Respiratory knowledge discovery utilising expertise

Background Significant amounts of medical data are being archived, in the hope that they can be analysed and provide insight. A critical problem with analysing such data is the amount of existing knowledge required to produce effective results. AimsThis study tests a method that seeks to overcome these problems with analysis, by testing it over a large set of archived lung function test results. A knowledge base of lung function interpretation expertise has been compiled and serves as a base for analysis.Method A user examines the dataset with the assistance of the knowledge discovery tool. Two pertinent respiratory research questions are analysed (the relative correlation between diffusing capacity and FEV1 or FVC bronchodilator response, and the effects of BMI on various parameters of lung function), and the results compared and contrasted with relevant literature.ResultsThe method finds interesting results from the lung function data supporting and questioning other published studies, while also finding correlations that suggest further areas of research. ConclusionWhile the analysis does not necessarily reveal groundbreaking information, it shows that the method can successfully discover new knowledge and is useful in a research context

Evaluation of the FastFIX Prototype 5Cs CARD System

The 5Cs architecture offers a hybrid Case And Rule-Driven (CARD) system that supports the Collaborative generation and refinement of a relational structure of Cases, ConditionNodes, Classifications, and Conclusions (hence 5Cs). It stretches the Multiple Classification Ripple Down Rules (MCRDR) algorithm and data structure to encompass collaborative classification, classification merging, and classification re-use. As well, it offers a very lightweight collaborative indexing tool that can act as an information broker to knowledge resources across an organisation's Intranet or across the broader Internet, and it supports the coexistence of multiple truths in the knowledge base. This paper reports the results of the software trial of the FastFIX prototype - an early implementation of the 5Cs model, in a 24x7 high-volume ICT support centre.12 page(s