Autism Prognosticator

Final Year Project Proposal

(BSIT)
By
Project ID:_______________________

S# Name Registration #/Roll #/Section Mobile # E-Mail

1. Adeel Farooq Khan FA-2020 BSIT (B) 101 +92 314 8143775 [email protected]

2. Jawad Ahmad FA-2020 BSIT (B) 089 +92 307 7031065 [email protected]

Supervised by:
Supervisor Name Dr.Rabia Afzaal (Signature)

Co-Supervisor Name M.Asad (Signature)

LAHORE GARRISON UNIVERSITY

MAY 2023
 Department of Information Technology
Lahore Garrison University
Table of Contents
Project Title....................................................................................................................................2
Introduction..................................................................................................................................2
Motivation....................................................................................................................................3
Problem Statement.......................................................................................................................4
Goals and Objective.....................................................................................................................5
Project Scope................................................................................................................................7
Process Model..............................................................................................................................8
Proposed Solution......................................................................................................................10
Nature of the Project..................................................................................................................12
Conclusion.................................................................................................................................15
Project Milestones and Deliverables..........................................................................................16
 Autism Prognosticator

Introduction
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that significantly impacts an
individual's social interaction, communication skills, and behavior. Early diagnosis and intervention play
a crucial role in improving the lives of individuals with ASD. The "Autism Prognosticator" project aims to
develop an innovative solution utilizing EEG data and machine learning techniques for the early
detection of autism in children.

1.Background:
Current diagnostic procedures for autism often involve subjective assessments and can be time-
consuming. Emerging technologies in the field of neurology, particularly Electroencephalography (EEG),
present an opportunity to explore objective and efficient methods for autism detection. The Autism
Prognosticator project seeks to harness the power of EEG data to create a real-time screening tool that
can assist healthcare professionals in the early identification of potential autism markers.

2.Objectives:
 Develop a mobile application that interfaces with EEG devices for real-time data collection.
 Implement robust real-time preprocessing algorithms to clean and enhance EEG data.
 Utilize machine learning models to analyze EEG features and predict the likelihood of autism.
 Provide immediate and user-friendly feedback to individuals using the screening tool.
 Collaborate with healthcare professionals for clinical validation and refinement of the
prognostication model.

3.Significance of the Project:

The Autism Prognosticator project holds the potential to revolutionize the early diagnosis of autism by
providing a non-invasive and accessible screening tool. By leveraging EEG data and machine learning,
this project seeks to contribute to the advancement of diagnostic practices, ultimately facilitating early
intervention and improved outcomes for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Motivation
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a multifaceted condition that profoundly influences the lives of
individuals and their families. The motivation behind the "Autism Prognosticator" project stems from a
commitment to addressing the challenges associated with the current methods of diagnosing autism.
The project seeks to instigate positive change by leveraging cutting-edge technologies to create a
transformative and accessible screening tool. Several key motivations drive this endeavor:

1. Early Intervention for Improved Outcomes:

The importance of early intervention in the treatment of autism cannot be overstated. Studies
consistently show that early identification and targeted interventions significantly enhance
developmental outcomes for individuals on the autism spectrum. The Autism Prognosticator project is
motivated by the aspiration to facilitate interventions at the earliest possible stage.

2. Reducing Diagnostic Delays:

Current diagnostic procedures for autism can be time-consuming and often involve lengthy waiting
periods for assessments. This project is motivated by a sense of urgency to reduce diagnostic delays. By
providing a real-time screening tool, the Autism Prognosticator aims to streamline the diagnostic
process, ensuring that individuals receive timely assessments and interventions.

3. Objectivity in Diagnosis:
Subjectivity in the diagnostic process can introduce variability and potential biases. The Autism
Prognosticator project is driven by the motivation to introduce a more objective and standardized
approach to autism diagnosis. By relying on EEG data and machine learning, the project aims to provide
clinicians with a reliable and data-driven tool for assessment.

4. Accessibility to Screening:
Accessibility to diagnostic resources is a crucial factor in ensuring that individuals from diverse
backgrounds and geographical locations have equitable access to screening. The Autism Prognosticator
project is motivated by a commitment to democratizing access to autism screening, making it available
in a variety of healthcare settings and potentially even at home through user-friendly applications.

5. Enhancing Quality of Life:

Ultimately, the primary motivation behind the Autism Prognosticator project is the desire to enhance
the quality of life for individuals with ASD. By enabling early diagnosis and intervention, the project aims
to empower individuals, their families, and the healthcare community to better support and address the
unique needs of those on the autism spectrum.

Problem Statement
Despite advancements in the understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the current methods of
diagnosis present significant challenges that impact the timely and accurate identification of individuals
on the autism spectrum. Traditional diagnostic processes often involve subjective assessments,
prolonged waiting periods for evaluations, and can be resource intensive. Additionally, the lack of
accessible and standardized screening tools contributes to delays in intervention, hindering the potential
for improved outcomes in individuals with ASD.

Challenges and Gaps:

1. Subjectivity in Diagnosis:

 Current diagnostic procedures heavily rely on subjective assessments, introducing

variability and potential biases in the identification of autism.

2. Diagnostic Delays:

 The diagnostic journey for individuals suspected of having autism is often prolonged,
leading to delayed access to crucial interventions and support services.

3. Limited Accessibility to Screening:

 Screening tools for autism are not universally accessible, and there is a need for a
solution that can be deployed across diverse healthcare settings, including remote or
under-resourced areas.

4. Data-Driven Deficiency:

 There is a lack of efficient, data-driven tools that utilize advanced technologies to

enhance the diagnostic process, resulting in missed opportunities for early intervention.

Project Objectives in Response to the Problem:

The "Autism Prognosticator" project seeks to address these challenges by developing an innovative
solution that leverages Electroencephalography (EEG) data and machine learning algorithms. The project
aims to:

1. Create an Objective Screening Tool:

 Develop a mobile application that interfaces with EEG devices to provide an objective
and standardized screening tool for the identification of autism.

2. Enable Timely Interventions:

 Implement real-time processing algorithms to reduce diagnostic delays, allowing for

prompt interventions and support for individuals on the autism spectrum.

3. Enhance Accessibility:

 Design a user-friendly application that can be deployed across various healthcare

settings, ensuring accessibility to screening tools for a diverse population.

4. Utilize Data-Driven Approaches:

 Harness the power of EEG data and machine learning to introduce a data-driven
approach to autism diagnosis, minimizing subjectivity and enhancing diagnostic
accuracy.

Expected Impact:
The successful execution of the Autism Prognosticator project is anticipated to result in a transformative
screening tool that addresses the current deficiencies in autism diagnosis. By providing a reliable,
accessible, and data-driven solution, the project aims to contribute to early interventions, improved
outcomes, and a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with ASD

Goals and Objective

Goals:
1. Develop a User-Friendly Screening Tool:

 Objective: Create an intuitive and user-friendly mobile application that seamlessly

interfaces with EEG devices, ensuring a straightforward and accessible experience for
individuals undergoing autism screening.

2. Implement Real-Time Processing Algorithms:

 Objective: Integrate robust real-time processing algorithms within the application to

enhance the quality of EEG data, enabling accurate and efficient analysis for autism
prediction.

3. Utilize Machine Learning for Prediction:

 Objective: Employ state-of-the-art machine learning models to analyze EEG features

and predict the likelihood of autism, providing a reliable and data-driven
prognostication mechanism.

4. Ensure Immediate User Feedback:

 Objective: Design a feedback system within the application that delivers immediate and
easily interpretable results to individuals undergoing screening, fostering user
engagement and understanding.

5. Collaborate with Healthcare Professionals:

 Objective: Establish collaborations with healthcare professionals to validate the

accuracy and efficacy of the prognostication model in real-world clinical settings,
incorporating clinical feedback for continuous improvement.

Objectives:
1. Develop a User-Friendly Screening Tool:

 1.1 Define User Interface (UI) Requirements:

 Clearly outline the UI requirements to ensure a user-friendly and accessible design that
accommodates individuals of varying ages and abilities.
  1.2 Implement Intuitive Navigation:

 Design an intuitive navigation system within the application, guiding users seamlessly
through the screening process.

2. Implement Real-Time Processing Algorithms:

 2.1 Research and Select Processing Techniques:

 Conduct a thorough review of real-time processing techniques and select those best
suited for enhancing EEG data quality in the mobile application.

 2.2 Implement Bandpass Filtering:

 Integrate bandpass filtering algorithms to isolate relevant frequency bands in real-time

EEG data.

3. Utilize Machine Learning for Prediction:

 3.1 Train Machine Learning Model:

 Train a machine learning model using a comprehensive dataset that includes EEG
features and corresponding autism labels.

 3.2 Deploy Model in the Application:

 Deploy the trained machine learning model within the mobile application, ensuring
efficient inference on user devices.

4. Ensure Immediate User Feedback:

 4.1 Design Clear Feedback Mechanism:

 Design a visually intuitive feedback mechanism that clearly communicates screening

results to users immediately after the assessment.

 4.2 Implement User Education Features:

 Include educational features within the application to inform users about the screening
process and the significance of results.

5. Collaborate with Healthcare Professionals:

 5.1 Establish Collaboration Framework:

 Define a collaborative framework with healthcare professionals, ensuring ethical data

sharing and adherence to clinical standards.

 5.2 Validate in Clinical Settings:

 Conduct validation studies in collaboration with healthcare professionals to assess the

performance of the prognostication model in diverse clinical scenarios.
Project Scope
The scope of the "Autism Prognosticator" project encompasses the development and implementation of
an innovative screening tool for the early detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The project's
primary focus is on leveraging Electroencephalography (EEG) data and machine learning techniques to
create a mobile application that provides real-time, data-driven predictions of autism likelihood. The key
components within the defined scope include:

1. Mobile Application Development:

 Develop a user-friendly mobile application compatible with iOS and Android platforms.

 Implement an intuitive user interface to facilitate easy interaction for individuals undergoing
screening.

2. EEG Data Integration:

 Interface the mobile application with EEG devices to seamlessly collect real-time EEG data.

 Ensure compatibility with a range of EEG devices to enhance accessibility.

3. Real-Time Processing Algorithms:

 Integrate robust real-time processing algorithms within the application to preprocess EEG data
on the user's device.

 Implement bandpass filtering and other preprocessing techniques to enhance the quality of EEG
signals.

4. Machine Learning Model Integration:

 Train a machine learning model on a comprehensive dataset containing EEG features and
corresponding autism labels.

 Deploy the trained model within the mobile application to provide immediate predictions.

5. Feedback Mechanism:

 Design and implement a feedback system within the application to provide users with
immediate and clear results.

 Include educational features to help users interpret and understand the significance of the
screening results.

6. Collaboration with Healthcare Professionals:

 Establish collaborations with healthcare professionals, clinicians, and relevant stakeholders.

 Conduct validation studies in clinical settings to assess the accuracy and efficacy of the
prognostication model.

7. User Engagement and Education:

 Develop features to engage users throughout the screening process and provide educational
content about autism.
  Ensure that the application is accessible to users of varying ages and backgrounds.

8. Security and Privacy Measures:

 Implement robust security measures to protect user data during transmission and storage.

 Adhere to privacy regulations and ethical standards in healthcare data handling.

9. Continuous Improvement Mechanisms:

 Integrate mechanisms for continuous model improvement based on user feedback and
collaboration with healthcare professionals.

 Plan for periodic updates to enhance the application's features and accuracy.

Process Model
The development of the "Autism Prognosticator" will follow an iterative and incremental process model
to ensure flexibility, continuous improvement, and effective adaptation to evolving requirements. The
chosen process model is an amalgamation of the Agile and Spiral models, combining the benefits of
iterative development and risk management.

1. Requirements Elicitation and Analysis:

 Engage with stakeholders, including potential users and healthcare professionals, to gather and
analyze requirements for the screening tool.

 Conduct a thorough review of existing literature and diagnostic criteria related to autism for a
comprehensive understanding.

2. Initial Design and Prototyping:

 Develop an initial design of the mobile application's user interface and system architecture.

 Create a prototype to visualize the application's flow, feedback mechanisms, and integration
with EEG devices.

3. Iterative Development Sprints:

 Adopt Agile development practices, dividing the project into short development cycles (sprints).

 Regularly reassess project priorities and adjust development goals based on feedback from user
testing and stakeholder input.

4. Real-time Processing Algorithm Implementation:

 Begin with the implementation of real-time processing algorithms for EEG data.

 Iterate on the algorithms based on performance evaluations and user testing results.

5. Machine Learning Model Development:

  Train and fine-tune the machine learning model using a diverse dataset.

 Integrate the model into the application and continuously refine it based on ongoing evaluations
and clinical feedback.

6. Collaboration with Healthcare Professionals:

 Establish collaborative relationships with healthcare professionals to validate the accuracy and
reliability of the screening tool.

 Conduct user acceptance testing and gather insights from clinicians for further improvements.

7. User Feedback and Education Features:

 Implement features for gathering user feedback on the application's usability and effectiveness.

 Integrate educational features to inform users about the screening process and the significance
of results.

8. Security and Privacy Measures:

 Implement security measures throughout the development process, ensuring the protection of
user data.

 Regularly conduct security assessments and make enhancements as needed.

9. Continuous Improvement and Updates:

 Leverage a continuous improvement approach, regularly updating the application based on user
feedback, technological advancements, and new research findings.

 Implement mechanisms for automatic updates to ensure users benefit from the latest
improvements.

10. Documentation and Knowledge Transfer:

 Maintain comprehensive documentation, including design specifications, algorithms, and

training methodologies.

 Facilitate knowledge transfer among the development team to ensure sustainable maintenance
and potential future enhancements.

11. Testing and Quality Assurance:

 Implement rigorous testing procedures, including unit testing, integration testing, and user
acceptance testing.

 Address and rectify any issues identified during testing phases.

12. Deployment and Monitoring:

 Deploy the screening tool in controlled environments, ensuring seamless integration with EEG
devices.
  Implement monitoring mechanisms to track the application's performance and user
interactions.

13. Post-Deployment Evaluation:

 Conduct post-deployment evaluations to gather feedback from end-users and healthcare

professionals.

 Address any issues promptly and plan for subsequent iterations based on the evaluation
outcomes.

14. Project Closure:

 Evaluate the project against its initial goals and objectives.

 Compile a final report summarizing the project's achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.

This iterative and incremental process model ensures that the "Autism Prognosticator" project adapts to
evolving needs, incorporates feedback from various stakeholders, and maintains a focus on continuous
improvement throughout its development lifecycle.

Proposed Solution
Proposed Solution:

The "Autism Prognosticator" project proposes an innovative solution that combines advanced
technologies, including Electroencephalography (EEG) and machine learning, to develop a cutting-edge
screening tool for the early detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The proposed solution
encompasses the following key components:

1. Mobile Application Interface:

 Description: Develop a user-friendly mobile application interface compatible with iOS and
Android platforms.

 Rationale: A visually intuitive interface will facilitate seamless interaction for individuals
undergoing screening, ensuring accessibility and usability.

2. EEG Data Integration:

 Description: Interface the mobile application with a variety of EEG devices to collect real-time
EEG data.

 Rationale: Integrating with diverse EEG devices enhances accessibility, allowing users to
leverage existing equipment or choose from a range of compatible devices.

3. Real-Time Processing Algorithms:

  Description: Implement robust real-time processing algorithms within the application to
preprocess EEG data on the user's device.

 Rationale: Real-time processing ensures immediate feedback and reduces the need for
extensive post-processing, enhancing the efficiency of the screening process.

4. Machine Learning Model Integration:

 Description: Train a machine learning model on a comprehensive dataset containing EEG

features and corresponding autism labels.

 Rationale: Utilizing machine learning enables the identification of patterns and associations in
EEG data, providing an objective and data-driven approach to autism prediction.

5. Feedback Mechanism:

 Description: Design and implement a feedback system within the application to provide users
with immediate and easily interpretable results.

 Rationale: Immediate feedback fosters user engagement and understanding, empowering

individuals and facilitating informed decision-making.

6. Collaboration with Healthcare Professionals:

 Description: Establish collaborations with healthcare professionals, clinicians, and relevant

stakeholders for clinical validation and feedback.

 Rationale: Involving healthcare professionals ensures the accuracy and reliability of the
screening tool in real-world clinical scenarios, contributing to its credibility.

7. User Engagement and Education:

 Description: Develop features to engage users throughout the screening process and provide
educational content about autism.

 Rationale: Enhancing user engagement and education promotes a positive user experience and
ensures individuals understand the significance of the screening results.

8. Security and Privacy Measures:

 Description: Implement robust security measures to protect user data during transmission and
storage.

 Rationale: Ensuring the privacy and security of user data is paramount, especially in the context
of healthcare applications, building trust among users and healthcare providers.

9. Continuous Improvement Mechanisms:

 Description: Integrate mechanisms for continuous model improvement based on user feedback
and collaboration with healthcare professionals.

 Rationale: Regular updates and improvements enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of the
screening tool over time, adapting to emerging research findings and user needs.
10. Documentation and Knowledge Transfer:

 Description: Maintain comprehensive documentation, including design specifications,

algorithms, and training methodologies.

 Rationale: Documentation facilitates knowledge transfer within the development team,

ensuring sustainable maintenance and potential future enhancements.

The proposed solution aims to create a transformative and ethical screening tool that addresses the
current challenges in autism diagnosis. By combining technological innovation with user-centric design
and collaboration with healthcare professionals, the "Autism Prognosticator" seeks to make a
meaningful impact on the lives of individuals with ASD and their families.

Nature of the Project

The "Autism Prognosticator" project is inherently multidisciplinary, encompassing aspects of healthcare,
technology, and data science to address the critical need for an innovative screening tool for the early
detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The nature of the project can be characterized by several
key attributes:

1. Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

 Description: The project involves collaboration across diverse disciplines, including

neuroscience, healthcare, software engineering, and machine learning.

 Rationale: Interdisciplinary collaboration ensures a holistic approach, incorporating both clinical

expertise and technological innovation to create a comprehensive screening tool.

2. Technology-Driven Innovation:

 Description: The project leverages cutting-edge technologies, such as Electroencephalography

(EEG) and machine learning, to develop an advanced screening solution.

 Rationale: Integrating innovative technologies allows for more accurate and data-driven autism
predictions, pushing the boundaries of traditional diagnostic methods.

3. User-Centric Design:

 Description: The project places a strong emphasis on user-centric design principles, creating a
mobile application with an intuitive interface and educational features.

 Rationale: Prioritizing user experience ensures accessibility and engagement, making the
screening tool more effective and empowering for individuals undergoing assessments.

4. Ethical Considerations:

 Description: The project adheres to rigorous ethical standards, particularly in data handling,
user privacy, and collaboration with healthcare professionals.

 Rationale: Ethical considerations are paramount in healthcare applications, instilling trust

among users and ensuring the responsible use of sensitive data.
5. Continuous Improvement and Adaptation:

 Description: The project follows an iterative and incremental development process, allowing for
continuous improvement based on user feedback, emerging research, and clinical collaboration.

 Rationale: The dynamic nature of autism research and healthcare practices requires a project
approach that can adapt and evolve over time to meet changing needs.

6. Clinical Validation and Impact:

 Description: The project seeks validation through collaboration with healthcare professionals,
aiming to make a tangible impact on clinical practices related to autism diagnosis.

 Rationale: Ensuring the clinical validity of the screening tool is crucial for its adoption in real-
world healthcare settings and for making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with
ASD.

7. Accessibility and Inclusivity:

 Description: The project strives to create an accessible screening tool that can be deployed in
diverse healthcare settings and used by individuals with varying backgrounds and abilities.

 Rationale: Promoting accessibility ensures that the benefits of early autism detection are
available to a broad and diverse population.

8. Documentation and Knowledge Transfer:

 Description: Comprehensive documentation is maintained throughout the project, facilitating

knowledge transfer within the development team and ensuring the sustainability of the
screening tool.

 Rationale: Documentation is essential for transparency, accountability, and the long-term

success of the project.

The nature of the "Autism Prognosticator" project reflects a commitment to leveraging technological
innovation responsibly, collaborating across disciplines, and addressing the complex challenges
associated with autism diagnosis through an inclusive and ethical approach.

Conclusion
The "Autism Prognosticator" project represents a groundbreaking initiative that aims to revolutionize
the landscape of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis through the integration of advanced
technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a user-centric design approach. By harnessing the
power of Electroencephalography (EEG) and machine learning, this project endeavors to provide an
innovative, objective, and real-time screening tool for the early detection of autism.

The comprehensive nature of the project, spanning healthcare, technology, and data science,
underscores its commitment to addressing the challenges inherent in traditional diagnostic methods.
Through interdisciplinary collaboration, the project seeks to unite clinical expertise with cutting-edge
technology, fostering a holistic and impactful solution. The user-centric design places individuals at the
forefront, ensuring a positive and empowering experience for those undergoing autism screening.

Ethical considerations and privacy standards are paramount throughout the project, emphasizing the
responsible use of sensitive data and building trust among users and healthcare professionals. The
iterative and incremental development process, influenced by both Agile and Spiral models, enables
continuous improvement, adaptability to emerging research, and a commitment to delivering a high-
quality screening tool.

Collaboration with healthcare professionals for clinical validation and ongoing user feedback is integral
to the project's success. By striving for clinical relevance and impact, the "Autism Prognosticator" aspires
to contribute to advancements in autism diagnosis and, ultimately, improve outcomes for individuals on
the autism spectrum.

In conclusion, the "Autism Prognosticator" project seeks to transcend the boundaries of conventional
diagnostic approaches, embracing technological innovation, ethical considerations, and user-centered
design to create a transformative screening tool. The success of this project holds the promise of early
interventions, enhanced clinical practices, and improved quality of life for individuals with ASD and their
families.