JP2013236721A - Optical measurement system and using method of the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an optical measurement system capable of observing a blood flow change that appears in a time zone before and after the start time of a task period, in the region of interest in the brain of a subject.SOLUTION: An optical measurement system 1 includes: a light transmission/reception part 30 having N pieces of light transmission probes 12 and M pieces of light reception probes 13; and control parts 21 and 22 for obtaining measurement data related to the time change of brain activity in the wide range of the brain of the subject, by controlling the transmission and reception of light for the light transmission/reception part 30 using a wide range control table. The system includes a selection means 24 for storing, in a storage part 23, a narrow range control table for irradiating the subject with light in order using Y pieces of light transmission probes 12, and the control parts 21 and 22 can obtain the measurement data related to the time change of the brain activity in the narrow range of the brain of the subject by controlling the transmission and reception of the light for the light transmission/reception part 30 using the narrow range control table after the narrow range control table is stored in the selection means 24.

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical measurement system and a method for using the same, and more particularly to an optical measurement system that measures brain activity non-invasively and a method for using the same.

In recent years, in order to observe the activity state of the brain, an optical brain functional imaging apparatus has been developed that performs noninvasive measurement using light. In such an optical brain functional imaging apparatus, a near-red light having three different wavelengths λ ₁ , λ ₂ , and λ ₃ (for example, 780 nm, 805 nm, and 830 nm) is obtained by a light transmission probe arranged on the scalp surface of the subject. While irradiating the brain with external light, the light-receiving probe arranged on the scalp surface changes the intensity of the near-infrared light of each wavelength λ ₁ , λ ₂ , λ ₃ (received light amount information) ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), and ΔA (λ ₃ ) are detected.
Then, from the received light amount information ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), ΔA (λ ₃ ) obtained in this way, the concentration change / optical path length product [oxyHb] of oxyhemoglobin in the cerebral blood flow, In order to obtain the deoxyhemoglobin concentration change and the optical path length product [deoxyHb], for example, the simultaneous equations shown in the relational expressions (1), (2), and (3) are created using the Modified Beer Lambert rule. Is solved. Furthermore, the concentration change / optical path length product ([oxyHb] + [deoxyHb]) of total hemoglobin is calculated from the concentration change / optical path length product [oxyHb] of oxyhemoglobin and the concentration change / optical path length product [deoxyHb] of deoxyhemoglobin. Calculated.
ΔA (λ ₁ ) = E _O (λ ₁ ) × [oxyHb] + E _d (λ ₁ ) × [deoxyHb] (1)
ΔA (λ ₂ ) = E _O (λ ₂ ) × [oxyHb] + E _d (λ ₂ ) × [deoxyHb] (2)
ΔA (λ ₃ ) = E _O (λ ₃ ) × [oxyHb] + E _d (λ ₃ ) × [deoxyHb] (3)
E _O (λm) is an absorbance coefficient of oxyhemoglobin in light having a wavelength λm, and E _d (λm) is an absorbance coefficient of deoxyhemoglobin in light having a wavelength λm.

Here, the relationship between the distance (channel) between the light transmitting probe and the light receiving probe and the measurement site will be described. FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view showing a relationship between a pair of light transmitting probe and light receiving probe and a measurement site, and FIG. 10B is a plan view of FIG.
The light transmitting probe 12 is pressed against the light transmitting point T on the surface of the subject's scalp, and the light receiving probe 13 is pressed against the light receiving point R on the surface of the subject's scalp. Then, light is emitted from the light transmitting probe 12 and light emitted from the scalp surface is incident on the light receiving probe 13. At this time, of the light irradiated from the light transmission point T on the scalp surface, the light passing through the banana shape (measurement region) reaches the light receiving point R on the scalp surface. Thereby, in the measurement region, the light transmitting point T and the light receiving point R are particularly determined from the midpoint M of the line connecting the light transmitting point T and the light receiving point R at the shortest distance along the surface of the subject's scalp. Received light amount information ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), ΔA () regarding the measurement site S of the subject having a depth L that is half the distance of the line connected at the shortest distance along the subject's scalp surface. λ ₃ ) is obtained.

In the optical brain functional imaging device, oxyhemoglobin concentration change / optical path length product [oxyHb], deoxyhemoglobin concentration change / optical path length product [deoxyHb] and total hemoglobin concentration change / optical path for multiple measurement sites in the brain In order to measure the long product ([oxyHb] + [deoxyHb]), for example, a near-infrared spectrometer is used (for example, see Patent Document 1).
FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a conventional near-infrared spectrometer. The near-infrared spectrometer 101 includes a light source 2 that emits light, a light source driving mechanism 4 that drives the light source 2, a light detector 3 that detects light, an A / D (A / D converter) 5, A display having a light transmission / reception control unit 121, an analysis control unit 122, and a memory (storage unit) 123, and having 16 light transmission probes 12, 16 light reception probes 13, a monitor screen 26a, and the like. A device 26 and a keyboard (input device) 27 are provided.

The light source drive mechanism 4 drives the light source 2 by a drive signal input from the light transmission / reception control unit 121. The light source 2 is, for example, a semiconductor laser LD1, LD2, or LD3 that can emit near-infrared light of three different wavelengths λ ₁ , λ ₂ , and λ ₃ .
The photodetector 3 transmits and receives light reception signals (light reception amount information) ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), and ΔA (λ ₃ ) via A / D 5 by detecting near-infrared light respectively. For example, a photomultiplier tube.

In such a near-infrared spectrometer 101, in order to bring the 16 light transmitting probes 12 and the 16 light receiving probes 13 into contact with the scalp surface of the subject in a predetermined arrangement, a holder (light transmitting / receiving unit) is used. ) 30 is used. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a holder 30 into which 16 light transmitting probes and 16 light receiving probes are inserted.
The light transmitting probes 12 _{T1 to} 12 _T8 and the light receiving probes 13 _{R1 to} 13 _R8 are alternately arranged in four in the vertical direction and four in the horizontal direction, and the light transmitting probes 12 _{T9 to} 12 _T16. And the light receiving probes 13 _{R9 to} 13 _R16 are alternately arranged in four in the vertical direction and four in the horizontal direction. Thereby, the probe interval between the light transmitting probe 12 and the light receiving probe 13 becomes constant, and the received light amount information ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), ΔA (λ ₃ ) having a specific depth from the scalp surface is obtained. Yes. In general, a channel with a channel of 30 mm is used. When the channel is 30 mm, received light amount information ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), 15 mm to 20 mm deep from the midpoint of the channel, It is believed that ΔA (λ ₃ ) is obtained. That is, the position 15 mm to 20 mm deep from the scalp surface almost corresponds to the brain surface region, and the received light amount information ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), ΔA (λ ₃ ) related to the brain activity is obtained.

By the way, the positional relationship between the eight light transmitting probes 12 _{T1 to} 12 _T8 and the eight light receiving probes 13 _{R1 to} 13 _R8 (eight light transmitting probes 12 _{T9 to} 12 _T16 and eight light receiving probes 13 _{R9 to} 13 (positional relationship with _R16 ), the single light receiving probe 13 does not simultaneously receive the light irradiated from the plurality of light transmitting probes 12, but only the light irradiated from one light transmitting probe 12. It is necessary to adjust the timing of irradiating light from the light transmitting probe 12 and the timing of receiving light by the light receiving probe 13 so as to receive light. For this reason, the control table storage area 123 a of the memory 123 stores a control table indicating the timing of emitting light by the light source 2 and the timing of detecting light by the photodetector 3.
Based on the control table stored in the control table storage area 123a, the light transmission / reception control unit 121 outputs a drive signal for transmitting light to one light transmission probe 12 to the light source drive mechanism 4 at a predetermined time. At the same time, a light reception signal (light reception amount information) received by the light receiving probe 13 is detected by the photodetector 3 and stored in the data storage area 123b.

Here, FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of the control table. According to such a control table, first 5 milliseconds, to the light-sending probe _{12 T1} is sending a wavelength 780nm light, the next 5 milliseconds, then sending the light of wavelength 805nm to the light-sending probe _{12 T1,} One light is transmitted at a predetermined timing so that the light transmitting probe 12 _T1 transmits light having a wavelength of 830 nm for the next 5 milliseconds and the light transmitting probe 12 _T2 is transmitted light having a wavelength of 780 nm for the next 5 milliseconds. The light transmitting probes 12 _{T1 to} 12 _T8 are sequentially transmitted with light. At this time, each time light is transmitted to any one of the light transmission probes 12 _{T1 to} 12 _T8 , the light reception signals are detected by the eight light reception probes 13 _{R1 to} 13 _R8 , but at a predetermined timing. The detected light reception signals of the predetermined light reception probes 13 _{R1 to} 13 _R8 are stored in the data storage area 123 b of the memory 123. Specifically, the light receiving signals of the light receiving probe 13 _R1 and the light receiving probe 13 _R3 that have detected the light from the light transmitting probe 12 _T1 are stored in the data storage region 123b, and the light receiving that has detected the light from the light transmitting probe 12 _T2 is detected. The light reception signals of the predetermined light reception probes 13 _{R1 to} 13 _R8 detected at a predetermined timing are stored in the data storage area so that the light reception signals of the probe 13 _R1 , the light reception probe 13 _R2, and the light reception probe 13 _R4 are stored in the data storage area 123b. 123b.
Incidentally, similarly to the eight light transmitting probe ₁₂ T9 _{to 12 T16} eight light receiving probe ₁₃ R9 _{to 13 R16} both the eight light transmitting probe ₁₂ T1 _{to 12 T8} and eight light receiving probes ₁₃ R1 _{to 13 R8} Therefore, explanation is omitted. Thereby, when viewed in plan as shown in FIG. 4, a total of 48 received light amount information ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), ΔA (λ ₃ ) is collected.

Based on the 48 received light quantity information ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), ΔA (λ ₃ ), the analysis control unit 122 uses the relational expressions (1), (2), and (3) to calculate each wavelength. Change in oxyhemoglobin concentration, optical path length product [oxyHb], deoxyhemoglobin concentration change, optical path length product [deoxyHb], and total hemoglobin concentration change from the intensity of light passing through (oxyhemoglobin absorption wavelength and deoxyhemoglobin absorption wavelength)・ The optical path length product ([oxyHb] + [deoxyHb]) is obtained as 48 measurement data. The 48 measurement data results are displayed on the monitor screen 26a in order to be observed by a doctor, a laboratory technician, or the like. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a monitor screen on which 48 pieces of measurement data are displayed. Forty-eight measurement data are displayed on the monitor screen. At this time, when the light receiving probe 13 detects the light irradiated from the light transmitting probe 12 to each middle point M (see FIG. 10) of the line connecting the light transmitting probe 12 and the light receiving probe 13 at the shortest distance. The measurement data obtained are arranged and displayed so as to be arranged. Specifically, the measurement data # 1 when the light irradiated from the light transmitting probe 12 _T1 is detected by the light receiving probe 13 _R1 is arranged on the upper left, and the light irradiated from the light transmitting probe 12 _T1 is received by the light receiving probe. 13 _R3 measurement data # 4 obtained while detected is arranged in the lower left of the measurement data # 1, the measurement data # 2 when the light is irradiated from the light transmitting probe 12 _T2 were detected by the light receiving probe 13 _R1 The 48 pieces of measurement data # 1 to # 48 are arranged so as to be arranged to the right of the measurement data # 1.
The vertical axis in each measurement data indicates the change in oxyhemoglobin concentration / optical path length product [oxyHb] (deoxyhemoglobin concentration change / optical path length product [deoxyHb], total hemoglobin concentration when the subject wears the holder 30. Change in optical path length product ([oxyHb] + [deoxyHb])) Oxyhemoglobin concentration change, Optical path length product [oxyHb] (Deoxyhemoglobin concentration change, Optical path length product [deoxyHb], Total hemoglobin concentration change, Optical path The long product ([oxyHb] + [deoxyHb])) is changed, and the horizontal axis is time t.

JP 2001-337033 A

  By the way, in order to diagnose whether or not a subject's living tissue is normal, a doctor, a laboratory technician or the like gives a stimulus (hereinafter referred to as “load” or “task”) to the subject, and the subject. There is a test for observing measurement data relating to temporal changes in the brain activity of the subject obtained when the examiner's brain is activated. At this time, doctors, laboratory technicians, etc., while measuring the time, first put the subject in a task-execution state that causes the finger to move for a certain period of time (for example, 20 seconds) (hereinafter referred to as “task period”). Thereafter, the subject is allowed to rest in a steady state for a certain period of time (hereinafter referred to as “rest period”). After that, the rest period and the task period are alternately repeated several times so that the subject is again in a task performance state for a certain period of time to move the finger and then in a steady state for a certain period of time. Yes.

However, measurement data obtained using a control table as shown in FIG. 3 may not be able to detect changes in blood flow that appear in a time zone (for example, 4 seconds) before and after the start time of the task period. It was. That is, in the control table as shown in FIG. 3, the measurement time interval for obtaining measurement data related to the brain activity of the entire subject's brain is 125 milliseconds (number of light-transmitting probes × number of wavelengths × 5 milliseconds + DARK time). There was a problem of becoming longer.
It should be noted that if the light transmitting probes 12 are far away so that light hardly interferes with each other, it is possible to simultaneously transmit light to a plurality of light transmitting probes 12 to increase the efficiency of measurement. There was a problem that it was impossible to observe blood flow changes appearing in time zones before and after the start time of the period.

Furthermore, when 48 pieces of measurement data are stored in the data storage area 123b of the memory 123, there is a problem that the amount of data increases.
Therefore, it is conceivable to shorten the measurement time interval by using a holder having a small number of light-transmitting probes 12 and a small number of light-receiving probes 13, but in this case, a part of the brain activity of the subject's brain is considered. Only the measurement data related to the time change of the brain can be obtained, and there arises a problem that the measurement data related to the time change of the brain activity of the necessary brain region is missed.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present inventor has studied a method for observing changes in blood flow appearing in a time zone before and after the start time of a task period in a region of interest in the subject's brain. Therefore, first, by sequentially irradiating the subject with light from a large number of light transmitting probes 12, measurement data relating to temporal changes in the brain activity of the entire subject's brain is obtained, and the measurement data is observed. However, after selecting a small number of light-transmitting probes 12, the subject is irradiated with light sequentially from the small number of light-transmitting probes 12, so that the brain activity of a part of the subject's brain (region of interest) can be reduced. We decided to obtain the measurement data about the time change. That is, it has been found that a selection means for selecting Y light transmitting probes from N light transmitting probes is provided.

  In other words, the optical measurement system of the present invention includes a light transmission / reception unit including N light transmission probes that irradiate a subject with light and M light reception probes that receive light emitted from the subject. The time of brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain is detected by irradiating the subject with light in turn using N light-transmitting probes and detecting light with M light-receiving probes. An optical measurement system including a control unit that obtains S measurement data related to changes, after a pre-scan that obtains S measurement data related to temporal changes in brain activity in a wide range of brains of the subject is executed , Selecting means for selecting Y light-transmitting probes and X light-receiving probes among N light-transmitting probes and M light-receiving probes, and the control unit uses the selecting means to transmit Y light-transmitting probes. Probe and X light receiving probes After the selection, the subject's narrow-range brain is detected by irradiating the subject sequentially with light using the Y light-transmitting probes and detecting the light with the X light-receiving probes. T pieces of measurement data relating to temporal changes in brain activity are obtained.

  Here, “irradiate light in order” means that the subject is irradiated with light from a number of light-transmitting probes in which the light hardly interferes with each other, for example, 1 or more and N / 2 or less. It is preferable from the viewpoint of grasping which part of the subject's brain has been activated to simultaneously irradiate the subject with light from the light transmitting probe.

  According to the optical measurement system of the present invention, after obtaining measurement data related to temporal changes in brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain, selecting Y light transmission probes while observing the measurement data, Y pieces Because the light is sequentially irradiated to the subject using the light transmission probe, the measurement time interval can be shortened, and blood flow changes appearing in the time zone before and after the start time of the task period can be examined. Can be observed in a region of interest in the person's brain. Further, since light is detected by the X light receiving probes selected from the M light receiving probes and stored in the storage unit, the amount of data stored in the storage unit can be reduced.

(Means and effects for solving other problems)
In addition, the optical measurement system of the present invention includes a light transmission / reception unit having N light transmission probes for irradiating light to the subject and M light reception probes for receiving light emitted from the subject. The time of brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain is detected by irradiating the subject with light in turn using N light-transmitting probes and detecting light with M light-receiving probes. An optical measurement system including a control unit that obtains S measurement data related to changes, after a pre-scan that obtains S measurement data related to temporal changes in brain activity in a wide range of brains of the subject is executed , Selection means for selecting T measurement data selected from among the S measurement data, and the control unit selects T measurement data after T measurement data is selected by the selection means. N light transmission probes to obtain By irradiating the subject with light in order using Y light transmitting probes selected from among them, light is detected by X light receiving probes selected from among the N light receiving probes. Thus, T pieces of measurement data relating to temporal changes in brain activity in a narrow range of the subject's brain are obtained.

In the optical measurement system of the present invention, the selection unit displays S pieces of measurement data on a display device, and Y input probes, X receive probes, or T pieces are input by an input operation using the input device. By selecting the measurement data, Y light transmitting probes, X light receiving probes, or T measurement data may be determined.
In the optical measurement system of the present invention, since the selection unit is selected by an input operation by the input device, the measurement data corresponding to each measurement-related position on the brain surface image or scalp surface image is respectively displayed. You may make it display.
Here, the “measurement-related position on the brain surface image” means, for example, from the midpoint M of the line connecting the light transmitting point T and the light receiving point R along the scalp surface of the subject at the shortest distance. It means a position having a depth L which is half the distance of a line connecting the light spot T and the light receiving point R along the surface of the subject's scalp at the shortest distance. The “measurement-related position on the scalp surface image” is, for example, the position of the midpoint M of the line connecting the light transmitting point T and the light receiving point R along the subject's scalp surface at the shortest distance. Say.

  In the optical measurement system of the present invention, the selection means selects and determines Y light transmitting probes, X light receiving probes, or T measurement data based on the numerical values in the S measurement data. You may make it do.

Furthermore, in the optical measurement system of the present invention, a wide-range control table for detecting light with M light receiving probes by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using N light transmitting probes. A narrow range for detecting light by X light receiving probes by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using Y light transmitting probes. A control table is stored in a storage unit, and the control unit controls light transmission / reception with respect to the light transmission / reception unit using a wide-range control table, so that the time of brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain After obtaining S measurement data relating to the change and displaying it on the display device, the narrow range control table is stored by the selection means, and then light transmission / reception with respect to the light transmitting / receiving unit is performed using the narrow range control table. By controlling the subject's To obtain the T measurement data related to the time change of the brain activity in the range of brain, it may also be stored in the storage unit.
In addition, the method of using the optical measurement system of the present invention includes N light-transmitting probes that irradiate the subject with light and M light-receiving probes that receive the light emitted from the subject. By irradiating light to the subject in turn using a light receiving unit and N light transmitting probes, light is detected by the M light receiving probes, so that the brain in a wide range of the subject's brain A method of using an optical measurement system comprising a control unit that obtains S measurement data related to a temporal change in activity, by sequentially irradiating a subject with light using N light transmission probes. A wide-range measurement data acquisition step for obtaining S measurement data related to temporal changes in brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain by detecting light with M light-receiving probes, N light-transmitting probes, and M Y light receiving probes A selection step of selecting an optical probe and X light receiving probes, and detecting light with X light receiving probes by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using Y light transmitting probes And a narrow range measurement data acquisition step for obtaining T measurement data related to temporal changes in brain activity in the narrow range brain of the subject.
In addition, the method of using the optical measurement system of the present invention includes N light-transmitting probes that irradiate the subject with light and M light-receiving probes that receive the light emitted from the subject. By irradiating light to the subject in turn using a light receiving unit and N light transmitting probes, light is detected by the M light receiving probes, so that the brain in a wide range of the subject's brain A method of using an optical measurement system comprising a control unit that obtains S measurement data related to a temporal change in activity, by sequentially irradiating a subject with light using N light transmission probes. A wide range measurement data acquisition step for obtaining S measurement data related to temporal changes in brain activity in a wide range of brains of the subject by detecting light with M light receiving probes, and among the S measurement data Select the selected T measurement data And sequentially irradiating the subject with light using Y light-transmitting probes selected from the N light-transmitting probes in order to acquire T measurement data. Narrow-range measurement that obtains T measurement data related to temporal changes in brain activity in a narrow-range brain of the subject by detecting light with X light-receiving probes selected from among N light-receiving probes A data acquisition step.

The block diagram which shows schematic structure of the optical measuring device which is one Embodiment of this invention. The top view which shows an example of the holder in which a light transmission / reception probe is inserted. Explanatory drawing of an example of a wide range control table. Explanatory drawing of the brain position from which 48 received light quantity information is obtained. The figure which shows an example of the monitor screen on which 48 measurement data were displayed. Explanatory drawing of an example of a narrow range control table. Explanatory drawing of the brain position from which 24 received light amount information is obtained. The figure which shows an example of the monitor screen from which 24 measurement data were selected. The flowchart explaining an example of the measuring method by an optical biological measuring apparatus. The relationship figure of a pair of light transmission probe and light reception probe, and the measurement site | part of a brain. The block diagram which shows an example of schematic structure of the conventional near-infrared spectrometer.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below, and includes various modes without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an optical measurement apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a holder into which 16 light transmitting probes and 16 light receiving probes are inserted. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the thing similar to the near-infrared spectrometer 101.
An optical measurement device (optical measurement system) 1 includes a light source 2 that emits light, a light source driving mechanism 4 that drives the light source 2, a photodetector 3 that detects light, and an A / D (A / D converter) 5. A light transmission / reception control unit 21, an analysis control unit 22, a control table creation unit (selection means) 24, and a memory (storage unit) 23, and 16 (N) light transmission probes 12. And 16 (M) light receiving probes 13, a display device 26 having a monitor screen 26a and the like, and a keyboard (input device) 27.

The memory 23 stores in advance a wide-range control table that defines a control mode for controlling light transmission / reception with respect to the holder 30, a control table storage area 23 a for storing a narrow-range control table, and a received light signal (measurement). A data storage area 23b for storing (data) and the like.
FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of the wide range control table, and FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the position of the brain where 48 pieces of received light amount information are obtained. Note that the wide-range control table is used in the same manner as the control table of the near-infrared spectrometer 101, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

Details of the method for creating the narrow range control table will be described later. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the narrow range control table, and FIG. 7 is a brain in which 24 pieces of received light amount information are obtained. It is a figure for demonstrating the position of.
According to such a narrow range control table, first 5 milliseconds, is sending a wavelength 780nm light to the light-sending probe _{12 T2,} the next 5 milliseconds, sending the light of wavelength 805nm to the light-sending probe _{12 T2} At a predetermined timing so that the light transmitting probe 12 _T2 transmits light having a wavelength of 830 nm for the next 5 milliseconds and the light transmitting probe 12 _T3 transmits light having a wavelength of 780 nm for the next 5 milliseconds. The light is sequentially transmitted to one light transmission probe 12. At this time, each time to sending the light to any one of the light transmitting probe 12, but will detect a received signal of eight light receiving probes 13 _R1 to 13 _R8, predetermined detected at a predetermined timing The light reception signal of the light reception probe 13 is stored in the data storage area 23 b of the memory 23. Specifically, the light receiving signals of the light receiving probe 13 _R1 , the light receiving probe 13 _R2, and the light receiving probe 13 _R4 that have detected the light from the light transmitting probe 12 _T2 are stored in the data storage area 23b, and the light from the light transmitting probe 12 _{T3 is} transmitted. as to store the light reception signal of the light receiving probe 13 _R1 which detects the light and the light receiving probe 13 _R4 and the light receiving probe 13 _R5 in the data storage area 23b, data storing light reception signal of a predetermined light receiving probe 13 detected at a predetermined timing It memorize | stores in the area | region 23b. At this time, the measurement time interval for obtaining measurement data relating to the brain activity of a part of the subject's brain is 80 milliseconds (the number of light transmitting probes × the number of wavelengths × 5 milliseconds + DARK time).
Note that the five light-transmitting probes 12 and the four light-receiving probes 13 are the same as the four light-transmitting probes 12 and the five light-receiving probes 13, and will not be described. Accordingly, when viewed in plan as shown in FIG. 7, a total of 24 (T <S) received light amount information ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), ΔA (λ ₃ ) is collected.

Based on the control table stored in the control table storage area 23 a, the light transmission / reception control unit 21 outputs a drive signal for transmitting light to one light transmission probe 12 at a predetermined time to the light source drive mechanism 4. At the same time, a light reception signal (light reception amount information) received by the light reception probe 13 is detected by the photodetector 3. At this time, before the narrow range control table in the control table storage area 23a is stored, sending a light receiving control section 21, based on the wide range control table, first 5 milliseconds, wavelength 780nm to the light-sending probe 12 _T1 It is sending light, next 5 milliseconds, the light transmitting probe _{12 T1} is sending the light of wavelength 805 nm, the next 5 milliseconds, then sending the light of wavelength 830nm to the light-sending probe _{12 T1,} the following The light is sequentially transmitted to one of the light transmission probes 12 _{T1 to} 12 _T8 at a predetermined timing so that the light transmission probe 12 _T2 transmits light having a wavelength of 780 nm for 5 milliseconds. At this time, each time light is transmitted to any one of the light transmission probes 12 _{T1 to} 12 _T8 , the light reception signals are detected by the eight light reception probes 13 _{R1 to} 13 _R8 , but at a predetermined timing. The detected light reception signals of the predetermined light reception probes 13 _{R1 to} 13 _R8 are stored in the data storage area 23 b of the memory 23. Incidentally, similarly to the eight light transmitting probe ₁₂ T9 _{to 12 T16} eight light receiving probe ₁₃ R9 _{to 13 R16} both the eight light transmitting probe ₁₂ T1 _{to 12 T8} and eight light receiving probes ₁₃ R1 _{to 13 R8} Therefore, the description will be omitted. Accordingly, when viewed in plan as shown in FIG. 4, a total of 48 (S) received light amount information ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), ΔA (λ ₃ ) is collected.

Further, after the narrow range control table is stored in the control table storage area 23a is feeding the light receiving control section 21, based on the narrow range control table, first 5 milliseconds, light having a wavelength of 780nm to the light-sending probe 12 _T2 For the next 5 milliseconds, light of wavelength 805 nm is transmitted to the light transmission probe 12 _T2 , and for the next 5 milliseconds, light of wavelength 830 nm is transmitted to the light transmission probe 12 _T2. In order to transmit light having a wavelength of 780 nm to the light transmitting probe 12 _T3 for milliseconds, light is sequentially transmitted to one light transmitting probe 12 at a predetermined timing. At this time, each time to sending the light to any one of the light transmitting probe 12, but will detect a received signal of eight light receiving probes 13 _R1 to 13 _R8, predetermined detected at a predetermined timing The light reception signal of the light reception probe 13 is stored in the data storage area 23 b of the memory 23. Incidentally, similarly to the eight light transmitting probe ₁₂ T9 _{to 12 T16} eight light receiving probe ₁₃ R9 _{to 13 R16} both the eight light transmitting probe ₁₂ T1 _{to 12 T8} and eight light receiving probes ₁₃ R1 _{to 13 R8} Therefore, the description will be omitted. Thus, when viewed in plan as shown in FIG. 7, a total of 24 (T) received light quantity information ΔA (λ ₁ ), ΔA (λ ₂ ), ΔA (λ ₃ ) is collected.
That is, before the narrow range control table is stored, the transmission / reception controller 21 switches to use the narrow range control table when the narrow range control table is stored. Become.

The analysis control unit 22 before the narrow-range control table is stored in the control table storage area 23a, the wide-range control table and the 48 received light amount information A (λ ₁ ), A (λ ₂ ), A (λ ₃ ), and using the relational expressions (1), (2), and (3), the concentration and optical path length of oxyhemoglobin from the passing light intensity of each wavelength (the absorption wavelength of oxyhemoglobin and the absorption wavelength of deoxyhemoglobin). The product [oxyHb], deoxyhemoglobin concentration / optical path length product [deoxyHb] and total hemoglobin concentration / optical path length product ([oxyHb] + [deoxyHb]) are determined as 48 (S) measurement data. As a result, 48 pieces of measurement data as shown in FIG. 5 are displayed on the monitor screen 26a.
Further, after the narrow range control table is stored in the control table storage area 23a, the analysis control unit 22 performs the narrow range control table and the 24 received light amount information A (λ ₁ ), A (λ ₂ ), A Based on (λ ₃ ), the relational expressions (1), (2), and (3) are used to calculate the concentration of oxyhemoglobin from the intensity of transmitted light at each wavelength (the absorption wavelength of oxyhemoglobin and the absorption wavelength of deoxyhemoglobin). The optical path length product [oxyHb], deoxyhemoglobin concentration / optical path length product [deoxyHb] and total hemoglobin concentration / optical path length product ([oxyHb] + [deoxyHb]) were determined as 24 (T) measurement data, and data The data is stored in the storage area 23b. As a result, 24 pieces of measurement data are displayed and stored on the monitor screen.

The control table creation unit 24 displays 48 (S) measurement data on the monitor screen 26a, and acquires T measurement data by selecting T measurement data by an input operation using the keyboard 27. Therefore, the desired number (Y <N) of the 16 (N) light-transmitting probes 12 and the light-transmitting probes 12 in the arrangement position and the 16 (M) light-receiving probes 13 are selected. By determining the selected desired number (X <M) and the light receiving probes 13 at the arrangement position, the desired number (Y), the light transmitting probes 12 at the arrangement position, the desired number (X), and the A narrow range control table for using the light receiving probe 13 at the arrangement position is generated and stored in the control table storage area 23a.
At this time, the desired number of light transmitting probes 12 and their arrangement positions are selected from among the 16 light transmission probes 12, or the desired number and light receiving probes 13 of their arrangement positions are selected from the 16 light receiving probes 13. For example, a doctor, a laboratory technician, or the like, for example, performs an input operation with the keyboard 27 using the image displayed on the monitor screen 26a, and the scalp surface image as shown in FIG. When 48 pieces of measurement data (trend graph) # 1 to # 48 are displayed on the top, it is necessary as shown in FIG. 8 from among 48 pieces of measurement data (trend graph) # 1 to # 48. Measurement data (required combination of light transmitting probe 12 and light receiving probe 13) is selected by surrounding it with a square. As a result, the measurement data relating to the brain activity of the necessary part of the brain is not missed.

Here, a measurement method (use method) for measuring the brain activity of the subject using the optical biometric measurement device 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining an example of a measurement method by the optical biological measurement apparatus 1.
First, in the process of step S101, the holder 30 is placed on the surface of the subject's scalp.

Next, in the process of step S102, the light transmission / reception control unit 21 outputs a drive signal for transmitting light to one light transmission probe 12 to the light source drive mechanism 4 at a predetermined time based on the wide range control table. At the same time, the light receiving signal (light receiving amount information) received by the light receiving probe 13 is detected by the photodetector 3 (wide range measurement data acquisition step, prescan).
Next, in the process of step S103, the analysis control unit 22 uses the relational expression based on the wide range control table and the 48 pieces of received light amount information A (λ ₁ ), A (λ ₂ ), A (λ ₃ ). (1) Using (2) and (3), from the intensity of light passing through each wavelength (oxyhemoglobin absorption wavelength and deoxyhemoglobin absorption wavelength), oxyhemoglobin concentration / optical path length product [oxyHb], deoxyhemoglobin concentration The optical path length product [deoxyHb] and the total hemoglobin concentration / optical path length product ([oxyHb] + [deoxyHb]) are obtained as 48 measurement data and displayed on the monitor screen 26a.

Next, in the process of step S104, the control table creation unit 24 displays 48 measurement data on the monitor screen 26a, and doctors, laboratory technicians, and the like use the keyboard 27 using the image displayed on the monitor screen 23a. By performing the input operation, 24 (T) measurement data are selected from the 48 measurement data (selection step).
Next, in the process of step S105, the control table creation unit 24 creates a narrow range control table for using the desired number and the light transmitting probes 12 of the arrangement position and the desired number and the light receiving probes 13 of the arrangement position. Then, it is stored in the control table storage area 23a.

Next, in the process of step S106, the light transmission / reception control unit 21 sends a drive signal for transmitting light to one light transmission probe 12 at a predetermined time to the light source drive mechanism 4 based on the narrow range control table. At the same time, the light reception signal (light reception amount information) received by the light reception probe 13 is detected by the photodetector 3 (narrow range measurement data acquisition step).
Next, in the process of step S107, the analysis control unit 22 determines the relationship based on the narrow range control table and the 24 pieces of received light amount information A (λ ₁ ), A (λ ₂ ), A (λ ₃ ). Using formulas (1), (2), and (3), the concentration of oxyhemoglobin, the optical path length product [oxyHb], and the deoxyhemoglobin are calculated from the passing light intensity of each wavelength (oxyhemoglobin absorption wavelength and deoxyhemoglobin absorption wavelength). The concentration / optical path length product [deoxyHb] and the total hemoglobin concentration / optical path length product ([oxyHb] + [deoxyHb]) are obtained as 24 measurement data, displayed on the monitor screen 26a, and stored in the data storage area 23b. Let
And when the process of step S107 is complete | finished, this flowchart is complete | finished.

  As described above, according to the optical measurement device 1 of the present invention, nine (Y) pieces of measurement data on temporal changes in brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain are obtained and observed while the measurement data is observed. After selecting the light transmitting probe 12, the subject is irradiated with light sequentially using nine (Y) light transmitting probes 12, so that the measurement time interval can be shortened, and the task period Blood flow changes appearing in the time zone before and after the start time can be observed in the region of interest of the subject's brain. Further, since nine (X) light receiving probes 13 selected from the 16 (M) light receiving probes 13 detect light and store it in the data storage area 23b, the light is stored in the data storage area 23b. The amount of data can be reduced.

<Other embodiments>
(1) In the optical biometric apparatus 1 described above, a configuration in which T pieces of measurement data are selected by an input operation using the keyboard 27 has been shown. However, by registering a threshold value or the like according to the contents of the measurement data, the control table The creation unit (selection unit) 24 may automatically select T pieces of measurement data.

(2) In the optical biometric apparatus 1 described above, a configuration is shown in which a narrow-range control table using nine (Y) light transmitting probes 12 and nine (X) light receiving probes 13 is created. Furthermore, a desired number selected from a desired number of Y ′ (for example, two) light-transmitting probes and nine (X) light-receiving probes selected from nine (Y) light-transmitting probes. A narrow range control table using X ′ (for example, two) light receiving probes may be created.
(3) In the above-described photobiological measurement apparatus 1, since the control table creation unit (selection means) 24 is selected by an input operation using the keyboard 27, 48 pieces of measurement data (trend graph) as shown in FIG. Although the configuration of displaying # 1 to # 48 is shown, the measurement data # 1 to # 48 are displayed on 48 predetermined positions of the brain surface image, and each measurement data # 1 to # 48 is displayed. 48 may be expressed in a color corresponding to the numerical value of the oxyhemoglobin concentration change / optical path length product [oxyHb] at a certain measurement time t.
(4) In the optical biometric apparatus 1 described above, the control table creation unit (selection means) 24 is selected from the 48 pieces of measurement data # 1 to # 48 so as to surround necessary measurement data with a square. However, it may be determined by pressing the number provided on the keyboard 27 by registering the number provided on the keyboard 27 and the probe number in association with each other.

  The present invention can be used for an optical measurement system or the like that measures brain activity non-invasively.

1: Optical measuring device 12: Light transmission probe 13: Light reception probe 21: Light transmission / reception control unit 22: Analysis control unit 23: Memory (storage unit)
24: Control table creation unit (selection means)
30: Holder (transmission / reception unit)
T: Transmitting point R: Receiving point

Claims (8)

A light transmission / reception unit having N light transmission probes for irradiating the subject with light and M light reception probes for receiving light emitted from the subject;
Time variation of brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain by detecting light with M light receiving probes by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using N light transmitting probes An optical measurement system comprising a control unit for obtaining S measurement data relating to
After pre-scanning for obtaining S measurement data related to temporal changes in brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain, Y light transmission from among N light transmission probes and M light reception probes is performed. A selection means for selecting a probe and X light receiving probes;
The control unit sequentially irradiates the subject with light using the Y light transmitting probes after the Y light transmitting probes and the X light receiving probes are selected by the selection unit. An optical measurement system characterized in that T measurement data relating to temporal changes in brain activity in a narrow range of the subject's brain are obtained by detecting light with X light receiving probes. A light transmission / reception unit having N light transmission probes for irradiating the subject with light and M light reception probes for receiving light emitted from the subject;
Time variation of brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain by detecting light with M light receiving probes by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using N light transmitting probes An optical measurement system comprising a control unit for obtaining S measurement data relating to
Selection for selecting T measurement data selected from among the S measurement data after a pre-scan for obtaining S measurement data related to temporal changes in brain activity in a wide range of brains of the subject is performed. With means,
The control unit uses Y light transmission probes selected from N light transmission probes to acquire T measurement data after T measurement data is selected by the selection unit. By irradiating the subject with light sequentially, the light in the narrow range of the subject is detected by detecting light with X light receiving probes selected from among the N light receiving probes. An optical measurement system characterized by obtaining T pieces of measurement data relating to temporal changes in activity. The selection means displays S measurement data on a display device,
By selecting Y light transmitting probes, X light receiving probes, or T measurement data by an input operation by the input device, Y light transmitting probes, X light receiving probes, or T measurement data are selected. The optical measurement system according to claim 1, wherein the optical measurement system is determined.   The selection unit displays corresponding measurement data at each measurement-related position on the brain surface image or scalp surface image in order to be selected by an input operation by the input device. The optical measurement system described.   The selection means selects and determines Y light transmitting probes, X light receiving probes, or T measurement data based on numerical values in S measurement data. Item 3. The optical measurement system according to Item 2. A storage unit that stores in advance a wide range control table for detecting light with M light receiving probes by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using N light transmitting probes,
The selection means stores a narrow range control table for detecting light by X light receiving probes by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using Y light transmitting probes. ,
The control unit obtains S pieces of measurement data relating to temporal changes in brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain by controlling light transmission / reception with respect to the light transmission / reception unit using a wide range control table. Display on the display device,
After the narrow range control table is stored by the selecting means, the brain activity in the narrow range brain of the subject is controlled by using the narrow range control table to control light transmission / reception with respect to the light transmitting / receiving unit. 6. The optical measurement system according to claim 1, wherein T pieces of measurement data relating to a time change of the data are obtained and stored in the storage unit. A light transmission / reception unit having N light transmission probes for irradiating the subject with light and M light reception probes for receiving light emitted from the subject;
Time variation of brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain by detecting light with M light receiving probes by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using N light transmitting probes A method of using an optical measurement system comprising a control unit for obtaining S measurement data relating to
Time variation of brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain by detecting light with M light receiving probes by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using N light transmitting probes A wide-range measurement data acquisition step for obtaining S measurement data for
A selection step of selecting Y light-transmitting probes and X light-receiving probes from among N light-transmitting probes and M light-receiving probes;
The time of brain activity in the narrow range of the subject's brain by causing the subject to sequentially irradiate light using Y light transmitting probes and detecting light with the X light receiving probes. And a narrow range measurement data acquisition step for obtaining T measurement data relating to the change. A light transmission / reception unit having N light transmission probes for irradiating the subject with light and M light reception probes for receiving light emitted from the subject;
Time variation of brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain by detecting light with M light receiving probes by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using N light transmitting probes A method of using an optical measurement system comprising a control unit for obtaining S measurement data relating to
Time variation of brain activity in a wide range of the subject's brain by detecting light with M light receiving probes by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using N light transmitting probes A wide-range measurement data acquisition step for obtaining S measurement data for
A selection step of selecting T measurement data selected from the S measurement data;
N light receiving probes are obtained by sequentially irradiating the subject with light using Y light transmitting probes selected from the N light transmitting probes in order to acquire T measurement data. A narrow-range measurement data acquisition step for obtaining T measurement data related to temporal changes in brain activity in the narrow-range brain of the subject by detecting light with X light receiving probes selected from A method of using an optical measurement system comprising:

Images