Analysis system, analysis method, analysis data acquisition device, and analysis program

Abstract

Provided is an analysis system for analyzing the function of a semicircular canal under rotational stimulation, which includes a vestibular ocular reflex data acquisition element for acquiring first vestibular ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a rotational angle amount of a vestibular ocular reflex by a head position rotational angle amount, and second vestibular ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a residual rotational angle amount obtained by subtracting, from the head position rotational angle amount, a rotational angle amount based on a compensatory saccade (CUS), and analyzing the function of a semicircular canal based on the second vestibular ocular reflex data, or the first vestibular ocular reflex data and the second vestibular ocular reflex data.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an analysis system, analysis method, data acquisition device for analysis, and analysis program. Background Technology

[0002] The video head impulse test (hereinafter referred to as "vHIT") is a semicircular canal function test developed in 2009 using rotational stimulation. Compared with the traditional caloric test, which uses temperature stimulation, vHIT can be performed using physiological stimulation methods, and can assess the function of both the horizontal and vertical semicircular canals in addition to the horizontal semicircular canals. It is also simpler to perform, which is why it has been rapidly adopted worldwide.

[0003] The vHIT utilizes the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) generated when the subject's (patient's) head is rapidly rotated to measure the angular velocity of head and eye position within the VOR. The evaluation items of the vHIT include VOR. gain and the VOR gain The catch-up saccade (CUS) that occurs when the VOR decreases. The VOR mentioned above... gain This is an important aspect for the quantification of semicircular canal function testing. Current methods calculate VOR based on the angle ratio obtained by integrating the angular velocities of head and eye position during VOR, or by directly calculating the ratio of the angular velocities of head and eye position at any time after the start of VOR. gain In the method (hereinafter also referred to as the "direct method"), the VOR of healthy individuals gain The VOR is approximately 1, but in patients with semicircular canal dysfunction... gain When the value drops to approximately below 0.8, the target will become undetectable, resulting in the aforementioned CUS.

[0004] In the vHIT, due to the nature of the examination under rotational stimulation, slip artifacts such as misalignment of the glasses worn on the head and noise artifacts that prevent accurate measurement of eye position sometimes occur during rotational movements. In such cases, the direct method is greatly affected by these artifacts, resulting in an inability to properly display the VOR. gain The problem (e.g., see Non-Patent Literature 1). Additionally, in patients with semicircular canal hypofunction, the increased rotational angular velocity during rotational stimulation leads to the aforementioned VOR. gain The current vHIT lacks consideration of the influence of rotational angular velocity. Furthermore, as vHIT becomes more widespread, improving the VOR will be crucial. gain The accuracy of the inspection is indispensable.

[0005] <Prior art documents>

[0006] <Non-Patent Literature>

[0007] Non-patent literature 1: “Mutual evaluation of Video Head Impulse Test and temperature stimulus test”, Shindo Susumu et al., equilibrium Res. Vol. 74(6) 541-551 2015) Summary of the Invention

[0008] <Problem to be solved by this invention>

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to provide an analysis system, analysis method, data acquisition device for analysis, and analysis program that can significantly improve the accuracy of examination and accurately and precisely perform semicircular canal function without being affected by artifacts such as slippage.

[0010] <Methods for solving problems>

[0011] As a method for solving the aforementioned problem, it is described below. That is,

[0012] <1> An analysis system for analyzing the function of semicircular canals under rotational stimulation, characterized in that the analysis system includes a vestibulo-ocular reflex data acquisition element, which acquires first vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a vestibulo-ocular reflex rotation angle by a head position rotation angle, and second vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a remaining rotation angle obtained by subtracting at least a rotation angle based on compensatory saccades (CUS) from the head position rotation angle by the remaining rotation angle, and then dividing the remaining rotation angle by the remaining rotation angle. The function of the semicircular canals is analyzed based on the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data, or the first vestibulo-ocular reflex data and the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data.

[0013] <2> According to the above <1> The analysis system, wherein the second vestibular ocular reflex data is obtained by using a rotational angular velocity data acquisition element worn on the subject's head to acquire rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation and rotational angular velocity data of the subject's eye movements, and taking the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation as A and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data based on the subject's compensatory saccades (CUS) as C, according to the following formula VOR. gain(I) = (AC) / A derived from the VOR gain(I) The value of .

[0014] <3> According to the above <2> The analysis system, wherein the first vestibular-ocular reflex data is obtained from the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the eye movement acquired by the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element, wherein the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during the period of head rotation is taken as A, and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the eye movement is taken as B, according to the following formula VOR gain(D) =VOR derived from B / A gain(D) The value of .

[0015] <4> An analytical system for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation, characterized by comprising: a rotational angular velocity data acquisition element, worn on the head of a subject, to acquire rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation and rotational angular velocity data of the subject's eye movements; and an analysis element, which, based on the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the eye movements acquired by the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element, derives the following formula VOR, taking the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation as A and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data based on the subject's compensatory saccades (CUS) as C. gain(I) = (AC) / A, and according to the VOR gain(I) The value analysis is used to assess the function of the semicircular canals.

[0016] <5> According to the above <2> to <4> The analysis system of any one of the claims, wherein the data value of A is the sum of the integral values ​​of multiple integral values ​​of multiple rotational angular velocity data of the head, and the data value of C is the sum of the integral values ​​of multiple integral values ​​of multiple rotational angular velocity data based on the compensatory saccades (CUS) of the subject's eyes.

[0017] <6> According to the above <2> to <5> The analysis system described in any one of the above, wherein multiple VORs are acquired. gain(I) The value, based on the multiple obtained VORs gain(I) The value is used to derive an approximate line, and the VOR at the specified rotational angular velocity is derived from the approximate line. gain(I) The value of .

[0018] <7> According to the above <2> to <6> The analysis system described in any one of the above, wherein multiple VORs are acquired. gain(I) The value, based on the multiple obtained VORs gain(I) The value is used to derive an approximate line, and the obtained multiple VORs are derived based on the approximate line. gain(I) The deviation of the value.

[0019] <8> According to the above <2> to <7> The analysis system described in any one of the above, wherein, based on the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the eye movements acquired by the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element, and taking the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during the period of head rotation as A and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the eye movements as B, the following formula VOR is derived. gain(D) =B / A, and calculate the VOR. gain(D) The value of VOR gain(I) The average and standard deviation of the differences in the values.

[0020] <9> According to the above <8> The analysis system includes a warning element that displays the VOR. gain(D) The value of the VOR gain(I) The value, and the VOR gain(D) The value of VOR gain(I) The average difference and standard deviation of the values ​​are calculated, and a warning is issued if these values ​​exceed the benchmark.

[0021] <10> According to the above <2> to <9> The analysis system according to any one of the claims, wherein the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element comprises: a sensor for collecting rotational angular velocity data related to the rotation of the head; and a camera for capturing the movement of the subject's eyes.

[0022] <11> A data acquisition device for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation, characterized in that it comprises: a sensor for collecting rotational angular velocity data related to head rotation; and a camera for capturing the eye movements of the subject.

[0023] <12> A method for analyzing the function of semicircular canals under rotational stimulation, characterized by comprising a vestibulo-ocular reflex data acquisition step, acquiring first vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing the vestibulo-ocular reflex rotation angle by the head position rotation angle, and second vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by subtracting at least the rotation angle based on compensatory saccades (CUS) from the head position rotation angle and then dividing the remaining rotation angle by the head position rotation angle, and analyzing the function of the semicircular canals based on the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data, or the first vestibulo-ocular reflex data and the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data.

[0024] <13> An analytical method for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation, characterized by comprising: a rotational angular velocity data acquisition step, wherein the device is worn on the head of a subject to acquire rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation and rotational angular velocity data of the subject's eye movements; and an analysis step, wherein, based on the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the eye movements acquired in the rotational angular velocity data acquisition step, and taking the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation as A and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data based on the subject's compensatory saccades (CUS) as C, the following formula VOR is derived. gain(I) = (AC) / A, and according to the VOR gain(I) The value analysis is used to assess the function of the semicircular canals.

[0025] <14> An analytical program for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation is characterized by having a computer perform the following processing: acquiring first vestibular-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a vestibular-ocular reflex rotation angle by a head-position rotation angle, and second vestibular-ocular reflex data obtained by subtracting at least a rotation angle based on compensatory saccades (CUS) from the head-position rotation angle and then dividing the remaining rotation angle by the head-position rotation angle; and analyzing the function of the semicircular canals based on the second vestibular-ocular reflex data, or the first vestibular-ocular reflex data and the second vestibular-ocular reflex data.

[0026] <15> An analytical program for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation is characterized by the following processing by a computer: acquiring rotational angular velocity data of the subject's head during head rotation and rotational angular velocity data of the subject's eye movements; and deriving the following formula VOR based on the rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation as A and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data based on the subject's compensatory saccades (CUS) as C. gain(I) = (AC) / A, and according to the VOR gain(I) The value analysis is used to assess the function of the semicircular canals.

[0027] <The Effects of the Invention>

[0028] According to the present invention, an analysis system, analysis method, analysis data acquisition device, and analysis program are provided that can significantly improve the accuracy of examination and perform accurate and precise analysis of semicircular canal function without being affected by artifacts such as slippage. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 It is a graph showing the relationship between time and angular velocity in vHIT measurement.

[0030] Figure 2A This is used to illustrate how VOR can be directly calculated through vHIT measurement. gain A graph representing the relationship between time and angular velocity using the direct method.

[0031] Figure 2B This is used to illustrate how VOR can be directly calculated through vHIT measurement. gain A graph representing the relationship between time and angular velocity using the direct method.

[0032] Figure 3 It is used to illustrate how VOR can be indirectly determined through vHIT measurement. gain An indirect method, a graph showing the relationship between time and angular velocity.

[0033] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the analysis system of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the analysis system of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow of the analysis method of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a graph showing the relationship between the time and angular velocity of the subject under conditions without slip artifacts in Example 1.

[0037] Figure 8 It is a graph showing the relationship between the time and angular velocity of the subject being intentionally slid and measured in Example 1.

[0038] Figure 9A This represents the rotational angular velocity and VOR of the healthy person in Example 2. gain A diagram showing the relationship between the two.

[0039] Figure 9B This represents the rotational angular velocity and VOR of a patient with unilateral vestibular dysfunction in Example 2. gain A diagram showing the relationship between the two.

[0040] Figure 10 This indicates that the rotational angular velocity in Example 2 causes VOR gain Rotational angular velocity and VOR in the example of change gain A diagram showing the relationship between the two.

[0041] Figure 11 This indicates that in Example 2, an approximate line was created, and VOR was calculated using a specified angular velocity.gain A diagram of the method.

[0042] Figure 12A This is an example of fewer artifacts in Example 3, indicating VOR. gain Rotational angular velocity and VOR when approximately constant gain A diagram showing the relationship between the two.

[0043] Figure 12B This is an example of excessive artifacts in Example 3, indicating VOR. gain Rotational angular velocity and VOR when there is deviation gain A diagram showing the relationship between the two.

[0044] Figure 13A This indicates that the rotational angular velocity with more artifacts but smaller standard deviation in Example 3 is related to VOR. gain A diagram showing the relationship between the two.

[0045] Figure 13B This indicates the rotational angular velocity and VOR in the example of Example 3, where there are fewer artifacts and a smaller standard deviation. gain A diagram showing the relationship between the two.

[0046] Figure 14A This indicates that the least squares method is used to apply the results in Example 3. Figure 13A Rotational angular velocity and VOR under linear fitting conditions gain A diagram showing the relationship between the two.

[0047] Figure 14B This indicates that the least squares method is used to apply the results in Example 3. Figure 13B Rotational angular velocity and VOR under linear fitting conditions gain A diagram showing the relationship between the two. Detailed Implementation

[0048] (Analysis system and analysis methods)

[0049] The first aspect of the analysis system of the present invention is an analysis system for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation, comprising a vestibulo-ocular reflex data acquisition element, acquiring first vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a vestibulo-ocular reflex rotation angle by a head position rotation angle, and acquiring second vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a remaining rotation angle obtained by subtracting at least a rotation angle based on compensatory saccades (CUS) from the head position rotation angle by the remaining rotation angle, and analyzing the function of the semicircular canals based on the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data, or the first vestibulo-ocular reflex data and the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data.

[0050] The second aspect of the analysis system of the present invention is an analysis system for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation, comprising: a rotational angular velocity data acquisition element, worn on the head of a subject, to acquire rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation and rotational angular velocity data of the subject's eye movements; and an analysis element, which, based on the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the eye movements acquired by the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element, derives the following formula VOR, taking the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation as A and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data based on the subject's compensatory saccades (CUS) as C. gain(I) = (AC) / A, and according to the VOR gain(I) The value analysis can be used to determine the function of the semicircular canals, and other components can be included as needed.

[0051] The first aspect of the analytical method of the present invention is an analytical method for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation, which includes a vestibulo-ocular reflex data acquisition step, for acquiring first vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing the vestibulo-ocular reflex rotation angle by the head position rotation angle, and second vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by subtracting at least the rotation angle based on compensatory saccades (CUS) from the head position rotation angle and then dividing the remaining rotation angle by the head position rotation angle, and analyzing the function of the semicircular canals based on the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data, or the first vestibulo-ocular reflex data and the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data.

[0052] The second aspect of the analytical method of the present invention is an analytical method for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation, comprising: a rotational angular velocity data acquisition step, wherein the device is worn on the head of a subject to acquire rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation and rotational angular velocity data of the subject's eye movements; and an analysis step, wherein, based on the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the eye movements acquired in the rotational angular velocity data acquisition step, and taking the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation as A and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data based on the subject's compensatory saccades (CUS) as C, the following formula VOR is derived. gain(I) = (AC) / A, and according to the VOR gain(I) The value analysis of the semicircular canal's function can also include other processes as needed.

[0053] The analysis methods of the first and second aspects of the present invention can be appropriately implemented by the analysis system of the first and second aspects of the present invention. The vestibular reflex data acquisition process can be performed by the vestibular reflex data acquisition element, the rotational angular velocity data acquisition process can be performed by the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element, the analysis process can be performed by the analysis element, and other processes can be performed by other components.

[0054] The analysis system and analysis method provided by the first and second embodiments of the present invention are analysis systems and analysis methods for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation.

[0055] Regarding the semicircular canals, almost all chordates, including humans, have three semicircular canals, hence the name tricircular canals. These tricircular canals are organs that control balance (rotational acceleration) and are a collective term for three semicircular tubular canals that connect to the vestibule of the inner ear.

[0056] As methods for examining semicircular canal function under rotational stimulation, there are the Head Impulse Test (HIT) and the video Head Impulse Test (vHIT).

[0057] The HIT procedure begins with the examiner sitting facing the subject and instructing the subject to continuously fixate on the examiner's target (the tip of the nose). Next, the examiner holds the subject's head firmly to the side with both hands and performs head impulse (HI) stimulation by rapidly rotating the head slightly. When healthy individuals receive HI stimulation, they can maintain focus on the target (the tip of the nose) using the vestibular reflex (VOR). However, when individuals with semicircular canal dysfunction receive HI stimulation on the affected side, due to impaired VOR function, they cannot maintain focus and will exhibit compensatory saccades (CUS) approximately 200 msec after the stimulation begins. During HIT, three HI stimulations are performed on each side. The presence of more than two CUS stimuli, visually confirmed, indicates semicircular canal dysfunction.

[0058] Compared to caloric tests using temperature stimulation, the HIT (Hypercircular canal test) has the advantages of being less invasive to the patient, taking less time, and being able to be performed under physiological stimulation conditions. On the other hand, the HIT relies on visual diagnosis, which involves subjective factors, making it impossible to diagnose semicircular canal dysfunction of a type that is not visually identifiable as CUS (Chronic Uniform Canal Insufficiency) and to quantitatively evaluate semicircular canal function.

[0059] vHIT is a technology developed to improve upon the problems in HIT. Because the angular velocities of head position and eye position are recorded simultaneously during the examination, a dedicated vHIT device is required. Examples of such dedicated vHIT devices include the ICS Impulse manufactured by Natus and the Eye See Cam manufactured by Interacoustic, which are special glasses worn on the head and incorporate a high-speed camera and sensors.

[0060] <Vestibular-ocular reflex data acquisition process and components>

[0061] The vestibular ocular reflex data acquisition process is a process of acquiring first vestibular ocular reflex data obtained by dividing the vestibular ocular reflex rotation angle by the head position rotation angle, and second vestibular ocular reflex data obtained by subtracting at least the rotation angle based on compensatory saccades (CUS) from the head position rotation angle and then dividing the remaining rotation angle by the head position rotation angle, which is then divided by the head position rotation angle. This process is performed by the vestibular ocular reflex data acquisition element.

[0062] In the analysis system and method of the first aspect of the present invention, the function of the semicircular canals is analyzed based on the second vestibular-ocular reflex data, or the first vestibular-ocular reflex data and the second vestibular-ocular reflex data.

[0063] The second vestibular ocular reflex data is obtained by subtracting the rotation angle based on compensatory saccades (CUS) from the head rotation angle to obtain the remaining rotation angle, and then dividing it by the head rotation angle. For example, data such as the head rotation angular velocity minus the CUS rotation angular velocity during VOR can be used. In other words, the second vestibular ocular reflex data is obtained through an indirect method.

[0064] Specifically, the second vestibular ocular reflex data is preferably obtained from the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the eye movements acquired by a rotational angular velocity data acquisition element worn on the subject's head for acquiring rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation and rotational angular velocity data of the subject's eye movements. This is achieved by using the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation as A and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data based on the subject's compensatory saccades (CUS) as C, and then applying the following formula VOR. gain(I) = (AC) / A derived from the VOR gain(I) The value of .

[0065] The first vestibular-ocular reflex data is the vestibular-ocular reflex rotation angle divided by the head position rotation angle. Examples include the ratio of the angles obtained by integrating the angular velocities of head position and eye position during the VOR, or the ratio of the angular velocities of head position and eye position at any time after the start of the VOR. In other words, the first vestibular-ocular reflex data is obtained using a direct method.

[0066] Specifically, the first vestibular-ocular reflex data is preferably obtained by using the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the eye movements acquired by the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element, with the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during the period of head rotation as A and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the eye movements as B, and obtained by the following formula VOR. gain(D) =VOR derived from B / A gain(D) The value of .

[0067] <Rotational angular velocity data acquisition process and components>

[0068] The data acquisition process is a process of acquiring the rotational angular velocity data of the head when the head rotates and the rotational angular velocity data of the subject's eye movements, which is implemented by a data acquisition element worn on the subject's head.

[0069] The rotational angular velocity data acquisition element includes a sensor for collecting angular velocity data related to the rotation of the head, and a camera for capturing the movement of the subject's eyes, and may also include other components as needed.

[0070] The sensor detects the head's movement (angular velocity) during head rotation. Examples include accelerometers, gyroscopes, and motion sensors (composed of gyroscopes, accelerometers, and magnetometers). Using the motion sensor, the direction, orientation, and speed of the subject's head movement can be measured.

[0071] The camera detects the subject's eye movements as the head rotates; for example, an infrared CCD camera can be used. The infrared CCD camera is positioned on the right eye side of the glasses and measures the movement by capturing real-time images of the subject's pupils. It can capture up to 250 frames per second to detect eye movements.

[0072] The sensor and the camera are mounted on glasses that can be worn on the head of the subject.

[0073] The glasses are lightweight and have a face pad, allowing them to be securely worn on the head.

[0074] Other components mentioned include laser modules, etc.

[0075] The laser module is mounted on the glasses and can emit laser light in three horizontal directions (left, center, and right) and project it onto a wall or screen for calibration before the start of the measurement and for focusing on the target during the measurement.

[0076] <Analysis Process and Analytical Elements>

[0077] The analysis step involves deriving the following formula VOR based on the head rotational angular velocity data and the eye movement rotational angular velocity data acquired in the rotational angular velocity data acquisition step, using the integral value of the head rotational angular velocity data during the head rotation as A and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data based on the subject's compensatory saccades (CUS) as C. gain(I) = (AC) / A, and according to the VOR gain(I) The process of analyzing the function of the semicircular canals by measuring their values ​​is performed by the analysis element.

[0078] The data value of A is the integral value, and the data value of C is the sum of multiple integral values.

[0079] Specifically, the data analysis element is a laptop computer with analysis programs installed.

[0080] In this invention, instead of using the direct method of directly utilizing the angular velocities of head position and eye position during VOR, the following formula is used instead: A is taken as the data value of the rotational angular velocity of the head at a predetermined position during head rotation, and B is taken as the data value of the rotational angular velocity of the subject's eyes at a predetermined position. gain(D) =B / A to calculate VOR gain(D) Instead of the direct method, an indirect method is used, which involves subtracting the rotational angular velocity of the compensatory saccade (CUS) from the rotational angular velocity of the head at VOR. Specifically, using the data value of the rotational angular velocity of the head at a predetermined position during head rotation as A, and the data value of the compensatory saccade (CUS) related to the predetermined position of the subject's eyes as C, the following formula is used to calculate VOR. gain(I) = (AC) / A to calculate VOR gain(I) Indirect method.

[0081] The data value of A is the integral value, and the data value of C is the sum of multiple integral values.

[0082] The indirect method described above can be used to obtain VOR that is unaffected by artifacts such as slippage. gain(I) Therefore, the accuracy of inspection can be improved dramatically.

[0083] Here, regarding VOR in the aforementioned vHIT gain The determination method is explained below with reference to the attached diagram.

[0084] As a dedicated vHIT device, measurements were performed using a type of vHIT device (the ICS Impulse manufactured by Natus) that involves wearing special glasses with a built-in high-speed camera and sensors on the head.

[0085] The vHIT procedure begins with the subject sitting in a chair approximately 1-1.5 meters from a wall, with the target positioned at a height where they can look directly at the wall. The subject wears vHIT glasses. Next, the region of interest (ROI) is established. With the subject looking directly at the target, the position of the ROI is adjusted so that it is centered on the pupil. Then, horizontal calibration is performed. The examiner stands behind the subject, firmly holding their head or jaw with both hands. The subject is then instructed to look at the target, and their head is rapidly rotated approximately 10 degrees horizontally, pausing at that point without returning to the starting position. The number of rotational stimulations varies depending on the device model and is not specifically limited, but is typically 20 times.

[0086] As described above, by measuring vHIT using a dedicated vHIT device, one can obtain results such as... Figure 1 The graph shown represents the relationship between time and angular velocity. Figure 1 In the figure, 20 data points are overlapped, showing the Head Impulse (HI) stimulus results from one of them, with head position and eye position indicated by thick lines. Two peaks of compensatory saccades (CUS) were observed in the eye position.

[0087] Figure 1 In this context, the true HI start point (t=0) is the start point of a single HI stimulus, and the HI start point (t'=0) is the algorithmic start point of a single HI stimulus. The HI end point is the end point of a single HI stimulus. Therefore, the period from the HI start point (t'=0) to the HI end point is considered as the time during which the head rotates under a single HI stimulus.

[0088] Furthermore, in the data analysis performed by the vHIT dedicated device, the rotational angular velocity is calculated based on the HI starting point (t'=0) rather than the actual HI starting point (t=0) due to the calculation method. However, if the rotational angular velocity is calculated based on the actual HI starting point (t=0), the same result will be obtained.

[0089] Next, regarding the calculation of VOR using the direct method gain(D) This will be explained in the following way.

[0090] like Figure 2A as well as Figure 2B As shown, based on the data of head and subject eye movements during head rotation acquired by the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element of the vHIT dedicated device, and taking the rotational angular velocity data value of the head at a specified position during the head rotation as A and the rotational angular velocity data value of the subject's eyes at a specified position as B, the following formula VOR is derived. gain(D) =B / A.

[0091] Here, the angular velocity of head rotation in VOR during a single HI stimulus is calculated. Since the integral of the angular velocity is the rotation angle, therefore... Figure 2A The range A enclosed by the thick line, that is, the range bounded by the straight line with a rotational angular velocity of 0 (bottom), the straight line at the starting point of HI (t'=0) (left), the VOR of the head position (top), and the ending point of HI (right), is the rotation angle of the head position.

[0092] On the other hand, the calculation of the rotational angular velocity B of the eye position during a single HI stimulus, since the integral of the rotational angular velocity is the rotational angle, therefore... Figure 2B The range B enclosed by the thick line, that is, the range bounded by the straight line with a rotational angular velocity of 0 (bottom), the straight line from the starting point of HI (t'=0) (left), the VOR of the eye position (top), and the ending point of HI (right), constitutes the rotation angle of the eye position. Furthermore, when the eye position changes by a specified angular velocity or higher, it is determined by the algorithm to be a CUS (=C). Since CUS is not based on the change in eye position according to VOR, the rotation angle of the eye position is calculated by subtracting the CUS that occurs before the end of VOR. This subtraction of CUS is automatically performed by the analysis program.

[0093] Based on the rotation angles A and B obtained in the above manner, the following formula VOR is derived. gain(D) =B / A, and the average of 20 measurements is taken as the VOR of the direct method. gain(D) This method is also referred to below as the direct method (angle ratio).

[0094] Alternatively, VOR can be directly calculated by the ratio of the angular velocities of the eye position and head position at any time after the VOR start point (e.g., 60 msec, 100 msec). gain(D) Hereinafter, it is also referred to as "direct method (angular velocity ratio @ 60ms)" or "direct method (angular velocity ratio @ 100ms)".

[0095] Next, regarding the indirect method for obtaining VOR... gain(I) This will be explained in the following way.

[0096] As an indirect approach, we can establish the following hypothesis: as long as we keep staring at the target, regardless of whether there is a decline in semicircular canal function, after a certain period of time, the rotation angles (integral values ​​of rotational angular velocity) of the head position and eye position will become equal.

[0097] If the above hypothesis is correct, such as Figure 3 As shown, based on the data of head and eye movements acquired by the data acquisition element of the vHIT dedicated device during head rotation, when the data value of the rotational angular velocity of the head at a specified position during the head rotation is taken as A, and the data value of the compensatory saccade (CUS) related to the specified position of the subject's eyes is taken as C, the relationship of rotation angle A = B + C holds. Therefore, according to B = AC, the following formula VOR can be derived. gain(I) = (AC) / A.

[0098] Preferably, the data value of A is an integral value, and the data value of C is the sum of multiple integral values.

[0099] The data value of A is the rotation angle of the head position under Head Impulse (HI) stimulation (the integral value of the rotational angular velocity).

[0100] The data value of C is the area of ​​multiple CUS (the integral of the rotational angular velocity). Compensating saccades (CUS) will appear multiple times before and after the VOR ends; therefore, the total area of ​​the CUS is taken as C.

[0101] Therefore, instead of using the integral value B of eye position in a single HI stimulus, a method was sought to calculate VOR by subtracting the total integral value of CUS from the integral value of cephalic position (indirect method). Furthermore, compensatory saccades (CUS) occur multiple times before and after the end of VOR; therefore, the total area of ​​CUS is used as C.

[0102] The analysis element acquires multiple VORs. gain(I) The value, based on the multiple obtained VORs gain(I) The value is used to derive an approximate line, and the VOR at the specified rotational angular velocity is derived from the approximate line. gain(I) The value of . Here, approximate lines include approximate straight lines or approximate curves.

[0103] The rotational angular velocity used in rotational stimulation testing is preferably 100° / sec to 200° / sec. Therefore, for example, the VOR at a rotational angular velocity of 150° / sec can be calculated from an approximate line. gain To obtain VOR unaffected by rotational angular velocity gain(I) To achieve VOR gain Standardization of values.

[0104] Various total analysis techniques can be used as methods for deriving the approximate line, such as the least squares method.

[0105] The analysis element acquires multiple VORs. gain(I) The value, based on the multiple obtained VORs gain(I) The value is used to derive an approximate line, and the obtained multiple VORs are derived based on the approximate line. gain(I) The deviation of the value. Therefore, the inspection accuracy can be improved.

[0106] By performing multiple vHIT checks, the rotational angular velocity and VOR can be obtained. gain The scatter plot is used to calculate the VOR at a given rotational angular velocity by constructing an approximate line based on this scatter plot. gain .

[0107] Various total analysis techniques can be used as methods for deriving the approximate line, such as the least squares method.

[0108] Examples of such deviations include standard deviation, standard error, dispersion, coefficient of variation (CV), etc.

[0109] The analytical element calculates the VOR using the direct method. gain(D) The VOR obtained using the indirect method gain(I) By analyzing the standard deviation of the difference, the degree of artifacts can be determined, thereby enabling an assessment of whether the inspection was conducted under appropriate conditions.

[0110] Furthermore, the VOR can also be calculated using the direct method on multiple subjects. gain(D) The VOR obtained using the indirect method gain(I) The data were plotted as a scatter plot, the correlation coefficient was calculated, and the patient data were analyzed in detail.

[0111] <Other processes and other components>

[0112] There are no particular limitations on the other steps mentioned, and they can be selected appropriately according to the purpose. For example, communication steps and input steps can be mentioned.

[0113] There are no particular limitations on the other components mentioned, and they can be selected appropriately according to the purpose. For example, communication units, input units, etc. can be mentioned.

[0114] As for the communication unit, any structure that can communicate with multiple inspection locations is acceptable, and there are no particular limitations. Well-known technical structures can be used appropriately, such as signal transceivers, information communication networks, and the Internet.

[0115] As the input unit, it is not particularly limited as long as it can accept various requests issued by the first and second analysis systems of the present invention. Well-known technical structures can be used appropriately, such as keyboards, mice, touchpads, microphones, etc.

[0116] (Data acquisition device for analysis)

[0117] The analytical data acquisition device of the present invention is used to analyze the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation. It includes a sensor for collecting angular velocity data related to head rotation and a camera for capturing the movement of the subject's eyes. Other components may also be provided as needed.

[0118] There are no particular limitations on the data acquisition device for analysis, and it can be selected appropriately according to the purpose, but glasses-type data acquisition devices for analysis are preferred.

[0119] The glasses-style data acquisition device for analysis includes a high-speed camera capable of taking up to 250 high-speed shots per second, and a sensor for obtaining head position information.

[0120] Other components mentioned include, for example, analysis software, computers, etc.

[0121] The data acquisition device for analysis is easy to carry out, allowing for convenient examinations at the bedside or in outpatient settings.

[0122] (Analysis program)

[0123] The first aspect of the analytical program of the present invention is an analytical program for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation, which causes a computer to perform the following processing: acquiring first vestibular-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing the vestibular-ocular reflex rotation angle by the head rotation angle, and second vestibular-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing the remaining rotation angle obtained by subtracting at least the rotation angle based on compensatory saccades (CUS) from the head rotation angle by the head rotation angle, and analyzing the function of the semicircular canals based on the second vestibular-ocular reflex data, or the first vestibular-ocular reflex data and the second vestibular-ocular reflex data.

[0124] The second aspect of the analytical program of the present invention is an analytical program for analyzing the function of the semicircular canals under rotational stimulation. It causes a computer to perform the following processing: acquiring rotational angular velocity data of the subject's head during head rotation and rotational angular velocity data of the subject's eye movements; and deriving the following formula VOR based on the rotational angular velocity data of the head during head rotation as A and the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data based on the subject's compensatory saccades (CUS) as C. gain(I) = (AC) / A, and according to the VOR gain(I) The value analysis is used to process the function of the semicircular canals.

[0125] The analysis programs of the first and second embodiments of the present invention may, for example, be programs for causing a computer to execute the analysis methods of the first and second embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, suitable methods in the analysis programs of the first and second embodiments of the present invention may, for example, be the same as suitable methods in the analysis methods of the first and second embodiments of the present invention.

[0126] The analysis programs of the first and second embodiments of the present invention can be written in various programming languages ​​depending on the structure of the computer system used and the type and version of the operating system.

[0127] The analysis program of the first and second embodiments of the present invention can be recorded in a recording medium such as an internal hard disk or a peripheral hard disk, or in a recording medium such as a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, MO disk, or USB memory.

[0128] Furthermore, when the analysis programs of the first and second embodiments of the present invention are recorded on the aforementioned recording medium, these programs can be used directly via a recording medium reading device provided with a computer system, or after being installed on a hard disk, as needed. Alternatively, the analysis programs of the first and second embodiments of the present invention can be recorded in an external storage area (other computers, etc.) accessible by a computer system via an information communication network. In this case, the analysis programs of the first and second embodiments of the present invention recorded in the external storage area can be used directly from the external storage area via an information communication network, or after being installed on a hard disk, as needed.

[0129] Furthermore, the analysis program of the first and second aspects of the present invention can be recorded in multiple recording media, and the records can be divided according to each arbitrary processing.

[0130] Computer-readable recording media

[0131] The computer-readable recording medium associated with this invention is formed by recording the analytical program of this invention.

[0132] There is no particular limitation on the computer-readable recording medium related to this invention, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Examples include internal hard disks, external hard disks, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, MO disks, USB storage devices, etc.

[0133] Alternatively, the computer-readable recording medium associated with this invention may be multiple recording media in which the analysis program of this invention is divided and recorded according to each arbitrary process.

[0134] Hereinafter, an example of the technology disclosed in this invention will be described in more detail using structural examples of the device and flowcharts.

[0135] Figure 4 An example of the hardware structure of the analysis system of the present invention is shown.

[0136] In Figure 4 In the analysis system 100 of the present invention shown, for example, the control unit 101, the main storage device 102, the auxiliary storage device 103, the I / O interface 104, the communication interface 105, the input device 106, the output device 107, and the display device 108 are connected via a system bus 109.

[0137] The control unit 101 performs calculations (arithmetic operations, comparison operations, etc.), and controls the operation of hardware and software. The control unit 101 may be, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), or part of the device used in the analysis system of this invention, or a combination thereof.

[0138] The control unit 101 performs various functions, for example, by executing programs read from the main storage device 102 (e.g., the analysis program of the present invention).

[0139] The processing performed by the control function unit in the analysis system of the present invention can be performed by the control unit 101, for example.

[0140] The main storage device 102 stores various programs, as well as data required for executing those programs. The main storage device 102 can be, for example, a structure having at least one of ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0141] ROMs can store various programs, such as those for the BIOS (Basic Input / Output System). Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on what constitutes a ROM; it can be chosen appropriately based on its purpose. Examples include mask ROMs and PROMs (Programmable ROMs).

[0142] RAM functions as the operating scope for various programs stored in ROM, auxiliary storage device 103, etc., when the control unit 101 executes them. There are no particular limitations on RAM, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) can be used.

[0143] As an auxiliary storage device 103, it is not particularly limited as long as it can store various types of information, and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, solid-state drives (SSDs) and hard disk drives (HDDs) can be used. In addition, the auxiliary storage device 103 can also be a removable storage device such as a CD drive, DVD drive, or BD (Blu-ray disc) drive.

[0144] In addition, the analysis program of the present invention is stored in the auxiliary storage device 103, downloaded to the RAM (main memory) of the main storage device 102, and executed by the control unit 101.

[0145] I / O interface 104 is an interface used to connect to various external devices. For example, I / O interface 104 can perform data input and output to CD-ROM (Compact Disc ROM), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disk ROM), MO disk (Magneto-Optical disk), USB memory (USB (Universal Serial Bus) flash drive), etc.

[0146] There are no particular limitations on the communication interface 105; well-known technologies may be used, such as communication devices that utilize wireless or wired methods.

[0147] As for the input device 106, there are no particular limitations as long as it can accept various requests or information input to the analysis system 100 of the present invention. Well-known technologies can be used appropriately, such as keyboards, mice, touchpads, microphones, etc. In addition, if the input device 106 is a touchpad (touch display), the input device 106 can also serve as a display device 108.

[0148] As for the output device 107, there are no particular limitations, and known technologies can be appropriately used, such as printers.

[0149] As for the display device 108, there are no particular limitations, and known technologies can be appropriately used, such as liquid crystal displays, organic EL displays, etc.

[0150] Figure 5 An example of the functional structure of the analysis system of the present invention is shown.

[0151] like Figure 5 As shown, the analysis system 100 of the present invention includes a communication function unit 120, an input function unit 130, an output function unit 140, a display function unit 150, a storage function unit 160, and a control function unit 170.

[0152] The communication function unit 120, for example, transmits and receives various types of data with external devices. The communication function unit 120 can, for example, receive data such as data on the subject's head and eye movements from external devices.

[0153] The input function unit 130, for example, receives various instructions for the analysis system 100 of the present invention. Additionally, the input function unit 130 receives information such as the attributes of the subject.

[0154] Output function unit 140, for example, prints out the VOR of the direct method and the indirect method. gain Measurement results such as standard deviation, etc.

[0155] The display function unit 150, for example, displays the VOR of the direct method and the indirect method on a monitor. gain The measurement results of standard deviation, etc.

[0156] The storage function unit 160, for example, stores various programs, and also has a DB161 for measuring data and a DB162 for calculating results.

[0157] The control function unit 170 includes a data acquisition unit 171 and a data analysis unit 172. For example, the control function unit 170 executes various programs stored in the storage function unit 160 while controlling the overall operation of the analysis system 100 of the present invention.

[0158] The data acquisition unit 171, for example, processes data on the movement of the subject's head and eyes when the subject's head is turned.

[0159] For example, based on the data, the data analysis unit 172 takes the rotation angle of the head at a predetermined position during the head rotation as A, and the compensatory saccade (CUS) data related to the predetermined position of the subject's eyes as C, and applies the following formula VOR. gain(I)= (AC) / A is used for analysis and processing.

[0160] Here, Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow in the analysis method of the present invention. Hereinafter, refer to... Figure 5 The processing flow of the analytical method of the present invention will be described.

[0161] In step S101, after the data acquisition unit 171 in the control function unit 170 of the analysis system 100 acquires data on the movement of the subject's head and eyes when the subject's head rotates, the processing proceeds to S102.

[0162] In step S102, the data analysis unit 172 in the control function unit 170 of the analysis system 100 calculates, based on the data, the data value A of the rotation angle of the head at a predetermined position during the period when the head is rotated, and the data value C of the compensatory saccade (CUS) related to the predetermined position of the subject's eyes, and then proceeds to step S103.

[0163] In step S103, the data analysis unit 172 in the control function unit 170 of the analysis system 100 calculates the following formula VOR based on the data values ​​A and C. gain(I) After setting (AC) / A, the process ends.

[0164] According to the analysis method and analysis system of the present invention using the analysis program of the present invention, the accuracy of the examination can be improved without being affected by artifacts such as slippage, and the analysis of semicircular canal function can be performed correctly and precisely.

[0165] [Example]

[0166] The following describes embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments in any way.

[0167] In the following embodiments, the peak angular velocity and VOR in the definition of the regression line are... gain The meanings of the formula for the regression line on the scatter plot, the definition of each item and calculation formula, and the standard deviation and standard error are as follows.

[0168] Peak angular velocity and VOR gain Formula for the regression line on the scatter plot >

[0169] The formula for the regression line based on sample regression analysis, where the gain is determined by each peak angular velocity, with the x-axis representing peak acceleration and the y-axis representing gain. The correlation coefficient is defined as

[0170] Here, Sxx, Syy, Sxy, These are the dispersion of peak angular velocity, the dispersion of gain, the co-dispersion of peak angular velocity and gain, the average of peak angular velocity, and the average of gain.

[0171] The coefficients a and b, as well as the correlation coefficient γ, of the formula y = ax + b for the straight line are defined by the following formula.

[0172] <Definitions of each item and calculation formula>

[0173] x i Peak angular velocity of the i-th sample

[0174] y i The gain of the i-th sample

[0175] n Sample size

[0176] The average peak angular velocity involving the entire sample

[0177]

[0178] Average gain involving the entire sample

[0179]

[0180] S xx Dispersion related to component x

[0181]

[0182] Here, x is calculated for the entire sample. k average Then, if for each x k calculate Calculating the dispersion would cause repetitive problems. Therefore, during software installation, formula (3) is modified to calculate based on formula (4), which can actually calculate both the average and the dispersion at the same time. In the following, among the same defined formulas, the formula in the second row is used for the actual calculation.

[0183] S yy Dispersion related to y component

[0184]

[0185] S xy Codispersion related to components x and y

[0186]

[0187] The coefficients of the regression line between a and b (sloping a and y-slice b, regression coefficients)

[0188]

[0189]

[0190] γ correlation coefficient

[0191]

[0192] γ 2 Coefficient of determination

[0193] Standard Deviation and Standard Error

[0194] σ x Standard deviation of peak angular velocity (square root of unbiased dispersion)

[0195] Unbiased dispersion refers to an unbiased estimator of dispersion relative to the population.

[0196]

[0197] σ y Standard deviation of gain (square root of unbiased dispersion)

[0198]

[0199] SE R Standard Error of Regression / Standard Error of Residuals

[0200]

[0201] SE RC The residuals (e) of the regression line i The square and arithmetic mean of the regression line are replaced by the distance (e′) from the regression line. i The correction formula is used to calculate the project.

[0202]

[0203] (Example 1)

[0204] In the direct and indirect methods, using patients with unilateral semicircular canal dysfunction as subjects, the influence of the presence or absence of slip artifacts on VOR was investigated. gain The impact of the value was confirmed.

[0205] As a dedicated vHIT device, a vHIT device (Natus ICS Impulse) was used, consisting of special glasses with a built-in high-speed camera and sensor containing the analysis program of this invention, worn on the head. VOR was measured using direct methods (angle ratio), direct methods (angular velocity ratio @60ms), and indirect methods.gain Here, the VOR of the direct method (angular velocity ratio @60ms) is... gain The value is directly calculated from the ratio of the angular velocities of eye position to head position 60 msec from the VOR starting point. Furthermore, the Natus ICS Impulse software, equipped with the analysis program of this invention, can be used to calculate VOR using both direct and indirect methods. gain .

[0206] like Figure 7 As shown, under conditions without slip artifacts, the VOR of the direct method (angle ratio) is... gain The VOR is 0.49 for the direct method (angular velocity ratio @60ms). gain The VOR of the indirect method is 0.50. gain The value was 0.49, indicating no significant difference between the direct and indirect methods.

[0207] On the other hand, regarding and Figure 7 In patients with unilateral semicircular canal dysfunction, a slippage artifact was deliberately created, and, as described above, VOR was measured using both direct and indirect methods. gain Specifically, if head impulse stimulation is performed while the examiner's hand is touching the glasses, the stimulus is transmitted to the glasses, thus increasing the slip artifact. That is, to reliably perform an examination without slip artifacts, it is necessary to hold the subject's head as far away from the glasses as possible during the examination. In this case, to create a slip artifact, the examiner deliberately held the glasses strap while holding the subject's head. The results are as follows... Figure 8 As shown.

[0208] from Figure 8 The results show that the VOR of the direct method (angle ratio) is... gain The VOR is 0.71 for the direct method (angular velocity ratio @60ms). gain The VOR of the indirect method is 0.97. gain It is 0.51.

[0209] Due to sliding artifacts, in the direct method (angle ratio), VOR gain The value increased by 0.22 from 0.49 to 0.71 in the direct method (angular velocity ratio @ 60ms). gain The VOR increased by 0.47 from 0.50 to 0.97. Comparatively, the indirect method showed a lower VOR under sliding artifacts. gain It rose by only 0.02 from 0.49 to 0.51.

[0210] The results above show that the indirect method is not affected by sliding artifacts compared to the direct method. Therefore, the indirect method can perform accurate semicircular canal function checks, significantly improving examination accuracy compared to the direct method.

[0211] (Example 2)

[0212] Using healthy individuals with normal semicircular canal function and patients with impaired semicircular canal function as subjects, the relationship between rotational angular velocity and VOR during rotational stimulation was confirmed. gain The relationship of values.

[0213] Similar to Example 1, using the ICSImpulse manufactured by Natus Corporation, which is equipped with the analysis program of the present invention, the rotational angular velocity and VOR during rotational stimulation were determined indirectly. gain(I) The relationship between the values.

[0214] like Figure 9A As shown, in healthy individuals with normal semicircular canal function, even if the rotational angular velocity changes, the change is relatively small, within the range of 100° / sec to 200° / sec. gain(I) Its value is approximately 1.0, remaining stable.

[0215] On the other hand, such as Figure 9B As shown, in patients with unilateral vestibular dysfunction, the faster the rotational angular velocity (VOR) during rotational stimulation, the better. gain(I) The lower the value, the better; at a rotational angular velocity of 100° / sec, VOR... gain(I) The value is 0.9, and the VOR is 200° / sec. gain(I) The value will decrease to 0.4. As mentioned above, for patients with unilateral vestibular hypofunction, the VOR can be intentionally adjusted based on the rotational angular velocity during rotational stimulation. gain(I) The value of may change, so it may not be checked correctly.

[0216] in addition, Figure 10 VOR in patients with left vestibular hypofunction gain Examples of changes that occur with variations in the rotational angular velocity during rotational stimulation.

[0217] Figure 10 The left eye in the lower image, under rotational stimulation at a low rotational angular velocity of 90° / sec, VOR gain The value is 0.67, while under rotational stimulation with a high rotational angular velocity of 175° / sec, the VOR is... gain The value is 0.32, indicating that the difference in rotational angular velocity increases to 0.35. Here, Figure 10 The × symbol represents the average value.

[0218] In response, obtain multiple such Figure 11 The VOR shown gain(I) The value (more than 8 different rotational angular velocities), and based on the obtained VOR... gain(I)The value of VOR is derived by using the least squares method to obtain an approximate line, and the VOR at the specified rotational angular velocity is calculated based on the approximate line. gain(I) The value. For example, Figure 11 VOR at a rotational angular velocity of 150° / sec gain The value is 0.40. Here, the approximate line includes either an approximate straight line or an approximate curve.

[0219] Thus, for example, it is possible to determine the VOR at a rotational angular velocity of 150° / sec from the approximate line. gain To obtain VOR with less influence from rotational angular velocity gain(I) To achieve VOR gain Standardization of values.

[0220] In addition, the approximate line based on the above least squares method can be obtained by using the above formulas (10), (12) and (14).

[0221] (Example 3)

[0222] In the Natus ICS Impulse, manufactured by Natus and equipped with the analytical program of this invention, VOR was used as an evaluation item for the accuracy of the inspection. gain The standard deviation (σ) was measured by performing 20 rotational stimuli on each side. Here, the standard deviation (σ) is the value obtained by formula (16) above.

[0223] Figure 12A Examples with less noise artifacts are shown, VOR gain It remained basically stable, with a standard deviation (σ) of 0.02. On the other hand, Figure 12B This is an example of a lot of noise artifacts, VOR gain The distribution is uneven, with a standard deviation (σ) of 0.24.

[0224] like Figure 12A as well as Figure 12B As shown, the accuracy of the examination can be evaluated based on the standard deviation (σ) measured after 20 rotational stimuli on each side.

[0225] However, as Figure 13A As shown, even with a high amount of noise artifacts, the standard deviation (σ) is sometimes small, around 0.08, such as... Figure 13B As shown, even with fewer noise artifacts, the standard deviation (σ) can sometimes be as large as 0.10. Therefore, relying solely on VOR... gain The standard deviation (σ) cannot accurately evaluate the accuracy of the inspection.

[0226] In this regard, such as Figure 14A as well as Figure 14B As shown, the least squares method is used to... Figure 13A as well as Figure 13B The results are linearly fitted to obtain an approximate line. The accuracy is calculated based on the approximate line, as shown in Table 1, which can improve the inspection accuracy. Here, the approximate line includes an approximate straight line or an approximate curve.

[0227] Furthermore, using formulas (10), (12), and (14) above, an approximate line for linear fitting using the least squares method can be obtained. Additionally, using formulas (19) and (20) above, a comparison with... Figure 14B In the scatter plot, the arrows representing the deviations point towards the corresponding calculations.

[0228] [Table 1]

[0229]

[0230] (Example 4)

[0231] Patient A without slip artifacts, patient B with slip artifacts, and patient C with slip artifacts occurring at a certain rate each time were examined using the Natus ICS Impulse analytical instrument equipped with the analytical program of this invention, in the same manner as in Example 1. The VOR was calculated using the direct method (angle ratio), the direct method (angular velocity ratio @60ms), and the indirect method, respectively. gain The difference between the two methods was calculated, and the absolute value of the difference between the direct method (angle ratio) and the indirect method, the average of the absolute values ​​of the difference between the direct method (angular velocity ratio @60ms) and the indirect method, and the standard deviation (σ) were obtained. The results of patient A (10 examinations) are shown in Table 2, the results of patient B (8 examinations) are shown in Table 3, and the results of patient C (10 examinations) are shown in Table 4. Here, the standard deviation (σ) is the value obtained by the above formula (16).

[0232] [Table 2]

[0233]

[0234] [Table 3]

[0235]

[0236] [Table 4]

[0237]

[0238] As shown in Table 2, for patient A without slip artifacts, the absolute values ​​of the differences between the direct method (angle ratio), the indirect method, and the direct method (angle ratio) and the indirect method all had small standard deviations, and the average difference between the direct method (angle ratio) and the indirect method was also small.

[0239] As shown in Table 3, for patient B with sliding artifacts, the absolute values ​​of the differences between the direct method (angle ratio) and the indirect method both had large standard deviations, while the standard deviation of the indirect method was smaller. Furthermore, the average difference between the direct method (angle ratio) and the indirect method was relatively large.

[0240] As shown in Table 4, for patients C who experienced slip artifacts at a certain rate each time, the absolute values ​​of the differences between the direct method (angle ratio), the indirect method, and the direct method (angle ratio) and the indirect method all had small standard deviations, but the average difference between the direct method (angle ratio) and the indirect method was larger.

[0241] Therefore, by using both direct and indirect methods to calculate the average of the absolute values ​​of the differences between the two methods and the standard deviation, we can address artifacts of various degrees and appropriately evaluate the inspection accuracy. Thus, compared with previous techniques, we can significantly improve the inspection accuracy.

[0242] (Example 5)

[0243] For patients in cases 1-3, similar to Example 1, the VOR was determined using the Natus ICS Impulse, equipped with the analytical program of this invention, via the direct method (angle ratio), the direct method (angular velocity ratio @60ms), and the indirect method. gain Calculate the difference between the two methods, and then calculate the absolute value of the difference between the direct method (angle ratio) and the indirect method, as well as the average and standard deviation (σ) of the absolute value of the difference between the direct method (angular velocity ratio @60ms) and the indirect method. The results are shown below.

[0244] <Case 1>

[0245] [Table 5]

[0246]

[0247] <Case 2>

[0248] [Table 6]

[0249]

[0250] <Case 3>

[0251] [Table 7]

[0252]

[0253] The results from cases 1-3 show that the direct method (angular velocity ratio @60ms) has a relatively large standard deviation even without slip artifacts, and the data is prone to inhomogeneity. Therefore, it can be concluded that the direct method (angular velocity ratio @60ms) is a parameter lacking stability compared to the direct method (angle ratio).

[0254] The results from cases 1 and 2 show that when there is a sliding artifact, the VOR of the direct method is... gain The standard deviations of (angle ratio, angular velocity ratio @60ms) tend to increase. As an exception, the slip amount in case 3 remained stable, so the standard deviation was small.

[0255] Based on the results of cases 1-3, it can be seen that the difference between the direct method and the indirect method is greater in terms of both the mean and standard deviation when there is a slip artifact, compared to the case without slip artifacts.

[0256] The results from cases 1-3 show that, when the same amount of slip occurs each time, the VOR of the direct method and the indirect method are... gain The standard deviation of the error does not necessarily increase. Therefore, it can be considered that the parameter that best predicts the inspection accuracy is the VOR of the direct method (angle ratio) and the indirect method. gain The average of the differences.

[0257] Based on the results of cases 1-3, the indirect method of VOR... gain The mean and standard deviation remain stable regardless of the presence or absence of slip artifacts.

[0258] Symbol Explanation

[0259] 100 Analysis System

[0260] 101 Control Department

[0261] 102 main storage device

[0262] 103 Auxiliary Storage Device

[0263] 104 I / O interface

[0264] 105 communication interface

[0265] 106 input devices

[0266] 107 Output Device

[0267] 108 display devices.

Claims

1. An analysis system for analyzing a function of a semicircular canal under a rotational stimulus, characterized by comprising a vestibulo-ocular reflex data acquisition element that acquires first vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a vestibulo-ocular reflex rotation angle amount by a head position rotation angle amount, and second vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a remaining rotation angle amount obtained by subtracting, from the head position rotation angle amount, at least a rotation angle amount based on compensatory saccades, by the head position rotation angle amount, and analyzing a function of a semicircular canal based on the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data, or the first vestibulo-ocular reflex data and the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data.

2. The analysis system according to claim 1, wherein 3. The analysis system according to claim 2, wherein 4. The analysis system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein a data value of the A is a total integral value of a plurality of integral values of a plurality of rotation angular velocity data of the head, and a data value of the C is a total integral value of a plurality of integral values of a plurality of rotation angular velocity data based on compensatory saccades of the subject's eye. The second vestibular ocular reflex data is a value of the VOR derived by the following formula VOR gain(I) = (A - C) / A, where A is an integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during a period in which the head is to be rotated, and C is an integral value of the rotational angular velocity data based on a compensatory saccade of the eye of the subject, from the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the movement of the eye of the subject acquired by the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element for acquiring the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the movement of the eye of the subject worn on the head of the subject when the head is rotated. gain(I) ​ 5. The analysis system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein The first vestibular ocular reflex data is the value of the VOR derived in accordance with the following formula VOR = B / A, where A is the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during a period in which the head is to be turned, and B is the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the movement of the eyes, on the basis of the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the movement of the eyes acquired by the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element. gain(D) gain(D) The first vestibular ocular reflex data is the value of the VOR derived in accordance with the following formula VOR = B / A, where A is the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during a period in which the head is to be turned, and B is the integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the movement of the eyes, on the basis of the rotational angular velocity data of the head and the rotational angular velocity data of the movement of the eyes acquired by the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element.​ 6. The analysis system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein 7. The analysis system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein 8. The analysis system according to claim 7, wherein acquiring a plurality of values of the VOR gain(I) deriving an approximate line from a scatter diagram of the acquired plurality of values of the VOR gain(I) and the angular velocity of rotation, and deriving a value of the VOR gain(I) at a prescribed angular velocity of rotation from the approximate line.

9. The analysis system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein acquiring a plurality of values of the VOR gain(I) deriving an approximate line from a scatter plot of the acquired plurality of values of the VOR gain(I) and the angular velocity of rotation, and deriving a deviation of the acquired plurality of values of the VOR gain(I) from the approximate line.

10. An analysis method for analyzing a function of a semicircular canal under a rotational stimulus, characterized by comprising a vestibulo-ocular reflex data acquisition process of acquiring first vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a vestibulo-ocular reflex rotation angle amount by a head position rotation angle amount, and second vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a remaining rotation angle amount obtained by subtracting, from the head position rotation angle amount, at least a rotation angle amount based on compensatory saccades, by the head position rotation angle amount, and analyzing a function of a semicircular canal based on the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data, or the first vestibulo-ocular reflex data and the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data. According to the rotational angular velocity data of the head acquired by the rotational angular velocity data acquisition element and the rotational angular velocity data of the movement of the eye, in a case where an integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the head during a period in which the head is to be turned is taken as A, and an integral value of the rotational angular velocity data of the movement of the eye is taken as B, the following formula VOR gain(D) = B / A, The mean and standard deviation of the difference between the value of the VOR gain(D) and the value of the VOR gain(I) are calculated.

11. A computer program for causing a computer to perform the following processes: a vestibulo-ocular reflex data acquisition process of acquiring first vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a vestibulo-ocular reflex rotation angle amount by a head position rotation angle amount, and second vestibulo-ocular reflex data obtained by dividing a remaining rotation angle amount obtained by subtracting, from the head position rotation angle amount, at least a rotation angle amount based on compensatory saccades, by the head position rotation angle amount, and analyzing a function of a semicircular canal based on the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data, or the first vestibulo-ocular reflex data and the second vestibulo-ocular reflex data. The analysis system includes a warning element that displays the value of the VOR gain(D) , the value of the VOR gain(I) , and the average and standard deviation of the difference between the value of the VOR gain(D) and the value of the VOR gain(I) , and issues a warning if each of the above values exceeds a reference value. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 11. An analysis program for analyzing a function of a semicircular canal under a rotary stimulation, characterized by, ​ ​ ​

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