scholarly journals Digital health tools for the passive monitoring of depression: a systematic review of methods

2022 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Valeria De Angel ◽  
Serena Lewis ◽  
Katie White ◽  
Carolin Oetzmann ◽  
Daniel Leightley ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Computer Science ◽  
Digital Health ◽  
Unipolar Depression ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Digital Signals ◽  
Quality Of Reporting ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Small Sample Sizes

AbstractThe use of digital tools to measure physiological and behavioural variables of potential relevance to mental health is a growing field sitting at the intersection between computer science, engineering, and clinical science. We summarised the literature on remote measuring technologies, mapping methodological challenges and threats to reproducibility, and identified leading digital signals for depression. Medical and computer science databases were searched between January 2007 and November 2019. Published studies linking depression and objective behavioural data obtained from smartphone and wearable device sensors in adults with unipolar depression and healthy subjects were included. A descriptive approach was taken to synthesise study methodologies. We included 51 studies and found threats to reproducibility and transparency arising from failure to provide comprehensive descriptions of recruitment strategies, sample information, feature construction and the determination and handling of missing data. The literature is characterised by small sample sizes, short follow-up duration and great variability in the quality of reporting, limiting the interpretability of pooled results. Bivariate analyses show consistency in statistically significant associations between depression and digital features from sleep, physical activity, location, and phone use data. Machine learning models found the predictive value of aggregated features. Given the pitfalls in the combined literature, these results should be taken purely as a starting point for hypothesis generation. Since this research is ultimately aimed at informing clinical practice, we recommend improvements in reporting standards including consideration of generalisability and reproducibility, such as wider diversity of samples, thorough reporting methodology and the reporting of potential bias in studies with numerous features.

scholarly journals Durability of giant hiatus hernia repair in 455 patients over 20 years

2015 ◽  
Vol 97 (3) ◽  
pp. 188-193 ◽  
Author(s):  
PA Le Page ◽  
R Furtado ◽  
M Hayward ◽  
S Law ◽  
A Tan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hiatus Hernia ◽  
Primary Repair ◽  
Barium Meal ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Elapsed Time ◽  
Time Period ◽  
Life Threatening ◽  
Small Sample Sizes

IntroductionThe surgical management of symptomatic giant hiatus hernia (GHH) aims to improve quality of life (QoL) and reduce the risk of life threatening complications. Previous reports are predominantly those with small sample sizes and short follow-up periods. The present study sought to assess a large cohort of patients for recurrence and QoL over a longer time period.MethodsThis was a follow-up study of a prospectively collected database of 455 consecutive patients. Primary repair of GHH was evaluated by endoscopy/barium meal for recurrence and a standardised symptom questionnaire for QoL. Recurrence was assessed for size, elapsed time, oesophagitis and symptoms.ResultsObjective and subjective review was achieved in 91.9% and 68.6% of patients. The median age was 69 years (range: 15–93 years) and 64% were female. Laparoscopic repair was completed in 95% (mesh in 6% and Collis gastroplasty in 7%). The 30-day mortality rate was 0.9%. The proportion of patients alive at five and ten years were 90% and 75% respectively. Postoperative QoL scores improved from a mean of 95 to 111 (p<0.01) and were stable over time (112 at 10 years). The overall recurrence rate was 35.6% (149/418) at 42 months; this was 11.5% (48/418) for hernias >2cm and 24.2% (101/418) for <2cm. The rate of new recurrence at 0–1 years was 13.7% (>2cm = 3.4%, <2cm = 10.3%), at 1–5 years it was 30.8% (>2cm = 9.5%, <2cm = 21.3%), at 5–10 years it was 40.1% (>2cm = 13.8%, <2cm = 26.3%) and at over 10 years it was 50.0% (>2cm = 25.0%, <2cm = 25.0%). Recurrence was associated with oesophagitis but not decreased QoL. Revision surgery was required in 4.8% of cases (14.8% with recurrence). There were no interval major GHH complications.ConclusionsSurgery has provided sustained QoL improvements irrespective of recurrence. Recurrence occurred progressively over ten years and may predispose to oesophagitis.

scholarly journals Cannabis and breastfeeding

2020 ◽  
Vol 25 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S26-S28 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lisa Graves
Keyword(s):  
Health Care Providers ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Adverse Outcomes ◽  
Care Providers ◽  
High Quality ◽  
High Quality Evidence ◽  
Small Sample Sizes ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Quality Evidence

Abstract Cannabis is one of the most commonly used substances in Canada with 15% of Canadians reporting use in 2019. There is emerging evidence that cannabis is linked to an impact on the developing brain in utero and adverse outcomes in infants, children, and adolescents. The impact of cannabis during breastfeeding has been limited by studies with small sample sizes, follow-up limited to 1 year and the challenge of separating prenatal exposure from that during breastfeeding. In the absence of high-quality evidence, health care providers need to continue to engage women in conversation about the potential concerns related to breastfeeding and cannabis use.

Chrononutrition and Breast Milk: A Review of Circadian Variation in Breast Milk Nutrient Composition

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 74-82
Author(s):  
Gugulethu Moyo ◽  
Shera Jackson ◽  
Allison Childress ◽  
John Dawson ◽  
Leslie Thompson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Amino Acids ◽  
Breast Milk ◽  
Literature Review ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Circadian Variation ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Review Of Literature ◽  
Small Sample Sizes

ObjectiveThe objective of this literature review was to identify and summarize the current knowledge on the circadian variation of breast milk nutrients and the implications of these findings.MethodA review of literature was conducted, including all relevant studies regardless of location and year of publication.ResultsThe amino acids tyrosine, histidine, aspartic acid and phenylalanine and energy were observed to be higher during the day. Fat and the vitamins B-1, B-2, B-3, B-6, and B-12 were higher at night. Other studies have shown conflicting results or no circadian variation for certain nutrients. Poor reproducibility and small sample sizes affect the quality of existing research.ConclusionMore research is needed, and longitudinal studies would help assess the effect of breast milk chrononutrition on the long-term health outcomes of infants.

Use of IoT and Different Biofeedback to Measure TTH

2021 ◽  
pp. 486-525
Author(s):  
Rohit Rastogi ◽  
Devendra Kumar Chaturvedi ◽  
Mayank Gupta
Keyword(s):  
Random Sampling ◽  
International Headache Society ◽  
Research Work ◽  
Time Duration ◽  
Visual Biofeedback ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Sf 36 ◽  
Selection Of

This chapter applied the random sampling in selection of the subjects suffering with headache, and care was taken that they ensure to fulfill the International Headache Society criteria. Subjects under consideration were assigned the two groups of GSR-integrated audio-visual feedback, GSR (audio-visual)- and EMG (audio-visual)-integrated feedback groups. In 10 sessions, the subjects experienced the GSR and EMG BF therapy for 15 minutes. Twenty subjects were subjected to EEG therapy. The variables for stress (pain) and SF-36 (quality of life) scores were recorded at starting point, 30 days, and 90 days after the starting of GSR and EMG-BF therapy. To reduce the anxiety and depression in day-to-day routine, the present research work is shown as evidence in favor of the mindful meditation. The physical, mental, and total scores increased over the time duration of SF-36 scores after 30- and 90-days recordings (p<0.05). Intergroup analysis has demonstrated the improvement. EMG-audio visual biofeedback group also showed highest improvement in SF-36 scores at first and third month follow up. EEG measures the Alpha waves for the subjects after meditation. GSR, EMG, and EEG-integrated auditory-visual biofeedback are efficient in solution of stress due to TTH with most advantage seen.

scholarly journals Update on the Treatment of Idiopathic Hypersomnia

2019 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 207-214
Author(s):  
M. S. Schinkelshoek ◽  
R. Fronczek ◽  
G. J. Lammers
Keyword(s):  
Treatment Options ◽  
Pharmacological Therapy ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Treatment Modalities ◽  
Lifestyle Advice ◽  
Pharmacological Interventions ◽  
First Choice ◽  
Idiopathic Hypersomnia ◽  
Small Sample Sizes

Abstract Purpose of Review Idiopathic hypersomnia is an incapacitating disorder with a profound impact on daytime performance and quality of life. The most commonly used treatment modalities are lifestyle advice and pharmacological therapy. We present an update on the evidence concerning treatment options for idiopathic hypersomnia. Recent Findings Evidence for non-pharmacological interventions is lacking; improvement in symptoms on introducing these interventions is often less pronounced than in narcolepsy. Additional pharmacological treatment is therefore usually initiated. The few treatment studies that have been performed are hampered by small sample sizes and the use of variable and often insufficiently validated outcome parameters for the whole spectrum of idiopathic hypersomnia symptoms. Conclusion Evidence on treatment is scarce. Since the efficacy of modafinil is consistently described and there is much experience with this substance, it is reasonable to start with modafinil as a first choice treatment. Methylphenidate and dexamphetamine are good alternatives. In the future, newer drugs such as sodium oxybate, pitolisant, and solriamfetol might be authorized for use in idiopathic hypersomnia.

scholarly journals A Gluten Free Diet in the Management of Epilepsy in People with Coeliac Disease or Gluten Sensitivity

2020 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 281-299
Author(s):  
Zoë Gilbey ◽  
Justine Bold
Keyword(s):  
Coeliac Disease ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Gluten Free Diet ◽  
Gluten Sensitivity ◽  
Gluten Free ◽  
Exclusion Criteria ◽  
Search Terms ◽  
Small Sample Sizes ◽  
Eeg Pattern

The aim of this review was to assess the effects of a gluten free diet (GFD) in the management of epilepsy in people with coeliac disease (CD) or gluten sensitivity (GS). A systematic approach was used to undertake a literature review. Five electronic databases (PubMed; Scopus; Google Scholar; Cochrane Epilepsy Group specialised register; Cochrane Register of Controlled Trails (CENTRAL) via the Cochrane Register of Online Trials) were searched using predetermined relevant search terms. In total, 668 articles were identified. Duplicates were removed and predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and a PRISMA flow chart was produced. Data was extracted using Covidence software. Twelve studies on Epilepsy and CD involving a total of 70 participants were selected for analysis; narrative synthesis was used owing to the small sample sizes in the selected studies. None of the 12 studies meeting inclusion criteria investigated gluten sensitivity and epilepsy. All the included studies support a link between epilepsy and CD. GFD was effective in 44 out of 70 participants across the studies in terms of a reduction of seizures, reduction of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) or normalisation of EEG pattern. A total of 44 participants showed a reduction in seizures (across eight studies) and complete cessation of seizures was reported in 22 participants. In general, the earlier the GFD is implemented after the onset of seizures, the better the likelihood of the GFD being successful in supporting control of seizures. Mechanisms linking gluten with epilepsy are not fully understood; possible hypotheses include gluten mediated toxicity, immune-induced cortical damage and malabsorption. Evidence suggests the effectiveness of a GFD in supporting the management of epilepsy in patients with CD, although the quality of evidence is low. There appears to be a growing number of neurologists who are prepared to advocate the use of a GFD. A multidisciplinary approaches and further research are recommended. It could be argued that when balancing potential treatments such as AEDs or surgery, a GFD has a low likelihood of harm.

scholarly journals Reporting Experiments in Homeopathic Basic Research—Description of the Checklist Development

2011 ◽  
Vol 2011 ◽  
pp. 1-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
B. Stock-Schröer ◽  
H. Albrecht ◽  
L. Betti ◽  
G. Dobos ◽  
C. Endler ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Basic Research ◽  
Delphi Process ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Dilution Method ◽  
Quality Of Reporting ◽  
Consensus Conferences ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Replication Quality ◽  
Criteria Catalogue

The objective of this study was to develop a criteria catalogue serving as a guideline for authors to improve quality of reporting experiments in basic research in homeopathy. A Delphi Process was initiated including three rounds of adjusting and phrasing plus two consensus conferences. European researchers who published experimental work within the last 5 years were involved. A checklist for authors provide a catalogue with 23 criteria. The “Introduction” should focus on underlying hypotheses, the homeopathic principle investigated and state if experiments are exploratory or confirmatory. “Materials and methods” should comprise information on object of investigation, experimental setup, parameters, intervention and statistical methods. A more detailed description on the homeopathic substances, for example, manufacture, dilution method, starting point of dilution is required. A further result of the Delphi process is to raise scientists' awareness of reporting blinding, allocation, replication, quality control and system performance controls. The part “Results” should provide the exact number of treated units per setting which were included in each analysis and state missing samples and drop outs. Results presented in tables and figures are as important as appropriate measures of effect size, uncertainty and probability. “Discussion” in a report should depict more than a general interpretation of results in the context of current evidence but also limitations and an appraisal of aptitude for the chosen experimental model. Authors of homeopathic basic research publications are encouraged to apply our checklist when preparing their manuscripts. Feedback is encouraged on applicability, strength and limitations of the list to enable future revisions.

scholarly journals Variations in long-term outcome reporting among offspring followed up after lifestyle interventions in pregnancy: a systematic review

2020 ◽  
Vol 48 (2) ◽  
pp. 89-95 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rocío Olmedo-Requena ◽  
Carmen Amezcua-Prieto ◽  
Bassel H. Al Wattar ◽  
Ewelina Rogozinska ◽  
Aurora Bueno-Cavanillas ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Lifestyle Interventions ◽  
Quality Of Reporting ◽  
Long Term Outcome ◽  
Outcome Reporting ◽  
Secondary Outcomes ◽  
In Pregnancy

AbstractBackgroundMothers and their offspring may benefit from lifestyle interventions during pregnancy. We systematically reviewed the literature to map and evaluate the quality of long-term offspring outcomes in follow-up cohorts of randomised controlled trials (RCTs).MethodsWe searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects and Cochrane Central (until March 2019) for all RCTs evaluating any lifestyle (diet or exercise) intervention during pregnancy and their follow-up cohorts. Two reviews evaluated the extracted outcomes using two standardised assessment tools, one for quality of reporting (score range 0–6) and another for the variation in outcome selection. We extracted data in duplicate and reported using natural frequencies, medians, ranges, means and standard deviation (SD).ResultsWe captured 30 long-term offspring outcomes reported in six articles (four studies). Offspring anthropometric measurements were the most commonly reported outcomes. There was a large variation in the measurement tools used. The mean overall quality score for outcome reporting was 3.33 (SD 1.24), with poor reporting of secondary outcomes and limited justification for the choice of the reported outcomes. Most studies showed selective reporting for both their primary and secondary outcomes.ConclusionThe quality of reporting for long-term offspring outcomes following lifestyle interventions in pregnancy is varied with evidence of selective outcome reporting. Developing a core outcome set will help to reduce the variations in outcome reporting to optimise future research.

scholarly journals EROSITA: AGN SCIENCE, BACKGROUND DETERMINATION, AND OPTICAL FOLLOW-UP SPECTROSCOPY

2013 ◽  
Vol 53 (A) ◽  
pp. 793-798
Author(s):  
Thomas Boller
Keyword(s):  
Small Sample ◽  
Scientific Success ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Photometric Redshift ◽  
Sky Survey ◽  
Extended Sources ◽  
Small Sample Sizes ◽  
Primary Instrument ◽  
The Ideal

More than 20 years after the highly impacting ROSAT all-sky survey in the soft X-ray spectral range, we are close to the next major X-ray all/sky surveys with eROSITA. eROSITA will be the primary instrument on-board the Russian “Spectrum–Roentgen–Gamma” (SRG) satellite which will be launched from Baikonur in 2014 and placed in an L2 orbit. It will perform the first imaging all-sky survey in the medium energy X-ray range up to 10 keV with an unprecedented spectral and angular resolution. The eROSITA all sky X-ray survey will take place in a very different context than the ROSAT survey. There is now a wealth of complete, ongoing and planned surveys of the sky in broad range of wavelengths from the gamma, X-ray to the radio. A significant amount of science can be accomplished through the multi-frequency study of the eROSITA AGN and cluster sample, including optical confirmation and photometric redshift estimation of the eROSITA extended sources and AGNs. Optical spectroscopy has been, and will for the foreseeable future be, one of the main tools of astrophysics allowing studies of a large variety of astronomical objects over many fields of research. The fully capitalize on the eROSITA potential, a dedicated spectroscopic follow-up program is needed. 4MOST is the ideal instrument to secure the scientific success of the eROSITA X-ray survey and to overcome the small sample sizes together with selection biases that plagued past samples. The aim is to have the instrument commissioned in 2017, well matched to the data releases of eROSITA and Gaia. The design and implementation of the 4MOST facility simulator aimed to optimize the science output for eROSITA is described in necessary details.

scholarly journals Psychosocial Benefits of Cooking Interventions: A Systematic Review

2017 ◽  
Vol 45 (2) ◽  
pp. 167-180 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicole Farmer ◽  
Katherine Touchton-Leonard ◽  
Alyson Ross
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Quantitative Research ◽  
Psychosocial Outcomes ◽  
Self Esteem ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Inclusion Criteria ◽  
Self Confidence ◽  
Small Sample Sizes ◽  
Psychosocial Benefits

Objectives. Cooking interventions are used in therapeutic and rehabilitative settings; however, little is known about the influence of these interventions on psychosocial outcomes. This systematic review examines the research evidence regarding the influence of cooking interventions on psychosocial outcomes. Methods. A systematic review of the literature examined peer-reviewed research using Embase, PubMed, CINALH Plus, and PsychInfo with the following search terms: cooking, culinary, baking, food preparation, cookery, occupational therapy, mental health, mood, psychosocial, affect, confidence, self-confidence, self-esteem, socialization, and rehabilitation. Inclusion criteria were the following: adults, English, influence of cooking interventions on psychosocial outcomes. PRISMA guidelines were used. Results. The search yielded 377 articles; and 11 ultimately met inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Generally, the quality of the research was weak due to nonrandomization, unvalidated research tools, and small sample sizes. However, inpatient and community-based cooking interventions yielded positive influences on socialization, self-esteem, quality of life, and affect. Conclusions. Finding benefits to cooking that extend beyond nutritional may be helpful in increasing motivation and frequency of cooking. This review suggests that cooking interventions may positively influence psychosocial outcomes, although this evidence is preliminary and limited. Further qualitative and rigorous quantitative research are needed to identify mechanisms by which cooking interventions may improve psychosocial outcomes.

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