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Advanced Neurology BRRS: A screening and monitoring tool for better prognosis in AD

MRI] OR [functional MRI] OR [DTI]). Initially, 10,608 3. Results
records were identified after deduplication according to 3.1. BRRS
the following inclusion criteria: (1) Studies referring to
brain abnormalities at the structural and functional levels The BRRS comprises two parts: The original score (O) and
in individuals with SCD or MCI due to AD; (2) original variation score (V). The sum (S) of O and V is calculated
research conducted with different MRI sequences; and (S = O + V) to evaluate individual clinical performance or
(3) articles published in English with easy access to full features at present and further tracing (i.e., at follow-up or
text. After preliminary title and abstract screening and after a treatment) for a better clinical diagnosis, prognosis,
further detailed full-text assessment, 10,409 records were and intervention. If the patient’s condition corresponds
with the statement in the BRRS, each corresponding item
eliminated for reasons as follows: (1) Case reports, clinical is given a score of 100 points (Table 1).
trials, study designs, and secondary literature, such as
reviews and meta-analysis; (2) research based on animal The initial score (S ) is calculated is to establish the
0
models rather than population-based data; (3) studies patient’s risk level before receiving any medical intervention
out of topics, that is, studies lacking neuroimaging and to identify those with high risk for deterioration from
markers or focused on other neuroimaging techniques others diagnosed in the same stage. The accumulated S n
rather than MRI (e.g., positron emission tomography, (n = number of scoring time) at follow-up enables precise
tracking of disease progression. By calculating the difference
magnetoencephalography, electroencephalography, etc.); between the former and later scores, for instance, S –S ,
n
n–1
studies focusing on SCD or MCI caused by conditions other the rate of deterioration is reflected, and the effectiveness of
than AD (e.g., cerebrovascular disease, Parkinson’s disease, the given intervention can be evaluated. It should be noted
frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body disease, epilepsy, that to obtain precise group item and total scores, non-tested
etc.); studies focusing on treatment and intervention; and items must be clearly marked in both the O and V parts.
studies focusing on other irrelevant topics. Ultimately,
a total of 199 studies were included in the study. The 3.2. Evaluation standards of BRRS
literature selection process is shown in detail in a flowchart Part O contains items referring to the evidence-based
(Figure 1). suggestions proposed in the latest research on AD

Figure 1. Flowchart of literature selection process. PET, positron emission tomography; EEG, electroencephalography; MEG, magnetoencephalography;
SCD, subjective cognitive decline; MCI, mild cognitive impairment.

Volume 1 Issue 3 (2022) 3 https://doi.org/10.36922/an.v1i3.208