Current Projects

Biobehavioral Predictors of Recovery after Cancer Surgery

We are conducting two studies in this area:  a longitudinal observational study and a randomized controlled trial.

(1)
Do behavioral patterns tracked using smartphone and wearable sensors predict clinical outcomes such as readmission after cancer surgery?
(2)
Can we use mobile technology to reduce sedentary behavior before and after cancer surgery, and does doing so improve postoperative health?

Sponsors:
NCI P30CA047904
NCI K07CA204380
University of Pittsburgh Aging Institute
Pittsburgh Health Data Alliance

Co-investigators:
David Bartlett & others in Surgical Oncology
Dana Bovbjerg & Frank Jenkins
John Jakicic
Anind Dey

Sensing Quality of Life during Cancer Treatment

Can passive sensors in smartphones & wearable activity trackers detect changes in stress and symptoms during chemotherapy?

Sponsors:
NCI R37CA242545
University of Pittsburgh University Center for Social and Urban Research

Co-investigators:
Anind Dey, Grace Bae, & Denzil Ferreira
Weijing Sun, Nathan Bahary, & others in Hematology/Oncology
​Heidi Donovan
Thomas Kamarck

Internet Support Groups:  Pathways to Mental Health

Can we apply machine learning to online support community messages to to identify which expression & communication patterns predict improvements in mental health?

Sponsor:
NIMH R21MH06880

Co-investigators:
Robert Kraut
John Levine & Bruce Rollman

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