Prediction intervals with random forests.

The classical and most commonly used approach to building prediction intervals is the parametric approach. However, its main drawback is that its validity and performance highly depend on the assumed functional link between the covariates and the response. This research investigates new methods that improve the performance of prediction intervals with random forests. Two aspects are explored: The method used to build the forest and the method used to build the prediction interval. Four methods to build the forest are investigated, three from the classification and regression tree (CART) paradigm and the transformation forest method. For CART forests, in addition to the default least-squares splitting rule, two alternative splitting criteria are investigated. We also present and evaluate the performance of five flexible methods for constructing prediction intervals. This yields 20 distinct method variations. To reliably attain the desired confidence level, we include a calibration procedure performed on the out-of-bag information provided by the forest. The 20 method variations are thoroughly investigated, and compared to five alternative methods through simulation studies and in real data settings. The results show that the proposed methods are very competitive. They outperform commonly used methods in both in simulation settings and with real data.

Barriers and enablers in the use of respite interventions by caregivers of people with dementia: an integrative review.

BACKGROUND: Due to the increase in the number of people with dementia, relatives often provide in-home care. This care constitutes a cornerstone of the healthcare system, and maintaining these caregivers' well-being is therefore of paramount importance. Although respite interventions are generally considered an effective support system, they tend to be underutilized. The aim of this integrative literature review is to highlight the factors that promote and impede the use of respite interventions. METHODS: Searches were conducted on the PubMed and CINAHL databases for studies of respite interventions from 1980 to 2016, and they yielded 51 articles of relevance. RESULTS: Analysis of these articles revealed modifiable and immutable factors that influence the use of respite. The most cited topic categories in the literature were attributes of respite services and workload managed by caregivers, which is characterized by the onset of burden. CONCLUSION: The factors promoting or impeding the use of respite interventions identified by our analysis highlight the need to adapt respite service attributes and use caregivers' skills to foster the partnership between healthcare teams and caregivers and to ensure the accompanying dyad's quality and safety.