WO2007085435A2

WO2007085435A2 - Method and evaluation system for generating an evaluation result indicating the physiological state of a person, in particular the state of endurance

Info

Publication number: WO2007085435A2
Application number: PCT/EP2007/000597
Authority: WO
Inventors: Wolfgang KÖCHER; Hardy Hoheisel; Jürgen KRIEG; Carl Sandhagen
Original assignee: Opsolution Spectroscopic Systems Gmbh
Priority date: 2006-01-24
Filing date: 2007-01-24
Publication date: 2007-08-02
Also published as: WO2007085435A3; EP1981398A2

Abstract

The invention is directed to a method and evaluation system for generating an evaluation result indicating the physiological state of a person, in particular the state of endurance. The invention is also directed to a system and method for handling data transfer in connection with the evaluation of spectroscopically obtained measurement signals. The invention addresses the problem of providing solutions that make it possible to obtain at least substantially objective indications about the physical capabilities, in particular the state of endurance, or, in particular, also a training-induced or therapy-enduced evolution of the endurance and training states of a person. This problem is solved by a first aspect of the invention by means of a method for generating an evaluation result which indicates the physical capabilities, in particular the state of endurance, of a person. According to this method, light is coupled to a vital muscle region, at least part of the light propagated through the muscle region is detected, the spectral intensity distribution of the detected light is analysed, the concentration of substances active as redox catalysts is detected from this analysis during a test, and the evaluation result is determined on the basis of the detected concentration.

Description

Method and evaluation system for generating an evaluation result indicative of the physiological state, in particular endurance state of a person

The invention is directed to a method and an evaluation system for generating an evaluation result indicative of the physiological state, in particular endurance state of a person. Furthermore, the invention is also directed to a system and a method for processing a data transfer in connection with the evaluation of spectroscopically obtained measurement signals

There is a general interest in determining an individual's stamina, stamina, or physical ability. This is usually done by stress tests such as the Cooper test.

From a sports science point of view, endurance refers to the body's resistance to fatigue. Specifically, endurance is the ability to sustain a given load (e.g., running speed) for as long as possible. In the present context, the term endurance state particularly describes the perseverance of a person.

The Cooper test is a recognized test for checking runny endurance. It is a 12-minute run, during which the distance covered during this time is determined. The test is challenging because the distance covered lies between a pure medium or long distance. The subject - typically an athlete - must be able to estimate and coordinate the performance input relatively well, so as not to enter the anaerobic region too early, but also so as not to run too slowly. Therefore, the test is not - or only partially - suitable for untrained and beginners. For men under 30, a performance of more than 2,800 meters is very good, over 2,500 meters good, over 2,200 meters tidy, over 1,800 meters average and below that bad. From the age of 30 years onwards, 150 meters are deducted from the values, from 40 years 300 meters, from 50 years 400 meters. The Cooper test is used, for example, in the review of football referees, in the grading of sports graduates, as an athletics mark (Bavaria 9th grade Gymnasium) and the Austrian Armed Forces. Since the school year 2005/06, the Cooper test for high school graduates in Berlin is part of the four-part final exam of each semester sports practice.

Also in normal secondary schools the Cooper test is carried out: Often the achieved achievement of the pupils in the insufficient area, since a preparatory training or a theoretical instruction in the optimal running technique as well as in the optimal division of the existing energy is completely omitted. Again and again there are injuries or complete collapse due to insufficient preparation. One consequence of this fact is that running becomes less and less popular, because only experiences that are perceived as negative are perceived in tests that are completely unsuitable for beginners.

Furthermore, running exercise stress tests, which are directed to the determination of the maximum possible oxygen turnover (V0 ₂ max) known. Also for these stress tests there is only a conditional test readiness.

The invention has for its object to provide solutions that make it possible to obtain at least largely objective information about physical performance, in particular the endurance state, or in particular a training or therapy-related development of endurance and exercise state of a person.

This object is achieved according to a first aspect of the invention by a method for generating an evaluation result indicative of the physical performance, in particular of the endurance state, of a person in which light is coupled into a vital muscle area, at least part of the light passing through the muscle area is detected in that the detected light is analyzed with regard to its spectral intensity distribution, the concentration of substances acting as redox catalysts is detected from this analysis as part of a determination action, and the evaluation result is determined on the basis of the determined concentration.

Preferably, on the basis of the spectrometric measurement, a determination of the concentration of cytochrome substances, in particular of the cytochrome C oxidase, in the vital muscle tissue, in particular in the running muscles, eg the calf muscles of the musculus gastrocnemius aterale or the musculus biceps femoris longum.

Since the change in cytochrome concentration can also be considered as a systemic effect, the conclusion of e.g. At the upper arm biceps concentrations measured on the general endurance state possible.

It is also possible to tune the evaluation of the spectrometric signals so that a spectral selection is determined and evaluated, by which, taking into account a plurality of substance spectra, a particularly reliable conclusion can be drawn on the endurance state. In this case, it is possible, in particular, to determine the concentration of further tissue or blood constituents, such as fat, water and hemoglobin, and to use this additional measurement information to coordinate the evaluation and to specify the statement about the endurance state.

In the context of the determination operation, the concentration of the cytochrome C oxidase of the person is preferably measured. On the basis of this measurement result can be concluded on the basis of existing correlations, preferably taking into account further parameters on the endurance state.

Cytochrome itself is an enzyme that acts as a redox catalyst (oxidoreductase) in cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and other biochemical processes. There are about 50 different types. The biological function of cytochromes is the transfer of electrons. According to their characteristic light absorption spectra, a distinction is made between the cytochromes a, b and c.

Unlike many other cytochromes involved in electron transport, cytochrome P450 catalyzes the hydroxylation of non-activated hydrocarbons.

The most relevant cytochrome in this context is cytochrome c. It contains about 100 amino acids and the molecular structure is well characterized by protein crystallography. Cytochrome c is evolutionarily a very old protein.

An essential component of all cytochromes is the heme, in the middle of which there is an iron atom. The individual cytochromes differ by the proteins surrounding the heme. This hemoprotein, with a molecular weight between 45 and 55 kilodaltons (kD), is anchored in the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum of the cell. It is needed for the phase I reaction molecular oxygen, NADPH, NADPH cytochrome P450 reductase and phospholipids, especially phosphatidylcholine.

It is possible to provide for the detection of different cytochromes special detection and concentration determination concepts. It is possible to process the evaluation in such a way that special evaluation concepts, in particular evaluation concepts adapted to the detection and with regard to the condition to be classified specificity of the various cytochromes and adjuncts, are used to evaluate different categories of endurance states. For example, the currently determined endurance state may be classified in terms of the temporal dimension of endurance performance, e.g. as short-term stamina, median endurance and long-term stamina. The endurance may be further subdivided with regard to the provision of various motor skills, e.g. in speed endurance and strength endurance.

It is also possible to provide further information based on the detected cytochrome concentrations, e.g. Based on the determined concentrations of cytochrome substances also generate statements that provide information about the mental capacity or the biological age of a human.

The spectrometric measurement of cytochrome C oxidase can be carried out at various body sites. If necessary, the measurement results can be weighted, summarized or individually processed, both to generate endurance performance values related to individual muscle groups and to generate a more precise statement of the total endurance status from the set of all values.

The evaluation procedure for the evaluation of the spectrometric measurement data is carried out according to the invention by an electronic computer system. It is possible to configure the computer system in such a way that this data processing takes place, the result of which provides information about an endurance state to be assumed based essentially on the concentration of the cytochrome C oxidase.

The computer system can be integrated in a mobile measuring device. The computer system can also be outsourced from the meter. The computer system can be embodied as a computer system accessible via a mobile radio network or otherwise wireless or Internet-based. The data evaluation and possibly also the display of the evaluation result can thus also be carried out separately from the measuring device. The computer system can also be wired directly to the data acquisition system. The prognostic function processed by the computer system can be adjusted so that the evaluation result is generated by incorporating further person-specific parameters, eg body indexes such as body mass index and possibly other type-characteristic parameters.

The invention is also directed to an evaluation system for generating an evaluation result that is indicative of the physiological state, in particular of the endurance state, of a person, with:

- A measuring device for collecting in terms of the concentration of a cytochrome substance, in particular the cytochrome C oxidase, a person indicative concentration measurement signals by spectrometry and

a data processing device,

- Wherein the data processing device is designed such that via this one processing of the determined concentration measurement signals and based thereon an indication of an expected endurance state takes place.

The data processing device is preferably configured in such a way that the processing of the measuring signals takes place in accordance with the aforementioned method in general or also in accordance with the aforementioned method in the specific embodiments described.

The term training theory in the present context, the teaching of imparting knowledge to carry out a sports training with the objective of improving performance and / or maintaining or improving health (fitness) to understand. By the method according to the invention a control and documentation of the training effect is possible.

In the training theory generally valid sports-style training principles, training methods and training content are described. The implementation is carried out on the basis of didactic and pedagogical principles. In the training control physiological factors (age, training state, recovery ability) are considered. The long-term training planning includes the steps of the actual state analysis, the setting of training goals, implementation of goals through training sessions, training plans and training periodization to achieve maximum performance at a given time. In addition to strength, speed, coordination and flexibility, endurance is one of the basic motor skills. For a particular sport, these basic skills are important to varying degrees. For example, a long distance runner will be anxious to increase his endurance performance primarily.

The formally described endurance types must always be considered against the background of the sport to be practiced. In other words, a certain type of endurance can only be considered isolated in isolation, and is in fact directly related to the other types of endurance. Here, the general, according to the invention particularly advantageously detectable aerobic endurance comes to a key position, since it is a determining factor for the expression of all other types of endurance. Each 100-meter runner completes some cross-country skiing as part of his training to create the optimal basis for the development of his target skills (strength, speed).

The term endurance in sports activities commonly refers to stamina for typical endurance sports such as long-distance running, cycling, cross-country skiing, walking, swimming, triathlon, rowing etc.

Aerobic endurance refers to the ability of the organism to supply the energy necessary to maintain a given stress intensity (eg running speed) solely by oxidation with oxygen (hence aerobic). A corresponding increase in exercise intensity (ie running speed) requires so much energy that the supply of oxygen provided by respiration is no longer sufficient to cover the increased energy requirement. In this case, the body is forced to extract part of the required energy without oxygen (hence anaerobic). As a measure of aerobic endurance, the so-called specific maximum oxygen uptake (V0 ₂ max) can be used. It indicates what volume of oxygen the organism can process per time and body mass. Aerobic endurance training in addition to a series of other adaptation reactions of the body in particular to an enlargement of the heart muscle. As a result, a larger amount of blood is expelled per heartbeat, which is equivalent to a higher amount of oxygen being transported to the muscles via the red blood cells. This is also to explain that by an endurance training, the resting heart rate decreases: For the same performance, that is, the same amount of oxygen to be transported by means of the blood needs to beat the heart less often, as per heartbeat a higher volume of blood can be expelled ,

Anaerobic endurance is the ability of the body to enter into an oxygen deficit at the onset of high stress levels. If you strain the body, it is not yet adjusted to it, much Absorb oxygen and thus he can not cover the oxygen demand occurring. To provide the energy anyway, anoxydative processes (glycolysis) are necessary. This produces lactic acid, which used to be responsible for the famous muscle soreness; Today, however, it is mainly attributed to small cracks in the muscle fibers. After the stress is over, the oxygen deficit is reworked as an oxygen debt. The size of the maximum oxygen debt is trainable and thus an important criterion of endurance.

The invention further relates to a system and a method for processing a data transfer in connection with the processing and evaluation of measurement signals, in particular of the type described above, which are obtained as such using a mobile spectrometer.

The invention is in this respect the object to provide solutions by which it is possible to provide in connection with the detection of spectroscopic measurement signals and the processing of the same advantages in particular for the user.

This object is achieved by a method for evaluating spectroscopic measurement signals, in which

in the context of a spectroscopy process, light is coupled into a tissue region and light emerging from this tissue region is detected,

- Wherein measuring signals are detected for this light, which are indicative of the spectral intensity distribution of the detected light,

- These measurement signals are transmitted and evaluated as part of a data transfer process to an evaluation system, and

- This method is characterized in that in the context of a data transfer procedure upstream of the data processing procedure, a check of the measurement signals based on plausibility criteria is carried out and that the processing or the start of the data transfer process depending on the result of the plausibility check.

This makes it possible in an advantageous manner, even in the field of the user to determine whether the measurement itself represents a useful measurement. The user can then decide whether he wants to repeat the measurement, after he suspects if necessary, or by means of the plausibility check specified disturbances -. Dirt - eliminated, or the measuring point has changed.

As part of the plausibility check, the light source device of the spectrometer provided for generating the spectrometric signals can be checked. In one embodiment of the light source device as an LED light source, it is possible certain functional properties Shafts of the same, for example, the current, voltage, and power, the operating temperature and otherwise determine the decisive for the spectrum of the light generated by the light source device properties.

The plausibility check can also be designed as a help procedure by which the probable suitability of a measuring point can be determined by quickly verifiable test criteria. It is possible to operate the spektrometereinrichtung as part of the test procedure so that initially a spectrum is generated on the basis of which the suitability of the measuring point can be evaluated. Given suitability, a signal, for example an acoustic signal, or an optical display device can be activated, which as such indicates the suitability of the measuring point. Within the scope of this measuring point suitability test, in the case of an in vivo measurement which serves, for example, to determine a cytochrome concentration, it can be determined whether significant inhomogeneities, for example, through vessels, hair roots, fatty layers and skin pigmentations, are detected within the transilluminated tissue area.

According to the invention, spectroscopic data recorded with a measuring device, before being forwarded to an evaluation unit, are already checked in the measuring device to determine whether the measured spectrum is even plausible. Only if this is the case, the spectrum is forwarded. If the spectrum is detected as implausible, then an error message is generated and the spectrum is not forwarded, or at least explicitly classified as defective and placed at disposition regarding the forwarding.

A spectrum which has successfully passed the first plausibility check on the measuring device is preferably subjected to a further, more expensive plausibility check. This second check can already be done on the meter, preferably this deeper check is done on a computer with appropriate computing power, which does not necessarily have to be at the point of measurement.

Further details and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawings. It shows:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration for illustrating a mobile spectrometer according to the invention for detecting spectrometric measurement signals indicative of the concentration of a cytochrome substance in a muscle system; Figure 2 is a simplified graphical representation illustrating the relationship of the spectrometrically determined cytochrome concentration with a Cooper-classified endurance state;

FIG. 3 shows a simplified graphical representation to illustrate the relationship between the spectrometrically determined cytochrome concentration and the maximum oxygen throughput potential;

FIG. 4 shows a further schematic representation for illustrating the concept according to the invention with optionally partially external data processing;

FIG. 5 shows a mobile spectrometer, which is hereby attached by way of example to a muscle area of a user and which, as part of the measurement, enables a plausibility check of the spectrometric measuring signals.

FIG. 1 shows a mobile handheld device designed to determine an endurance state according to the invention. This comprises a housing device 1 and an electronic circuit device 2 accommodated therein.

The handset is provided with a detection head 3. The detection head 3 comprises an LED light source and a Lichtabgriffseinrichtung for detecting remitted light and its forwarding to a spectrometer device not shown here, which is integrated as such in the handset.

Via the LED light source, light with a suitable spectral distribution can be coupled into a muscle section to be examined.

The light remitted from the tissue is partially picked up by the detection head. The light picked up has a spectral intensity distribution, which is characterized by the ingredients of the transilluminated tissue, here in particular also by the ingredients of the muscle cells. This spectral intensity distribution is determined by the integrated spectrometer device and stored as a data set, possibly logarithmic. The corresponding memory may be provided by the electronic circuit device 2.

The electronic circuit device 2 is designed in such a way that it preprocesses the measured data that are obtained and indicative of the spectral intensity distribution, in particular, scaled, normalized and possibly related to a reference reflecting the coupled-in light.

From the preprocessed data, the concentrations of selected tissue constituents are determined on the basis of evaluation procedures. In particular, cytochrome substances and possibly fats, water and hemoglobin are determined as detection-relevant tissue and blood constituents.

About an input device not shown here further inputs can be made. In particular, you can enter body height, gender, age and body mass index.

By means of this information and preferably via the concentrations of a part of the detected tissue and blood constituents, a basic imaging function can be more precisely matched to the specific examination case. Based on the concentration of the cytochrome substances, in particular the cytochrome C oxidase, based on this imaging function, an evaluation result indicative of the endurance state or also with regard to other physiological states of the subject can be generated.

This evaluation result can be displayed via a display device, which is preferably part of a hand-held device, either a separate hand-held device or the actual data acquisition device.

The hand-held device can be designed to be connected only to the muscle to be examined, e.g. the biceps muscle or a muscle of the running muscles - must be recognized. After pressing a button or switch 4, the device is activated. The detection head 3 illuminates the muscle area to be examined and picks up a part of the remitted light again. It is possible to design the device so that it receives multiple spectra at short intervals and evaluates them in summary. The detection head 3 can be designed such that it comprises a plurality of LED light sources designed for different wavelength ranges, so that the detection of the cytochrome substances can take place in wavelength ranges ("windows") which are particularly indicative.

It is possible to design the handset so that it primarily serves the measurement data collection. These measurement data can be transmitted wirelessly to an external computer system and evaluated there. The transmission to an external computer system can take place both directly and using any mobile communication device. It is also possible to provide the mobile handset with an interface device, or a data Transfer via a removable disk device, such as a USB stick to allow. Furthermore, the interface can also be designed as an infrared interface. Also, the hand-held device according to the invention can be integrated into a mobile communication device as a whole. Likewise, the hand-held device according to the invention can also be connected directly to an evaluation computer.

FIG. 2 shows in a greatly simplified manner how an endurance state according to Cooper can be determined from the determined concentration of cytochrome C oxidase on the basis of an imaging function f1. The mapping function is determined taking into account the body-mass index as well as other reliably ascertainable characteristics of the subject.

FIG. 3 also shows in a greatly simplified manner how a VO ₂ max endurance state can be determined from the determined concentration of cytochrome C oxidase by means of a mapping function f2.

FIG. 4 shows in simplified form a further variant of a device according to the invention in an attached state. The detection head is designed in such a way that it can be generated via this light over a relatively wide range, which is particularly indicative of cytochrome substances. For this purpose, the detection head 3 can comprise a plurality of LED light sources, which can be activated simultaneously, successively, or periodically.

About the detection head 3, the light is irradiated as shown in the diagram in a vital muscle m. The incident light is scattered in the muscle m and absorbed in accordance with the tissue constituents in certain spectral ranges. The light, which is characterized by absorption effects, is picked off by the light pick-off device integrated in the detection head 3 and supplied to a spectrometer device. About this spectrometer, the spectral distribution of the intensity of the remission light indicated here can be recorded. This spectral distribution can be stored in the data memory 2a.

The data content of the data memory 2a can be read out via the circuit device 2 and fed via a mobile radio system not shown here in detail to an external data processing device. In the area of this external data processing device, data processing takes place by means of which the concentration of substances indicative of endurance can be determined on the basis of the spectral distribution. On the basis of this determination, a further calculation of the endurance state can take place. The calculation result can be transmitted to the detection device or to another display device, as indicated by the arrow symbol Pl. The evaluation procedures, in particular for determining the endurance-indicative statements, as well as presentation concepts for reproducing the evaluation results, can be maintained in the area of the external data processing device. It is possible to supply the data thus obtained to other systems, in particular archiving systems. This makes it possible to supply the spectral records later evaluations.

To further understand the invention:

Sporting activities are characterized by varying duration and intensity (100m run - marathon run). Associated with this is a different energy provision linked to the particular embodiment. Roughly two different endurance types are distinguished:

anaerobic stamina: For the production of energy muscle-own energy reserves are consumed largely without oxygen supply.

aerobic endurance. In this case, the energy is produced by combustion of carbohydrates and fats under supply of sufficient oxygen. The oxygen consumption of the muscle in question is up to 100 times higher than in the muscle's resting reaction. Up to a certain power, fats and carbohydrates are burned with the help of oxygen. Above a certain performance limit, glycogen is also degraded anaerobically, ie without oxygen. In this case, 2 to 3 times more energy is gained than with the aerobic oxidation. If the oxidative fat and carbohydrate degradation can take place over a very long period of time, the energy production from the anaerobic digestion is very limited in time (about 30 s). Through the training, the aerobic power limit should be shifted upwards. So training is an expansion of aerobic energy, (d.i.) The aerobic capacity.

Man stores 98-99% of his energy reserves in the form of fat and only 1-2% in the form of carbohydrates. Part of endurance training is that about 50% of energy is derived from fat and 50% from carbohydrate digestion. Because fats are aerobically degraded to CO2 and H ₂ O, while the anaerobic degradation of carbohydrates occurs to form lactate. Lactate acidifies the muscle, which results in severe performance limitations and premature fatigue. The expansion of aerobic capacity also means increasing the amount of energy that comes from burning fat, as the body primarily burns the carbohydrates for energy. The expansion of aerobic capacity in these circumstances is accompanied by the breakdown of fat. These are far from the only physiological changes that occur during endurance training. As the muscles are supplied with more oxygen, changes in muscle metabolism occur. The muscle fiber cross section As the number and size of capillaries increase, more capillaries per myofibril will increase. The result is an increased blood flow, especially at maximum load. Furthermore, it can be shown on the trained skeletal muscle that endurance exercise of low intensity leads to an increase in size and an increase in the number of mitochondria. This is accompanied by an increase in the activity of especially aerobic enzymes, in particular cytochrome C oxidase. One consequence of this is that mitochondria absorb more oxygen from the amount of blood present. In particular, a significant (p <0.05) increase in cytochrome C oxidase can be detected by 41% after about six months of light training. As a result of the increased oxygen uptake from the blood, the arteriovenous oxygen difference in trained persons increases. This leads to a delayed onset of anaerobic metabolism and thus to reduced lactate production at comparable submaximal loading levels. It can be observed that this results in an increase in physical performance by an average of 30%, without an increase in cardiac output or ejection fraction.

The change in cytochrome C oxidase concentration, unlike, for example, tissue perfusion, is a process with a large time constant, i. the cytochrome C oxidase concentration is very constant, whereas the oxidation state has a very small time constant. Thus, the concentration of cytochrome C oxidase is a measure of the performance of a person, which is not affected by physiological fluctuations in the course of the day.

The concentration of mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase is inventively measured by non-invasive spectroscopy. In particular, the measurement of cytochrome C oxidase is carried out by means of near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Near Infrared Light (NIR) easily penetrates biological tissue. NIRS allows the measurement of light-absorbing chromophores. Mainly the spectrum is composed of the absorption of hemoglobin in small arterioles, capillaries and venules. In muscle, about 10% of the NIRS absorption signal is occupied by myoglobin. Cytochrome C oxidase contributes 2-5% to the absorption spectrum. Cytochrome C oxidase and hemoglobin are in the same spectral range and therefore can not be observed separately. By special algorithms, the signal of cytochrome C oxidase can be separated from the signal of hemoglobin. Furthermore, during training, the capillarization in the muscles increases in order to cover the increased oxygen demand under the sporting activity. However, the number of perfused capillaries changes relatively quickly and is also highly dependent on various environmental factors. The muscle fluoroscopy according to the invention is suitable for simply, non-invasively quantifying the training state without any radiation exposure and as often as desired.

Further, it is possible to further increase the concentration of cytochrome c oxidase with the known, i. independently correlated with other method to correlate endurance state of subjects. For this purpose, the endurance status of the subjects is determined using known measuring methods (spirometry, ECG). Thus, the measured cytochrome C oxidase concentration in the following spectroscopic measurements represents a more precise measure of the respective endurance state of the measured person.

The determination of the concentration of the cytochrome C oxidase concentration by means of reflection spectroscopy can here be based on the most diverse mathematical and statistical methods which are known in spectroscopy under the term 'multivariate calibration', for example: PLS (Partial Least Square), PCA (Principal Compound Analysis), simple multilinear procedures, but also univariate procedures. It is also possible to carry out the concentration determination using neural networks. In this case, all previously known different types of neural networks can be used. Concentration determination can be done using Monte Carlo simulations. But also strict mathematical methods based on the solution of Maxwell's equations or the diffusion equation can be used.

The measurement is also suitable for recording progressions of the training state. This considerably improves the implementation and the individual monitoring of endurance training measures. Such a determination of the endurance state is new and has not yet been described. Furthermore, the method can be used to detect pathological conditions of cell metabolism in humans and animals, for example mitochondrial myopathies or neuromuscular diseases. It is measured with a reflection spectrometer in the wavelength range of 500 - 900 nm. A corresponding illumination source emits light in this wavelength range.

FIG. 5 shows a mobile spectrometer 1, which is used here by way of example for a muscle region. As part of a spectroscopy process, light is coupled into a tissue region m via this spectrometer 1 and, in this case, light emerging from this tissue region is detected. From the detected light, the measurement signals MD shown here in simplified form are generated, which are indicative of the spectral intensity distribution of the detected light. As part of a data transfer process DT, these measurement signals MD can be transmitted to an evaluation system A and evaluated there. The evaluation results generated via the evaluation system A can be generated according to various evaluation concepts and made available to different data users DU1, DU2, and in particular also to the user of the measuring device. According to the invention, as part of a data processing procedure DEX upstream of the data transfer process DT, a check of the measurement signals MD is carried out on the basis of plausibility criteria. For processing this data processing procedure, a data processing device 2 is provided in the region of the measuring device 1. The processing of the data transfer process DT takes place as a function of the result of the plausibility check DEX carried out by the local data processing device 2.

On the basis of the plausibility criteria it can be determined whether the spectrum MD is sufficiently plausible or not. For this purpose, a fulfillment data record can be generated which describes the degree of fulfillment of various plausibility criteria. The local data processing device 2 for carrying out the plausibility check does not necessarily have to be integrated into the measuring device 1. It is also possible to use this local data processing device 2 on a transmitter system, e.g. PDA In particular to realize mobile phone, over which optionally the data transfer to the evaluation computer system A can be handled. The plausibility check may include the evaluation of deviations of the measurement signals from possible measurement signals. As part of the plausibility check, it can be determined whether the measurement signals are within a certain wavelength-specific value range. In particular, a curve analysis can be carried out here. It is possible to carry out the plausibility check in such a way that it checks whether sufficiently prominent signatures can be found in the recorded measurement signals for a sought-after substance, in particular cytochrome.

A spectrum recognized as implausible by the measuring device does not need to be forwarded in order to save costs and time for an unnecessary further evaluation. As part of the plausibility check, it can be determined which causes are assumed for any implausible signal sequences. Furthermore, it is possible to visualize implausible sections of the acquired spectrum. The device 1 can be designed such that a repair procedure can be activated by it, to create a sufficiently plausible data record on the basis of the measurement signals. In principle, it is also possible to send implausible data records to the evaluation system A, for example in order to be able to statistically record the state of the measuring systems in the field and to be able to initiate appropriate measures.

The mobile spectrometer can be designed so that corresponding fault codes or instructions are output by it in the presence of implausible measurement data. The Examination of the spectroscopic measurement data for plausibility proves to be particularly advantageous when using a mobile spectrometer system. The examination can still be carried out directly in the measuring instrument within the scope of the measurement, or immediately afterwards. The criteria of the review are adapted to the respective needs. Also, the scope of the review in the field of the meter and preferably also in the field of an external, more powerful computer system can be tailored to the application. It can range from a simple check of whether a signal is present or not, to extensive testing of the measurement data themselves.

The purpose of the plausibility check on the meter is, in particular, to detect accidental misuse. Then there is the possibility of a timely re-measurement. It also prevents any additional costs for a user from being incurred in the form of transmission fees. For this purpose, a software is implemented on the measuring device, the basic procedure of which is described below under the term "window comparison".

Correctly recorded spectra are for an application within a certain range (in arbitrary units) that can be from wavelength to wavelength at different units. The bandwidth of the area is determined beforehand by means of a sufficiently large number of statistically distributed spectra. The actual test does not require the entire wavelength range, but only a certain number of test points within the range. The number depends on the application and will usually be at least sufficient. From the measured spectrum, the measured values at the test stations are checked to see if they are within the range or not. Only if all measured values are evaluated positively, the spectrum is accepted as plausible.

In the case of a negative result, for example, the user receives an error message and / or a request for a repeat measurement, depending on the application. The invalid spectrum is not forwarded. This avoids unnecessary costs for a transmission. If necessary, the repetition of the measurement can also be automatic.

If the first plausibility check on the meter was positive, then another plausibility check can follow. This can either also take place on the meter or after forwarding (eg by radio to a central computer, via cable / Bluetooth on the laptop) done on a computer. This depends on the memory and computing capacity of the From the meter. If necessary, it can also be done on the transmitter system, which forwards the data for evaluation.

In this plausibility check, the spectrum (e.g., a tissue spectrum of human skin) is compared to one or more synthetic spectra (e.g., composed of individual melanin and hemoglobin spectra). This results in threshold values above or below which the values from the comparison lie. With a sufficiently large number of statistically distributed spectra, the threshold values are also determined in advance. The result of comparing a measured spectrum with one or more synthetic spectra is positive if the values are above or below the respective threshold value. The spectrum can now be further edited. If the output is negative, the spectrum is not processed further and the user receives an error message.

For both methods, it can be determined on the basis of the test stations, if necessary, what the reason of the error message is. This can be communicated to the user or the central computer. From the analysis of these disturbances it is possible to conclude on the state of the measuring system or typical malfunctions when using the measuring system. This knowledge can lead to an improvement of the hardware and / or software or to an optimization of the operating instructions. This advantageously results in a state matrix of the measuring devices in the field.

The user may be contacted in various ways (e.g., by mail, SMS, telephone, etc.) prior to the actual failure of a meter due to e.g. excessive contamination or UV changes of visually relevant components, scratches of the optics or otherwise the user not directly recognizable permanent impairment of the measuring system are informed so that he can hand over the measuring system in due time to an authorized body for inspection. This has the advantage that planned measurements can also be carried out on schedule, and it does not happen that the system fails unexpectedly or permanently generates unusable measurement data and possibly recourse claims to the distributor of the measuring system.

Although the present invention has been developed and described in connection with the collection and processing of spectroscopic measurement data, it is not restricted to this field of application. In principle, it can be used in the medical and technical fields wherever it is necessary to collect measurement data and transmit it to a remote evaluation system for further evaluation.

Claims

claims

1. A method for generating a with respect to the physiological state, in particular endurance state, a person indicative evaluation result in which:

- Light is coupled into a vital muscle area,

at least part of the light penetrating the muscle area is detected,

the analyzed light is analyzed with regard to its spectral intensity distribution,

in the context of a determination action, the concentration of a cytochrome substance, in particular cytochrome C oxidase, in the muscle area is detected from this analysis,

- And based on the determined concentration of the cytochrome substance, the evaluation result is determined.

2. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the evaluation result is generated such that it can be interpreted as an indication of an endurance state in the time domain of Determinierungsaktion.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that in the context of a temporally subsequent observation action of the muscle area again examined and the endurance state is determined again.

4. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the evaluation result is generated such that it can be interpreted as indicating a training progress.

5. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the evaluation result is generated such that it can be interpreted as a forecast for training effect, or otherwise development.

6. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the detection of the concentration of cytochrome C oxidase includes the measurement at several body sites.

7. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the spectrometric measurement of cytochrome C oxidase includes the measurement of running muscles, in particular the calf and / or thigh muscles.

8. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that in addition to the spectrometric measurement in terms of endurance condition indicative data are determined in a stress test.

9. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the stress test includes the collection of spirometric, plusfrequency-specific, and / or blood pressure-specific measurement data.

10. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the detection of the concentration of the cytochrome substance is carried out using a designed as a mobile hand-held spectrometer.

11. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the evaluation procedure is handled by an electronic computer system.

12. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that this computer system forms part of the mobile handset.

13. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the computer system is designed as an external computer system, and that the spectrometric measurement data are transmitted to this computer system.

14. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that a prognostic function is executed by the computer system, which concludes using a typical relationship between the concentration of cytochrome C oxidase and the endurance state on this.

15. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the prognostic function with the inclusion of other person-specific parameters, e.g. Body indexes is processed.

16 evaluation system for generating a with respect to the physiological condition, in particular endurance condition of a person indicative evaluation result, with:

- A measuring device for the collection of concentration of the cytochrome C-oxidase of a person indicative concentration measurement signals by spectrometry and

a data processing device,

- Wherein the data processing device is designed such that on this basis based on the spectrometric measurement signals, an evaluation result is generated, which provides information about an expected endurance state.

17, evaluation system according to claim 16, characterized in that the data processing device is configured such that by the processing of the measuring signals in accordance with the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 15 takes place.

18. Mobile meter system with:

a spectrometer device for detecting a measurement signal indicative of the concentration of a cytochrome substance in a vital tissue region, and

- A display device for displaying the concentration of the cytochrome substance, and / or for displaying an evaluation result determined in consideration of this concentration.

19. Mobile measuring device system according to claim 18, characterized in that the display device is designed as a picture display, and the display of the evaluation result in the form of a graphical representation takes place.

20. Mobile measuring device system according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that this comprises a computer device for evaluating the measurement signals and for generating provided for driving the display device signals.

21. Method for evaluating spectroscopic measuring signals, in which:

in which measuring signals are generated for this light which are indicative of the spectral intensity distribution of the detected light,

wherein these measurement signals are transmitted and evaluated as part of a data transfer process to an evaluation system,

- Characterized in that in the context of a data transfer procedure upstream of the data processing procedure, a check of the measurement signals based on plausibility criteria, and that the processing of the data transfer operation in response to the result of the plausibility check.

22. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that it is determined based on the plausibility criteria, whether the spectrum whether the spectrum is sufficiently plausible or not.

23. The method according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that a fulfillment data record is generated which describes the degree of fulfillment of various plausibility criteria.

24. The method according to at least one of claims 21 to 23, characterized in that the plausibility check comprises the evaluation of deviations of the measurement signals of possible measurement signals.

25. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that, in the context of the plausibility check, it is determined whether the measurement signals are within a specific wavelength-specific value range.

26. The method according to at least one of claims 21 to 25, characterized in that a curve analysis is carried out in the context of the plausibility check.

27. The method according to at least one of claims 21 to 26, characterized in that a detected on a meter as implausible spectrum is not forwarded, so as to save costs and time for an unnecessary further evaluation.

28. Method according to claim 21, characterized in that, in the context of the plausibility check, it is determined which causes are assumed for possible implausible signal sequences.

29. The method according to at least one of claims 21 to 28, characterized in that implausible portions of the detected spectrum are visualized.

30. The method according to at least one of claims 21 to 29, characterized in that a repair procedure can be activated to create a sufficiently plausible data set based on the measurement signals.

31. The method according to at least one of claims 21 to 30, characterized in that implausible data sets are also sent to the evaluation system in order to statistically detect the state of the measuring systems located in the field and to be able to initiate appropriate measures.

32. The method according to at least one of claims 21 to 31, characterized in that in the presence of implausible measurement data corresponding error codes or instructions are issued.

33. Mobile spectrometer system for the collection and evaluation of spectroscopic measurement signals, comprising:

a light source device for coupling light into a tissue region to be examined,

a light detection device for detecting light emerging from this tissue region,

a measurement signal recording device for recording data which are generated for the detected light and which are indicative of the spectral intensity distribution of the detected light, characterized in that data processing is provided in the region of the spectrometer system, which is configured in such a way that as part of a data processing procedure the test signals are checked on the basis of plausibility criteria.

34. The mobile spectrometer system according to claim 33, characterized in that the device is designed in such a way that the processing of a data transfer operation of the measurement data derived as such or of the measurement data derived therefrom serves to an evaluation computer system, depending on the result of the plausibility check.

35. Method for evaluating measuring signals, in which:

- measuring signals are generated during a measuring process,

36. Method for evaluating measuring signals, in which:

- measuring signals are generated during a measuring process,

- characterized in that in the context of a data transfer procedure upstream of the data processing procedure, a check of the measurement signals is based on plausibility criteria, and that is specified in accordance with this test, whether the measurement is likely to be meaningful.