Intestinal information estimation system, intestinal information estimation method, control program, and recording medium

Abstract

The present invention estimates intestinal information about a subject with high accuracy from components contained in gas generated from excrement of the subject. This intestinal information estimation system comprises a detection control unit and an estimation unit. A gas sensor detects a prescribed component from gas originating from the subject, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the prescribed component. The estimation unit estimates intestinal information about the subject by inputting, to an estimation model, the following: a first comparison result obtained by comparing a first detection signal, which is a detection signal corresponding to sample gas collected at a first point in time, with a second detection signal, which is a detection signal corresponding to sample gas collected at a second point in time which comes after a prescribed period has elapsed from the first point in time; or a second comparison result obtained by comparing a first concentration, which is the concentration of the prescribed component corresponding to the first detection signal, with a second concentration, which is the concentration of the prescribed component corresponding to the second detection signal.

Description

Intestinal information estimation system, intestinal information estimation method, control program, and recording medium

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an intestinal information estimation system that estimates intestinal information of a subject.

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an intestinal condition notification device that notifies a user of information related to the intestinal condition corresponding to a signal value output from a gas sensor that detects a predetermined gas component in excretory gas. The intestinal condition notification device stores correspondence data that indicates the correspondence between the signal value output from the gas sensor and the information related to the user's intestinal condition, and notifies the user of the information related to the intestinal condition corresponding to the signal value output from the gas sensor based on the correspondence data.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-89857

[0004] An intestinal information estimation system according to one aspect of the disclosure includes a detection control unit that detects a predetermined component from a gas originating from a subject and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component; and an estimation unit that inputs a first comparison result obtained by comparing a first detection signal, which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at a first time point, with a second detection signal, which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at a second time point a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the first time point, or a second comparison result obtained by comparing a first concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the first detection signal, with a second concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the second detection signal, into an estimation model to estimate intestinal information of the subject.

[0005] An intestinal information estimation method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a detection control step of detecting a predetermined component from a gas originating from a subject and outputting a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component; and an estimation step of inputting a first comparison result obtained by comparing a first detection signal, which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at a first time point, with a second detection signal, which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at a second time point a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the first time point, or a second comparison result obtained by comparing a first concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the first detection signal, with a second concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the second detection signal, into an estimation model to estimate intestinal information of the subject.

[0006] The intestinal information estimation system according to each aspect of the present disclosure may be realized by a computer. In this case, the control program that causes the computer to operate as each part (software element) of the intestinal information estimation system to realize the intestinal information estimation system on a computer, and the computer-readable recording medium on which the control program is recorded, also fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0007] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an intestinal information estimation system according to an embodiment; FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of detection information; FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of detection data; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of subject information; FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of estimation result information; FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of intestinal information; FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of health information; FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the appearance of a gas detection device; FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a configuration of a gas detection device; FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an intestinal information estimation system; FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a processing flow performed in the intestinal information estimation system; FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the configuration of a gas detection device; FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of an intestinal information estimation system according to a fourth embodiment; FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a correlation between the concentration ratio of sulfur-based gases contained in a sample gas and health level information (ease of gaining weight); FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a correlation between the concentration ratio of hydrogen contained in a sample gas and the amount of acetic acid contained in stool; FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a correlation between the reciprocal of the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in a sample gas and health level information (immunity); This figure compares the health information (immunity) of a group of subjects whose carbon dioxide concentration contained in the sample gas increased over a specified period of time with the health information (immunity) of a group of subjects whose carbon dioxide concentration decreased over a specified period of time.

[0008] It is necessary to estimate the intestinal information of a subject with high accuracy from the components contained in the gas originating from the subject.

[0009] According to an intestinal information estimation system and an intestinal information estimation method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to accurately estimate intestinal information of a subject from components contained in gas originating from the subject.

[0010] First Embodiment Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail.

[0011] (Overview of Intestinal Information Estimation System 100) The inventors discovered that it is possible to estimate intestinal information related to the intestinal environment of a subject by analyzing the concentrations of predetermined components detected in sample gas (gas) originating from the subject. Furthermore, the inventors discovered that it is possible to estimate more detailed intestinal information for the same subject based on the following (1) or (2), leading to the invention of the intestinal information estimation system 100 according to one aspect of the present disclosure. (1) A first comparison result obtained by comparing a first detection signal, which is a detection signal corresponding to a sample gas collected at a first time point, with a second detection signal, which is a detection signal corresponding to a sample gas collected at a second time point a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the first time point. (2) A second comparison result obtained by comparing a first concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the first detection signal, with a second concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the second detection signal.

[0012] Here, the term "subject" refers to a person who uses the intestinal information estimation system 100 and whose health level is managed and monitored. The term "sample gas" refers to a gas to be detected. As an example, the "sample gas" may be gas resulting from the subject's feces obtained during the subject's bowel movement, but is not limited to this. For example, the "sample gas" may be gas resulting from the subject's urine, sweat, etc.

[0013] The "intestinal information" may be, but is not limited to, information about at least one of the amount and the proportion of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and / or metabolites of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria contained in the stool of the subject. For example, the "intestinal information" may be information about at least one of the amount and the proportion of intestinal bacteria and / or metabolites of intestinal bacteria of the subject.

[0014] The "predetermined period" may be, for example, one day or more and one month or less, but is not limited thereto. The intestinal environment can change in a relatively short period due to the influence of strenuous exercise such as a marathon. In addition, the intestinal environment improves or deteriorates over the medium to long term due to the influence of diet and stress. Therefore, when monitoring changes in the intestinal environment over a relatively short period, the predetermined period can be one day, two days, three days, etc., and when monitoring changes in the intestinal environment over the medium to long term, the predetermined period can be one week, two weeks, three weeks, etc.

[0015] (Schematic Configuration of Intestinal Information Estimation System 100) Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the intestinal information estimation system 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the intestinal information estimation system 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. For convenience of explanation, each drawing referred to in this specification is a schematic diagram showing only some components in a simplified form to explain the embodiment. Therefore, the intestinal information estimation system 100 may include any component not shown in each drawing referred to in this specification. Furthermore, the dimensions of the components in each drawing do not faithfully represent the actual dimensions of the component components, the dimensional ratios of each component, etc.

[0016] The intestinal information estimation system 100 includes a gas detection device 1, an intestinal information estimation device 2, and an electronic device 3. In the intestinal information estimation system 100, the gas detection device 1, the intestinal information estimation device 2, and the electronic device 3 may be connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other. The gas detection device 1 and the intestinal information estimation device 2, and the electronic device 3 and the intestinal information estimation device 2 may be connected by wireless communication or by wired communication.

[0017] As an example, intestinal information estimation system 100 may be a system that detects predetermined components from gas released from the stool of a subject in a toilet, in which case gas detection device 1 may be installed in a toilet bowl 4, as shown in FIG. 1 . When gas detection device 1 is installed in the toilet bowl 4, intestinal information estimation system 100 performs a process of detecting predetermined components from gas released from the stool of the subject in the toilet. Therefore, a user of intestinal information estimation system 100 does not need to perform troublesome tasks such as a stool test, and can simply use the toilet.

[0018] Furthermore, gas detection device 1 does not have to be fixedly installed in one location, and may be portable by the subject, for example. Specifically, the subject may carry gas detection device 1 of intestinal information estimation system 100 and attach gas detection device 1 to a toilet bowl for use each time the subject uses the toilet. With the above configuration, the user can use intestinal information estimation system 100 in any location (for example, while out and about).

[0019] (Gas detection device 1) Next, the gas detection device 1 will be described. The gas detection device 1 detects a predetermined component from the gas released from the subject's stool and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component. The gas detection device 1 may also calculate the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the detection signal and output information on the calculated concentration. In the present disclosure, the information output by the gas detection device 1 is referred to as "detection information." The gas detection device 1 transmits the detection information to the intestinal information estimation device 2.

[0020] [Detection Information] The detection information output from the gas detection device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the detection information output from the gas detection device 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the detection information may include a subject ID, detection data D1, a sample gas ID, and a sample gas collection date and time.

[0021] The subject ID is identification information unique to the subject. The subject ID may be the subject's name and identification information unique to each subject. If the subject is a user who uses the intestinal information estimation system 100, the subject ID may be a user ID assigned to each user who uses the intestinal information estimation system 100.

[0022] The gas detection device 1 may collect sample gas multiple times at predetermined time intervals (e.g., 30 seconds, 1 minute, etc.) per defecation of the subject. A sample gas ID may be assigned to each collected sample gas. FIG. 2 shows an example of detection information output from the gas detection device 1 used by a subject with a subject ID of "xxxx." As an example, the sample gas collected at "7:32 AM on mm / dd / 2021" is assigned the sample ID "samp1."

[0023] The detection information may further include a gas detection device ID that is unique to the gas detection device 1. As an example, Fig. 2 shows detection information that includes the gas detection device ID "ppp" of the gas detection device 1 used by a subject whose subject ID is "xxxx".

[0024] The detection data D1 may include data indicating the concentration of a predetermined component for each sample based on a detection signal output by the gas sensor 143 (detection unit). The predetermined component may include methyl mercaptan (CH ３ SH), hydrogen sulfide (H ２ S), hydrogen (H ２ ), and carbon dioxide (CO ２ ) is included. The predetermined component may further include, for example, 2-propanol. Detection data D1 may be a detection signal output from gas sensor 143, or may be a numerical value indicating a concentration calculated from the detection signal. Here, the concentration of the predetermined component may be the concentration of the predetermined component in the gas sampled by gas detection device 1. The predetermined component may also include multiple components, and the concentration may be the sum of the concentrations of the multiple components relative to the total amount of sample gas. The unit of concentration may be, for example, ppm.

[0025] Gas detection device 1 may collect sample gas every time the subject defecates and detect a predetermined component contained in the sample gas. Alternatively, gas detection device 1 may be configured not to collect sample gas from the subject's stool or detect a predetermined component until a predetermined period has elapsed since the time sample gas was collected from the subject's stool. Here, the predetermined period may be one day or more and one month or less. Gas detection device 1 may store detection information in storage unit 15, which will be described later.

[0026] The gas detection device 1 (e.g., the detection control unit 102 described below) may be configured to determine whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the first time point each time the subject defecates after the first time point. If the gas detection device 1 determines that the predetermined period of time has elapsed since the first time point, it detects a predetermined component from the gas emitted at the time of the defecation and outputs a second detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component. For example, the gas detection device 1 may determine whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the time sample gas was collected from the subject's stool based on the subject ID and the date and time of sample gas collection in the detection information. For example, the gas detection device 1 may be configured to determine whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the previous date and time of sample gas collection from the same subject, and to collect sample gas from the subject's stool and detect the predetermined component only if the predetermined period of time has elapsed.

[0027] 3 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the detection data D1. As shown in Fig. 3, the detection data D1 may include the following detected from the sample gas of sample ID "samp1": - Methyl mercaptan concentration d11 - Hydrogen sulfide concentration d12 - Hydrogen concentration d13 - Carbon dioxide concentration d14.

[0028] (Intestinal Information Estimation Device 2) Next, the intestinal information estimation device 2 will be described. The intestinal information estimation device 2 shown in FIG. 1 may be a computer or a server device managed by an administrator of the intestinal information estimation system 100. The intestinal information estimation device 2 inputs the first comparison result or the second comparison result into the estimation model M1 and estimates at least one of information regarding the amount and abundance ratio of at least one of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and metabolites contained in the subject's stool. The intestinal information estimation device 2 outputs intestinal information, which is an estimation result regarding the intestinal environment of the subject and / or changes in the intestinal environment. In the present disclosure, information including intestinal information is referred to as "estimation result information." The estimation result information may further include health level information regarding the subject's health level calculated based on the estimation result information. The health level information will be described later. The intestinal information estimation device 2 may input, for example, a first detection signal or a second detection signal to the estimation model M1 together with the first comparison result or the second comparison result. The intestinal information estimation device 2 may input the following first concentration or second concentration to the estimation model M1 together with the first comparison result or the second comparison result. First concentration: The concentration of a predetermined component corresponding to the first detection signal, calculated from the first detection signal. Second concentration: The concentration of a predetermined component corresponding to the second detection signal, calculated from the second detection signal.

[0029] The short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria are a type of intestinal bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids. Specifically, the short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria may be at least one of butyric acid-producing bacteria and acetic acid-producing bacteria. Examples of butyric acid-producing bacteria include Bacillus faecalis, Bacillus lachnospira, and Bacillus coprococcus.

[0030] Examples of acetic acid-producing bacteria include bifidobacteria.

[0031] Furthermore, the metabolite estimated by the intestinal information estimation device 2 may be at least one of butyric acid and acetic acid. Both butyric acid and acetic acid are substances involved in the metabolic system of the intestinal bacteria of the subject. Examples of metabolites other than butyric acid and acetic acid include propionic acid, formic acid, succinic acid, ornithine, trimethylamine, and glucose 6-phosphate.

[0032] The intestinal information estimation device 2 may store subject information that associates, for example, the ID of each subject, the gas detection device ID of the gas detection device 1 used by each subject, and the contact information of each subject.

[0033] [Subject Information] Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of subject information held in the intestinal information estimation device 2. The subject's contact information may be the subject's email address. The intestinal information estimation device 2 refers to the subject information, identifies the subject using the gas detection device 1 that is the sender of the detection information from the subject ID included in the detection information, and transmits estimation result information to the subject's electronic device 3. The subject information shown in Figure 4 indicates that the gas detection device ID of the gas detection device 1 used by a subject with subject ID "xxxx" is "ppp", and the contact information of the subject is "xxxx@xxx.xxx".

[0034] Alternatively, the intestinal information estimation device 2 may be configured to create a webpage unique to each subject and allow each subject to view this webpage. Each subject may be required to set a unique password or the like for viewing their own webpage. In this case, the intestinal information estimation device 2 refers to the subject information, identifies the subject from the subject ID, and transmits the URL or the like of the webpage to the subject's electronic device 3.

[0035] The intestinal information estimation device 2 may have a function of calculating health information indicating the health of the subject from the intestinal information (health information calculation unit 222 described below).

[0036] [Estimation Result Information] The estimation result information will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the estimation result information. The estimation result information may include a subject ID and intestinal information D2. Fig. 5 shows an example of estimation result information that includes health level information D3 in addition to intestinal information D2.

[0037] 6 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the intestinal information D2. As shown in Fig. 6, the intestinal information D2 includes information on the amount or abundance ratio c11 of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and the amount or abundance ratio c12 of metabolic substances.

[0038] Here, the amount of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria may be the number of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria contained in a predetermined mass of stool of a subject, or may be the mass of the short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria. The unit of amount may be, for example, "pieces," "g," or "mg."

[0039] The abundance ratio of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria may be the ratio to the total number of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria contained in a given mass of the subject's stool, or may be, for example, the sum of the masses of two or more short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria contained in a given mass of the subject's stool.

[0040] The amount of a metabolite may be the mass of the metabolite contained in a given mass of the subject's stool, or may be the molecular weight. Furthermore, the abundance ratio of a metabolite may be the ratio to the total mass of the metabolite contained in a given mass of the subject's stool. The abundance ratio of a metabolite may be, for example, the sum of the masses of two or more metabolites contained in a given mass of the subject's stool. The unit of amount may be, for example, "g" or "mg".

[0041] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of health information D3. As shown in FIG. 7, health information D3 may include an evaluation, useful information, and notes. It may also include a health information ID assigned to each piece of health information D3.

[0042] The health information D3 may be, for example, information regarding at least one of the subject's physical condition, immunity, tendency to gain muscle, tendency to gain weight, stress, concentration, anti-aging, skin beauty, mental health, and sleep. Information regarding the subject's physical condition may include, for example, information regarding the subject's nutritional state and any diseases the subject may be suffering from. Information regarding the subject's immunity may include information regarding the subject's ability to recover from fatigue and whether or not the subject has allergies. Information regarding the subject's sleep may include information regarding the amount of sleep the subject gets and the quality of their sleep.

[0043] The health information D3 may be, for example, an evaluation of at least one of the subject's physical condition, immunity, tendency to gain muscle, tendency to gain weight, stress, concentration, anti-aging, skin care, mental health, and sleep. The evaluation may be determined using three levels: A (good), B (acceptable), and C (needs attention). Figure 7 shows an example in which the subject's health is evaluated as "B."

[0044] The health level information may include information indicating the probability of improvement or deterioration of the health level. For example, for a subject whose health level is "B," health level information including information that there is an "80% chance that the health level will become C" can provide the subject with an opportunity to pay more attention to their intestinal environment and to review their diet, etc., so as to prevent their health level from deteriorating.

[0045] The useful information may be useful information that contributes to improving the health of the subject, and may include information about recommended foods (ingredients and dishes) and exercise for the subject, information about improving lifestyle habits, etc.

[0046] The notes may include various information to be provided to the subject. The notes may include, for example, the following information: Contact information for a nutritionist who can be consulted about health issues Access information for videos that introduce cooking methods for dishes using recommended ingredients Information on online shopping sites where ingredients and exercise equipment can be purchased

[0047] (Electronic Device 3) Returning to FIG. 1 , the electronic device 3 will now be described. The electronic device 3 may be a computer used by the subject. Alternatively, the electronic device 3 may be a computer used by a person (e.g., a family member) who monitors the subject's health condition. The electronic device 3 may be, for example, a personal computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or the like.

[0048] The electronic device 3 has a communication function and can receive estimation result information from the intestinal information estimation device 2. The electronic device 3 may have, for example, an input unit such as a keyboard, a touch panel, and a microphone, and a display unit such as a monitor. The electronic device 3 may be installed inside a toilet room in which the toilet 4 is installed. In this case, the electronic device 3 may be able to be taken outside the toilet room.

[0049] (Configuration of intestinal information estimation system 100) Next, the configuration of the intestinal information estimation system 100 will be described using Fig. 10 while referring to Figs. 8 and 9. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the appearance of the gas detection device 1. Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the gas detection device 1. Fig. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of the intestinal information estimation system 100.

[0050] [Configuration of Gas Detection Device 1] First, an example configuration of the gas detection device 1 will be described. The gas detection device 1 is a device that collects sample gases emitted from the stool of a subject, detects predetermined components from each collected sample gas, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined components. Furthermore, the gas detection device 1 may collect sample gases and detect predetermined components multiple times, and may transmit detection results to the intestinal information estimation device 2 based on each collection result.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 8 , the gas detection device 1 is installed in, for example, a flush toilet 4. The toilet 4 includes a toilet bowl 4A and a toilet seat 4B. The toilet 4 may be installed in a toilet room in a home, a hospital, or the like. The gas detection device 1 may be installed in any location on the toilet 4. As an example, the gas detection device 1 may be arranged between the toilet bowl 4A and the toilet seat 4B and outside the toilet 4, as shown in FIG. 8 . A portion of the gas detection device 1 may be embedded in the toilet seat 4B. A subject's feces may be discharged into the toilet bowl 4A of the toilet 4. The gas detection device 1 can collect a sample gas in which gas generated from the feces discharged into the toilet bowl 4A is mixed with outside air. The gas detection device 1 can detect the type and concentration of a predetermined component contained in the sample gas.

[0052] Flow path 31 is a tubular member provided to connect between toilet bowl 4A and first pump 132, which will be described later. One end of flow path 31 has an opening that opens into toilet bowl 4A, and the opposite end is connected to first pump 132. A portion of the opening side of flow path 31 may be exposed to the inside of toilet bowl 4A, as shown in FIG. 8 . Flow path 31 is included in sampling system 13 of gas detection device 1, which will be described later. Sampling system 13 will be described later.

[0053] Discharge path 33 is a tubular member for discharging exhaust gas from sensor chamber 144 to the outside of gas detection device 1 by operation of first pump 132. A portion of the opening side of discharge path 33 may be exposed to the outside of toilet bowl 4A, as shown in FIG. 8 . Discharge path 33 may be composed of a tubular member such as a resin tube or metal, rubber, or glass piping. One end (first end) of discharge path 33 is connected to sensor chamber 144, which will be described later, and the opposite end (second end) of discharge path 33 opens toward the outside of housing 30 of gas detection device 1.

[0054] Flow path 34 is a tubular member for supplying air (purge gas) from inside the toilet room from outside gas detection device 1 to sensor chamber 144 by operation of second pump 142. One end of flow path 34 has an opening that opens toward an external space different from the inside of toilet bowl 4A, and the opposite end of flow path 34 is connected to second valve 141. As an example, the outside is the periphery of the space in which gas detection device 1 is located, such as the space inside the toilet room. Discharge path 33 and flow path 34 are included in analysis system 14 of gas detection device 1, as will be described later. Analysis system 14 will be described later.

[0055] 10 , gas detection device 1 includes control unit 10, subject detection unit 11, defecation detection unit 12, sampling system 13, analysis system 14, memory unit 15, and communication unit 16. Control unit 10 controls the operation of each unit of gas detection device 1 and detects each detection target gas contained in the sample gas. Details of control unit 10 will be described later.

[0056] The subject detection unit 11 may be configured to include at least one of an image camera, a personal identification switch, an infrared sensor, a pressure sensor, etc. The subject detection unit 11 outputs the detection result to the control unit 10. In addition, the subject detection unit 11 may include any sensor for authenticating the subject. Examples of the sensor include a load sensor that detects weight, a sensor that detects sitting height, a sensor that detects pulse, a sensor that detects blood flow, a sensor that detects face, and a sensor that detects voice.

[0057] For example, if the subject detection unit 11 is configured to include an infrared sensor, it can detect that the subject has entered the toilet by detecting the reflected light of the infrared light irradiated by the infrared sensor from the object. The subject detection unit 11 outputs a signal indicating that the subject has entered the toilet to the control unit 10 as a detection result.

[0058] For example, if the subject detection unit 11 is configured to include a pressure sensor, it can detect that the subject has sat on the toilet seat 4B by detecting the pressure on the toilet seat 4B as shown in Fig. 8. The subject detection unit 11 outputs a signal indicating that the subject has sat on the toilet seat 4B to the control unit 10 as a detection result.

[0059] For example, if the subject detection unit 11 is configured to include a pressure sensor, it can detect that the subject has stood up from the toilet seat 4B by detecting a decrease in pressure on the toilet seat 4B as shown in Fig. 8. As a detection result, the subject detection unit 11 outputs a signal indicating that the subject has stood up from the toilet seat 4B to the control unit 10.

[0060] For example, if the subject detection unit 11 is configured to include an image camera, a personal identification switch, etc., it collects data such as facial images, sitting height, and weight. The subject detection unit 11 identifies and detects individuals from the collected data. The subject detection unit 11 outputs a signal indicating the identified individual to the control unit 10 as a detection result.

[0061] For example, if the subject detection unit 11 is configured to include a personal identification switch or the like, it identifies (detects) an individual based on the operation of the personal identification switch. In this case, personal information may be registered (stored) in advance in the storage unit 15. The subject detection unit 11 outputs a signal indicating the identified individual to the control unit 10 as the detection result.

[0062] The defecation detection unit 12 is a component that detects the discharge (defecation) of a specimen (feces) from the subject. The defecation detection unit 12 starts operating under the control of the main control unit 101, and upon detecting that the specimen has been discharged into the toilet bowl 4A, outputs a signal indicating that the specimen has been discharged into the toilet bowl 4A to the control unit 10. The defecation detection unit 12 may be, for example, a sensor that detects the sound made when the specimen hits the water stored in the toilet bowl 4A. In this case, the defecation detection unit 12 outputs a signal indicating information about the detected sound to the control unit 10. Alternatively, the defecation detection unit 12 may be a pressure sensor that can detect that the specimen has fallen into the toilet bowl 4A.

[0063] The storage unit 15 is configured with, for example, a semiconductor memory or a magnetic memory. The storage unit 15 stores various types of information, programs for operating the gas detection device 1, and the like. The storage unit 15 may function as a work memory. The storage unit 15 may also store an estimation model M1 used for various estimations performed by the control unit 10.

[0064] The communication unit 16 may be capable of communicating with the intestinal information estimation device 2. The communication method used in communication between the communication unit 16 and the intestinal information estimation device 2 may be a short-range wireless communication standard, a wireless communication standard connecting to a mobile phone network, or a wired communication standard. The short-range wireless communication standard may include, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), infrared, and NFC (Near Field Communication). The wireless communication standard connecting to a mobile phone network may include, for example, LTE (Long Term Evolution) or a fourth-generation or higher mobile communication system. Furthermore, the communication method used in communication between the communication unit 16 and the intestinal information estimation device 2 may be, for example, a communication standard such as LPWA (Low Power Wide Area) or LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network).

[0065] Gas detection device 1 includes a sampling system 13 that sucks (collects) and stores sample gas together with outside air from the space within toilet bowl 4A, and an analysis system 14 that detects the type and concentration of each detection target gas contained in the sample gas using the sample gas collected by sampling system 13. Sampling system 13 and analysis system 14 will be described below with reference to FIG. 9.

[0066] <Collection System 13> As shown in Fig. 9, the collection system 13 includes a first valve 131 and a first pump 132. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 9, the components of the collection system 13 are connected by a flow path 31 and a flow path 32.

[0067] The first valve 131 provided in the sampling system 13 is located on the flow path 31 and is a valve that operates under the control of the main control unit 101. The first valve 131 may be configured as an electromagnetically driven, piezoelectrically driven, motor-driven, or other valve. The first valve 131 can adjust the degree of opening (degree of communication) of each flow path under the control of the main control unit 101, thereby adjusting the state of communication between the flow path 31 and the flow path 32, and between the flow path 32 and the flow path 36 (described later). Thus, the inflow of the sample gas and the purge gas into the flow paths and the sensor chamber 144 (described later) can be adjusted.

[0068] The first pump 132 is provided between the flow path 31 and the flow path 32, and is connected to the sensor chamber 144 via the flow path 32. The first pump 132 operates under the control of the main control unit 101. The first pump 132 sucks sample gas from within the toilet bowl 4A through an opening of the flow path 31 that opens toward the interior of the toilet bowl 4A, and supplies the sample gas to the flow path 32. The first pump 132 shown in FIG. 10 may be configured as a piezoelectric pump, a motor pump, or the like. The first pump 132 may also be used to supply purge gas to the flow path 32, as described below.

[0069] As described above, flow path 31 is a tubular member provided to connect between the toilet bowl 4A and the first pump 132. One end of flow path 31 has an opening that opens into the toilet bowl 4A, and the opposite end is connected to the first pump 132. On the other hand, flow path 32 is a flow path provided between the first pump 132 and the sensor chamber 144. When the first pump 132 operates with the first valve 131 open, gas can be supplied to flow path 32 from flow path 31 or flow path 36 (described below).

[0070] <Analysis system 14> As shown in Fig. 9, the analysis system 14 includes a second valve 141, a second pump 142, a gas sensor 143, and a sensor chamber 144. Also, as shown in Fig. 9, the analysis system 14 is connected to the outside via a discharge channel 33 and a flow channel 34. Furthermore, each part of the analysis system is connected via a flow channel 37.

[0071] The second valve 141 is a valve provided on the flow path 34. The second valve 141 operates under the control of the main control unit 101, and can switch between a state in which the flow paths 34 and 36 are connected to each other and a state in which the flow paths 34 and 37 are connected to each other.

[0072] Second pump 142 is a pump that is provided on flow path 37 and is connected to sensor chamber 144 via flow path 37. Second pump 142 operates based on the control of main control unit 101, and can supply outside air sucked from flow path 37 to sensor chamber 144.

[0073] The gas sensor 143 may be any sensor that outputs a different detection signal depending on the concentration of the detection target gas. The following description of the gas sensor 143 will be given taking as an example a sensor whose detection signal intensity changes depending on the concentration of the detection target gas, but is not limited to this. As an example, the gas sensor 143 can output a detection signal whose intensity corresponds to the concentration of the detection target gas that may be contained in the sample gas. As shown in FIG. 9 , the gas detection device 1 may be provided with multiple gas sensors 143. Furthermore, the multiple gas sensors 143 may each be capable of outputting a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of a different type of detection target gas. This allows the gas detection device 1 to analyze the concentrations of multiple types of detection target gas.

[0074] The gas sensor 143 includes a sensor element and a resistor element. The sensor element and resistor element are connected in series between a power supply terminal and a ground terminal. A constant voltage VC is applied between the power supply terminal and the ground terminal. The same current IS flows through the sensor element and the resistor element. The current IS can be determined based on the resistance RS of the sensor element and the resistance RL of the resistor element. The voltage output by the gas sensor 143 may be the voltage VS applied to the sensor element or the voltage VRL applied to the resistor element.

[0075] The power supply terminal is connected to a power supply such as a battery provided in the gas detection device 1. The ground terminal is connected to the ground of the gas detection device 1. One end of the sensor element is connected to the power supply terminal. The opposite end of the sensor element is connected to one end of the resistive element. As an example, the sensor element is any of an electrochemical sensor, a photoacoustic sensor, and a semiconductor sensor. However, the sensor element is not limited to a semiconductor sensor. For example, the sensor element may be a catalytic combustion sensor, a solid electrolyte sensor, or the like.

[0076] The sensor element includes a gas-sensing portion. The gas-sensing portion includes a metal oxide semiconductor material according to the type of the gas sensor 143. Examples of metal oxide semiconductor materials include tin oxide (SnO ２ etc.), indium oxide (In ２ O ３ etc.), zinc oxide (ZnO etc.), tungsten oxide (WO ３etc.) and iron oxide (Fe ２ O ３ The sensor element may further include a heater for heating the gas sensing portion.

[0077] When the sensor element is exposed to sample gas, the detection target gas contained in the sample gas replaces the oxygen adsorbed on the surface of the gas-sensing portion of the sensor element, potentially causing a reduction reaction. This reduction reaction can remove the oxygen adsorbed on the surface of the gas-sensing portion. Removal of the oxygen adsorbed on the surface of the gas-sensing portion can reduce the resistance RS of the sensor element and the voltage VS applied to the sensor element. In other words, when sample gas is supplied to the gas sensor 143, the voltage VS applied to the sensor element can decrease depending on the concentration of the detection target gas contained in the sample gas. Here, the sum of the voltage VS and the voltage VRL is constant. Therefore, when sample gas is supplied to the gas sensor 143, the voltage VRL can increase depending on the concentration of the detection target gas contained in the sample gas.

[0078] The resistive element is a variable resistive element. The resistance value RL of the resistive element can be changed by a control signal from the control unit 10. One end of the resistive element is connected to the opposite end of the sensor element. The opposite end of the resistive element is connected to a ground terminal.

[0079] The voltage value Vs applied to the sensor element can be adjusted by adjusting the resistance value R of the resistor element. For example, if the resistance value R is set equal to the resistance value R of the sensor element, the amplitude of the voltage value Vs applied to the sensor element can be close to the maximum value.

[0080] The sensor chamber 144 is a chamber that houses the gas sensor 143. As shown in Fig. 10, one end of the flow path 32 is connected to the sensor chamber 144. In other words, the sensor chamber 144 is connected to the first pump 132 via the flow path 32. In addition, one end of the discharge path 33 and one end of the flow path 37 are connected to the sensor chamber 144.

[0081] As described above, exhaust path 33 may be configured with a tubular member such as a resin tube or a metal or glass pipe. One end (first end) of exhaust path 33 is connected to sensor chamber 144, and the opposite end (second end) of exhaust path 33 opens toward the outside of housing 30 of gas detection device 1.

[0082] As described above, the flow path 34 is a tubular member. One end of the flow path 34 has an opening that opens toward an external space different from the toilet bowl 4A, and the opposite end of the flow path 34 is connected to the second valve 141.

[0083] The filter 35 is a filter provided on the flow path 34. The filter 35 may be a filter that can adsorb unnecessary components contained in the outside air sucked from the opening of the flow path 34, such as each of the detectable gases contained in the outside air. By using the filter 35 as described above, the outside air (purge gas) passing through the flow path 34 can have a reduced content of each of the detectable gases by passing through the filter 35.

[0084] One end of the flow path 36 is connected to the second valve 141, and the opposite end is connected to the first valve 131. In addition, one end of the flow path 37 is connected to the second valve 141, and the opposite end is connected to the sensor chamber 144.

[0085] With the first valve 131 and the second valve 141 open and the flow paths 34, 36, and 32 connected, the first pump 132 operates to draw air (purge gas) from within the toilet room through the first end of the flow path 34. The drawn-in purge gas is purified by passing through the filter 35, and the purified purge gas passes through the flow paths 36 and 32 to be supplied to the sensor chamber 144 and then discharged through the discharge path 33. The purge gas passes through the flow path 32 and is discharged together with the sample gas remaining in the flow path 32, thereby cleaning the flow path 32 through which the sample gas passed. With the second valve 141 open and the flow paths 34 and 37 connected, the second pump 142 operates to draw purge gas from within the toilet room through the opening of the flow path 34. The drawn-in purge gas is purified by passing through the filter 35, and the purified purge gas passes through the flow path 37 to be supplied to the sensor chamber 144.

[0086] [Controller 10] Next, the configuration of controller 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. As shown in Fig. 10, controller 10 includes main controller 101 and detection controller 102. Main controller 101 controls the operation of each component of gas detection device 1. Specifically, main controller 101 controls the operation of subject detection unit 11, defecation detection unit 12, first valve 131, first pump 132, second valve 141, and second pump 142. Main controller 101 keeps subject detection unit 11 operating while power is supplied to gas detection device 1, and starts the operation of defecation detection unit 12 when it receives a signal from subject detection unit 11 indicating that the subject has sat on toilet seat 4B.

[0087] When the main control unit 101 receives a signal from the defecation detection unit 12 indicating that stool has been discharged into the toilet bowl 4A, it begins collecting sample gas from within the toilet bowl 4A and detecting specific components contained in the gas.

[0088] Specifically, the main control unit 101 opens the first valve 131, establishing a state in which flow paths 31 and 32 are connected. The main control unit 101 also opens the second valve 141, establishing a state in which flow paths 34 and 37 are connected. In this state, the main control unit 101 alternately operates the first pump 132 and the second pump 142 for a predetermined time each. As a result, sample gas within the toilet bowl 4A is collected from the opening at the end of flow path 31 on the toilet bowl 4A side, passes through flow path 32, and is supplied to the sensor chamber 144. Furthermore, purge gas is sucked from the outside and supplied to the sensor chamber 144 via flow paths 34 and 37. As a result, predetermined amounts of sample gas and purge gas are alternately supplied to the sensor chamber 144, and the gas sensor 143 can detect predetermined components of each detection target gas contained in the respective gases and output a signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component. The main control unit 101 may cause the sample gas and purge gas to be supplied to the sensor chamber 144 for, for example, 10 seconds, and then stop the operation of the first pump 132 and the second pump 142.

[0089] When the main control unit 101 receives information from the detection control unit 102 indicating that detection of the predetermined component has been completed, the main control unit 101 controls each unit to clean the flow path 32. Specifically, the main control unit 101 controls the first valve 131 and the second valve 141 to establish communication between the flow path 34, the flow path 36, and the flow path 32, and operates the first pump 132. As a result, purge gas is supplied to the flow path 32, and the sample gas remaining in the flow path 32 passes through the sensor chamber 144 together with the purge gas and is discharged from the discharge path 33, thereby cleaning the flow path 32. The main control unit 101 also controls each unit to clean the sensor chamber 144. Specifically, the main control unit 101 controls the second valve 141 to establish communication between the flow path 34 and the flow path 37, and operates the second pump 142. As a result, purge gas is supplied to the sensor chamber 144 and discharged from the discharge path 33, thereby cleaning the sensor chamber 144.

[0090] The detection control unit 102 acquires a signal corresponding to the concentration of a predetermined component of each detectable gas contained in the sample gas from the gas sensor 143. Here, since the sensor chamber 144 is alternately supplied with a sample gas containing a large amount of the predetermined component and a purge gas containing a small amount of the detectable gas, the intensity of the signal acquired by the detection control unit 102 becomes waveform data indicating the concentration of the predetermined component. The detection control unit 102 estimates the type and concentration of the predetermined component based on the waveform data. For this estimation, a trained estimation model M1 may be used, which has been trained using a data set including multiple pairs of waveform data as input data for learning and information indicating the type and concentration of the detectable gas as training data. The training process for this estimation model M1 may be performed by the intestinal information estimation device 2 or by an external computer separate from the intestinal information estimation device 2. The detection control unit 102 outputs information indicating the type and concentration of the detected predetermined component to the communication unit 16 and outputs information indicating that detection of the predetermined component has been completed to the main control unit 101.

[0091] The detection control unit 102 may store detection data D1 including each piece of detected information in the storage unit 15. The detection control unit 102 may create detection data each time the type and concentration of a predetermined component contained in the sample gas is detected, and store the detection data in the storage unit 15. The detection control unit 102 may associate the detection data D1 with various pieces of information related to the detection data D1 and store them in the storage unit 15. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2 , the detection control unit 102 may store the detection data D1 in association with a subject ID and sample gas ID indicating the subject from whom the sample gas was collected, the date and time when the sample gas was collected, and a gas detection device ID indicating the gas detection device 1.

[0092] [Configuration of Intestinal Information Estimation Device 2] Next, a description will be given of an example configuration of the intestinal information estimation device 2. As shown in Fig. 10 , the intestinal information estimation device 2 includes a communication unit 21, which is a communication module for communicating with the gas detection device 1 and the electronic device 3, a control unit 22, and a storage unit 23. The control unit 22 controls the operation of each unit of the intestinal information estimation device 2. The control unit 22 also includes an estimation unit 221 and a health level information calculation unit 222.

[0093] The storage unit 23 is configured with, for example, a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, or the like. The storage unit 23 may store detection information 231 acquired from the gas detection device 1, a program for operating the gas detection device 1, and a trained estimation model M1 used in the estimation performed by the estimation unit 221. The storage unit 23 may also store subject information 232. The storage unit 23 may also function as a work memory.

[0094] The intestinal information estimation device 2 may include a learning unit 24 that performs machine learning to construct an estimation model M1. In this case, the storage unit 23 may store learning data 233 used to generate the estimation model M1. Here, the estimation model M1 does not have to be generated by the intestinal information estimation device 2. For example, the estimation model M1 may be generated by a computer other than the intestinal information estimation device 2 by executing a machine learning process using the learning data 233, and the generated estimation model M1 may be installed in the intestinal information estimation device 2.

[0095] The learning data may include a combination of the first sample comparison result or the second sample result and sample measurement information, as shown below. First sample comparison result: A result of comparing a first sample signal, which is a detection signal corresponding to the sample gas when each of the sample providers defecates at a third time point, with a second sample signal, which is a detection signal corresponding to the sample gas when each of the sample providers defecates at a fourth time point a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the third time point. Second sample comparison result: A result of comparing a first sample concentration, which is the concentration of a predetermined component corresponding to the first sample signal, with a second sample concentration, which is the concentration of a predetermined component corresponding to the second sample signal. Sample measurement information: Information including at least one of information regarding the amount and abundance ratio of at least one of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and metabolites contained in the stool of each of the sample providers, obtained by prior analysis.

[0096] Information including at least one of the information regarding the quantity and abundance ratio of at least one of the short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and metabolites actually contained in each sample donor's stool prepared for learning may be obtained using various methods. For example, the short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria may be obtained using a next-generation sequencer, and the metabolites may be obtained using CE-MS. Other analytical methods such as GC-MS, LC-MS, and NMR may also be used to measure the metabolites.

[0097] The estimation unit 221 inputs the first comparison result or the second comparison result shown below into the estimation model M1 to estimate intestinal information related to at least either the amount or the abundance ratio of at least either the short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria or the metabolites contained in the subject's stool. - First comparison result: The result of comparing a first detection signal, which is a detection signal corresponding to the sample gas at the time of defecation performed at a first time point, with a second detection signal, which is a detection signal corresponding to the sample gas at the time of defecation performed at a second time point a predetermined period of time after the first time point. - Second comparison result: The result of comparing a first concentration, which is the concentration of a predetermined component corresponding to the first detection signal, with a second concentration, which is the concentration of a predetermined component corresponding to the second detection signal.

[0098] The intestinal information estimated in this manner may be information regarding at least one of the changes in the amount and the changes in the proportion of short-chain fat-producing bacteria and metabolic substances contained in the subject's stool during the period from the first time point to the second time point.

[0099] The health information calculation unit 222 calculates health information indicating the health of the subject from the intestinal information. When the intestinal information is information regarding at least one of changes in the amount and changes in the abundance ratio of short-chain fat-producing bacteria and metabolites contained in the subject's stool during a period from a first time point to a second time point, the health information calculation unit 222 calculates health information indicating a change in the subject's health.

[0100] The health information is useful for estimating the subject's health status, and may be, for example, information regarding at least one of the subject's physical condition, immune strength, tendency to gain muscle, tendency to gain weight, stress, concentration, anti-aging, skin beauty, mental health, and sleep. The intestinal information estimation system 100 provides health information to medical professionals and caregivers who manage and monitor the subject's health, as well as the subject, so that they can quickly learn of changes in the subject's health status. This allows medical professionals, caregivers, and the subject to quickly consider the need for medical intervention to prevent disease.

[0101] <Electronic Device 3> Next, a configuration example of the electronic device 3 will be described. As shown in FIG. 10 , the electronic device 3 includes a communication unit 311, which is a communication module for communicating with the intestinal information estimation device 2, a control unit 312 that controls the operation of each unit of the electronic device 3, and a display unit 313. The control unit 312 may receive estimation result information or health level information D3 output by the intestinal information estimation device 2 via the communication unit 311. The electronic device 3 may display the received estimation result information or health level information D3 on the display unit 313. The display unit 313 may include a display capable of displaying characters and the like, and a touch screen capable of detecting contact with a user's (subject's) finger or the like. The display may include a display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescence display (OELD), or an inorganic electroluminescence display (IELD). The detection method of the touch screen may be any method such as a capacitance method, a resistive film method, a surface acoustic wave method (or an ultrasonic method), an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a load detection method.

[0102] (Processing Flow of Intestinal Information Estimation System 100) Next, the processing flow of the intestinal information estimation system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the processing flow performed in the intestinal information estimation system 100.

[0103] First, the gas detection device 1 detects a predetermined component from the collected sample gas, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component (step S1: detection control step).

[0104] Next, the intestinal information estimation device 2 inputs the first comparison result or the second comparison result into the estimation model M1 to estimate intestinal information (step S2: estimation step).

[0105] The control unit 312 of the electronic device 3 causes the display unit 313 to display the estimation result information acquired from the intestinal information estimation device 2 (step S3).

[0106] The intestinal information estimated by the intestinal information estimation system 100 is information regarding at least one of the amount and abundance ratio of at least one of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and metabolites contained in the stool of the same subject. That is, the intestinal information estimation system 100 can estimate changes in the intestinal environment of the subject over a predetermined period (e.g., a period from a first time point to a second time point). With the above configuration, the intestinal information estimation system 100 can estimate the health condition of the subject and provide intestinal information, which is useful information that can lead to early detection of physical and mental abnormalities in the subject.

[0107] [Embodiment 2] Sampling system 13 and analysis system 14 of gas detection device 1 are not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 9 and may have a configuration such as that shown in Fig. 12, for example. Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the configuration of gas detection device 1. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as members already described will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0108] 12 includes a sampling system 13 and an analysis system 14a. The sampling system 13 includes a first valve 131 and a first pump 132, and the analysis system 14a includes a second valve 141, a third valve 145, a sensor chamber 144, and a third pump 146.

[0109] 12 , first pump 132 is provided between flow path 31 and flow path 32, and is connected via flow path 32 to storage tank 38, which is capable of storing sample gas. First pump 132 operates under the control of main control unit 101. First pump 132 sucks sample gas from within toilet bowl 4A via an opening of flow path 31 that opens toward the interior of toilet bowl 4A, and supplies the sample gas to storage tank 38. Storage tank 38 is connected to sensor chamber 144 via flow path 39, third valve 145, and flow path 37.

[0110] The flow path 39 is a tubular member provided to connect the reservoir 38 and the third pump 145. One end of the flow path 39 is connected to the reservoir 38, and the other end is connected to the sensor chamber 144. The reservoir 38 may be a column, a bag, or the like made of resin, metal, or rubber.

[0111] The third valve 145 is located on the flow path 37 and operates under the control of the main control unit 101. The third valve 145 may be configured as an electromagnetically driven, piezoelectrically driven, motor-driven, or other valve. The third valve 145 can adjust the degree of opening (degree of communication) of each flow path under the control of the main control unit 101, thereby adjusting the state of communication between the flow path 37 and the flow path 37a, and between the flow path 39 and the flow path 37a. Thus, the inflow of the sample gas and the purge gas into the sensor chamber 144 can be adjusted.

[0112] The third pump 146 is located on the discharge path 33 and operates under the control of the main control unit 101. The third pump 146 operates under the control of the main control unit 101 and can supply the sample gas or purge gas sucked from the flow path 37a into the sensor chamber 144. The third pump 146 can also discharge the sample gas or purge gas from inside the sensor chamber 144 to the outside of the sensor chamber 144.

[0113] According to this configuration, the collected sample gas is not supplied directly to sensor chamber 144, but is temporarily stored in reservoir 38, whereby the concentration of the predetermined component contained therein is averaged and stable sample gas is supplied to sensor chamber 144. This allows gas detection device 1 to output with high accuracy a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component detected in the sample gas.

[0114] [Embodiment 3] In the intestinal information estimation system 100 of the above-described embodiment 1, the gas detection device 1 detects a predetermined component contained in the gas and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component. Furthermore, the intestinal information estimation device 2 estimates at least one of information regarding the amount and abundance ratio of at least one of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and metabolites contained in the subject's stool. However, the intestinal information estimation system 100 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the gas detection device 1 may include an estimation unit 221 and perform the processing performed by the intestinal information estimation device 2. In this case, the process of collecting the sample gas and estimating information regarding the amount and abundance ratio of at least one of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and metabolites contained in the subject's stool can be completed by the gas detection device 1 alone. In this case, the intestinal information estimation system 100 does not need to include the intestinal information estimation device 2, and the gas detection device 1 may transmit the estimated information to the electronic device 3.

[0115] [Embodiment 4] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an intestinal information estimation system 100A according to Embodiment 4. As shown in FIG. 13, the intestinal information estimation system 100A includes a gas detection device 1A and an intestinal information estimation device 2A instead of the gas detection device 1 and the intestinal information estimation device 2. As shown in FIG. 13, the gas detection device 1A does not need to be communicatively connected to the intestinal information estimation device 2A via a communication network. In the intestinal information estimation system 100A, the gas detection device 1A is communicatively connected only to the electronic device 3. In this case, the gas detection device 1A may transmit various information such as concentration information to the electronic device 3, and the electronic device 3 may transmit the concentration information received from the gas detection device 1A to the intestinal information estimation device 2A. As an example, the gas detection device 1A transmits concentration information to the electronic device 3 via a communication device such as a LAN. Furthermore, the electronic device 3 transmits detection information to the intestinal information estimation device 2A. The intestinal information estimation device 2A transmits estimation result information to the electronic device 3 that transmitted the detection information.

[0116] In the intestinal information estimation system 100A, a plurality of electronic devices 3 may be communicatively connected to the intestinal information estimation device 2A. Also, in the intestinal information estimation system 100A, a plurality of gas detection devices 1A may be communicatively connected to the electronic device 3.

[0117] With this configuration, the intestinal information estimation device 2A can output estimation result information based on the detection information from each of the multiple gas detection devices 1A and transmit the estimation result information to the electronic device 3 that is the source of the detection information. For example, the intestinal information estimation system 100A can individually provide estimation result information to each of subjects belonging to different households or different facilities.

[0118] [Embodiment 5] In the intestinal information estimation system 100 of the above-described embodiment 1, the intestinal information estimation device 2 estimates at least one of information regarding the amount and abundance ratio of at least one of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and metabolites contained in the stool of a subject, and outputs the intestinal information. An estimation model M1 is used for this estimation. The intestinal information estimation device 2 inputs the first comparison result or the second comparison result into the estimation model M1 to estimate the intestinal information. Furthermore, in the intestinal information estimation device 2, the health information calculation unit 222 calculates health information indicating the health of the subject from the intestinal information.

[0119] Alternatively, the device that outputs health level information may output the health level information without using intestinal information. That is, for example, the first detection signal or the second detection signal may be input to the estimation model M1 together with the first comparison result or the second comparison result, and the health level may be estimated and the health level information may be output. In this case, the estimation model M1 may be a trained estimation model that has been trained using a data set including multiple pairs of waveform data as input data for learning and health level information as training data.

[0120] [Example of implementation by software] The functions of the intestinal information estimation system 100, 100A (hereinafter referred to as the "system") can be realized by a program that causes a computer to function as the system, and a program that causes a computer to function as each control block of the system (particularly each part included in the control units 10, 10A, and 22).

[0121] In this case, the system includes a computer having at least one control device (e.g., a processor) and at least one storage device (e.g., a memory) as hardware for executing the program. The functions described in each of the above embodiments are realized by executing the program using the control device and storage device.

[0122] The program may be non-transitory and may be recorded on one or more computer-readable recording media. The recording media may or may not be included in the device. In the latter case, the program may be supplied to the device via any wired or wireless transmission medium.

[0123] In addition, some or all of the functions of each of the control blocks can be realized by a logic circuit. For example, an integrated circuit in which a logic circuit that functions as each of the control blocks is formed is also included in the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the functions of each of the control blocks can be realized by, for example, a quantum computer.

[0124] The invention according to the present disclosure has been described above based on the drawings and examples. However, the invention according to the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. In other words, the invention according to the present disclosure can be modified in various ways within the scope of the present disclosure, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the invention according to the present disclosure. In other words, it should be noted that a person skilled in the art could easily make various modifications or corrections based on the present disclosure. It should also be noted that these modifications or corrections are included in the scope of the present disclosure.

[0125] [Summary] As described above, the intestinal information estimation system according to aspect 1 of the present disclosure includes a detection control unit that detects a predetermined component from a gas originating from a subject and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component, and an estimation unit that inputs a first comparison result obtained by comparing a first detection signal that is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at a first time point with a second detection signal that is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at a second time point a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the first time point, or a second comparison result obtained by comparing a first concentration that is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the first detection signal with a second concentration that is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the second detection signal, into an estimation model to estimate intestinal information of the subject.

[0126] In the intestinal information estimation system according to aspect 2 of the present disclosure, in the above-mentioned aspect 1, the gas may be gas resulting from the subject's feces obtained during the subject's defecation act.

[0127] In the intestinal information estimation system according to aspect 3 of the present disclosure, in aspect 1 or 2 above, the intestinal information may be information regarding at least one of the amount and abundance ratio of at least one of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and metabolic substances contained in the stool of the subject.

[0128] In the intestinal information estimation system according to aspect 4 of the present disclosure, in any one of aspects 1 to 3, the predetermined period may be one day or more and one month or less.

[0129] In the intestinal information estimation system according to Aspect 5 of the present disclosure, in any of Aspects 1 to 4 above, the estimation model may be generated by machine learning using training data including a combination of: (1A) a first sample comparison result obtained by comparing a first sample signal, which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas produced when each of the sample providers defecates at a third time point, with a second sample signal, which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas produced when each of the sample providers defecates at a fourth time point a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the third time point; or (1B) a second sample result obtained by comparing a first sample concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the first sample signal, with a second sample concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the second sample signal; and (2) sample measurement information, which is obtained in advance by analyzing the stool of the sample provider when the stool is defecates at the third time point and the fourth time point, and which includes at least one of information regarding the amount and abundance ratio of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and / or metabolites contained in the stool of each of the sample providers.

[0130] In the intestinal information estimation system according to aspect 6 of the present disclosure, in any of aspects 1 to 5 above, the detection control unit may determine whether the predetermined period has elapsed since the first time point each time the subject defecates after the first time point, and if it determines that the predetermined period has elapsed since the first time point, detect the predetermined component from the gas during the defecation and output the second detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component.

[0131] The intestinal information estimation system according to aspect 7 of the present disclosure is any one of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the predetermined component is at least one of methyl mercaptan, hydrogen sulfide, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide.

[0132] The intestinal information estimation system according to aspect 8 of the present disclosure, in any of aspects 1 to 7 above, may be such that the intestinal information is information relating to at least one of a change in the amount and a change in the proportion of short-chain fat-producing bacteria and metabolic substances contained in the stool of the subject during a period from the first time point to the second time point.

[0133] The intestinal information estimation system according to aspect 9 of the present disclosure, in any of aspects 1 to 8 above, may further include a health information calculation unit that calculates health information indicating the health of the subject from the intestinal information.

[0134] In the intestinal information estimation system according to aspect 10 of the present disclosure, in the above-mentioned aspect 9, the health information may be information regarding at least one of the subject's physical condition, immunity, tendency to gain muscle, tendency to gain weight, stress, concentration, anti-aging, skin beauty, mental health, and sleep.

[0135] An intestinal information estimation system according to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, in the above-mentioned third aspect, may be such that the short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria are at least one of butyric acid-producing bacteria and acetic acid-producing bacteria.

[0136] In the intestinal information estimation system according to Aspect 12 of the present disclosure, in Aspect 3, the metabolite may be at least one of butyric acid and acetic acid.

[0137] The intestinal information estimation method according to aspect 13 of the present disclosure includes a detection control step of detecting a predetermined component from a gas originating from a subject and outputting a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component; and an estimation step of estimating intestinal information of the subject by inputting a first comparison result obtained by comparing a first detection signal, which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at a first time point, with a second detection signal, which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at a second time point a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the first time point, or a second comparison result obtained by comparing a first concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the first detection signal, with a second concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the second detection signal, into an estimation model.

[0138] A control program according to aspect 14 of the present disclosure is a control program for causing a computer to function as the intestinal information estimation system described in any one of aspects 1 to 12 above, and is a control program for causing a computer to function as the estimation unit.

[0139] A storage medium according to aspect 15 of the present disclosure is a computer-readable recording medium on which the control program according to aspect 14 above is recorded.

[0140] Examples Hereinafter, several examples of the intestinal information estimation method according to one aspect of the present disclosure will be described.

[0141] 14 is a diagram showing the correlation between the amount of change in the concentration ratio of sulfur-based gases contained in sample gases over a predetermined period of time and health information (amount of change in the likelihood of gaining weight score). The correlation diagram shown in FIG. 14 is based on the results of analyzing sample gases and feces provided by 11 sample donors.

[0142] The "weight gain susceptibility score" shown on the vertical axis of Figure 14 is a score calculated by a predetermined calculation from the abundance ratio of bifidobacteria, faecalis, etc., and is a value indicating the subject's degree of weight gain susceptibility. For example, the "weight gain susceptibility score" may be a value calculated by determining the maximum value of the sum of the abundance ratios of bifidobacteria, faecalis, etc. among all sample donors, and dividing the sum of the abundance ratios of bifidobacteria, faecalis, etc. for each sample donor by this maximum value. A "weight gain susceptibility score" of "0" means that the tendency to gain weight has not changed within a specified period. As the "weight gain susceptibility score" increases, it means that the subject's constitution has changed to one that is more susceptible to gaining weight within a specified period. A negative "weight gain susceptibility score" means that the subject's constitution has changed to one that is less susceptible to gaining weight within a specified period.

[0143] On the other hand, the "sulfur-based gas concentration ratio" shown on the horizontal axis of Figure 14 is a value indicating the amount of change in the concentration ratio of sulfur-based gases such as methyl mercaptan in the sample gas over a specified period of time. When the "sulfur-based gas concentration ratio" is "0", this means that the concentration ratio of sulfur-based gases contained in the sample gas has not changed over the specified period of time. When the "sulfur-based gas concentration ratio" is negative, this means that the concentration ratio of sulfur-based gases contained in the sample gas has decreased over the specified period of time, and when it is positive, this means that the concentration ratio of sulfur-based gases contained in the sample gas has increased over the specified period of time.

[0144] As shown in Figure 14, it was confirmed that there is a negative correlation (Pearson coefficient = -0.72) between the concentration ratio of sulfur-based gases contained in the sample gas and health information (susceptibility to gain weight). Therefore, it was found that if the concentration ratio of sulfur-based gases contained in the sample gas collected during a subject's defecation can be accurately estimated, it is possible to estimate the subject's health information (susceptibility to gain weight).

[0145] Example 2 Fig. 15 is a diagram showing the correlation between the rate of change in the concentration ratio of hydrogen contained in sample gas and the amount of change in the amount of acetic acid contained in feces over a predetermined period of time. The correlation diagram shown in Fig. 15 is based on the results of analyzing sample gases and feces provided by 11 specimen donors.

[0146] The "acetic acid amount" shown on the vertical axis of FIG. 15 is the change in the amount of acetic acid (mg) contained in 1 g of feces provided by each sample donor. The amount of acetic acid contained in feces is known to reflect the quality of the subject's intestinal environment. On the other hand, the "H ２ The "H concentration ratio" is a value indicating the amount of change in the concentration ratio of hydrogen gas contained in the sample gas during a predetermined period provided by each sample provider. ２ When the "concentration ratio" is "0", it means that the concentration ratio of hydrogen gas contained in the sample gas has not changed within the predetermined period. ２ If the "concentration ratio" is negative, it means that the concentration ratio of hydrogen gas contained in the sample gas has decreased within the specified period, and if it is positive, it means that the concentration ratio of hydrogen gas contained in the sample gas has increased within the specified period.

[0147] As shown in Figure 15, it was confirmed that there is a positive correlation (Pearson coefficient = 0.43) between the concentration ratio of hydrogen contained in the sample gas and the amount of acetic acid contained in the feces. Therefore, it was found that if the concentration ratio of hydrogen contained in the sample gas collected during a subject's defecation can be accurately estimated, it is possible to estimate the quality of the subject's intestinal environment.

[0148] Example 3 Fig. 16 is a diagram showing the correlation between the reciprocal of the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the sample gas and health status information (immunity). The correlation diagram shown in Fig. 16 is based on the results of analyzing the sample gas and stool provided by each of 39 specimen donors.

[0149] The "immunity score" shown on the vertical axis of FIG. 16 is a score calculated by a predetermined calculation from the amounts of Lactobacillus faecalis, Eubacterium, Ruminococcus, and butyric acid bacteria, and is a value that indicates the strength of the subject's immune system. The larger the "immunity score," the stronger the immune system of the subject. On the other hand, the "1 / CO ２ " is the reciprocal of the carbon dioxide content in the sample gas (ppm) －１ ) is a value indicating

[0150] 16, it was confirmed that there is a negative correlation (Pearson coefficient = -0.56) between the concentration ratio of carbon dioxide contained in the sample gas and health information (immunity). Therefore, it was found that if the concentration ratio of carbon dioxide contained in the sample gas collected during a subject's defecation can be accurately estimated, it is possible to estimate the subject's health information (immunity strength).

[0151] 17 is a diagram comparing the health information (changes in immune scores) of a sample provider whose carbon dioxide concentration in sample gas increased over a predetermined period with the health information (changes in immune scores) of a group of subjects whose carbon dioxide concentration decreased over a predetermined period. As shown in FIG. 16, it was confirmed that the immune scores of sample providers whose carbon dioxide concentration in sample gas increased over a predetermined period increased, and the immune scores of sample providers whose carbon dioxide concentration decreased decreased. Therefore, it was found that if it is possible to accurately estimate how the carbon dioxide concentration ratio in sample gas collected during a subject's defecation changed over a predetermined period, it is possible to estimate the subject's health information.

[0152] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1, 1A Gas detection device 2, 2A Intestinal information estimation device 3 Electronic device 4 Toilet 143 Detection control unit 221 Estimation unit 222 Health information calculation unit

Claims

1. A detection control unit that detects a predetermined component from gas caused by a subject and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component; A first detection signal which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at a first time point, and a second detection signal which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at a second time point after a predetermined period has elapsed from the first time point, or a first concentration which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the first detection signal and a second concentration which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the second detection signal, and inputting the first comparison result or the second comparison result of the comparison into an estimation model to estimate the intestinal information of the subject. An estimation unit is provided. An intestinal information estimation system.

2. The gas is gas caused by the feces of the subject obtained during the defecation act of the subject. The intestinal information estimation system according to Claim 1.

3. The intestinal information is information regarding at least one of the amount and the presence ratio of at least one of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and metabolites contained in the feces of the subject. The intestinal information estimation system according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. The predetermined period is 1 day or more and 1 month or less. The intestinal information estimation system according to Claim 1 or 2.

5. The estimation model is: (1A) A first sample signal which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas at the time of defecation performed by each of any sample providers at a third time point, and a second sample signal which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas at the time of defecation performed by each of the sample providers at a fourth time point after a predetermined period has elapsed from the third time point, or (1B) a first sample concentration which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the first sample signal and a second sample concentration which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the second sample signal, and a second sample result of the comparison; (2) Generated by machine learning using learning data including a combination of the first sample comparison result or the second sample result and sample measurement information including at least one of the amount and the presence ratio of at least one of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and metabolites contained in the feces of each of the sample providers obtained by analyzing the feces at the time of defecation performed by the sample providers at the third time point and the fourth time point in advance. The intestinal information estimation system according to Claim 1 or 2.

6. The detection control unit is: Whenever the subject defecates after the first time point, it is determined whether the elapsed time from the first time point has exceeded the predetermined period. If it is determined that the predetermined period has elapsed from the first time point, the predetermined component is detected from the gas at the time of defecation, and the second detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component is output. The intestinal information estimation system according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The predetermined component is at least one of methyl mercaptan, hydrogen sulfide, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide. The intestinal information estimation system according to claim 1 or 2.

8. The intestinal information is information regarding at least one of a change in the amount and a change in the abundance ratio of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria and metabolites contained in the feces of the subject during the period from the first time point to the second time point. The intestinal information estimation system according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The system further includes a health information calculation unit that calculates health information indicating the health level of the subject from the intestinal information. The intestinal information estimation system according to claim 1 or 2.

10. The health information is information regarding at least one of the physical condition, immunity, muscle growth tendency, obesity tendency, stress, concentration, anti-aging effect, muscle strength, mental health, and sleep of the subject. The intestinal information estimation system according to claim 9.

11. The short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria are at least one of butyric acid-producing bacteria and acetic acid-producing bacteria. The intestinal information estimation system according to claim 3.

12. The metabolite is at least one of butyric acid and acetic acid. The intestinal information estimation system according to claim 3.

13. A detection control step of detecting a predetermined component from the gas caused by the subject and outputting a detection signal corresponding to the concentration of the predetermined component; A first comparison result obtained by comparing a first detection signal, which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at the first time point, with a second detection signal, which is the detection signal corresponding to the gas collected at a second time point after a predetermined period has elapsed from the first time point, or a second comparison result obtained by comparing a first concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the first detection signal, with a second concentration, which is the concentration of the predetermined component corresponding to the second detection signal, is input to an estimation model to estimate the intestinal information of the subject. An estimation step. An intestinal information estimation method.

14. A control program for causing a computer to function as the intestinal information estimation system according to claim 1 or 2, which is a control program for causing a computer to function as the estimation unit.

15. A computer-readable recording medium on which the control program according to claim 14 is recorded.