everis has been chosen to develop a system that is capable of applying artificial intelligence techniques to prevent depression. The project, which 3.5 million euros in funding, is called OPTIMI and will last for three years as a collaboration project framed within the European FP7 program (Seventh Framework Program).
OPTIMI is based on the hypothesis that the core problem and inception of mental illnesses in the long term are linked with the individual’s capacity and skill to deal with stress.
The goal behind the project is developing handheld sensorization devices and apply novel algorithms to the collected data to detect high levels of stress, inadequate behavior in dealing with stress and minor depression symptoms before these degenerate into a serious illness. Hence domestic devices are developed and used for this end, such as electrocardiograms, electroencephalograms, cortisol levels, voice analysis, physical activity analysis and an electronic diary to be completed by the individual. The goal behind all these analyses is to avoid the person from slipping into a depression.
Two trial stages
The project foresees two trial stages with volunteers from China, Switzerland, United Kingdom and Spain, monitored by therapists and psychologists. The first phase will help rate the prediction system, while the second phase will focus on applying preventative treatments based on CCBT (Computerized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
The company will be in charge of coordinating the project and will also be the spokesperson before the European Commission. everis, from the company’s offices in Valencia, will both direct coordination of the project, with regards to planning, monitoring and delivery of preliminary advances on the same to the European Commission, as well as developing the tool capable of providing necessary treatment to patients by applying artificial intelligence techniques.
Two Valencian universities will also play a vital role: Jaume I University and Technical University of Valencia. Thus, the Jaume I University (UJI), through Labpsitec, will head the psychological studies involved in the project, creating models for identification of the first signs of the illness.
The university will also apply its own CCBT program (Computerized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), which boasts the major innovation of using PDA devices. The Technical University of Valencia, thanks to its great experience in biotechnology treatments, will develop the software for the PDA devices and handle integration of information obtained from physiological sensors. In the OPTIMI Project, the Technical University of Valencia will also be in charge of ensuring communication between the sensors, the individual’s device and the server’s database.