Digital Biomarker
The South Carolina Digital Biomarkers Core (SC-DBC) is designed to assist investigators interested in incorporating a range of digital biomarkers into their research designs. Digital biomarkers are an innovative and sophisticated approach for the real world assessment of physical, psychological, and cognitive health. These assessments are more sensitive, precise, and ecologically valid representation of daily experiences that are in turn, better predictors of future health behaviors and conditions.
The SC-DBC will provide infrastructure support for the deployment of specialized applications to collect digital biomarkers using a customizable smartphone app served by a web-based interface for secure data collection and easy adaptation depending upon project needs. In addition to the technological infrastructure for app deployment, the core team will provide custom training materials for participant training, compliance, and technical support during data collection.
Finally, the SC-DBC will provide analytic resources for data management, cleaning, and screening following data collection. The SC-DBC represents a critical advancement in the understanding of the daily experiences among older adults most likely to indicate which older adults are at greatest risk for cognitive decline and who would benefit most from early intervention.
To achieve these goals, we will pursue the following Specific Aims:
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In collaboration with the Data Management and Statistical Core and Research Education Component, we will provide 1) app deployment and customization; 2) training for ADRC researchers and clinicians; 3) researcher tools for participant training, monitoring, and retention; and 4) support for data management and data integration across cores.
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In collaboration with the Outreach, Recruitment, and Engagement Core, we will address the needs of specific subgroups by providing tailored materials
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In collaboration with the Clinical, Neuropathology, Cellular and Molecular Biomarker, and Neuroimaging cores, we will ensure recruitment of a diverse sample; comprehensive clinical, psychological, and cognitive assessment of participants
