WO2023105927A1

WO2023105927A1 - Brain function measurement system and brain function measurement method

Info

Publication number: WO2023105927A1
Application number: PCT/JP2022/038509
Authority: WO
Inventors: 彩夏堀; 伸幸秋永; 可織大崎
Original assignee: 株式会社島津製作所
Priority date: 2021-12-10
Filing date: 2022-10-17
Publication date: 2023-06-15

Abstract

This brain function measurement system (100) comprises: a signal measurement unit (11) for measuring a signal (4) which is based on the blood flow of a brain; a measurement result acquisition unit (10a) for acquiring a measurement result (40); and a server (2) including an index data generation unit (20a) which generates index data (41) that is a brain function index, a storage unit (21) which associates and stores the measurement result, the index data, and identification information (42) that identifies a subject (90), and a data transmission unit (22) which transmits the identified index data to a terminal (3) that is operated by the subject.

Description

Brain function measurement system and brain function measurement method

The present invention relates to a brain function measurement system and a brain function measurement method.

Conventionally, brain function measurement systems and brain function measurement methods are known. Such a brain function measuring method is disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6475132, for example.

Japanese Patent No. 6475132 discloses a brain function index output device including a measurement section, a calculation section, a task section, and a display section. This brain function index output device is configured such that the subject performs a task selected by a doctor or the like and presented by the task section. Further, the brain function index output device disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6475132 is configured to display the index of the subject's brain function and the subject's treatment information on a display unit. This allows the doctor to diagnose the subject and confirm the therapeutic effect.

Japanese Patent No. 6475132

Here, although it is not specified in Japanese Patent No. 6475132, it is said that the subject himself/herself wants to confirm whether or not the brain function has been improved by the treatment of the subject's brain function and the training for improving the brain function. I have a request. However, the brain function index output device (brain function measurement system) disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6475132 provides index data for doctors to check changes in brain function indexes (index data) caused by treatments, etc. is configured to display That is, the brain function measurement system disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6475132 is a system used only when a doctor makes a diagnosis, and it is not assumed that the subject himself/herself confirms the index data. Therefore, there is the inconvenience that the subject must visit a hospital or the like in order to check the index data. Therefore, there is a problem that the subject cannot easily confirm the brain function index data.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and one object of the present invention is to provide a brain function measurement system that enables a subject to easily check index data of brain function. and to provide a method for measuring brain function.

To achieve the above object, a brain function measuring system according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises a signal measuring unit for measuring a signal based on blood flow in the subject's brain, and a signal measuring unit for measuring the brain function of the subject. a task presentation unit that presents a task for the task, a measurement result acquisition unit that acquires the measurement result of the signal measured by the signal measurement unit while the task is presented, and a measurement result acquired by the measurement result acquisition unit an index data generation unit that generates index data that is an index of brain function based on; a storage unit that associates and stores specific information that identifies a subject, measurement results, and the index data; and based on the specific information: and a server including a data transmission unit that transmits the index data specified by the method to the terminal operated by the subject.

In order to achieve the above object, a method for measuring brain function according to a second aspect of the present invention includes the step of presenting a task for measuring brain function of a subject; a step of acquiring a measurement result of a signal based on blood flow in the subject's brain; a step of transmitting the measurement result to a server together with specific information identifying the subject; a step of generating index data that is an index; a step of associating and storing the specific information, the measurement result, and the index data; receiving the specific information; It comprises a step of transmitting to a terminal operated by an examiner, and a step of displaying the index data on the terminal.

In the brain function measuring system in the first aspect, as described above, the index data generation unit that generates index data that is an index of brain function, the specific information that identifies the subject, the measurement result, and the index data. and a data transmission unit configured to transmit the index data identified based on the identification information to the terminal operated by the subject. As a result, the index data is transmitted from the server to the terminal, so that the subject can confirm the index data using the terminal owned by the subject. As a result, for example, the subject can check the index data using a terminal owned by the subject without visiting a hospital or the like, so that the subject can easily check the index data of the brain function. be able to.

Further, in the method for measuring brain function in the second aspect, as described above, the specific information is received, and the index data specified based on the received specific information is sent to the terminal operated by the subject. A step of transmitting is provided. As a result, it is possible to provide a brain function measurement method that allows a subject to easily check brain function index data, as in the brain function measurement system according to the first aspect.

1 is a diagram for explaining the overall configuration of a brain function measurement system according to one embodiment; FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of a measuring device according to one embodiment; FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining a configuration in which a subject measures brain function using a measuring device according to one embodiment; 1 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of a server according to one embodiment; FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of a subject's terminal used when using the brain function measurement system according to one embodiment; 4 is a flowchart for explaining processing for measuring brain function by the brain function measurement system according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration in which the measurement device according to one embodiment transmits measurement results to a server; FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration in which a server according to one embodiment generates index data; FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration in which a server according to one embodiment transmits index data to a terminal based on a request from the terminal; FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a screen when index data is displayed in the brain function measuring system according to one embodiment;

An embodiment embodying the present invention will be described below based on the drawings.

First, the configuration of a brain function measurement system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 1, the brain function measurement system 100 includes a measurement device 1 and a server 2. The measuring device 1 and the server 2 are connected via a network 80 . Network 80 is, for example, the Internet.

The measuring device 1 is configured to measure the signal 4 (see FIG. 7) based on the cerebral blood flow of the subject 90 (see FIG. 3). A detailed configuration of the measuring device 1 will be described later.

The server 2 generates index data 41 (see FIG. 4), which is an index of the brain function of the subject 90 (see FIG. 3), based on the measurement result 40 (see FIG. 2) measured by the measuring device 1. is configured as A detailed configuration of the server 2 will be described later.

In addition, the server 2 according to this embodiment is connected via a network 80 to the terminal 3 operated by the subject 90 . Note that the server 2 and the terminal 3 are not always connected, but are connected when the terminal 3 accesses the server 2 . Terminal 3 includes, for example, a smart phone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, and the like.

By operating the terminal 3, the subject 90 (see FIG. 3) can acquire the index data 41 (see FIG. 4) from the server 2 and check it.

<Measuring device>
Next, the measuring device 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 2, the measurement device 1 includes a first processor 10, a signal measurement unit 11, a task presentation unit 12, a first data transmission unit 13, a first input reception unit 14, and a first storage unit. 15.

The first processor 10 is configured to perform various controls of the measuring device 1 by executing a program (not shown) stored in the first storage section 15 . The first processor 10 is a computer including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like.

The signal measurement unit 11 is configured to measure the signal 4 (see FIG. 7) based on the cerebral blood flow of the subject 90 (see FIG. 3). The signal measurement unit 11 holds a plurality of light irradiation units 11a that irradiate measurement light, a plurality of light reception units 11b that receive measurement light, a plurality of light irradiation units 11a, and a plurality of light reception units 11b. and a holder 11c to be attached to the head 90a of the examiner 90 .

The light irradiation unit 11a includes a light source, a light-sending probe, and an optical fiber 11d (see FIG. 3) that connects the light source and the light-sending probe.

The light receiving unit 11b includes an optical sensor that detects measurement light, a light receiving probe, and an optical fiber 11d (see FIG. 3) that connects the optical sensor and the light receiving probe.

The holder 11c is configured to hold the light transmitting probe and the light receiving probe. Specifically, the holder 11c holds the light-transmitting probe and the light-receiving probe so that the light-transmitting probe and the light-receiving probe are arranged on the head 90a (see FIG. 3) of the subject 90 (see FIG. 3). .

In this embodiment, the light irradiator 11a is configured to irradiate measurement light in the near-infrared region. That is, the measuring device 1 is a device that measures the brain function of the subject 90 by so-called near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). The wavelength region of near-infrared light is, for example, 700 nm or more and 900 nm or less. Since near-infrared rays have a low absorption rate in vivo, the measurement light can reach the brain region inside the head 90a (see FIG. 3).

Here, reflecting the brain activity of the subject 90, when the amount of blood hemoglobin in the brain increases at the activated site, the amount of measurement light absorbed by hemoglobin increases. Therefore, it is possible to acquire changes in the amount of hemoglobin associated with brain activity based on the intensity of the acquired measurement light. Hemoglobin is classified into oxyhemoglobin bound to oxygen and deoxyhemoglobin not bound to oxygen, which have different absorption characteristics. Therefore, the measurement apparatus 1 performs measurement using measurement light of multiple wavelengths (for example, three wavelengths of 780 nm, 805 nm and 830 nm) considering the difference in light absorption characteristics. Based on the obtained intensities (received light amounts) of measurement light of respective wavelengths, temporal changes in each hemoglobin amount and total amount are calculated. As a result, changes in the amount of hemoglobin associated with brain activity, that is, changes in blood flow and the activation state of oxygen metabolism can be acquired noninvasively based on the intensity (amount of light received) of the measurement light incident on the light-receiving unit 11b. It is possible.

The task presentation unit 12 is configured to present a task 43 for measuring the brain function of the subject 90 (see FIG. 3). The task 43 is acquired from the server 2 (see FIG. 1) by the first processor 10 based on the specific information 42 (see FIG. 4) input by the subject 90. FIG. The task presentation unit 12 includes a display device that presents the task 43 to the subject 90 by displaying the task 43, and a stimulus presentation device that presents the task 43 to the subject 90 by giving sensory stimulation.

In this embodiment, the brain function measurement system 100 is configured to measure the cognitive function of the subject 90. Therefore, task 43 includes a task capable of measuring cognitive function of subject 90 . Specifically, task 43 includes a first task 43a relating to memory and a second task 43b relating to sensory stimulation and memory. The task presentation unit 12 includes a first task presentation unit 12a that presents the first task 43a and a second task presentation unit 12b that presents the second task 43b. The first task presentation unit 12a is a display device. Also, the second task presentation unit 12b is a stimulus presentation device. Details of the first task 43a and the second task 43b will be described later.

The first data transmission unit 13 is configured to transmit the measurement result 40 of the signal 4 (see FIG. 7) measured by the signal measurement unit 11 to the server 2 (see FIG. 1). First data transmission unit 13 includes, for example, a communication device that performs data communication via network 80 .

The first input reception unit 14 is configured to be able to receive operation input from the subject 90 (see FIG. 3). The first input reception unit 14 includes, for example, any one of a mouse, a keyboard, and a touch panel type liquid crystal display.

The first storage unit 15 is configured to store various programs executed by the first processor 10 . Further, the first storage unit 15 is configured to store the measurement result 40, the task 43 acquired by the task presentation unit 12, the information 44 of the task 43, and the like. The first storage unit 15 includes, for example, a non-volatile storage device such as a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). Also, the information 44 of the task 43 includes information for determining the type of the task 43 performed by the subject 90 . Specifically, the information 44 of the task 43 includes the content of the task 43 executed by the subject 90 and information on the timing at which the task 43 was presented in the measurement result 40 .

In this embodiment, the task presentation unit 12 and the measurement result acquisition unit 10a (see FIG. 7) are provided in a single measurement device 1 configured to communicate with the server 2. Specifically, the task presentation unit 12 and the measurement result acquisition unit 10a are provided in the same housing 1a (see FIG. 3) of the measuring device 1. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 3, the holder 11c is attached to the head 90a of the subject 90 while holding a plurality of light emitting units 11a (see FIG. 2) and a plurality of light receiving units 11b (see FIG. 2). be. In this embodiment, the holder 11c is configured to be mountable on the head 90a of the subject 90 by the subject 90 himself. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the light-sending probe included in the light irradiation section 11a and the light-receiving probe included in the light-receiving section 11b are held by the holder 11c as the measurement unit 11e. In the example shown in FIG. 3, four measurement units 11e are held by the holder 11c. Each measurement unit 11e is provided with at least one light-sending probe and at least one light-receiving probe. Each measurement unit 11e is provided with, for example, one light irradiation section 11a and one light receiving section 11b. Each measurement unit 11e is connected to the measurement device 1 via an optical fiber 11d. In the example shown in FIG. 3, as the optical fiber 11d, an optical fiber connecting the light transmitting probe and the light source and an optical fiber connecting the light receiving probe and the optical sensor are bundled together. .

In the example shown in FIG. 3, the first task presentation unit 12a is a display device provided in the measuring device 1. As a specific example, the first task presenting unit 12a is configured to present the first task 43a by displaying the first task 43a relating to memory. The first task 43a includes, for example, computational tasks. Also, the first task 43a includes computational tasks with different degrees of difficulty. Among computational tasks with different degrees of difficulty, the task with the lower difficulty level is presented first, and the task with the higher difficulty level is presented later. A computational task with a low difficulty level is, for example, a task of subtracting 2 from 100 in succession. Further, a computational problem with a high degree of difficulty is, for example, a problem of continuously subtracting 7 from 102 .

In the example shown in FIG. 3, the second task presentation unit 12b performs the second task 43b by writing characters on the palm of the subject 90 with the subject's 90 hand placed. configured to present. The second task presentation unit 12b is configured to write characters on the palm of the subject 90 by pressure stimulation, for example. The second task 43b also includes tasks with different degrees of difficulty. In the present embodiment, the second task presenting unit 12b, for example, from the three letters "su", "ma", and "nu", arbitrarily combines two letters or arbitrarily combines three letters in succession. A task 43 relating to sensory stimulation and memory is presented by tracing and writing on the palm of subject 90 . The second task 43b, which has a low difficulty level, is a task in which any combination of two letters selected from the three letters "su", "ma", and "nu" is continuously traced on the palm of the examinee 90 and written. The second task 43b, which has a high degree of difficulty, is a task in which an arbitrary combination of the three letters "su", "ma", and "nu" is continuously traced on the palm of the examinee 90 and written. .

<server>
Next, the configuration of the server 2 will be described with reference to FIG. The server 2 includes a second processor 20 , a second storage section 21 and a second data transmission section 22 . The server 2 is configured to generate index data 41 that is an index of brain function. The server 2 is also configured to transmit to the terminal 3 the index data 41 to be displayed on the display unit 32 (see FIG. 5) included in the terminal 3 (see FIG. 5).

The second processor 20 is configured to perform various controls of the server 2 by executing a program (not shown) stored in the second storage section 21 . The second processor 20 is a computer including a CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like.

The second storage unit 21 is configured to store various programs executed by the second processor 20 . In addition, the second storage unit 21 stores the measurement result 40 transmitted from the measuring device 1 (see FIG. 2), index data 41 that is an index of brain function, specific information 42 that identifies the subject 90, the subject 90 (See FIG. 3) is configured to store tasks 43 (first task 43a and second task 43b) to be executed. In this embodiment, the second storage unit 21 is configured to store the identification information 42, the measurement result 40, and the index data 41 in association with each other.

The specific information 42 includes at least one of an identification number unique to the subject 90 and biometric authentication information of the subject 90 . The biometric authentication information of the subject 90 includes, for example, fingerprint information of the subject 90, iris information of the subject 90, vein arrangement pattern information of the subject 90, and the like. The second storage unit 21 includes, for example, a non-volatile storage device such as HDD or SSD. The second storage unit 21 is an example of the "storage unit" in the scope of claims.

The second data transmission unit 22 is configured to transmit the index data 41 specified based on the specification information 42 to the terminal 3 (see FIG. 5) operated by the subject 90 . Second data transmission unit 22 includes, for example, a communication device that performs data communication via network 80 . The second data transmission section 22 is an example of a "data transmission section" in the claims.

Details of the configuration in which the server 2 generates the index data 41 and the configuration in which the server 2 transmits the index data 41 to the terminal 3 will be described later.

<Terminal>
Next, the configuration of the terminal 3 operated by the subject 90 will be described with reference to FIG. Terminal 3 includes a third processor 30 , a third storage section 31 , a display section 32 , a second input reception section 33 and a third data transmission section 34 .

The third processor 30 is configured to perform various controls on the terminal 3 by executing programs stored in the third storage unit 31 . The third processor 30 is a computer including a CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like.

The third storage unit 31 is configured to store various programs executed by the third processor 30 . Third storage unit 31 includes, for example, a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD or an SSD.

The display unit 32 is configured to display index data 41 (see FIG. 4) acquired from the server 2 (see FIG. 4). Display unit 32 includes, for example, a liquid crystal monitor.

The second input reception unit 33 is configured to be able to receive operation input from the subject 90 . Second input reception unit 33 includes, for example, a touch pad. Note that the terminal 3 includes a touch panel display in which the display unit 32 and the second input reception unit 33 are integrated.

The third data transmission unit 34 is configured to transmit the specific information 42 (see FIG. 4) input by the subject 90 to the server 2 (see FIG. 4). Third data transmission unit 34 includes, for example, a communication device that performs data communication via network 80 .

<Brain function measurement processing>
Next, with reference to FIG. 6, brain function measurement processing in the brain function measurement method according to this embodiment will be described.

The brain function measurement process is roughly divided into step 101 of the measurement process executed by the measurement device 1 (see FIG. 1), transmission of the task 43 (see FIG. 4) executed by the server 2 (see FIG. 4), It includes a step 200 of generating and transmitting the index data 41 (see FIG. 4) and a step 300 of acquiring and displaying the index data 41 executed by the terminal 3 (see FIG. 1). Note that the brain function measurement processing shown in FIG. 6 is performed on the assumption that the subject 90 has registered the specific information 42 in the server 2 in advance.

In step 101a, the first processor 10 (see FIG. 2) of the measuring device 1 (see FIG. 2) acquires the specific information 42 input by the subject 90.

At step 101b, the first processor 10 transmits the specific information 42 to the server 2 (see FIG. 4) via the first data transmission unit 13 (see FIG. 2). That is, the subject 90 logs into the brain function measurement system 100 using the measurement device 1 through the processing of

steps

101a and 101b.

Next, the process moves to the process on Server 2. That is, in step 200a, the second processor 20 (see FIG. 4) receives the specific information 42 transmitted from the measuring device 1 (first data transmitting section 13).

At step 200b, the second processor 20 acquires the task 43 (see FIG. 4) based on the specific information 42. Specifically, the second processor 20 acquires the first task 43a (see FIG. 4) and the second task 43b (see FIG. 4) based on the specific information 42. FIG.

At step 200 c , the second processor 20 sends the task 43 to the measuring device 1 . Specifically, the second processor 20 transmits the first task 43 a and the second task 43 b to the measuring device 1 .

The process moves to measuring device 1 again. That is, at step 101c, the first processor 10 receives the task 43. FIG. Specifically, the first processor 10 receives a first task 43a and a second task 43b.

At step 101d, the first processor 10 starts acquisition of the signal 4 (see FIG. 7) by the signal measuring section 11 (see FIG. 7).

At step 101e, the first processor 10 presents a task 43 for measuring the brain function of the subject 90 via the task presentation unit 12. Note that the first processor 10 presents the first task 43a and the second task 43b in a preset order, rather than presenting the first task 43a and the second task 43b concurrently. Specifically, the second task presentation unit 12b presents the second task 43b. After that, the first task presentation unit 12a presents the first task 43a. The second task 43b may be presented by the second task presentation section 12b after the first task presentation section 12a presents the first task 43a.

At step 101f, the first processor 10 outputs the measurement result 40 (FIG. 7) of the signal 4 (see FIG. 7) based on the cerebral blood flow of the subject 90 (see FIG. 3) while the task 43 is presented. reference). Specifically, the first processor 10 acquires the measurement result 40 while the second task 43b is presented and the measurement result 40 while the first task 43a is presented. That is, in step 101f, the first processor 10 ends acquisition of the signal 4 by the signal measuring unit 11, and acquires the signal 4 from the time when the acquisition of the signal 4 is started to the time when the acquisition of the signal 4 is completed as the measurement result 40. FIG. In other words, the measurement result 40 is a data group of a plurality of signals 4 measured while the task 43 is presented by the task presentation unit 12 .

At step 101 g , the first processor 10 transmits the measurement result 40 to the server 2 via the first data transmission section 13 . Note that the first processor 10 transmits the measurement result 40 to the server 2 together with the identification information 42 that identifies the subject 90 . After that, the processing by the measuring device 1 ends. Note that the first processor 10 may be configured to display a message or the like indicating that the measurement is finished before the processing by the measuring device 1 is finished.

Next, the process moves to Server 2. That is, the second processor 20 receives the measurement result 40 in step 200d. The second processor 20 also receives the specific information 42 together with the measurement result 40 .

At step 200e, the second processor 20 generates index data 41 (see FIG. 4), which is an index of brain function, based on the measurement results 40. The details of the configuration in which the second processor 20 generates the index data 41 will be described later.

At step 200f, the second processor 20 associates the specific information 42, the measurement result 40, and the index data 41 and stores them.

Next, the process moves to Terminal 3. That is, at step 300 a , the third processor 30 (see FIG. 5) acquires the specific information 42 input based on the operation input of the subject 90 .

At step 300 b , the third processor 30 transmits the specific information 42 to the server 2 via the third data transmission section 34 . That is, the subject 90 logs into the brain function measurement system 100 via the terminal 3 through the processing of steps 300a and 300b.

Here, the process moves to Server 2. That is, at step 200 g , the second processor 20 receives the specific information 42 transmitted from the terminal 3 .

At step 200 h, the second processor 20 identifies the index data 41 based on the received identification information 42 .

In step 200i, the second processor 20 transmits the specified index data 41 to the terminal 3 operated by the subject 90. Processing in server 2 ends.

Here, the process moves to terminal 3 again. That is, at step 300c, the third processor 30 receives the index data 41. FIG.

At step 300d, the third processor 30 displays the index data 41 on the terminal 3 (the display unit 32 (see FIG. 6)). After that, the process ends.

<Transmission of information from the measuring device to the server>
Next, a configuration in which the first processor 10 transmits the measurement result 40 to the server 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7, the first processor 10 includes a measurement result acquisition unit 10a, a first specific information acquisition unit 10b, and a first data association unit 10c. The measurement result acquisition unit 10a, the first specific information acquisition unit 10b, and the first data association unit 10c are software-configured as functional blocks realized by the first processor 10 executing various programs. The measurement result acquisition unit 10a, the first specific information acquisition unit 10b, and the first data association unit 10c are configured by providing a dedicated processor (processing circuit) for the measurement device 1 (see FIG. may be configured

The measurement result acquisition unit 10a is configured to acquire the measurement result 40 of the signal 4 measured by the signal measurement unit 11 while the task 43 (see FIG. 2) is presented. Further, the measurement result acquisition unit 10a acquires the measurement date and time 45, which is information on the date and time when the signal 4 was acquired, from a time server (not shown). The measurement result acquisition unit 10a also outputs the measurement result 40 and the measurement date and time 45 to the first data association unit 10c.

The first specific information acquisition unit 10b acquires the specific information 42 input by the subject 90 via the first input reception unit 14. Further, the first specific information acquisition unit 10b outputs the acquired specific information 42 to the first data association unit 10c.

The first data association unit 10c acquires the measurement result 40 and the measurement date and time 45 from the measurement result acquisition unit 10a. Also, the first data association unit 10c acquires the specific information 42 from the first specific information acquisition unit 10b. Also, the first data association unit 10 c acquires the information 44 of the task 43 from the first storage unit 15 . The first data association unit 10 c acquires the first association data 46 by associating the acquired specific information 42 , the measurement result 40 , the information 44 of the task 43 , and the measurement date 45 . The first association data 46 has a data structure in which the identification information 42, the measurement result 40, and the information 44 of the task 43 are linked so that the subject 90 can be identified by the identification information 42. FIG. The first data association unit 10 c outputs the first association data 46 to the first data transmission unit 13 .

The first data transmission unit 13 transmits to the server 2 the first association data 46 input from the first data association unit 10c. That is, the first data transmission unit 13 transmits the specific information 42, the measurement result 40, and the information 44 of the task 43 in association with each other to the server 2. FIG.

<Index data generation>
Next, a configuration in which the second processor 20 generates the index data 41 and stores it in the second storage unit 21 will be described with reference to FIG.

The second processor 20 includes an index data generation unit 20a, a second specific information acquisition unit 20b, and a second data association unit 20c. The index data generation unit 20a, the second specific information acquisition unit 20b, and the second data association unit 20c are software-configured as functional blocks realized by the second processor 20 executing various programs. The index data generation unit 20a, the second specific information acquisition unit 20b, and the second data association unit 20c are hardware-based by providing a dedicated processor (processing circuit) for the server 2 (see FIG. 4). may be configured to

The index data generation unit 20a is configured to generate index data 41, which is an index of brain function. In this embodiment, the index data generator 20 a is provided in the server 2 . The index data generation unit 20 a acquires the measurement result 40 and the information 44 of the task 43 from the first association data 46 transmitted from the first data transmission unit 13 . The index data generator 20 a is configured to generate index data 41 based on the information 44 of the task 43 transmitted from the measuring device 1 and the measurement result 40 . Based on the measurement result 40 while the first task 43a (see FIG. 4) is presented and the measurement result 40 while the second task 43b (see FIG. 4) is presented to generate index data 41 . Note that the index data generation unit 20 a identifies the type of task 43 presented in the measurement result 40 based on the information 44 of the task 43 .

The index data generation unit 20a acquires the brain function index value of the subject 90 based on the measurement result 40. The index data generating unit 20a generates, for example, an average value of the waveform of the measurement result 40, a value indicating the center of area of the waveform of the measurement result 40, or a value indicating the inclination (maximum value of inclination) of the waveform of the measurement result 40, Get it as an index value. It should be noted that the waveform of the measurement result 40 is a curve that indicates changes in cerebral blood flow.

In addition, the index data generation unit 20a generates index data 41 based on the obtained index value. The index data 41 includes comments 49a (see FIG. 10) representing the brain function state of the subject 90, pictograms 49b (see FIG. 10) representing the brain function state of the subject 90, and It includes a moving image 49c (see FIG. 10) generated based on changes in cerebral blood flow during execution of task 43 (see FIG. 4).

The index data generation unit 20a outputs the generated index data 41 and the obtained measurement result 40 to the second data association unit 20c.

The second specific information acquisition unit 20b is configured to acquire the specific information 42 from the first association data 46 transmitted from the first data transmission unit 13. The second specific information acquisition unit 20b also outputs the acquired specific information 42 to the second data association unit 20c.

The second data association unit 20c acquires the index data 41 and the measurement result 40 from the index data generation unit 20a. Also, the second data association unit 20c acquires the specific information 42 from the second specific information acquisition unit 20b. Also, the second data association unit 20 c acquires the measurement date and time 45 included in the first association data 46 . The second data association unit 20c acquires second association data 47 that associates the measurement result 40, the index data 41, and the specific information 42 with each other. The second association data 47 has a data structure in which the measurement result 40, the specific information 42, and the index data 41 are linked so that the subject 90 can be specified by the specific information 42. FIG. Further, in the present embodiment, the second data association unit 20 c associates the measurement result 40 , the index data 41 , the specific information 42 and the measurement date and time 45 as the second association data 47 . The second data association unit 20 c outputs the second association data 47 to the second storage unit 21 .

The second storage unit 21 stores the second association data 47. That is, the second storage unit 21 stores the specific information 42, the measurement result 40, and the index data 41 in association with each other. The second storage unit 21 is also configured to store the measurement result 40 and index data 41 for each subject 90 over time. Specifically, the second storage unit 21 stores the measurement result 40 and index data 41 for each subject 90 each time the measurement result 40 is measured. Therefore, the measurement result 40 and the index data 41 for each subject 90 are stored in the second storage unit 21 in order of the measurement date and time 45 .

<Transmission of index data from the server to the terminal>
Next, a configuration in which the server 2 (see FIG. 4) transmits the index data 41 to the terminal 3 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 9, the second processor 20 further includes an index data identification unit 20d. The index data specifying unit 20d is configured in terms of software as a functional block realized by the second processor 20 executing various programs. The index data specifying unit 20d may be configured in hardware by providing a dedicated processor (processing circuit) for the server 2. FIG.

Here, the subject 90 may want to check the index data 41 of the desired date and the past index data 41a, which is the index data 41 before that date, among the index data 41 stored in the server 2. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the index data specifying unit 20d is configured to acquire the period information 48 from the terminal 3. FIG. The period information 48 includes the starting date of the period.

The index data specifying unit 20 d acquires the specifying information 42 and the period information 48 from the third data transmitting unit 34 . Based on the period information 48 input together with the identification information 42 , the index data identification unit 20 d identifies a plurality of index data 41 corresponding to the period information 48 . Specifically, the index data specifying unit 20d uses the date transmitted from the terminal 3 as the starting date, and specifies the index data 41 on the starting date and the past index data 41a, which is the index data 41 past the starting date. do. The number of pieces of index data 41 to be acquired is set in advance and stored in the second storage unit 21 . In this embodiment, for example, six pieces (for six days) of index data 41 are acquired as the plurality of pieces of index data 41 . That is, the index data specifying unit 20d specifies the index data 41 for the starting date and the past index data 41a for the past five days from the starting date, that is, the index data 41 for a total of six days.

The index data identifying unit 20d outputs the identified index data 41 and past index data 41a to the second data transmitting unit 22.

The second data transmission unit 22 is configured to transmit a plurality of index data 41 corresponding to the period information 48 to the terminal 3 based on the period information 48 input together with the specific information 42 . In the present embodiment, the second data transmission unit 22 uses the date transmitted from the terminal 3 as the starting date, and transmits the index data 41 on the starting date and the past index data 41a, which is the index data 41 past the starting date. It is configured to transmit to the terminal 3.

<Screen example for displaying index data>
Next, referring to FIG. 10, when the index data 41 transmitted from the server 2 (see FIG. 4) to the terminal 3 (see FIG. 5) according to the present embodiment is displayed on the display unit 32 (see FIG. 5), An example of the screen 32a of .

At the top of the screen 32a displaying the index data 41, a date 60 when the index data 41 displayed on the screen 32a was acquired is displayed. Further, on the screen 32a, as the index data 41, a comment 49a representing the brain function state of the subject 90, a pictogram 49b representing the brain function state of the subject 90, and the subject 90 (see FIG. 3) are displayed. ) is executing the task 43 (see FIG. 4), a moving image 49c is displayed, which is generated based on the change in the cerebral blood flow.

The comment 49a representing the brain function state of the subject 90 includes a plurality of messages according to the brain function of the subject 90. Also, the pictogram 49 b representing the brain function state of the subject 90 includes a plurality of icons corresponding to the brain function of the subject 90 . A plurality of comments 49a and a plurality of pictograms 49b are stored in the second storage unit 21 (see FIG. 4), and the corresponding comments 49a and pictograms 49b are selected according to the index value and displayed on the screen 32a.

In the moving image 49c, by changing the display mode of the circle 61 displayed on the schematic diagram of the brain, changes in the cerebral blood flow are displayed in an identifiable manner. In this embodiment, for example, a moving image 49c is displayed in which the color depth of the circle 61 is changed according to changes in the amount of blood flow in the brain.

In addition, a seek bar 62 that displays the playback part of the video 49c is displayed on the video 49c. Also, in the seek bar 62, words that can identify the reproduced part during execution of the first task 43a (see FIG. 4) and the reproduced part during execution of the second task 43b (see FIG. 4) in the moving image 49c 62a is shown.

Also, the history 50 of the index data 41 is displayed at the bottom of the screen 32a. Specifically, the index data 41 (pictogram 49b) and past index data 41a are displayed as the history 50 of the index data 41 at the bottom of the screen 32a. In the example shown in FIG. 10, as the past index data 41a, data for the past five times when the date when the index data 41 was acquired is set as the starting date is displayed. That is, a total of six index data 41 are displayed as the history 50 of the index data 41 .

(Effect of this embodiment)
The following effects can be obtained in this embodiment.

In the present embodiment, as described above, the brain function measurement system 100 includes the signal measurement unit 11 for measuring the signal 4 based on the blood flow in the brain of the subject 90, and the signal measurement unit 11 for measuring the brain function of the subject 90. a task presentation unit 12 that presents the task 43 of, a measurement result acquisition unit 10a that acquires the measurement result 40 of the signal 4 measured by the signal measurement unit 11 while the task 43 is presented, and a measurement result acquisition unit 10a An index data generation unit 20a that generates index data 41 that is an index of brain function, specific information 42 that identifies a subject 90, measurement results 40, and index data 41 based on measurement results 40 acquired by and a data transmission unit (second data and a server 2 including a transmission unit 22).

As a result, the index data 41 is transmitted from the server 2 to the terminal 3, so that the index data 41 can be confirmed by the terminal 3 owned by the subject 90. As a result, for example, the subject 90 can check the index data 41 using the terminal 3 owned by the subject 90 without visiting a hospital or the like. 41 can be easily identified.

Further, in the present embodiment, as described above, the method for measuring brain function includes the step of presenting the task 43 for measuring the brain function of the subject 90; a step of acquiring a measurement result 40 of the signal 4 based on the cerebral blood flow of the person 90; a step of generating index data 41 that is an index of brain function; a step of associating and storing specific information 42, measurement results 40, and index data 41; to the terminal 3 operated by the subject 90 , and displaying the index data 41 on the terminal 3 .

Thus, similarly to the brain function measurement system 100, it is possible to provide a brain function measurement method that allows the subject 90 to easily check the brain function index data 41.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the following further effects can be obtained by configuring as follows.

That is, in the present embodiment, as described above, the server 2 is configured to store the measurement results 40 and the index data 41 for each subject 90 over time. The unit 22) is configured to transmit a plurality of index data 41 corresponding to the period information 48 to the terminal 3 based on the period information 48 input together with the specific information 42 . Thereby, of the index data 41 stored over time, a plurality of index data 41 corresponding to the period desired by the subject 90 can be transmitted to the terminal 3 . As a result, the subject 90 can confirm a plurality of index data 41 for a period desired by the subject 90, so that the subject 90 can check the history of the brain function index data 41 for a desired period. can be grasped.

Further, in the present embodiment, as described above, the period information 48 includes the date of the start date of the period, and the data transmission unit (second data transmission unit 22) transmits the date transmitted from the terminal 3 as the start date. , the index data 41 of the start date and the past index data 41a, which is the index data 41 past the start date, are transmitted to the terminal 3. FIG. As a result, the subject 90 can easily acquire the index data 41 of the starting date and the past index data 41a past the starting date by inputting the starting date of the period using the terminal 3 . As a result, the operation can be simplified compared to a configuration in which the subject 90 selects each of the index data 41 and the past index data 41a to be displayed on the terminal 3 .

In addition, in this embodiment, as described above, the server 2 is configured to transmit to the terminal 3 the index data 41 to be displayed on the display unit 32 included in the terminal 3 . As a result, the index data 41 can be displayed on the display unit 32 of the terminal 3, so that the subject 90 can check the index data 41 at an arbitrary place and at an arbitrary timing. As a result, the convenience (usability) of the subject 90 can be improved.

In addition, in this embodiment, as described above, the specific information 42 includes at least one of an identification number unique to the subject 90 and biometric authentication information of the subject 90 . Thereby, for example, when the identification information 42 is an identification number unique to the subject 90 , the subject 90 can be identified without using the personal information of the subject 90 . As a result, leakage of personal information can be suppressed. Further, for example, when the specific information 42 is the biometric authentication information of the subject 90, even if the subject 90 forgets the identification number, the fingerprint information of the subject 90 or the iris information of the subject 90 can be obtained. Since it becomes possible to specify the subject 90 based on biometric authentication information such as information, the convenience (usability) of the subject 90 can be improved.

Further, in the present embodiment, as described above, the task presentation unit 12 and the measurement result acquisition unit 10a are provided in the single measurement device 1 configured to be communicable with the server 2, and index data generation is performed. The unit 20 a is provided in the server 2 and is configured to generate the index data 41 based on the information 44 of the task 43 transmitted from the measuring device 1 and the measurement result 40 . Accordingly, unlike the configuration in which the index data generation unit 20a is provided in the measuring device 1 and the index data 41 is displayed in the measuring device 1, the measuring device 1 is provided by accessing the server 2 from the terminal 3. The index data 41 can be confirmed by the terminal 3 without visiting the facility. As a result, after obtaining the measurement result 40, the subject 90 can check the index data 41 regardless of place and time.

Further, in the present embodiment, as described above, the task 43 includes the first task 43a regarding memory and the second task 43b regarding sensory stimulation and memory, and the task presentation unit 12 presents the first task 43a. It includes a first task presentation unit 12a and a second task presentation unit 12b that presents a second task 43b. As a result, for example, the task presenting unit 12 can present a plurality of types of tasks 43 to the subject 90, unlike the configuration in which only one of the first task presenting unit 12a and the second task presenting unit 12b is presented. can be done. As a result, it is possible to measure the brain function of the subject 90 using multiple types of tasks 43, so that the brain function of the subject 90 can be measured in more detail.

Further, in the present embodiment, as described above, the signal measurement unit 11 includes a plurality of light irradiation units 11a that irradiate measurement light, a plurality of light reception units 11b that receive measurement light, and a plurality of light irradiation units 11a. , and a holder 11c that holds a plurality of light receiving portions 11b and is mounted on the head 90a of the subject 90. As shown in FIG. As a result, the brain function of the subject 90 can be measured by the subject 90 wearing the holder 11c, unlike a configuration that measures the brain function of the subject 90 using, for example, an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) device. can be measured. As a result, for example, by arranging the signal measuring unit 11 (measuring device 1) in nursing homes, nursing homes, sports gyms, etc., the subject 90 himself/herself can The brain function of examiner 90 can be measured.

[Modification]
It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed this time should be considered as examples and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the scope of the claims rather than the above description of the embodiments, and includes all modifications (modifications) within the scope and meaning equivalent to the scope of the claims.

For example, in the above-described embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the second data transmission unit 22 transmits a plurality of pieces of index data 41 corresponding to the period information 48 to the terminal 3 based on the period information 48 was shown. The invention is not limited to this. For example, the second data transmission unit 22 may be configured to transmit one index data 41 corresponding to the information 48 of the period to the terminal 3 . That is, when the date that the subject 90 wants to display on the terminal 3 is transmitted from the terminal 3 to the server 2 as the information 48 of the period, the second data transmission unit 22 transmits the date transmitted from the terminal 3 It may be configured to transmit the data 41 to the terminal 3 .

Further, in the above embodiment, the period information 48 includes the start date of the period, and the second data transmission unit 22 transmits the index data 41 of the start date of the period and the past index data 41a past the start date. Although an example of the configuration for transmitting to the terminal 3 has been shown, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, time period information 48 may include multiple dates that subject 90 would like displayed. In this case, the second data transmission unit 22 may be configured to transmit the index data 41 of a plurality of dates included in the period information 48 to the terminal 3 .

Also, in the above-described embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the task presentation unit 12 and the measurement result acquisition unit 10a are provided in a single measurement device 1 has been shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. The task presentation unit 12 and the measurement result acquisition unit 10a may be provided in different devices.

Further, in the present embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the holder 11c holds the measurement unit 11e including the light-sending probe and the light-receiving probe, and the measurement unit 11e and the measuring device 1 are connected by the optical fiber 11d is shown. The present invention is not limited to this. For example, the measurement unit 11e may include a light source, a light-sending probe, an optical sensor, and a light-receiving probe, and the measurement unit 11e may be connected to the measuring device 1 via a signal line. Further, for example, a measurement unit 11e including a light source, a light-transmitting probe, an optical sensor, and a light-receiving probe may be configured to be connected to the measuring device 1 by wireless connection.

Also, in the above embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the index data generation unit 20a is provided in the server 2 has been shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the index data generator may be provided in the measuring device 1 . When the index data generator is provided in the measuring device 1 , the measuring device 1 may be configured to transmit the index data 41 together with the measurement result 40 to the server 2 .

Also, in the above embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the task 43 includes both the first task 43a and the second task 43b is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, task 43 may include only one of first task 43a and second task 43b. In this case, the task presentation unit 12 may include either the first task presentation unit 12a or the second task presentation unit 12b according to the task 43 to be presented. However, when the task 43 includes only one of the first task 43a and the second task 43b, the measurement accuracy of the brain function of the subject 90 is lowered. Therefore, task 43 preferably includes both a first task 43a and a second task 43b.

Also, in the above-described embodiment, the second task presentation unit 12b shows an example of a configuration in which characters are written by pressure stimulation, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, if it is possible to give the subject 90 a feeling of writing on the palm of the subject's hand, the second task presenting unit 12b performs the second task by a sensory stimulus other than pressure stimulus, such as a cold sensation stimulus. 43b may be presented.

In the above embodiment, the first task presenting unit 12a presents a subtraction calculation problem to the subject 90 as the first task 43a, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the first task presenting unit 12a may present the subject 90 with any computational problem of the four arithmetic operations. In addition, if it is possible to measure cognitive functions such as age, date of measurement date, measurement place, immediate memory of words and items, recitation of numbers, recall of vegetable names, the first task presentation unit 12a The presented task can be any task.

Also, in the above embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the task presentation unit 12 presents the task 43 for measuring the cognitive function of the subject 90 is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the task presentation unit 12 may be configured to present a task capable of measuring brain functions other than the cognitive function of the subject 90 . The task presentation unit 12 may be configured, for example, to present a task capable of measuring the brain motor function of the subject 90 .

Also, in the above embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the measuring device 1 (the first processor 10) acquires the task 43 from the server 2 has been shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the task 43 may be stored in the first storage section 15 included in the measuring device 1 . In this case, the measuring device 1 acquires information specifying the task 43 to be presented to the subject 90 from the server 2, and based on the acquired information specifying the task 43, the task stored in the first storage unit 15 43 may be presented by the task presentation unit 12 .

[Aspect]
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the exemplary embodiments described above are specific examples of the following aspects.

(Item 1)
a signal measuring unit that measures a signal based on blood flow in the subject's brain;
a task presentation unit that presents a task for measuring brain function of a subject;
a measurement result acquisition unit that acquires a measurement result of the signal measured by the signal measurement unit while the task is presented;
an index data generating unit that generates index data, which is an index of the brain function, based on the measurement result obtained by the measurement result obtaining unit;
a storage unit that associates and stores specific information that identifies a subject, the measurement result, and the index data; and a terminal that the subject operates with the index data that is identified based on the specific information. A brain function measurement system, comprising: a data transmission unit that transmits data; and a server that includes a data transmission unit.

(Item 2)
The server is configured to store the measurement results and the index data over time for each subject,
Item 1, wherein the data transmission unit is configured to transmit a plurality of the index data corresponding to the period information to the terminal based on the period information input together with the specific information. The brain function measurement system described.

(Item 3)
The information on the period includes the date of the starting date of the period,
The data transmission unit uses the date transmitted from the terminal as the starting date, and sends the index data on the starting date and the past index data, which is the index data past the starting date, to the terminal. 3. The brain function measurement system according to item 2, configured to transmit.

(Item 4)
The brain function measurement according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the server is configured to transmit to the terminal the index data to be displayed on a display unit included in the terminal. system.

(Item 5)
5. The brain function measurement system according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the specific information includes at least one of an identification number unique to the subject and biometric authentication information of the subject.

(Item 6)
The task presentation unit and the measurement result acquisition unit are provided in a single measurement device configured to be communicable with the server,
The index data generation unit is provided in the server, and is configured to generate the index data based on the information of the task transmitted from the measurement device and the measurement result. 6. The brain function measuring system according to any one of 1 to 5.

(Item 7)
The tasks include a first task related to memory and a second task related to sensory stimulation and memory,
7. The brain function measurement system according to item 6, wherein the task presentation unit includes a first task presentation unit that presents the first task and a second task presentation unit that presents the second task.

(Item 8)
The signal measurement unit holds a plurality of light irradiation units that irradiate measurement light, a plurality of light reception units that receive the measurement light, a plurality of light irradiation units, and a plurality of light reception units. 8. The brain function measurement system according to any one of items 1 to 7, further comprising a holder to be worn on the head of a person.

(Item 9)
presenting a task for measuring brain function of the subject;
obtaining measurements of signals based on blood flow in the subject's brain while the task is presented;
a step of transmitting the measurement result to a server together with specific information that identifies the subject;
generating index data, which is an index of the brain function, based on the measurement result;
a step of associating and storing the specific information, the measurement result, and the index data;
a step of receiving the specific information and transmitting the index data specified based on the received specific information to a terminal operated by the subject;
and displaying the index data on the terminal.

1 measurement device 2 server 3 terminal 10a measurement result acquisition unit 11 signal measurement unit 11a light irradiation unit 11b light receiving unit 11c holder 12 task presentation unit 12a first task presentation unit 12b second task presentation unit 20a index data generation unit 21 second storage part (storage part)
22 second data transmission unit (data transmission unit)
32 display unit 40 measurement result 41 index data 41a past index data 42 specific information 43 task 43a first task 43b second task 44 task information 47 period information 50 signal (signal based on cerebral blood flow)
90 Examinee 100 Brain function measurement system

Claims

a signal measuring unit that measures a signal based on blood flow in the subject's brain;
a task presentation unit that presents a task for measuring brain function of a subject;
a measurement result acquisition unit that acquires a measurement result of the signal measured by the signal measurement unit while the task is presented;
an index data generating unit that generates index data, which is an index of the brain function, based on the measurement result obtained by the measurement result obtaining unit;
a storage unit that associates and stores specific information that identifies a subject, the measurement result, and the index data; and a terminal that the subject operates with the index data that is identified based on the specific information. A brain function measurement system, comprising: a data transmission unit that transmits data; and a server that includes a data transmission unit.
The server is configured to store the measurement results and the index data over time for each subject,
2. The data transmission unit is configured to transmit a plurality of the index data corresponding to the period information to the terminal, based on the period information input together with the specific information. The brain function measurement system according to .
The information on the period includes the date of the starting date of the period,
The data transmission unit uses the date transmitted from the terminal as the starting date, and sends the index data on the starting date and the past index data, which is the index data past the starting date, to the terminal. 3. The brain function measurement system of claim 2, configured to transmit.
The brain function measurement system according to claim 1, wherein said server is configured to transmit said index data to be displayed on a display unit included in said terminal, to said terminal.
　The brain function measurement system according to claim 1, wherein the specific information includes at least one of an identification number unique to the subject and biometric authentication information of the subject.
The task presentation unit and the measurement result acquisition unit are provided in a single measurement device configured to be communicable with the server,
The index data generation unit is provided in the server and is configured to generate the index data based on the information of the task transmitted from the measuring device and the measurement result. Item 1. The brain function measurement system according to item 1.
The tasks include a first task related to memory and a second task related to sensory stimulation and memory,
7. The brain function measurement system according to claim 6, wherein said task presentation section includes a first task presentation section for presenting said first task and a second task presentation section for presenting said second task.
The signal measurement unit holds a plurality of light irradiation units that irradiate measurement light, a plurality of light reception units that receive the measurement light, a plurality of light irradiation units, and a plurality of light reception units. 2. The brain function measuring system according to claim 1, further comprising a holder to be worn on the head of a person.
presenting a task for measuring brain function of a subject;
obtaining measurements of signals based on blood flow in the subject's brain while the task is presented;
a step of transmitting the measurement result to a server together with specific information that identifies the subject;
generating index data, which is an index of the brain function, based on the measurement result;
a step of associating and storing the specific information, the measurement result, and the index data;
a step of receiving the specific information and transmitting the index data specified based on the received specific information to a terminal operated by the subject;
and displaying the index data on the terminal.