Lecture 18: Critical Appraisal Dr Valerie Da Ange;

Question 1

Describe the findings from Jacobsen 2019

Answer 1

Paper assessing the ability of a digital phenotyping device (device that collects data about a patient’s presentation) to predict depressive symptom severity.

The digital phenotyping device collected actigraphy data (light exposure and movement) and machine learning made predictions for future BD-II and HAM-D scores.

A strong correlation was found between clinician administered HAM-D and self-report BD-II.
Limitations are small sample size, short follow ups, no control group, no adjusting for effects of medication. If effective would be a useful tool to supplement clinical assessment

Question 2

What was found from Jepsen (2012)

Answer 2

BD-1 had lower energy expenditure and acceleration than UP patients even when controlling for HAM-D score. More pronounced differences with HAM-D < 7 → trait phenomenon.

Shows → psychomotor retardation may be more pronounced in bipolar disorder is this a trait finding that could improve diagnosis.

Limitations:
Healthy controls donated blood so very healthy

This comparison may only be for a certain type of BD patients note no BD-II or mixed features

Range of 1-5 days before was when HAM-D scored → may not be accurate by time of physical monitoring → may not control adequately

Significant physical disabilities excluded

Did control for effects of medication