Patent Publication Number: US-2016239633-A1

Title: Method and system for monitoring the development of neonates

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     1. Field 
     The present disclosure pertains to a system and method for providing an indication of the relative condition of vital functions and providing a predictive model of the development of neonatal subjects. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Monitoring vital functions is known to be medically relevant to determine the health of vital functions. For example, when the vital functions are human organs, monitoring the organs to determine their condition is readily performed. In particular, the organs of neonates are monitored to ensure they continue to develop and do not encounter unnecessary complications. However, a more intuitive and system and method for monitoring the development of neonates is required. 
     SUMMARY 
     Accordingly, one or more embodiments provide a system for providing an indication of the relative condition of neonatal subjects. The system comprises one or more computer processors configured to execute computer program modules. The computer program modules comprise an input module, a development comparison module, a development prediction module, and a presentation module. The input module is configured to obtain a test dataset which describes monitored vital functions of a neonatal test subject. The development comparison module is configured to compare the test dataset with one or more previously obtained model datasets describing vital functions of neonatal subjects. The development prediction module is configured to determine, based on the comparison between the test datasets and the model datasets, a progress prediction for the future development of the neonatal test subject. The presentation module is configured to effectuate presentation of an indication of the progress prediction. 
     It is yet another aspect of one or more embodiments to provide a method for providing an indication of the relative condition of neonatal subjects. The method is implemented by one or more physical computer processors. The method comprises: obtaining a test dataset which describes monitored vital functions of a neonatal test subject; comparing the test dataset with one or more previously obtained model datasets describing vital functions of neonatal subjects; determining, based on the comparison between the test datasets and the model datasets, a progress prediction for the future development of the neonatal test subject; and, effectuating presentation of an indication of the progress prediction. Optionally, the method comprises selecting individual ones of the model datasets that are similar to the test dataset, such that the progress prediction is based on the similar model datasets. 
     It is yet another aspect of one or more embodiments to provide a system configured to provide an indication of the relative condition of neonatal subjects. The system comprises: a means for obtaining a test dataset which describes monitored vital functions of a neonatal test subject; a means for comparing the test dataset with one or more previously obtained model datasets describing vital functions of neonatal subjects; a means for determining, based on the comparison between the test datasets and the model datasets, a progress prediction for the future development of the neonatal test subject; and, a means for effectuating presentation of an indication of the progress prediction. The system may further comprise a means for selecting individual ones of the model datasets that are similar to the test dataset, such that the progress prediction is based on the similar model datasets. 
     These and other aspects, features, and characteristics of the present disclosure, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of any limits. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1 . schematically illustrates a system for providing an indication of the relative condition of neonatal subjects, in accordance with one or more embodiments; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an interface showing the development of a neonate, in accordance with one or more embodiments; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an interface showing the development of a neonate, in accordance with one or more embodiments; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an interface showing the development of a neonate, in accordance with one or more embodiments; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a method for providing an indication of the relative condition of neonatal subjects, in accordance with one or more embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
     As used herein, the singular form of “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components are “coupled” shall mean that the parts are joined or operate together either directly or indirectly, i.e., through one or more intermediate parts or components, so long as a link occurs. As used herein, “directly coupled” means that two elements are directly in contact with each other. As used herein, “fixedly coupled” or “fixed” means that two components are coupled so as to move as one while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. 
     As used herein, the word “unitary” means a component is created as a single piece or unit. That is, a component that includes pieces that are created separately and then coupled together as a unit is not a “unitary” component or body. As employed herein, the statement that two or more parts or components “engage” one another shall mean that the parts exert a force against one another either directly or through one or more intermediate parts or components. As employed herein, the term “number” shall mean one or an integer greater than one (i.e., a plurality). 
     Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example and without limitation, top, bottom, left, right, upper, lower, front, back, and derivatives thereof, relate to the orientation of the elements shown in the drawings and are not limiting upon the claims unless expressly recited therein. 
       FIG. 1 . schematically illustrates a system  10  for providing an indication of the relative condition of vital functions  124 - 134  (as shown in  FIG. 2 ), in accordance with one or more embodiments. System  10  may interchangeably be referred to as neonatal monitoring system  10 . System  10  may include one or more physical computer processors  110 , electronic storage  130 , user interface  120 , electronic communications network  12  and/or other components and/or computer program modules. The computer program modules may include one or more of an input module  111 , a development comparison module  112 , a development prediction module  113 , a presentation module  114 , and/or other modules. Also illustrated in  FIG. 1  is a user  108  of system  10  such as, by way of non-limiting example, a scientist, a care-giver, a doctor, a parent, a medical professional, and/or stake holder in the neonatal subject. Also illustrated is one or more computing platforms  102 , and one or more servers  104 . 
     Providing a data-driven predictive model for the development of a subject, for example, a developing neonate, may improve the current way decisions are made in medical care, or other area where predictive models are required. With respect to developing neonates, such predictive models may improve the current way decisions are made in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU). Collecting and aggregating datasets relating to the development of subjects may improve and support decision making regarding the subjects and improve communication with, and the information provided to, patients, care givers, medical professionals, parents and other stake holders in the subject. Providing visualizations of the current and future development of the subject to caregivers, parents, and/or other decision makers, allows for better, more informed decisions to be made in relation to the subject&#39;s care. 
     Datasets relating to the vital functions of subjects may be obtained and aggregated to provide a database of information related to the vital functions of subjects. Information related to vital functions of subjects may include developmental information of organs and/or other vital functions, such that a database of the developmental stages of subjects is obtained. The information may be obtained by multiple medical facilities, such as hospitals, care homes, doctor&#39;s clinics, NICUs, and/or other medical facilities and aggregated on a central server or storage device. The database may be accessed across a network by medical service providers, researchers, vendors, contractors, and/or other entities having authorization to access the database. 
     Information relating to the vital functions of a subject, or patient, may be obtained and compared with the database. Making a comparison with the database may provide medical service providers and/or researchers an indication of the developmental status of the subject compared to the common developmental progress of a subject. For example, a comparison of a subject neonate with a database may provide medical professionals with an indication of the developmental status of the subject neonate compared to the common developmental progress of a typical neonate having the same birth time and same age. As another example, a comparison of a subject geriatric with a database containing information on geriatric subjects may provide medical professionals with an indication of the degenerative progress of the subject as compared to a typical geriatric having the similar characteristics. Having such information may assist medical providers and/or researchers to assess future care, and determine whether the subject is in worse or better condition than a typical subject. In response to this information, doctors, caregivers, scientists, parents and/or other stakeholders may modify the medical care and/or treatment for the test subject to bring the test subject&#39;s development back on track as compared with a typical subject having similar characteristics. 
     The aggregated information related to the vital functions of subjects in the database may provide an indication of the future development of a subject. Determining which datasets in the database most closely resemble the subject dataset may provide an indication of the future progress of development of the subject. Such information may be relevant to the future care of the subject. Medical providers and/or research scientists may be able to make a prediction on future health issues that the subject may encounter or suffer from. Maintaining medical histories of subjects until they are advanced in years may enable medical providers to make predictions of health issues that the subject may encounter throughout their lifetime. 
     For example, doctors, caregivers and/or scientists may be able make predictions related to the neonatal test subject&#39;s future cognitive abilities, any physical or mental disabilities the neonatal test subject may develop and/or suffer from in the future. Such information may allow the parents and/or guardians of the neonatal test subject to better plan for the future and provide an understanding, early on, of how to best care for the neonatal test subject. Additionally, it may be possible to determine, from the aggregated neonatal developmental information stored in database in electronic storage  130 , treatment plans and medications to help avert or avoid future physical and/or mental issues. Additionally, having datasets related to vital functions of the neonatal test subjects, and the development of the vital functions of the neonatal test subjects over time, allows easy handover of medical information from one caregiver to the next, such as during a shift change in a NICU or to other medical practitioners when the neonatal test subject is discharged, such as a family physician or separate hospital facility. 
     The following description of the method and system is directed to the example of predicting the development of a subject neonate. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate and understand that the herein disclosed system and method may relate to the future development of a geriatric subject having deteriorating vital functions and/or health. The herein disclosed method and system may also be applied for other medical purposes, such as post-transplant monitoring and for predicting the future success or failure of an organ transplant. Additionally, the system and method may be applied to non-medical uses, such as the development of construction of a building, the progress of a project, and/or other subjects which require and/or would benefit from predictive models. 
     The server  102 , computing platforms  104 , electronic storage  130 , interface  120  and/or external resources may be operatively linked via one or more electronic communication links  12 . For example, such electronic communication links  12  may be established, at least in part, via a network such as the Internet and/or other networks. It will be appreciated that this is not intended to be limiting, and that the scope of this disclosure includes implementations in which servers  102 , client computing platforms  104 , electronic storage  130 , interface  120  and/or external resources may be operatively linked via some other communication media. 
     Server(s)  102  may include electronic storage  130 , one or more computer processors  110 , and/or other components. Server  102  may include communication lines, or ports to enable the exchange of information with a network and/or other computing platforms  104 . Illustration of server  102  in  FIG. 1  is not intended to be limiting. The server  102  may include a plurality of hardware, software, and/or firmware components operating together to provide the functionality attributed herein to server  102 . For example, server  102  may be implemented by a cloud of computing platforms operating together as server  102 . 
     A given computing platform  104  may include one or more computer processors configured to execute computer program modules. The computer program modules may be configured to enable an expert or user associated with the given computing platform  102  to interface with system  10 , external storage  130 , internal storage, interface  120  and/or external resource, and/or provide other functionality attributed herein to computing platforms  104 . By way of non-limiting example, the client computing platform  104  may include one or more of a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a handheld computer, a tablet computing platform, a NetBook, a Smartphone, a gaming console, and/or other computing platforms. Computing platform(s)  104  may be separate from server(s)  102 . Alternatively computing platforms  104  and servers  102  may be in the same physical location and share resources as the same machine. Alternatively, servers  102  and computing platforms  104  may be located in different physical locations but may be considered the same machine. 
     Computer processor(s)  110  is configured to provide information processing capabilities in server  102 , computing platform  104 , and/or other computing device. As such, computer processor  110  may include one or more of a digital processor, an analog processor, a digital circuit designed to process information, an analog circuit designed to process information, a state machine, and/or other mechanisms for electronically processing information. Although computer processor  110  is shown in  FIG. 1  as a single entity, this is for illustrative purposes only. In some implementations, computer processor  110  may include a plurality of processing units. These processing units may be physically located within the same device, or computer processor  110  may represent processing functionality of a plurality of devices operating in coordination, such as server  102  and computing platform  104 . Computer processor  110  may be configured to execute modules  111 - 114  and/or other modules. Computer processor  110  may be configured to execute modules  111 - 114  by software; hardware; firmware; some combination of software, hardware, and/or firmware; and/or other mechanisms for configuring processing capabilities on computer processor  110 . 
     It should be appreciated that although modules  111 - 114  are illustrated in  FIG. 1  as being co-located within a single processing unit, in implementations in which computer processor  110  includes multiple processing units, such as in server  102  and computing platforms  104 , one or more of modules  111 - 114  and/or other modules may be located remotely from the other modules. The description of the functionality provided by the different modules  111 - 114  described below is for illustrative purposes, and is not intended to be limiting, as any of modules  111 - 114  and/or other modules may provide more or less functionality than is described. For example, one or more of modules  111 - 114  may be eliminated, and some or all of its functionality may be provided by other ones of modules  111 - 114  and/or other modules. As another example, computer processor  110  may be configured to execute one or more additional modules that may perform some or all of the functionality attributed below to one of modules  111 - 114 . 
     System  10  of  FIG. 1  may include electronic storage  130  comprising electronic storage media that electronically stores information. The electronic storage media of electronic storage  130  includes one or both of system storage that is provided integrally (i.e., substantially non-removable) with system  10  and/or removable storage that is connectable to system  10  via, for example, a port (e.g., a USB port, a FireWire port, etc.) or a drive (e.g., a disk drive, etc.). Electronic storage  130  may include one or more of optically readable storage media (e.g., optical disks, etc.), magnetically readable storage media (e.g., magnetic tape, magnetic hard drive, floppy drive, etc.), electrical charge-based storage media (e.g., EEPROM, RAM, etc.), solid-state storage media (e.g., flash drive, etc.), and/or other electronically readable storage media. Electronic storage  130  stores software algorithms, information determined by computer processor  110 , information received via user interface  120 , and/or other information that enables system  10  to function properly. For example, electronic storage  130  may record or store (a set of) one or more temperatures and/or parameters derived from output signals measured (e.g. over time) by one or more sensors (as discussed elsewhere herein), and/or other information. Electronic storage  130  may be a separate component within system  10 , or electronic storage  130  may be provided integrally with one or more other components of system  10  (e.g., computer processor  110 ). 
     System  10  may include user interface  120  configured to provide an interface between system  10  and a user (e.g., user  108 , a caregiver, a therapy decision-maker, etc.) through which the user can provide information to and receive information from system  10 . This enables data, results, and/or instructions and any other communicable items, collectively referred to as “information,” to be communicated between the user and system  10 . Examples of interface devices suitable for inclusion in user interface  120  include a keypad, buttons, switches, a keyboard, knobs, levers, a display screen, a touch screen, speakers, a microphone, an indicator light, an audible alarm, and a printer. Information may e.g. be provided to user  108  by user interface  120  in the form of auditory signals, visual signals, tactile signals, and/or other sensory signals. 
     By way of non-limiting example, in certain embodiments, user interface  120  includes a radiation source capable of emitting light. The radiation source includes one or more of an LED, a light bulb, a display screen, and/or other sources. User interface  120  may control the radiation source to emit light in a manner that conveys information to, e.g., user  108  related to, e.g., the development of the vital functions of a neonate. 
     It is to be understood that other communication techniques, either hard-wired or wireless, are also contemplated herein as user interface  120 . For example, in one embodiment, user interface  120  is integrated with a removable storage interface provided by electronic storage  130 . In this example, information is loaded into system  10  from removable storage (e.g., a smart card, a flash drive, a removable disk, etc.) that enables the user(s) to customize the implementation of system  10 . Other exemplary input devices and techniques adapted for use with system  10  as user interface  120  include, but are not limited to, an RS-232 port, RF link, an IR link, modem (telephone, cable, Ethernet, internet or other). In short, any technique for communicating information with system  10  is contemplated as user interface  120 . 
     Input module  111  is configured to obtain a test dataset which describes monitored vital functions of a neonatal test subject. The test dataset may be obtained from measurements taken by medical professionals and/or caregivers of the neonatal test subject. Information included in the test dataset may also be obtained from testimony of observations from medical professionals, caregivers, parents and/or stakeholders in the neonatal test subject. Information for the test dataset may be entered into system  10  using one or more computing platforms  102  and/or servers  104 . Measuring devices used to monitor vital functions  124 - 134  (as shown in  FIG. 2 ) of the neonatal test subject may be electronically connected to system  10  such that readings and/or measurements taken by the measuring devices feed information to system  10 . Input module  111  may be configured to obtain a test dataset from the measuring devices. 
     The test dataset may comprise information related to the current condition of the vital functions of the neonatal test subject. The test dataset may comprise time-based information related to the condition of the vital functions of the neonatal test subject over a period of time. Such periods of time may be an hour, a day, a week, a month, and/or any other period of time. Information related to the vital functions of the neonatal test subject may include information from conception up to the present day. Information related to the vital functions of the neonatal test subject may also include information related to predictive future developments of the neonatal test subject. 
     Development comparison module  112  is configured to compare the test dataset with one or more previously obtained model datasets describing vital functions of neonatal subjects. The one or more previously obtained model datasets may describe the vital functions of neonatal subjects previously entered into and/or monitored by system  10 . The model datasets may describe the development and/or condition of vital functions  124 - 134  of other neonates over a period of time. The period of time may include any period of time, including, but not limited to, from conception through to adulthood and beyond, including birth, childhood and other time periods. Included in the model datasets may be information related to medical and/or developmental milestones and conditions of vital functions  124 - 134  for each of the model neonatal subjects. For example, medical conditions appearing in childhood or during adulthood may be included in the model datasets. The model datasets may be grouped and/or categorized based on one or more parameters of the model datasets. For example, model datasets may be grouped by week of birth during the gestation period, i.e. those neonates born during the 28 th  week of gestation may be grouped together, and those born during the 34 th  week may be grouped together. 
     Development comparison module  112  may be configured to obtain the previously obtained model datasets from one or more databases of datasets of neonatal subjects. One or more centralized databases may be maintained and configured to store datasets of the vital functions of neonatal subjects. For example, the one or more databases may be stored in electronic storage  130 . Computing devices  102  may be linked over one or more electronic communication networks  12  with electronic storage  130  and may be configured to access the model datasets stored in electronic storage  130 . In other embodiments, model datasets may be stored locally at client device  102  or at server  104 . For example, medical facilities and/or NICUs may have server(s)  104  configured to support multiple client devices  102  within the facility. In other embodiments, computing device(s)  102  and/or servers  104  from multiple medical facilities may be supported by a database stored at one location in electronic storage  130 , such as a location operated by the provider of system  10 . 
     Development comparison module  112  may be further configured to select individual ones of the model datasets that are similar to the test dataset. Factors dictating similarities between datasets may include the time of birth of the neonates in the gestation period, the weight of the neonate at birth, the level of current development of vital functions  124 - 134  of the neonate, specific combination of the levels of development for each of the monitored vital functions  124 - 134  at the current time, the specific developmental progress of the vital functions  124 - 134  of the neonate over time, one or more conditions of vital functions  124 - 134  of the neonate, one or more mental or physical conditions of the neonate, family medical history and/or other factors related to the development of the neonate. 
     Each similar dataset may provide an indication of the future development of the neonatal test subject. The closer the profile of the similar datasets are to the test dataset the more likely the neonatal test subject will follow a development path predicted by those similar datasets. Development comparison module  112  may be further configured to assign a weighting to the selected similar model datasets based on their closeness to the test dataset. The closer the model dataset to the test dataset the higher the weighting. 
     Development prediction module  113  is configured to determine, based on the comparison between the test datasets and the model datasets, a progress prediction for the future development of the neonatal test subject. Development prediction module  113  may be further configured to determine the progress prediction of vital functions  124 - 134  of the neonatal test subject based on the similar model datasets. Development prediction module  113  may be configured to determine the progress prediction based on the weighting of the selected similar model dataset. 
     Presentation module  114  may be configured to effectuate presentation of an indication of the progress prediction. Presentation of an indication of the progress prediction may be effectuated on interface  120 . Interface  120  may be integrated into computing platform  104 . Interface  120  may be separate from computing platform  104  but electronically linked to relay information between interface  120  and computing platform  104 . Interface  120  may be an interactive interface, such that user  108  may control system  10  using interface  120 . Interface  120  may be configured to be intuitively used by medical practitioners and caregivers. Interface  120  may be configured to assist medical practitioners and caregivers to explain the development predictions for vital functions  124 - 134  of the neonatal test subject. 
     Interface  120  may be configured to accept selections and/or entries by user  108  to enter information related to the neonatal test subject as well as manipulate interface  120  to modify views and select different viewable elements. 
     Presentation module  114  may be further configured to effectuate presentation of a notification when the comparison of the test dataset and the model datasets indicates that the neonatal test subject exceeds a development threshold from the model neonate. For example, as described herein, development comparison module  112  and/or development prediction module  114  may be configured to determine when the development levels of vital organs  124 - 134  of the neonatal test subject exceeds a development threshold from the model neonate. Such notifications may be graduated. For example there may be multiple levels of thresholds each having a unique notification. For example, should the test dataset indicate that the development level of any of the vital organs  124 - 134  of the neonatal test subject are underdeveloped by one week compared to model datasets, an amber or orange indication may be presented. For example there may be multiple levels of thresholds each having a unique notification. For example, should the test dataset indicate that the development level of any of the vital organs  124 - 134  of the neonatal test subject are underdeveloped by one week compared to model datasets, an amber or orange indication may be presented. As another example, should the test dataset indicate that the development level of any of the vital organs  124 - 134  of the neonatal test subject are underdeveloped by two or more weeks compared to model datasets, a red indication may be presented. Similarly, if the aggregated, or average, development level of vital organs  124 - 134  exceed a threshold from the model datasets, a further indication may be effectuated by presentation module  114 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , illustrated is interface  120  for visually presenting the development of the vital functions of a neonatal subject. Interface  120  may be presented on any type of graphical display device, such as a computer screen, a laptop, a tablet, a smart phone, through a projector, and/or any other graphical display device. An image of interface  120 , and the information contained therein, may be presented on paper. Interface  120  may include an indication of the progress of development of model neonate  122  over time. The time period displayed may span to a period prior to the present day  136 , and may extend beyond the present day to the end of a normal gestation period, i.e. 40 weeks, or even beyond. Interface  120  may visually present the development of one or more vital functions of a neonate, such as brain  124 , heart  126 , lungs  128 , kidneys  130 , gastrointestinal system  132 , skull  134  and/or other vital functions. The displayed vital functions may be the monitored vital functions of the neonatal test subject. 
     Interface  120  may comprise an array of vital function panels  142 , such that each vital function panel  142  represents the developmental level of the vital function it represents for a single time. The selected time period may be a day, a week, a month, a year, or any other time period. Each vital function panel  142 , represents the development level of the vital function during a single period at a point before and/or after birth of the neonatal test subject. Each time period may be assigned a column in interface  120 . The vital function panel  142  corresponding to a time period occurring at a particular point in time before and/or after the birth of the neonatal test subject may be placed in the corresponding column under model neonate  122  row for that time period. For example, vital function panel  142  represents the development of the scull at week 30 of the gestation period. Vital function panel  142  is therefore disposed under week 30 for model neonate row  122 . Also, vital function panel  144  represents the development of the gastrointestinal tract at week 32 of the gestation period, and is placed in the column representing week 32, under the model neonate row  122 . 
     Interface  120  may provide subject information  140  about the neonatal test subject. Such information may include the name of the parents, the name of the neonate, the birth date of the neonate, the week of gestation at which the neonate was born, family medical history and/or other information about the test subject or related members of the test subject&#39;s family. 
     Interface  120  may provide an indication of the development delay  138  of each of vital functions  124 - 134 . Vital functions  124 - 134  that are developmentally behind compared to the selected model dataset  122  are indicated by a development delay period  138  extending beyond the normal gestation period. For example, in the representation illustrated in  FIG. 2 , lungs  128  and skull  134  have a current developmental period matching that of model neonate  122 , i.e. lungs  128  and skull  134  will have the same level of development as would have occurred had the neonatal test subject remained in utero during the full gestation term of 40 weeks. However, brain  124  and kidneys  130  have a delayed development of one period, in this case one week. Similarly, the heart and gastrointestinal system have a delayed development of two periods, in this case two weeks. When the full gestation period of 40 weeks is met, brain  124 , heart  126 , kidneys  130 , and gastrointestinal system  132  will not be at the same stage of development had they would have been if the neonatal test subject remained in utero during the full 40 week gestation term. Delayed development period  138  may be the predicted delayed development of vital functions  124 - 134  based on recent or the latest measurements of the monitored vital functions of the neonatal test subjects. Individual ones of vital functions  124 - 134  may develop at a quicker rate than expected, and others may develop at a slower rate than expected for the test subject being monitored. 
     Interface  120  may provide an indication of when the measurements of vital functions  124 - 134  were taken. For example, vital function panel  142  representing skull  134  may represent a period at which the developmental level, condition, general health, and/or other factors related to skull  134  were measured. By way of non-limiting example, such indications that a measurement of the vital function was taken during a period may include a crisper image, as opposed to a blurred image, of the vital function, such as skill  134 . Such indications may also include a color, where the color indicates measurements of the vital function were monitored during that period. For example, skull  134  may have been measured during week 30 of the gestational period and therefore is represented as a clear image. Conversely, at vital function panel aligned under week 31 for the skull is blurred, indicating that the measurements of the skull were not taken during that time period. 
     Interface  120  may provide an indication of when vital functions  124 - 134  reached or are likely to reach a threshold level of development. Such an indication may be any visual indication, such as a flag, a different color, a clear image of the individual vital function as opposed to a blurred one, and/or any other indication. 
     Interface  120  may be configured to facilitate interactions with a user  108  of the system  10 . Presentation module  114 , may be configured to facilitate the selection and/or entry of one of more inputs from user  108  through interface  120 . For example, user  108  may select and/or enter inputs indicating that the user wishes to more closely view the developmental level of vital functions  124 - 134  at week 36. User  108  may select a period  147  to view more closely. User  108  may interact with interface  120  such that user  108  selects period  147 . System  10  may be configured to facilitate the display of information related to vital functions  124 - 134  at the 36 week period in response to an input from user  108 . Period  147 , as shown in  FIG. 2 , is four weeks into the future from the present day, indicated by present day indicator  136 . System  10 , therefore, may be configured to provide progress prediction information for vital functions  124 - 134 , of the neonatal test subject, at period  147 , representing week 36 of the gestation term. 
     The number of vital functions  124 - 134  illustrated in  FIG. 2  is exemplary and not intended to be limited. Interface  120  may be configured to display any number of vital functions. For example, interface  120  may be configured to facilitate the navigation between vital functions  124 - 134  through an input device. For example, the input device may be a keyboard where user  108  may enter commands to view vital functions, the input device may be a mouse where user  108  interacts with the mouse input to move a cursor dynamically displayed on interface  120  to view vital functions, in other embodiments, the graphical display device may be a touchscreen device, such that user  108  may select virtual functions by pressing a representative area of the screen, or scroll through vital functions or time periods by swiping a finger across the screen. For example, in the representation depicted in  FIG. 2 , additional vital functions may be positioned in the array under skull  134 . User  108  may interact with a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, or other input device to move the view depicted on interface  120  so that user  108  can see the one or more other vital functions. Similarly, user  108  may interact with a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, or other input device to move the view depicted on interface  120  to the left or right to view different time periods. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , illustrated is interface  120  showing the development of a neonate, in accordance with one or more embodiments. System  10  may be configured to provide additional notifications with respect to the developmental delay of vital functions  124 - 134  compared to model vital function dataset  122 . For example, presentation module  114  may be configured to provide notifications  152 , 154 , 155  indicating levels of developmental delay for one or more vital functions  124 - 134 . Such indications may be color-coded, for example, a green color may be provided for vital functions having a development level within a first threshold of the model vital function dataset for a neonatal subject, an amber color may be provided for vital functions having a development level which exceeds a first threshold but are within a second threshold from the model vital function dataset, and a red color may be provided for vital functions which exceed the second threshold. As shown in  FIG. 3 , gastrointestinal vital function  132  has a developmental delay  138  of two periods, in this case two weeks, compared to the model vital function dataset  122 . As such, for gastrointestinal vital function  132 , presentation module  114  may be configured to provide an indication  152  notifying user  108  that gastrointestinal vital function  132  has a level of development exceeding a second threshold from the model vital function dataset  122 , for example a red ribbon. However, for the same neonatal test subject, kidneys  130  have a developmental delay  138  of one week compared to the model vital function dataset  122 . As such, for kidneys  130 , presentation module  114  may be configured to provide an indication  154  notifying user  108  that kidneys  130  have a level of development exceeding a first threshold, but not a second threshold, from the model vital function dataset  122 , for example an amber ribbon. Additionally, lungs  128  have no developmental delay  138  compared to the model vital function dataset  122 . As such, for lungs  128 , presentation module  114  may be configured to provide an indication  155  notifying user  108  that lungs  128  have a level of development not exceeding a first threshold from the model vital function dataset  122 , for example a green ribbon. 
     Referring to  FIG. 4 , illustrated is interface  120  showing the development of a neonate, in accordance with one or more embodiments. System  10  may be configured to receive entry and/or selection of an input by user  108 . Such input may be entered and/or selected through a graphical user interface such as interface  120 . The database, stored in electronic storage  130 , may further comprise additional information related to vital functions  124 - 134 . Additional information may include one or more specific conditions of the vital functions, or may include increased information with respect to the progress prediction for the future development of the neonatal test subject. 
     User  108  may enter and/or select a vital function panel, such as vital function panel  150 , shown in  FIG. 3 . User  108  may enter and/or select vital function panel  150  by interacting with a graphical user interface, such as interface  120 , at or near the location of vital function panel  150 . For example, a user input device, such as a computer mouse, or keyboard, may be configured to move a cursor, or notification of selection, to vital function panel  150 . As another example, a user input device, such as a touchscreen may be configured to facilitate selection and/or entry of vital function panel  150  by user  108 , such that user  108  may interact with interface  120  at or near the location of vital function panel  150  on the screen of interface  120 . 
     In response to selection and/or entry of vital function panel  150 , presentation module  114  may be configured to effectuate presentation of additional information related to one or more vital functions  123 - 134 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 4 , detailed information  156 ,  158  is shown related to lungs  128 . Subsequent to an interaction with interface  120  at a vital function panel representing lungs  128  at week 23 of the gestation period, presentation module  114  may be configured to effectuate presentation of detailed information panel  156  related to lungs  128  at week 23 of the gestation period. Detailed information panel  156  may present information related to the lungs of a model neonatal subject or may present information related to the lungs of the test neonatal subject at week 23 of the gestation period. As shown in  FIG. 4 , week 23 of the gestation period for the test subject identified at subject information panel  140  occurred prior to birth of the neonatal test subject, indicated by birth line  148 . Detailed information panel  156  related to lungs  128  at week 23 of the gestation period may further facilitate entry and/or selection of a command by user  108  to view additional information related to the neonatal test subject and/or the neonatal model subject. Additional information available to user  108  may include predictive model  162 . When user  108  interacts with interface  120  to enter and/or select to view predictive model at electronic interactive button  162 , presentation module  114  may be configured to effectuate presentation of the progress prediction for the development of the vital functions of the neonatal test subject from that gestational period. For example, upon interaction with electronic interactive button  162 , a development progress prediction for lungs  128  from week 23 of the gestation period, onward, may be shown. The development progress prediction for lungs  128  may then be compared to the actual progress of the development of lungs  128  for the neonatal test subject identified at subject identification panel  140 . The comparison between the progress prediction model and the actual progress of lungs  128  may assist caregivers, doctors, scientists, subjects, patients, and/or other stakeholders in the neonatal test subject to make decision regarding the neonatal test subjects medical care, and may provide information regarding the neonatal test subject&#39;s likely future outcome or prognosis. 
     Upon an interaction with a vital function panel related to lungs  128  at the 31 week gestational period, additional information  158  may be presented about the neonatal test subject&#39;s lungs during that time period. A visual comparison between the development level of lungs  128  at the 23 week gestational period and the 31 week gestation period may be made. If the detailed information  158  related to a vital function which occurs after the present day, indicated by present day line  136  on interface  120 , the detailed information shown may relate to a prediction of the developmental level of the neonatal test subject at that future date. The prediction of the developmental level of the neonatal test subject may be based on the progress prediction for the future development of the neonatal subject as determined by development prediction module  113 . Other information may be available upon an interaction with interface  120 , either through the main interface screen, or through detailed information panels  156 ,  158 . Other information may relate to pregnancy progression information or parental medical records. Other information may be presented to user  108  upon an interaction with electronic interactive button  160 , or similar mechanism to access the other information. Other information, such as parent medical records and/or pregnancy progression information may be presented using the same interface  120  or application, or electronic interactive button  160  may be configured to facilitate the execution of one or more other applications to be displayed on one or more display devices related to system  10 . 
     While the system and method has been described for use with neonatal test subjects, the system has broader application. The scope of this disclosure also covers degenerating vital functions as well as improving vital functions. System  10  may be used to monitor and predict the future development of geriatric subjects, wherein the future development of geriatric subjects likely includes the degeneration of vital functions and general health of the geriatric subject. For example, interface  120  may provide a visual indication of the degeneration of vital functions, or organs, during the later stages of a person&#39;s life. Predictions on when death may occur may be provided by system  10 . Additionally, predictions on ailments, based on the level of degeneration of one or more vital functions  124 - 134  may be provided and measures may be taken to avoid those ailments. It is also contemplated that system  10  may be used after organ transplants. Model datasets may be obtained and compared against the test subject&#39;s datasets describing the transplanted vital functions. In such situations, the datasets may include factors such as lifestyle, eating habits, patient compliance information, the condition of the organ that was transplanted and/or other information useful to determine the successful acceptance of a transplanted organ. Similarly, as with geriatric and neonatal subjects, system  10 , for use with transplant patients, may be configured to provide predictions on future ailments and medical problems based on the current level of development of the vital functions since transplant. 
     System  10  may also be used outside of the medical field for uses such as project management, when vital functions may include elements of a building being constructed, or stages of a project, such as development of a software suite, is being performed. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a method  500  to provide an indication of the relative conditions of vital functions of a subject. The operations of method  500  presented below are intended to be illustrative. In certain embodiments, method  800  may be accomplished with one or more additional operations not described, and/or without one or more of the operations discussed. Additionally, the order in which the operations of method  500  are illustrated in  FIG. 5  and described below is not intended to be limiting. 
     In certain embodiments, method  500  may be implemented in one or more processing devices (e.g., a digital processor, an analog processor, a digital circuit designed to process information, an analog circuit designed to process information, and/or other mechanisms for electronically processing information). The one or more processing devices may include one or more devices executing some or all of the operations of method  500  in response to instructions stored electronically on an electronic storage medium. The one or more processing devices may include one or more devices configured through hardware, firmware, and/or software to be specifically designed for execution of one or more of the operations of method  500 . 
     At an operation  502 , a test dataset may be obtained which describes monitored vital functions of a neonatal test subject. Operation  502  may be performed by an input module, such as input module  111  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). 
     At an operation  504 , the test dataset may be compared with one or more previously obtained model datasets describing vital functions of neonatal subjects. Individual ones of the model datasets that are similar to the test dataset may be determined and selected to compare with the test dataset. A weighting to the selected similar model datasets based on their closeness to the test dataset may be assigned. Operation  504  may be performed by a development comparison module, such as development comparison module  112  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). 
     At an operation  506 , based on the comparison between the test datasets and the model datasets at operation  504 , a progress prediction for the future development of the neonatal test subject may be determined. The progress prediction may be based on the similar model datasets determined at operation  504 . The progress prediction may be based on the weighting of the similar model dataset as assigned at operation  504 . Operation  506  may be performed by a development prediction module, such as development prediction module  114  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). 
     At an operation  508 , presentation of an indication of the progress prediction may be effectuated. Presentation of an indication of a model dataset describing vital functions of a model neonate may be effectuated to provide a visual comparison between the vital functions of the neonatal test subject and the model neonate, where the model neonate may comprise an aggregation of information from one or more model datasets. Presentation of a notification may be effectuated in response to the comparison of the test dataset and the model datasets indicating that the neonatal test subject exceeds a development threshold from the model neonate. Operation  508  may be performed by a presentation module, such as presentation module  114  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). 
     In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word “comprising” or “including” does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in a claim. In a device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The word “a” or “an” preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. In any device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain elements are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that these elements cannot be used in combination. 
     Although this description includes details for the purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment are contemplated to be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.