three- year drug survival rates were 74%, 59% and 49% respectively. 340 patients (53%) have discontinued treatment with main reasons for discontinuation being AEs (41%) and lack of effect (40%). Of 68 reported AEs, 20 were serious. For both serious and non-serious AEs, skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders were the most common (25% and 21%, respectively). At the cut-off date, 168 patients had been treated for at least 48 months. This cohort had a mean age of 48 years at treatment start and a mean treatment duration of 65 months. The majority (64%) had switched from interferon or glatiramer acetate and 12% were treatment naïve. Significant improvement in mean values at 48 months of treatment compared to baseline were noted for SDMT in the 48-month cohort (49.1 ± 8.2 to 50.5 ± 10.0, n=35, p=0.049) while a minor worsening were noted for EDSS (2.2 ± 1.7 to 2.6 ± 2.0, n=37

Background: Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is an oral therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). DMF is included in the Swedish post-market surveillance study “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology” (IMSE). Objectives: To assess the effectiveness and safety of DMF with focus on patients treated at least 60 months. Methods: Descriptive data of Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), European Quality of Life - 5 Dimensions Test (EQ-5D), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Adverse Events (AEs) is obtained from the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). Effectiveness measures were assessed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and drug survival using the Kaplan-Meier curve.Results: 2466 DMF-treated patients were included between March 2014 and April 2021 with an overall drug survival rate of 41.2% and a mean treatment duration of 34 months. The main reasons for discontinuation were AEs (49%) and lack of effect (30%). 198 AEs were reported of which 62 were serious. For both serious and non-serious AEs reported, gastrointestinal disorders were the most common (19% and 27%, respectively). 588 patients had continuous treatment for at least 60 months. This cohort had a mean age of 42.1 years and a mean treatment duration of 72.4 months. The majority (63%) had switched from interferon or glatiramer acetate and 22% were treatment naïve. Significant improvements in mean values at 60 months of treatment compared to baseline were noted for MSSS in the 60-month cohort (p<0.001). MSIS-29 Psychological showed a tendency for improvement while all other tests remained stable after 5 years of treatment. Number of relapses per 1000 patients years were improved from 198.9 before DMF treatment start to 27.9 during treatment with DMF. 69 patients (12%) have discontinued DMF treatment in the 60 month cohort with a mean treatment duration of 67

Background: Subcutaneous peginterferon beta-1a (PegIFN) was approved for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) in Europe 2014. Phase II and III studies have shown that PegIFN reduces relapse rate and disability progression. PegIFN were included in the Swedish “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology Study” (IMSE 6) due to the importance of studying the long-term safety and effectiveness. Objectives: To follow-up the long-term safety and effectiveness of PegIFN in a real-world setting. Methods: Data was obtained from the Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). All clinical measures; Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), European Quality of Life - 5 Dimensions Test (EQ-5D), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were assessed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and drug survival using the Kaplan-Meier curve. Results: 393 patients (78% female; 86% RRMS) were included in IMSE 6 between June 2015 and April 2021. Mean age at treatment start was 42 years, mean treatment duration was 23 months. 25% were treatment naïve and 47% switched from other injectables prior PegIFN. The one- and two-year drug survival rate was 58% and 41% respectively, and 31% overall. In total, 271 patients discontinued their PegIFN treatment at some time point, mainly due to adverse events (51%) and lack of effect (26%). Most patients switched to rituximab (37%). During the entire treatment period 54% were relapse-free and 8% had only one relapse (36% missing data). In patients treated at least 24 months tendencies of improve-ments were seen for SDMT and EQ-5D. MSIS-PSYCH showed significantly worsened results (21.2 ± 18.6 to 24.3 ± 19.3, n=46). EDSS, MSSS, MSIS-PHYS and VAS scores remained stable. 25 adverse events (AEs) have been reported to Swedish Medical Product Agency (MPA). 6 of these were classified as serious where general disorders and administration site, and skin

Background: Natalizumab (NTZ) is a highly effective disease modulatory treatment for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Post-marketing surveillance is important for evaluation of long-term safety and effectiveness in a real-world setting. The “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology Study” (IMSE 1) was initiated upon NTZ launch in Sweden (August 2006). Objective: To follow-up the long-term effectiveness and safety of NTZ in a real-world setting. Methods: IMSE 1 includes patients starting NTZ treatment. Data is collected from the nationwide Swedish Neuroregistry. Adverse events (AEs), JC-virus status (JCV) and clinical effectiveness measures Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29) and Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) are registered prospectively. Results: 3476 patients (75% female; 81% RRMS) were included from August 2006 until April 2021. Mean age at treatment start was 36 years and mean treatment duration was 51.3 months. 1190 patients were currently treated with NTZ at cut-off and 13% of these were JCV positive (JCV+) with a mean JCV index at 1.07 ± 0.97. 2470 patients (71%) discontinued their NTZ treatment at some time point where the main reason was JCV+ (40%). Most of these patients switched to rituximab (39%). The number of relapses per 1,000 patient years were reduced from 380 before treatment start to 73 during treatment (25% missing data). 61% were relapse-free and 12% had only one relapse during the entire treatment period. All clinical measures showed improvement in mean between baseline and 132 months. Improvements on MSSS, MSIS-29 and SDMT were statistically significant. 117 Serious AEs had been reported to the Swedish Medical Product Agency and included nine cases (2 fatal) of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Eight of these nine cases had been reported between year 2008 and 2012, and one in 2018. 17 patients died within 6 mo

Background: Alemtuzumab (ALZ) is a modulatory drug for patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Post-marketing surveillance is important to assess the long-term safety and effectiveness in a real-world setting where ALZ was included into the Swedish post-market surveillance study “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology Study 3” (IMSE 3) upon launch in Sweden (March 2014). Objective: To follow up the effectiveness and long-term safety of ALZ in a real-world setting. Methods: Swedish MS patients are registered in the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). IMSE 3 includes patients starting ALZ treatment with annual clinical measures obtained from NeuroReg; Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), European Quality of Life – 5 Dimension Test (EQ-5D) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to assess changes in effectiveness. Results: 118 patients (59% female; 95% RRMS) have been included in IMSE 3 between March 2014 and April 2021. Mean age at treatment start was 34 years. At cut-off date 85 patients had been treated with ALZ with at least 48 months of follow-up. Mean values at baseline compared to 48 months showed significant improvements for MSSS and SDMT while EQ-5D, EDSS, MSIS-29 and VAS scores showed tendencies of improvement. The largest proportion of the entire cohort switched from natalizumab (39%) or were treatment naïve (14%) prior ALZ. The number of relapses per 1,000 patient years decreased from 441 before ALZ initiation to 84 during ALZ treatment (16% missing data). 36 adverse events (AEs) were reported to the Swedish Medical Products Agency. 23 were classified as serious and the most common AEs categories were infections and infestations and blood and lymphatic system disorders (23% respectively). For non-serious events endocrine disorders (43%) was the most common c

Background: Cladribine is a deoxyadenosine analogue prodrug that selectively induces immune reconstitution by targeting B- and T-lymphocytes. Cladribine tablets (CladT) are administered in two courses, 12 months apart, for patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). CladT are included in the Swedish post-market surveillance study “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology” (IMSE). Objective: To assess the safety and effectiveness of CladT with focus on patients treated at least 12 months. Methods: Descriptive data of Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions Test (EQ-5D), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), relapses and Adverse Events (AEs) is obtained from the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). Effectiveness measures were assessed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and relapse rates were tested using the paired samples T-test. Results: 140 patients were included in the IMSE 10 study since the Swedish market launch in April 2018 with a one year drug survival rate of 96.5%. 6 patients discontinued treatment, of which 2 later restarted. 18 AEs were reported of which 5 were serious. The most common AE reported were infection and infestation (8 reports). 22% of the patients was treated with CladT as their first MS drug. 18% were treated with natalizumab and 11% with dimethyl fumarate prior to CladT. 83 patients were treated for at least 12 months. Relapse data was available for 47 of 83 patients in the 12-month cohort. The number of relapses decreased significantly from 249.6 per 1,000 patient years before treatment start to 53.5 during treatment. Only 5 patients in this cohort experienced a relapse during treatment.Significant improvements in mean values at 12 months of treatment compared to baseline were noted for MSSS (p=0.007) and VAS (p=0.029) for the 12-month cohort. All other tests remai

Expanding use of immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) underscores the importance of accurate diagnosis and timely management of neurological immune-related adverse events (irAE-N). We evaluate the real-world frequency, phenotypes, co-occurring immune-related adverse events (irAEs), and long-term outcomes of severe, grade III to V irAE-N at a tertiary care center over 6 years. We analyze how our experience supports published literature and professional society guidelines. We also discuss these data with regard to common clinical scenarios, such as combination therapy, ICI rechallenge and risk of relapse of irAE-N, and corticosteroid taper, which are not specifically addressed by current guidelines and/or have limited data. Recommendations for management and future irAE-N reporting are outlined.

Importance: Although highly effective disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis (MS) have been associated with an increased risk of infections vs injectable therapies interferon beta and glatiramer acetate (GA), the magnitude of potential risk increase is not well established in real-world populations. Even less is known about infection risk associated with rituximab, which is extensively used off-label to treat MS in Sweden. Objective: To examine the risk of serious infections associated with disease-modifying treatments for MS. Design, Setting, and Participants: This nationwide register-based cohort study was conducted in Sweden from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2017. National registers with prospective data collection from the public health care system were used. All Swedish patients with relapsing-remitting MS whose data were recorded in the Swedish MS register as initiating treatment with rituximab, natalizumab, fingolimod, or interferon beta and GA and an age-matched and sex-matched general population comparator cohort were included. Exposures: Treatment with rituximab, natalizumab, fingolimod, and interferon beta and GA. Main Outcomes and Measures: Serious infections were defined as all infections resulting in hospitalization. Additional outcomes included outpatient treatment with antibiotic or herpes antiviral medications. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated in Cox regressions. Results A total of 6421 patients (3260 taking rituximab, 1588 taking natalizumab, 1535 taking fingolimod, and 2217 taking interferon beta/GA) were included, plus a comparator cohort of 42 & x202f;645 individuals. Among 6421 patients with 8600 treatment episodes, the mean (SD) age at treatment start ranged from 35.0 (10.1) years to 40.4 (10.6) years; 6186 patients were female. The crude rate of infections was higher in patients with MS taking interferon beta and GA than the general population (incidence rate, 8.9 [95% CI, 6.4-12.1] vs 5.2 [95% CI, 4.8-5.5] per

Background: Population-based real-world evidence studies of the effectiveness and tolerability of dimethyl fumarate in relation to common treatment alternatives are still limited. Objective: To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and tolerability of dimethyl fumarate (DMF) as the initial and secondary treatment for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients compared with common treatment alternatives in Sweden. Methods: We conducted a nationwide retrospective observational cohort study of all RRMS patients identified through the Swedish MS registry initiating DMF (n = 641) or interferons/glatiramer acetate (IFN/GA; n = 555) as the initial therapy, or DMF (n = 703) or fingolimod (FGL; n = 194) after switch from IFN/GA between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2016. Results: The discontinuation rate was lower with DMF as the initial treatment than IFN/GA (adjusted hazard rate (HR): 0.46, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.37-0.58, p < 0.001), but higher than FGL as the secondary treatment (HR: 1.51, CI: 1.08-2.09, p < 0.05). Annualized relapse rate (ARR) was lower with DMF compared to IFN/GA (0.04, CI: 0.03-0.06 vs 0.10, CI: 0.07-0.13; p < 0.05), but not FGL (0.03, CI: 0.02-0.05 vs 0.02, CI: 0.01-0.04; p = 0.41). Finally, time to first relapse (TTFR) was longer with DMF as the initial, but not secondary, therapy (p < 0.05 and p = 0.20, respectively). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that DMF performs better than IFN/GA as the initial treatment for RRMS. Compared to FGL, DMF displayed a lower tolerability, but largely similar effectiveness outcomes.

Background: Alemtuzumab (ALZ) is an approved disease-modi-fying therapy (DMT) for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Post-marketing surveillance is important to assess the long-term safety and effectiveness in a real-world setting. ALZ has therefore been included into the Swedish post-market surveillance study “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology Study” (IMSE) upon launch in Sweden (March 2014). Objectives: To track effectiveness and long-term safety of ALZ in a real-world setting, with focus on patients treated with ALZ for at least 36 months. Methods: Swedish MS patients are registered into the nationwide Swedish MS Registry (NeuroReg). IMSE 3 includes all patients starting ALZ treatment with annual clinical measures obtained from NeuroReg; Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), European Quality of Life – 5 Dimension Test (EQ-5D) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Results: A total of 118 patients (59% female; 95% RRMS) were included in IMSE 3 between March 2014 and June 2020. Out of 118 patients, 93 had been treated for at least 36 months (62% female), of which 10 patients had switched to another DMT. Mean age at treatment start for patients treated ⩾ 36 months was 34 years and mean treatment duration was 54 months. Mean number of drugs prior ALZ initiation was 2.4. Most of the patients (40%, n=37) switched to ALZ from natalizumab or were treatment naïve (13%, n=12) prior ALZ. The mean num-ber of relapses was reduced from 0.72 one year before ALZ initiation to 0.10 during the first treatment year, followed by 0.08 the second treatment year and 0.06 the third year of ALZ treatment (n=79, 15% missing data). In patients treated ⩾ 36 months significant improvements in mean baseline compared to 36 months were seen for MSSS (3.3 ± 2.7 to 2.3 ± 2.3, n=44) and EQ-5D (0.7 ± 0.3 to 0.8 ± 0.3, n=50), while SDMT showed signific

Background: Teriflunomid (TFM) is an oral therapy for relaps-ing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), which has been included in the Swedish post-market surveillance study “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology” (IMSE). Objectives: To assess the long-term safety and effectiveness of TFM for patients treated in a real-world setting over time. Methods: A large majority of MS patients are registered into the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). The IMSE 4 study obtains descriptive data of adverse events (AEs), Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), European Quality of Life - Five Dimensions Test (EQ-5D) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) from NeuroReg. Effectiveness measures were assessed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and drug survival using the Kaplan-Meier curve. Results: 609 TFM-treated patients had been included in the IMSE 4 study from March 2014 to June 2020, 70% were female and mean age at treatment start was 46 years. Mean treatment duration was 27 months and 89% of the patients had RRMS. The most common prior treatment was interferon beta or glatiramer acetate (39%) and 17% of the patients were treatment naïve. The overall one- two- and three- year drug survival rates were 73%, 59% and 48% respectively. 307 (50%) patients had discontinued treatment at some point, of which 34% started rituximab treatment (36% had no new treatment registered). The most common rea-sons for discontinuation were AEs (42%) and lack of effect (40%). 204 patients had been continuously treated with TFM for ⩾36 months and significant changes in mean baseline values compared to values at 36 months were noted only for EDSS (2.0 ± 1.6 to 2.3 ± 1.8, n=49). All other clinical measures were stable. A total of 68 AEs were reported of which 20 events were classified as serious (S). The most common AE category was skin and subcutaneous tissue disord

Background: Cladribine is a deoxyadenosine analogue prodrug. Cladribine tablets (CT) are administered in two courses, 12 months apart, for patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). CT are included in the Swedish post-market surveillance study “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology” (IMSE). Objectives: To assess the safety and effectiveness of CT in a real-world setting with focus on patients treated at least 12 months. Methods: Descriptive data of Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), European Quality of Life - 5 Dimensions Test (EQ-5D), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), relapses and Adverse Events (AEs) is obtained from the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg). Effectiveness measures were assessed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and relapse rates were tested using the paired samples T-test. Results: 85 patients were included in the IMSE 10 study since CT were introduced on the Swedish market in April 2018. 42 patients were treated for at least 12 months. Five AEs were reported since the study start, four were classified as infections and infestations. 25 % of the entire cohort was treated with CT as their first MS drug. 13 % were treated with natalizumab and 12 % with dimethyl fumarate prior to CT. Five AEs were reported since the study start, four were classified as infections and infestations. Relapse data was available for 27/42 patients in the 12-month cohort. The number of reported relapses decreased significantly from 208.6 per 1,000 patient years before treatment start to 83.6 during treatment. Only three patients in this cohort experienced a relapse during treatment of which two were during the first treatment year. Significant improvements in mean values at 12 months of treatment compared to baseline were noted for MSSS for the 12-month cohort (n=17). All other tests remained stable but significantly uncha

Background: Subcutaneous peginterferon beta-1a (PegIFN) was approved for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) in Europe 2014. The clinical trial program showed that PegIFN reduced the relapse rate and proportion with disability progression compared to placebo. At its launch in Sweden, PegIFN was included in the Swedish “Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology Study” (IMSE 6), providing possibilities to track long-term effectiveness and safety in a population-based setting. Objectives: To follow-up the long-term effectiveness and safety of PegIFN treatment in Swedish patients in a real-world context. Methods: Data was obtained from the nationwide Swedish Neuro Registry (NeuroReg) between June 2015 and May 2020. Effectiveness measures were assessed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and drug survival using the Kaplan-Meier curve. Results: A total of 364 patients (78% female; 87% RRMS; mean age at treatments start 43 years) were followed up to 57 months (mean 20 months), of which 200 (55%) patients had been treated for at least 12 months. The majority of the patients had switched from other injectables (164 patients, 45%) or were treatment naïve (90 patients, 25%) prior to treatment with PegIFN. Over the dura-tion of the follow-up, 68% (247/364) patients discontinued their PegIFN treatment for various reasons (60% adverse events, 24% lack of effect) and switched mainly to rituximab (105 patients, 43%). The overall drug survival was 32%, 40% for men and 30% for women. The one- and two-year drug survival rate was 57% and 40%, respectively. The mean number of relapses were reduced from 0.35 one year before treatment start to 0.11 one year after (35% missing data). All clinical effectiveness measures (Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), European Quality of Life – 5-Dimension test (EQ-5D), Visual Analogue Score (VAS) and Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT)) remai