BRAIN FUNCTION EVALUATION SYSTEM, METHOD, AND COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM

A brain function evaluation system includes a receiving unit, and a processing unit. The receiving unit is configured to receive examinee information on a brain function. The processing unit is configured to calculate an evaluation result by evaluating a brain function based on the examinee information and additional examinee information.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-014012, filed on Jan. 29, 2021. The contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a brain function evaluation system, a method, and a computer-readable medium.

2. Description of the Related Art

Conventionally, with respect to a brain function, such as a cognitive function, a medical interview and a plurality of kinds of measurement, such as brain's magnetic field measurement, using magnetoencephalograph are performed on a patient, and a doctor snakes a diagnosis on a state of the brain function of the patient from an obtained result. After the doctor has made the diagnosis, if treatment is started, the patient periodically receives a medical interview or brain's magnetic field measurement in a hospital and follows a decision made by the doctor on the treatment, such as continuation or change of the treatment. In recent years, a diagnosis assist system that assists the doctor in making a diagnosis has been widespread; however, functions provided by the diagnosis assist system are limited to only a function to display a measurement result or the like in an easily viewable manner, a function to generate a report, and the like.

Japanese Patent No. 6475132 discloses a report generation system that is able to display treatment and medication information and biological signals in chronological order in a single report.

However, a plurality of methods are provided as a method of measuring a brain function, and the conventional diagnosis assist system is not able to evaluate the brain function while adding information obtained through measurement, which is a problem.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of the present invention, a brain function evaluation system includes a receiving unit, and a processing unit. The receiving unit is configured to receive examinee information on a brain function. The processing unit is configured to calculate an evaluation result by evaluating a brain function based on the examinee information and additional examinee information.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

An embodiment has an object to provide a brain function evaluation system, a method, and a computer readable medium capable of evaluating a brain function as the occasion demands, on the basis of information on the brain function obtained from an examinee and additional examinee information.

Embodiments of a brain function evaluation system, a method, and a computer readable medium will be described detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

First Embodiment

A brain function evaluation system according to the first embodiment provides a comprehensive evaluation function to comprehensively evaluate a brain function on the basis of data (examinee information) on a brain function of an examinee. As one example, the examinee information is information for evaluating each of a brain function risk, a cognitive function risk, and a lifestyle risk, and the comprehensive evaluation function capable of calculating an evaluation result that comprehensively evaluates the brain function even from one of the pieces information as described above. Further, it makes it possible to, if additional examinee information, such as remaining examinee information that is not yet registered or update information on the already-registered examinee information, is present, calculate an evaluation result by comprehensively re-evaluating the brain function while reflecting the added or updated information, and store or output the calculated evaluation result in each case. Meanwhile, a timing of calculating the evaluation result of re-evaluation is as the occasion demands. For example, the evaluation result of re-evaluation is calculated at a predetermined moment, such as when a user operates a button for requesting calculation of the evaluation result. In the following, calculation of the evaluation result will be described as an “evaluation” for the sake of convenience. Here, the “brain function risk” is an index that classifies a risk of reduction in the brain function by index values (for example, levels A, B, and C) on the basis of magnetoencephalography data, a biological signal, or the like of an examinee. The “cognitive function risk” is an index that classifies a risk in a cognitive function by index values (for example, levels A, B, and C) on the basis of a result of a psychological test, a medical interview, or the like performed on the examinee. The “lifestyle risk” is an index that classifies a risk of disease or the like caused by a lifestyle by index values (for example, levels A, B, and C) on the basis of a self-enumeration on the lifestyle of the examinee. A “brain function” indicated by a comprehensive brain function evaluation is different from a “brain function” in the “brain function risk”, indicates a new comprehensive evaluation on the brain, which is classified based on factors including each of the risks, and may be used as a “brain function evaluation” in a “brain function checkup”, for example.

Overall System

FIG. 1is a diagram illustrating an example of an entire configuration of the brain function evaluation system according to the embodiment. A brain function evaluation system1illustrated inFIG. 1may be embodied in the form of a client-server system, for example. A mode in which a web server system is adopted will be described below as one example.

In the configuration illustrated inFIG. 1, a web server10is an information processing apparatus having a computer configuration. The web server10includes a comprehensive evaluation unit100that comprehensively evaluates a brain function of a patient.

The web server10comprehensively evaluates the brain function of the patient on the basis of patient information that is received from a client PC and a mobile terminal device30, and transmits an evaluation result to the client PC and the mobile terminal device30. Specifically, the comprehensive evaluation unit100of the web server10includes a receiving unit100a,a processing unit100b,and a storage unit100c.The receiving unit100areceives various kinds of information. In this example, the receiving unit100areceives the patient information that is examinee information for determining a risk in the brain function. The processing unit100bperforms various kinds of processing on the basis of the received information. In this example, the processing unit100bcomprehensively evaluates the brain function, that is, calculates an evaluation result, on the basis of the patient information received by the receiving unit100a.A calculation result is stored in the storage unit100cas the occasion demands, or output to an external apparatus that has issued a request. Meanwhile, the storage unit100cis arranged in the web server10in this configuration example, but the storage unit100cmay foe arranged in an external storage or the like.

A client personal computer (PC)20and the mobile terminal device30access the web server10via a network.

The client PC20is a medical staff terminal in a hospital P1(or in a medical examination center or the like). In the example illustrated inFIG. 1, a PC that is connected to a measurement device, such as a magnetoencephalograph40is illustrated, but it may be possible to adopt a PC that is able to acquire data of the measurement device and that is installed in a medical examination or the like. The client PC20is connectable to a first network N1and transmits the patient information to the web server10via the first network N1. The first network N1is a certain network, such as a local area network (LAN) or the Internet, which connects the client PC20and the web server10.

The mobile terminal device30is a portable terminal device, such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal device. The mobile terminal device30is connectable to the second network N2and transmits the patient information to the web server10via the second network N2. The second network N2is a certain network, such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), a public network, or the Internet, which connects the mobile terminal device30and the web server10.

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal device30corresponds to an “examinee terminal”. The mobile terminal device30includes a smartphone that is widely used, and, for example even an external staff who assists treatment on the patient a family member of the patient, or the patient him or herself is able to use a part or all of functions of the web server10through a public network from outside, such as home or a facility, as long as an access to the web server10is authenticated.

The web server10may be implemented by a single information processing apparatus or may be implemented by a combination of a plurality of information processing apparatuses. Further, a part, or all of the functions of the comprehensive evaluation unit100for evaluating the brain function may be provided by cloud computing. Furthermore, a part of the functions provided in the web server10(a part of the functions for comprehensively evaluating the brain function) may be provided on the client PC20or the mobile terminal device30.

Moreover, the medical staff terminal and the n terminal are not limited to the client PC20and the mobile terminal device30. The apparatus configurations and the numbers of the medical staff terminals and the examinee terminals may be determined arbitrarily.

FIG. 2is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the web server10. As illustrated inFIG. 2, the web server10includes a central processing unit (CPU)11, a read only memory (ROM)12, a random access memory (RAM)13, an auxiliary storage device14, and a communication interface (I/F)15. All of the units are connected to one another via a bus16or the like.

The CPU11is a central arithmetic processor and controls the entire web server10. The ROM12is a memory for storing a fixed program, such as BIOS. The RAM13is a memory that is used as a work area or the like when the CPU11performs a process.

The auxiliary storage device14is a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or the like. The auxiliary storage device14stores therein various programs, data, or the like of the web server10. The various programs include an operating system (OS) of the web server10, a program for evaluating the brain function, and the like.

The communication I/F15is a network interface for performing communication with the client PC20and the mobile terminal device30.

The CPU11of the web server10reads various programs M1from the auxiliary storage device14onto the RAM13and executes the programs M1to implement, as a functional unit, each of the units (the receiving unit100a,the processing unit100b,and the storage unit100c) for comprehensively evaluating the brain function.

FIG. 3is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the client PC20. As illustrated inFIG. 3, the client PC20includes a CPU21, a ROM22, a RAM23, an auxiliary storage device24, a display device25, an input device26, and a communication I/F27. All of the units are connected to one another via a bus28or the like.

The CPU21is a central arithmetic processor and controls the entire client PC20. The ROM22is a memory for storing a fixed program, such as BIOS. The RAM23is a memory that is used as a work area or the like when the CPU21performs a process.

The auxiliary storage device24is an HDD, an SSD, or the like. The auxiliary storage device24stores therein various programs, data, or the like of the client PC20. The various programs include an OS of the client PC20and programs M2, such as a web viewer.

The display device25is a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescence (EL) display, or the like. The input device26is an input device, such as a keyboard or a mouse. It may be possible to arrange a touch panel as the input device26. The communication I/P27is a network interface for the first network N1.

The CPU21of the client PC20reads the various programs M2from the auxiliary storage device24onto the RAM23and executes the programs M2to implement a client function (including the web viewer), such as a user interface (UI) unit or a communication unit, that uses the functions of the web server10.

The hardware configuration of the mobile terminal device30can be implemented by the same computer configuration of the client PC20. Meanwhile, a communication I/F of the mobile terminal device30is a network interface for a second network. Further, the CPU of the mobile terminal device30reads various programs from an auxiliary storage device onto a RAM and executes the various programs to implement a UI unit, a communication unit, or the like that uses the functions of the web server10. Other configurations are the same as described in the hardware configuration of the client PC20, and therefore, illustration and explanation thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 4is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional block configuration of the brain function evaluation system1. In the web server10, details of the functional units (the receiving unit100a,the processing unit100b,and the storage unit100c) that comprehensively evaluate the brain function are illustrated. The web server10includes an interface controller101, a magnetoencephalography data storage unit102, a calculation instruction unit103, an input data storage unit104, a report generation unit105, a spectral analysis unit106, a brain function risk calculation unit107, a cognitive function risk calculation unit108, a lifestyle risk calculation unit109, and a comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110.

Here, the interface controller101corresponds to the receiving unit100a(seeFIG. 1). The magnetoencephalography data storage unit102and the input data storage unit104correspond to the storage unit100c(seeFIG. 1). The interface controller101, the calculation instruction unit103, the report generation unit105, the spectral analysis unit106, the brain function risk calculation unit107, the cognitive function risk calculation unit108, the lifestyle risk calculation unit109, and the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110correspond to the processing unit100b(seeFIG. 1).

The interface controller101controls functions to evaluate the brain function, on the basis of accesses from the client PC20and the mobile terminal device30. For example, the interface controller101receives a request or reception data from the client PC20or the mobile terminal device30, registers the reception data obtained from the client PC20or the mobile terminal device30, gives various execution instructions on an evaluation of the brain function, or transmits screen information to the client PC20or the mobile terminal device30that has issued a request.

The magnetoencephalography data storage unit102is a storage unit for storing magnetoencephalography data D1transmitted from the client PC20. The magnetoencephalography data D1is a file of magnetoencephalography data obtained by a magnetoencephalograph. The file may include a biological signal, such as a heart rate or a pulse.

The calculation instruction unit103instructs a calculation processing unit200to perform calculation.

The input data storage unit104is a storage unit for storing various kinds of data. For example, the input data storage unit104stores therein patient data that is transmitted patient information. The patient data includes input data, such as patient identification information D2indicating a name, an age, a gender, or the like of the patient, a medical interview result D3(information listened from the patient or the like) of the patient, a psychological test D4(a result of a psychological test) performed on the patient, or a calculation result obtained by the calculation processing unit200. As for the input data, such as the patient identification information D2, the medical interview result D3of the patient, or the psychological test D4performed on the patient, the input data transmitted from the client PC20or the mobile terminal device30is received and stored. Further, the input data storage unit104may store therein reference data D0(including determination reference data) in a modifiable manner. The reference data D0is different for each of a brain function risk, a cognitive function risk, and a lifestyle risk, and is used by the calculation processing unit200to determine each cf the risks. If it is acceptable that the reference data D0is fixed data, it is allowable to hold the data in the calculation processing unit200.

The report generation unit105generates a report for each of patients on the basis of various kinds of data on the patients stored in the input data storage unit104. For example, if a patient registers a psychological test every day, a comprehensive evaluation result is generated every day, so that time-series information (a broken line graph or the like) on the comprehensive evaluation results is included in the report.

As one example, the calculation processing unit200includes the spectral analysis unit106, the brain function risk calculation unit107, the cognitive function risk calculation unit108, the lifestyle risk calculation unit109, and the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110. As the reference data D0, pieces of reference data corresponding to the brain function risk calculation unit107, the cognitive function risk calculation unit108, the lifestyle risk calculation unit109, and the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110are prepared. In the following description, as one example, it is assumed that the reference data D0is stored in the input data storage unit104.

If the interface controller101receives the magnetoencephalography data D1from the client PC20, the spectral analysis unit106performs a spectral analysis on the magnetoencephalography data D1. For example, when receiving the magnetoencephalography data D1from the client PC20, the interface controller101stores the magnetoencephalography data D1in the magnetoencephalography data storage unit102, and instructs the calculation instruction unit103to perform a spectral analysis on the magnetoencephalography data D1. Accordingly, the spectral analysis unit106performs the spectral analysis on the magnetoencephalography data D1. In the spectral analysis, a power spectral value for evaluating a risk of reduction in the brain function is calculated from a biological signal or the like, and an analysis result is stored in the input data storage unit104.

The brain function risk calculation unit107classifies a brain function risk with use of the patient data stored in the input data storage unit104and on the basis of the reference data for the brain function risk, and stores a result in the input data storage unit104.

The cognitive function risk calculation unit108classifies a cognitive function risk with use of the patient data stored in the input data storage unit104and on the basis of the reference data for the cognitive function risk, and stores a result in the input data storage unit104.

The lifestyle risk calculation unit109classifies a lifestyle risk with use of the patient data stored in the input data storage unit104and on the basis of the reference data for the lifestyle risk, and stores a result in the input data storage unit104.

The comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110implements a comprehensive evaluation flow to perform a comprehensive evaluation, and stores a result of the comprehensive evaluation in the input data storage unit104. For example, if a request for a comprehensive evaluation on the brain function is issued by the client PC20or the mobile terminal device30, the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110performs the comprehensive evaluation while depending on each of the results obtained by the brain function risk calculation unit107, the cognitive function risk calculation unit108, and the lifestyle risk calculation unit109(corresponding to an “evaluation result”, and will be referred to as a “determination result” below), and stores a comprehensive evaluation result in the input data storage unit104. Meanwhile, while details will be described later, if it is possible to evaluate at least a part of the brain function risk, the cognitive function risk, and the lifestyle risk, the comprehensive evaluation flow is implemented and the comprehensive evaluation is performed. In the example described in the present embodiment, it is sufficient to obtain the results of at least two of the risks. Further, it is more preferable to obtain the results of the three risks because it is possible to obtain a comprehensive evaluation result with high accuracy.

The client PC20includes a UI unit201, such as a web viewer, and a communication unit202. The UI unit201analyzes the screen information that is transmitted from the interface controller101of the web server10to the communication unit202, constructs a UI screen, and displays the UI screen. Further, the UI unit201transmits input data received through the UI screen, the acquired magnetoencephalography data D1, or an execution command, as request data, from the communication unit202to the interface controller101. For example, the UI unit201acquires the magnetoencephalography data D1measured by the magnetoencephalograph40(seeFIG. 1) from a designated storage destination. If the client PC20is an apparatus that is able to control the magnetoencephalograph40, the UI unit201may display an operation screen of the magnetoencephalograph40, perform setting or measurement in the magnetoencephalograph40, and acquire the magnetoencephalography data D1. Further, the UI unit201displays an input screen by the display device25(seeFIG. 2) and receives input of various kinds of data through the screen. For example, the UI unit201receives input of the patient identification information D2, the medical interview result D3of the patient, the psychological test D4performed on the patient, and the like from the input device26(seeFIG. 2).

If an instruction on transmission is issued from the UI screen to the web server10, the UI unit201transmits request information to the web server10via the communication unit202. For example, if an instruction on transmission of the patient identification information is issued from the UI screen, the UI unit201transmits request information indicating a registration request, and the patient identification information D2to the web server10via the communication unit202. Further, if an instruction on transmission of the magnetoencephalography data is issued from the UI screen, the UI unit201transmits request information indicating a registration request and the magnetoencephalography data D1to the web server10via the communication unit202. Furthermore, if an instruction on transmission of a medical interview result or a psychological test is issued from the UI screen, the UI unit201transmits request information indicating a registration request and the input data, such as the medical interview result D3or the psychological test D4, to the web server10via the communication unit202. Moreover, if an instruction on transmission of a comprehensive evaluation on the brain function from the UI screen, the UI unit201transmits request information indicating an acquisition request to the web server10via the communication unit202.

Furthermore, the UI unit201may display the UI screen and register or update the reference data D0with respect to the web server10.

The mobile terminal device30includes a UI unit301and a communication unit302similarly to the client PC20. In general, the mobile terminal device30is not able to acquire the magnetoencephalography data D1, and therefore, the UI unit301may be mainly limited to a function to register the medical interview result D3, the psychological test D4, and the like, a function to update a comprehensive evaluation on the brain function and display a history, and the like.

Sequence of Entire System

FIG. 5is a diagram illustrating an example of an entire sequence in the brain function evaluation system1. While not specifically described below, it is assumed that the client PC20and the web server10perform communication via the first network M1. Further, it is assumed that the mobile terminal device30and the web server10perform communication via the second network N2.

First, a medical examination representative in a hospital inputs the patient identification information D2on a patient who has visited the hospital, by using the UI screen that is acquired by the client PC20from the web server10, and transmits input data to the web server10(the interface controller101) (S1). Here, the medical examination representative is assumed as a primary doctor or a medical staff who performs a medical examination on the patient.

The interface controller101registers the patient identification information D2transmitted from the client PC20in the input data storage unit104(S2). The registered patient identification information D2is managed by information unique to the patient. The information unique to the patient is used by issuing a patient ID or the like when the patient has the medical examination. The patient ID may be used as authentication information at a later time. The interface controller101uses the information unique to the patient, and even at a later time, if data related to the patient is present, the interface controller101stores the data in the input data storage unit104in association with the information unique to the patient. In other words, data related to the patient is associated with the patient ID for each of patients in the input data storage unit104.

If registration to the web server10is completed, the medical examination representative operates the UI screen, acquires, as a file, measurement data (that is, the magnetoencephalography data D1) on the patient measured by the magnetoencephalograph from a storage destination in which the data is stored by the magnetoencephalograph, and stores the file of the magnetoencephalography data D1on the patient in the storage unit of the client PC20(S3).

Subsequently, the medical examination representative operates the UI screen and transmits the magnetoencephalography data D1on the patient stored in the storage unit to the web server10(the interface controller101) (S4). The interface controller101stores the magnetoencephalography data D1on the patient transmitted from the client PC20in the magnetoencephalography data storage unit102(S5), and instructs the spectral analysis unit106to perform a spectral analysis on the magnetoencephalography data D1on the patient through the calculation instruction unit103(S6).

The spectral analysis unit106acquires the magnetoencephalography data D1, performs the spectral analysis on the magnetoencephalography data D1(S7), and stores an analysis result in the input data storage unit104(S8).

If registration to the web server10is completed, the medical examination representative operates the UI screen, inputs the medical interview result on the patient or a result of the psychological test, and transmits the input data (the medical interview result D3or the psychological test D4) to the web server10(the interface controller101) (S9). Meanwhile, if any of the medical interview and the psychological test is not performed, it may be possible to input a remaining medical interview result or a remaining psychological test at a later time, and then transmit the input data to the web server10.

The interface controller101registers the input, data on the patient transmitted from the client PC20in the input data storage unit104in association with the patient ID of the patient (S10).

After the registration, the medical examination representative operates the UI screen and requests the web-server10(the interface controller101) to determine a brain health condition of the patient, that is, to perform a comprehensive evaluation on the brain function (S11).

Upon receiving the request for determination on the brain health condition of the patient from the client PC20, the interface controller101causes the calculation instruction unit103to perform a process of determining the brain health condition of the patient (S12).

The calculation instruction unit103first instructs the brain function risk calculation unit107to calculate a brain function risk of the patient as the process of determining the brain health condition (S13). In response to the instruction, the brain function risk calculation unit107implements a brain function risk determination flow (for example, a determination flow inFIG. 9or the like) by using the spectral analysis result of the patient stored in the input data storage unit104, and calculates the brain function risk of the patient.

If the brain function risk calculation unit107completes the calculation, the calculation instruction unit103subsequently instructs the cognitive function risk calculation unit108to calculate a cognitive function risk of the patient (S14). In response to the instruction, the cognitive function risk calculation unit108implements a cognitive function risk determination flow (for example, a determination flow inFIG. 11or the like) by using the psychological test result of the patient stored in the input data storage unit104, and calculates the cognitive function risk of the patient.

If the cognitive function risk calculation unit108completes the calculation, the calculation instruction unit103subsequently instructs the lifestyle risk calculation unit109to calculate a lifestyle risk of the patient (S15). In response to the instruction, the lifestyle risk calculation unit109performs a lifestyle risk determination flow (for example, a determination flow inFIG. 13or the like) by using the medical interview result on the patient stored in the input data storage unit104, and calculates the lifestyle risk of the patient.

If the lifestyle risk calculation unit109completes the calculation, the calculation instruction unit103subsequently instructs the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110to determine the brain health condition of the patient (S16). In response to the instruction, the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110implements a comprehensive evaluation flow (for example a determination flow inFIG. 15or the like) by using an obtained calculation result among the results of the brain function risk, the cognitive function risk, and the lifestyle risk, and calculates the comprehensive evaluation on the brain health condition of the patient. The result calculated by each of the units is stored in the input data storage unit104, and the interface controller101gives a completion notice to the client PC20.

Subsequently, the medical examination representative operates the UI screen and requests the web server10(the interface controller101) to generate a report of the brain health condition of the patient (S17).

Upon receiving the request for generation of the report of the brain health condition of the patient from the client PC20, the interface controller101acquires a report of the brain health condition of the patient from the report generation unit105(S18). The report generation unit105generates a report file based on various kinds of data on the patient stored in the input data storage unit104.

Then, the interface controller101transmits the report file of the patient to the client PC20(S19), and contents of the report indicating the brain health condition of the patient are displayed on the UI screen of the client PC20.

Meanwhile, for example, if the psychological test is not performed, the result of the cognitive function risk is not obtained and a piece of information is missing; however, by implementing the comprehensive determination flow, an evaluation is performed using the results of the two risks on the basis of a dependence relationship between the brain function risk and the lifestyle risk, and the report file on the evaluation is transmitted to the client PC20.

The medical examination representative outputs the report file, and provides the contents of the report to the patient in the form of an electronic file or a paper medium (S20). Thereafter, the patient connects to the web server10(the interface controller101) via the mobile terminal device30from home or a different facility by using the authentication information, such as the patient ID. For example, the connection is established by performing authentication using login information (the patient ID or the like) on the report file.

Then, in the mobile terminal device30, the UI screen acquired from the web server10is operated, the psychological test D4of the patient is newly input or contents of answers for the medical Interview D3or the psychological test D4are input again, and the input data (the medical interview result D3or the psychological test D4) is transmitted to the web server10(the interface controller101) (S21). The interface controller101additionally registers the input data on the patient, transmitted from the mobile terminal device30. In the input data storage unit104in association with the patient ID of the patient (S22).

If additional registration is performed, the comprehensive determination process is performed in the same manner as the comprehensive determination (S11to S16) (not illustrated), and the report generation unit105generates a report including an updated comprehensive determination result.

Thereafter, in the mobile terminal device30, the UI screen is further operated, and a request to re-acquire the report on the brain health condition of the patient is issued to the web server10(the interface controller101) (S23). In response to the request, the interface controller101acquires the report that is generated based on the updated data from the report generation unit105, and transmits the report to the mobile terminal device30(S24). Contents of the report indicating the updated brain health condition are displayed on the UI screen of the mobile terminal device30.

Meanwhile, it is possible to update the data registered in the web server10from the client PC20and the mobile terminal device30as the occasion demands. If the updated data is repeatedly transmitted from the client PC20or the mobile terminal device30, the report generation unit105generates a history of update of the comprehensive determination at each of transmission dates and times, and outputs the history as certain information, such as a graph, which is represented in chronological order in the report.

Meanwhile, it may be possible to limit transmission information on the interface controller101side such that only information needed for the patient or a person who supports the patient is displayed on the UI screen of the mobile terminal device30. For example, the UI screen of the mobile terminal device30limits the transmission information to only functions to register and update the input data, such as the medical interview or the psychological test, and to display the report.

UI Screen

The UI screen will be described below. Here, an example of the UI screen in which various registration and input screens are switched by tabs is illustrated.

FIG. 6is a diagram illustrating an example of a registration screen for magnetoencephalography data, which is displayed on the UI screen. In this example, a UI screen1000includes a plurality of switching tabs T in an upper portion thereof, and, by switching the display to an MEG tab T1among the switching tabs T, a registration screen1111for the magnetoencephalography data is displayed such that input is acceptable as illustrated inFIG. 6. The plurality of switching tabs T include a reference information tab, a medical interview tab, a psychological test tab, an analysis result tab, a report tab, and the like. The reference information tab is provided on the UI screen of the client PC20, and receives input of the patient identification information D2indicating a name, an age, a gender, and the like of a patient from a staff or the like in a hospital or a medical examination facility.

The registration screen1111illustrated inFIG. 6includes a file selection box1111A for the magnetoencephalography data measured by the magnetoencephalograph40(seeFIG. 1), a setting input box1111B for adding information to be checked by the magnetoencephalography data, and the like. The registration screen1111is provided on the UI screen of the client PC20. The staff or the like in the hospital or the medical examination facility selects the file of the magnetoencephalography data of the patient in the file selection box1111A in the registration screen1111, sets information to be checked by the magnetoencephalography data in the setting input box1111B, and presses a storage button1111C. If the storage button1111C is pressed, the magnetoencephalography data on the patient is stored, as a file, from the magnetoencephalograph to the client PC20. Then, if an analysis button1111D is pressed, the client PC20transmits the file of the magnetoencephalography data D1(including the set information) to the web server10(the interface controller101).

FIG. 7is a diagram illustrating an example of an input screen for questions and answers for a medical interview. An input screen1121is provided to the UI screen of the mobile terminal device30in addition to the client PC20, and, by switching the display to a medical interview tab T2, the input screen1121is displayed such that input is acceptable. One example of questions for the medical interview (an example of a medical interview1) is illustrated in the input screen1121inFIG. 7. The questions include questions for recognizing a behavior pattern, a lifestyle, a personality, and the like of the patient. An answer for each of questions1121A is input by the patient him or herself or an assistant staff for the patient by designation in a selection field1121B, and the medical interview result D3is transmitted to the web server10(the interface controller101) by pressing a storage button. The input screen1121is obtained by the mobile terminal device30through an access to the web server10; therefore, it is possible for the patient him or herself or the assistant staff for the patient to update the answers for the medical interview through the UI screen of the mobile terminal device30as the occasion demands.

FIG. 8is a diagram illustrating an example of an input screen for inputting a result of a psychological test. An input screen1131is provided to the UI screen of the mobile terminal device30in addition to the client PC20similarly to the input screen1121for answers for the medical interview, and, by switching the display to a psychological test tab T3, the input screen1131is displayed such that input is acceptable. One example of items of the psychological test is illustrated in the input screen1131inFIG. 8. Input items for the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), and the like are included. In each of items1131A, a rank of an impression that is interpreted by a psychologist, the assistant staff, or the like from the patient is specified and input, and an input result (the psychological test result D4) is transmitted to the web server10(the interface controller101) by pressing a storage button1131B. Further, it is possible to obtain the input screen1131by accessing the web server10from the mobile terminal device30; therefore, it is possible to update a result, such as the rank of the psychological test, on the UI screen of the mobile terminal device30as the occasion demands.

Determination Flow

FIG. 9is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow of determining the brain function risk by the brain function risk calculation unit107.FIGS. 10A and 10Bare diagrams illustrating an example of determination criteria for determining the brain function risk. In the flow of determining the brain function risk illustrated inFIG. 9, the brain function risk is determined based on the determination criteria illustrated inFIGS. 10A and 10B. As one example of the determination criteria, values (scores) of a brain rhythm and complexity of brainwaves that are calculated by the spectral analysis on the magnetoencephalography data. Here, the brain rhythm is mean frequency (MF) and the complexity of brainwaves is spectrum entropy (SE).

First, the brain function risk calculation unit107determines whether a spectral analysis result (score) of each of analysis methods MF and SF is obtained as indicated by details of input determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (S101). If the spectral analysis result (score) of each of the analysis methods MF and SF is not obtained (NO at S101), the brain function risk calculation unit107determines that the brain function risk is “A (blank)”.

If the spectral analysis result (score) of each of the analysis methods MF and SF is obtained (YES at S101), the brain function risk calculation unit107determines whether the MF score meets details of reference value determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (S102).

If the MF score meets the details of the reference value determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (YES at S102), the brain function risk calculation unit107determines whether the MF score further meets details of D-determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (S103). If the MF score meets the details of the D-determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (YES at S103), the brain function risk calculation unit107determines that the brain function risk is “D”.

If the MF score does net meet the details of the reference value determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (NO at S102), or if the MF score does not meet the details of the D-determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (NO at S103), the brain function risk calculation unit107determines whether the MF score and the SE score meet details of C-determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (S104). If the MF score and the SE score meet the details of the C-determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (YES at S104), the brain function risk calculation unit107determines that the brain function risk is “C”.

If the MF score and the SE score do not meet the details of the C-determination (NO at S104), the brain function risk calculation unit107determines whether any of the MF and the SE meets details of B-determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (S105).

If any of the MF and the SE meets the details of the B-determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (YES at S105), the brain function risk calculation unit107further performs MF/SE determination (S106).

If the MF meets details of the MF/SE determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (YES at S106), the brain function risk calculation unit107determines that the brain function risk is “B type: 1”. If the SE meets the details of the MF/SE determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (NO at S106), the brain function risk calculation unit107determines that the brain function risk is “B type: 2”.

If both of the MF and the SE do not meet the details of the B-determination (seeFIGS. 10A and 10B) (NO at S105), the brain function risk calculation unit107determines that the brain function risk is “A”.

In this manner, even if the magnetoencephalography data is not obtained, the brain function risk is determined as “A” because of the comprehensive determination. However, because the determination on the brain function is temporary determination, an identifier indicating blank is added.

FIG. 11is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow of determining the cognitive function risk by the cognitive function risk calculation unit108.FIGS. 12A and 12Bare diagrams illustrating an example of determination criteria for determining the cognitive function risk. Two kinds of examinations, i.e., the MMSE and the FAB, are performed as the psychological test, and each of scores is compared with determination criteria of reference data.

First, the cognitive function risk calculation unit108performs input determination on input data (S201), and if the input data does not meet the input determination (seeFIGS. 12A and 12B) (NO at S201), the cognitive function risk calculation unit108determines that the cognitive function risk is “A (blank)”.

If the input data meets the input determination (seeFIGS. 12A and 12B) (YES at S201), the cognitive function risk calculation unit108determines whether the MMSE meets details of D-determination (seeFIGS. 12A and 12B) (S202). If the MMSE meets the details of the D-determination (YES at S202), the cognitive function risk calculation unit108determines that the cognitive function risk is “D”.

If the MMSE does not meet the details of the D-determination (seeFIGS. 12A and 12B) (NO at S202), the cognitive function risk calculation unit108determines whether the FAB or an overall impression score meets details of C-determination (seeFIGS. 12A and 12B) (S203). If the FAB or the overall impression score meets the details of the C-determination (YES at S203), the cognitive function risk calculation unit108determines that the cognitive function risk is “C”.

If both of the FAB and the overall impression score do not meet the details of the C-determination (seeFIGS. 12Aand12B) (NO at S203), the cognitive function risk calculation unit108determines whether the MMSE, the FAB, or the overall impression score meets details of B-determination (seeFIGS. 12A and 12B) (S204).

If the MMSE, the FAB, or the overall impression score meets the details of the B-determination (YES at S204), the cognitive function risk calculation unit108further determines whether the number of mild abnormalities meets details of mild abnormality number determination (seeFIGS. 12A and 12B) (S205). If the number meets the details of the mild abnormality number determination (YES at S205), the cognitive function risk calculation unit108determines that the cognitive function risk is “B type: 1”. In contrast, if the number does not meet the details of the mild abnormality number determination (NO at S205), the cognitive function risk calculation unit103determines that the cognitive function risk is “B type: 2”.

Further, if the MMSE, the FAB, or the overall impression score does not meet the details of the B-determination (NO at S204), the cognitive function risk calculation unit108determines that the cognitive function risk is “A”.

In this manner, even if the psychological test is not obtained, the cognitive function risk is determined as “A” because of the comprehensive determination. However, because the determination on the cognitive function is temporary determination, an identifier indicating blank is added.

FIG. 13is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow of determining the lifestyle risk by the lifestyle risk calculation unit109.FIGS. 14A and 14Bare diagrams illustrating an example of determination criteria for determining the lifestyle risk. The lifestyle risk is determined based on a risk score illustrated inFIG. 14A. The risk score is a score that is obtained by addition based on conditions that are determined based on a result of the medical interview.FIG. 14Billustrates an example of addition conditions for the risk score. InFIG. 14B), as one example, a score of 1 or more is given if the number of an answer for a question matches the condition. In the following, the flow of determining the lifestyle risk will be described in detail based on the assumption that the lifestyle risk calculation unit109has already calculated the risk score from the medical interview result.

First, the lifestyle risk calculation unit109performs input determination on questions and answers for the medical interview (S301), and if the questions and answers do not meet the input determination (seeFIGS. 14A and 14B) (NO at S301), the lifestyle risk calculation unit109determines that the lifestyle risk is “A (blank)”.

If the questions and answers meet the input determination (seeFIGS. 14A and 14B) (YES at S301), the lifestyle risk calculation unit109determines whether the risk score for the questions and answers meets details of D-determination (seeFIGS. 14A and 14B) (S302). If the risk score for the questions and answers meets the details of the D-determination (YES at S302), the lifestyle risk calculation unit109determines that the lifestyle risk is “D”.

If the risk score for the questions and answers does not meet the details of the D-determination (seeFIGS. 14A and 14B) (NO at S302), the lifestyle risk calculation unit109determines whether the risk score for the questions and answers meets details of C-determination (seeFIGS. 14A and 14B) (S303). If the risk score for the questions and answers meets the details of the C-determination (YES at S303), the lifestyle risk calculation unit109determines that the lifestyle risk is “C”.

If the risk score for the questions and answers does not meet the details of the C-determination (seeFIGS. 14A and 14B) (NO at S303), the lifestyle risk calculation unit109determines whether the risk score for the questions and answers meets details of B-determination (seeFIGS. 14A and 14B) (S304). If the risk score for the questions and answers meets the details of the B-determination (YES at S304), the lifestyle risk calculation unit109determines that the lifestyle risk is “B”.

If the risk score for the questions and answers does not meet the details of the B-determination (seeFIGS. 14A and 14B) (NO at S304), the lifestyle risk calculation unit109determines that the lifestyle risk is “A”.

In this manner, even if the questions and answers for the medical interview are not fully obtained, the lifestyle risk is determined as “A” because of the comprehensive determination. However, because the determination on the lifestyle is temporary determination, an identifier indicating blank is added.

FIG. 15is a diagram illustrating an example of the comprehensive evaluation flow implemented by the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110. The comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110performs comprehensive determination by using the determination results obtained through the flows illustrated inFIG. 9,FIG. 11, andFIG. 13, that is, the determination results of the brain function risk, the cognitive function risk, and the lifestyle risk (hereinafter, a combination will be referred to as a “determination result set”) through the comprehensive determination flow inFIG. 15in which a dependence relationship among the determination results is defined.

FIG. 16is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow of a subroutine of the comprehensive evaluation flow.FIG. 17is a diagram illustrating an example of determination criteria used for risk classification to perform a comprehensive evaluation.

The comprehensive determination flow inFIG. 15andFIG. 16will be described in detail below. First, the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110determines whether the determination result set meets D-determination, that is, performs a D-determination process inFIG. 16(S401), and if the determination result set meets the D-determination (YES at S401), the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110determines that the comprehensive determination is “D”. In the example of the D-determination process inFIG. 16, it is determined as “Yes” if the cognitive function risk is “D”, and it is determined as “No” in other cases.

If the determination result set does not meet the D-determination (NO at S401), the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110determines whether the determination result set meets C-determination, that is, performs C-determination inFIG. 16(S402), and if the determination result set meets conditions for the C-determination (YES at S402inFIG. 15), the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110performs determination on C-classification (S403). In the example of the C-determination process inFIG. 16, the conditions for the C-determination are met if the cognitive function risk is “C” or even if the cognitive function risk is “B” rather than “C” and the brain function risk is “C” or “D”, and the conditions for the C-determination are not met in other cases.

As for the determination on the C-classification, a value (C1or C2) that is set in a comprehensive evaluation item corresponding to the combination of the determination results as the determination result set and that is extracted from a field of C-classification in a table for risk classification (seeFIG. 17) is adopted as a determination result.

If the determination result set does not meet the C-determination (NO at S402inFIG. 15), the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110determines whether the determination result set meets B-determination, that is, whether B-determination is obtained in a B-determination process inFIG. 16(S404), and if the determination result set meets the B-determination (YES at S404inFIG. 15), the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110performs determination or B-classification (S405). In the example of the B-determination process inFIG. 16, in a case of a combination in which the cognitive function risk is other than “A” and the brain function risk is other than “B”, the process proceeds to the B-classification. Alternatively, even in a case of a combination in which the cognitive function risk is other than “A”, the brain function risk is “B”, and the lifestyle risk is other than “A”, the process proceeds to the B-classification. In a case of a combination in which the cognitive function risk is other than “A”, the brain function risk is “B”, and the lifestyle risk is “A”, the process proceeds to A-classification (S406inFIG. 15). Furthermore, in a case of a combination in which the cognitive function risk is “A”, the brain function risk is other than “A”, and the brain function risk is other than “B”, the process proceeds to the B-classification (S405inFIG. 15). Moreover, in a case of a combination in which the cognitive function risk is “A” and the brain function risk is “A”, the process proceeds to the A-classification (S406inFIG. 15). Furthermore, in a case of a combination in which the cognitive function risk is “A”, the brain function risk is other than “A”, and the brain function risk is “B”, the process proceeds to the A-classification (S406inFIG. 15).

As for the determination on the B-classification, a value (B1, B2, or B3) that is set in the comprehensive evaluation item corresponding to the combination of the determination results as the determination result set and that is extracted from a field of B-classification in the table for risk classification (seeFIG. 17) is adopted as a determination result.

If the determination result set does not meet the B-determination (NO at S404), the comprehensive evaluation calculation unit110performs determination on A-classification (S406). As for the determination on the A-classification, a value (A1, A2, A3, or A4) that is set in the comprehensive evaluation item corresponding to the combination of the determination results as the determination result set and that is extracted from a field of A-classification in the table for risk classification (seeFIG. 17) is adopted as a determination result.

Report Generation

FIG. 18is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a report generated by the report generation unit105.FIG. 19is a diagram illustrating an example of comment data for each of categories of a comprehensive evaluation, which is used in the report.

The report illustrated inFIG. 18is obtained by selecting a report tab among the plurality of switching tabs T illustrated inFIG. 6, for example. A report1200inFIG. 13includes a patient basic information field1201, a comprehensive evaluation field1202, a lifestyle evaluation field1203, a brain function evaluation field1204, a cognitive ability evaluation field1205, and the like. Information is set in each of the fields on the basis of the patient data stored in the input data storage unit.

For example, the comprehensive evaluation (setting of “B2” as one example) that is determined through the comprehensive evaluation determination flow and a comment for the comprehensive evaluation “B2” that is included in the commend data inFIG. 19are set in the comprehensive evaluation field1202.

Further, the determination result (setting of “B” as one example) that is determined through the flow of determining the lifestyle risk and the patient data related to the lifestyle are set in the lifestyle evaluation field1203.

Furthermore, the determination result (setting of “A” as one example) that is determined through the flow of determining the the brain function risk and the level of each of the MF and the SE are set by using star marks in the brain function evaluation field1204.

Moreover, the determination result (setting of “B” as one example) that is determined through the flow of determining the cognitive function risk and the value of each of the MMSE and the FAB are set by using star marks in the cognitive ability evaluation field1205.

FIG. 20is a diagram illustrating a display example in which changes in the comprehensive evaluation are displayed in chronological order on the UI screen. The comprehensive evaluation is continually changed due to update of the medical interview, the psychological test, or the magnetoencephalography data. If missing data is added, or the score of the medical interview or the psychological test is changed due to treatment, the comprehensive evaluation is changed. For example, if the score of the medical Interview or the psychological test is improved due to treatment, the comprehensive evaluation is changed toward improvement.

If the medical interview, the psychological test, or the magnetoencephalography data is updated (including a case in which any of the medical interview, the psychological test, and the magnetoencephalography data is first input at a later time), the web server10stores a current comprehensive evaluation in addition to past comprehensive evaluations, and generates an update history. For example, a comprehensive evaluation is performed even if data is missing, and if the missing data is added, a more accurate comprehensive evaluation is stored in chronological order. Further, as illustrated inFIG. 20, a comprehensive evaluation (white plot), which is calculated every time the medical interview or the psychological test is updated at home or the like between previous visit to the hospital (colored plot) and current visit to the hospital (colored plot), is added, so that it is possible to wore precisely analyze the effect of treatment performed at home.

The program executed by a computer according to the present embodiment may be provided by being incorporated in a ROM in advance. Further, the program may be provided by being recorded in a computer readable recording medium, such as a compact disk (CD)-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-recordable (CD-R), or a digital versatile disk (DVD), in a computer-installable or computer-executable file format. Furthermore, the program may be provided by being stored in a computer connected to a network, such as the Internet, and by being downloaded via the network.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the brain health condition is determined by using at least a part (one, two, or three) of the “brain function risk”, the “cognitive function risk”, and the “lifestyle risk”, and information for leading to improvement in the quality of life and a change in behaviors is reported, as a report on the current condition, to a doctor and a patient. If it is possible to calculate a result of at least one of the three risks, the current brain health condition is calculated using a predetermined algorithm and provided, as a report, to the doctor and the patient, so that it is possible to increase opportunities to change behaviors.

Furthermore, the dependence relationship among the risks is defined by execution of various determination flows, so that is is possible to comprehensively determine the brain function. It is possible to perform comprehensive determination by temporarily determining a risk as “A” as for any of the risks for which data is not obtained and determination is not performed among the magnetoencephalography data, the medical interview, and the psychological test. As for data that is not yet obtained, if the data is input at a later time, the remaining risk is determined and the comprehensive determination is performed again. Furthermore, if the magnetoencephalography data, the data of the medical interview, or the data of the psychological test is updated, the comprehensive determination is performed again based on the latest data.

Therefore, it is possible to comprehensively evaluate the brain function on the basis of data (examinee information) on the brain function of the examinee even from a part (for example, two risks) of the brain function risk, the cognitive function risk, and the lifestyle risk. Consequently, even if it is difficult to perform all kinds of measurement in the hospital due to the health condition of the patient, it is possible to immediately start appropriate treatment by referring to the comprehensive evaluation information.

Furthermore, it is possible to evaluate the brain function as the occasion demands, on the basis of the information on the brain function obtained from the patient. By performing the psychological test or the like as the occasion demands while having treatment at home or the like, the patient is able to confirm a result of an objective treatment effect by the brain function evaluation system. Therefore, even if the patient him or herself feels that the treatment, is ineffective, the objective effect given by the brain function evaluation system may lead to an increase in motivation and encourage the patient to continue the treatment.

Moreover, if latest information obtained at a certain place, such as home or an intervention facility, with respect to a certain factor is present, it is possible to add or update the information in the past report, and it is possible to update the current “brain health condition” and provide the updated brain health condition. The examinee who has obtained the updated information is able to improve motivation to change behaviors.

Furthermore, if it is difficult to achieve the effect of the treatment at home, it is possible for the patient or the assistant staff to make a determination to visit the hospital at an earlier timing or to change the treatment with consultation with the assistant staff or the like.

Moreover, it is possible to confirm the effect of a change in behaviors and improvement in lifestyle without visiting the hospital to have an examination, so that it is possible to continuously perform Improvement behaviors with reduced economical and mental loads on the examinee.

According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to evaluate a brain function as the occasion demands, on the basis of information on a brain function obtained from an examinee and additional examinee information.