ABSTRACT

We propose a robust diabetes prediction model by examining how predictions from several learning algorithms, performing the same task, can be exploited to yield a higher performance than the best individual learning algorithm. The task was to forecast the onset of non-insulin dependent diabetes within a five year period using previous vital sign examination information. Experimental data is a 768 x 9 array arranged as row vectors, each with observed input in all but the last column which contains a single vector of output. Five well-known models were trained with associated learning algorithms (Sequential Minimal Optimization (SMO), Radial Basis Function (RBF), C4.5, Naïve Bayes and RIPPER) on the same dataset, and performance compared using Accuracy, Receiver Operating Characteristics area (aROC) and Speed as metrics. After comparison, a combiner (Meta) model, using a simple Logistic Regression algorithm, was trained to make a final prediction using outputs of the best and worst performing algorithms (in the order Accuracy -aROC -Speed) as additional inputs. C4.5 had the best performance with Accuracy of 77.9% and aROC of 83.1%. The RBF gave the lowest performance with Accuracy of 73.6% and aROC of 80.5%. The Meta model achieved a classification accuracy of 77.0% with aROC of 84.9%. The slight decline in Accuracy was because we used aROC (not Accuracy) as the performance metric during selection.

An innovative web-based system was developed to allow patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) to be easily administered. Stakeholders guided the design and implementation. The software gives patients access to their current and previous scores. This pilot study focused on patients undergoing arthroscopic subacromial decompression, evaluated using the Oxford shoulder score (OSS). Patients showing good improvement in their OSS were offered the choice to return for routine follow-up clinic appointments, or continue rehabilitation, reassured by their improved score. Thirty-six of 117 patients were eligible. Thirty of these (83%) were opted to avoid further clinics. PROMs 2.0 can be used for any medical intervention with a validated PROM. Evolution and refinement is ongoing. Funding has been granted for 12 primary and secondary healthcare trusts to implement PROMs 2.0. Further work is needed to assess economic impact, patient views and satisfaction with the process.

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Purpose:The purpose of the research project was to examine the process of developing a data sharing framework between different public sector organizations.Design / methodology / approach:A two year case study of a data sharing project between a UK fire and rescue service, local council, NHS primary care trust and a police force was undertaken. Findings:It is important to carefully determine the requirements for data sharing, to establish data sharing agreements, to have secure arrangements for data sharing, and to ensure compliance with data protection legislation. Research limitations / implications:Data sharing between public sector organizations can operate effectively if appropriate care is taken when creating data sharing agreements between partner organizations. Practical implications:Data sharing can assist in reducing duplication of effort between public sector organizations, and can reduce costs and enable more co-ordinated provision of public services. Social implications:Data sharing can assist in identifying citizens who might otherwise have been overlooked to relevant organizations. Data sharing can also assist in reducing risks associated with individuals and promote more independent living. Originality / value:The detailed analysis of a data sharing case study identified the need for a systematic data sharing framework. Such a framework is proposed and illustrated with practical examples of specification, implementation and evaluation.