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Updated: Jul 12, 2025

A Machine Learning Approach to Design an Efficient Selective Screening of Mild Cognitive Impairment
Published on: January 11, 2020
Comparison of DBFS with MoCA and MMSE tools for MCI screening
Eun Yip Chad Chew1, Pillay Prem1, Kuah Jasmine1
1Neurowyzr Pte. Ltd., 6 Raffles Quay, 11-07, Singapore-048580.
Abstract:
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) has been associated with many diseases. The MCI could be a marker for the early diagnosis of certain diseases. Early detection of MCI could be beneficial for restoration of cognitive reserves. One hundred and five subjects were included in the study, underwent the Digital Brain Function Screen (DBFS) test as well as the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test and 73 subjects took the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) test. DBFS test and retest was taken by 16 subjects. The test scores of DBFS tool showed significant positive correlation with MoCA and MMSE test scores. In conclusion, the DBFS tool could be an effective digital tool which can overcome the disadvantages of traditional tools of screening MCI like MoCA and MMSE.
Insights
The Digital Brain Function Screen (DBFS) shows promise for early mild cognitive impairment (MCI) detection. This digital tool correlates well with traditional tests, offering a potential improvement for cognitive assessment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gerontology
- Digital Health
Background:
- Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is linked to various diseases and can indicate early-stage conditions.
- Early detection of MCI is crucial for interventions aimed at restoring cognitive function.
- Traditional screening tools for MCI have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the Digital Brain Function Screen (DBFS) as a tool for detecting mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
- To compare the performance of the DBFS against established cognitive assessment tools.
Main Methods:
- One hundred and five subjects were assessed using the Digital Brain Function Screen (DBFS) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).
- Seventy-three subjects also completed the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).
- Test-retest reliability was assessed in 16 subjects using the DBFS.
Main Results:
- The DBFS demonstrated a significant positive correlation with both MoCA and MMSE scores.
- The digital tool showed good reliability in test-retest assessments.
Conclusions:
- The Digital Brain Function Screen (DBFS) is a potentially effective digital tool for screening mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
- DBFS may overcome the limitations associated with traditional MCI screening methods like MoCA and MMSE.

