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US20100219820A1 - Atomic Magnetometer Sensor Array Magnetoencephalogram Systems and Methods - Google Patents

Atomic Magnetometer Sensor Array Magnetoencephalogram Systems and Methods Download PDF

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Publication number
US20100219820A1
US20100219820A1 US12/532,637 US53263708A US2010219820A1 US 20100219820 A1 US20100219820 A1 US 20100219820A1 US 53263708 A US53263708 A US 53263708A US 2010219820 A1 US2010219820 A1 US 2010219820A1
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sensors
field detection
detection system
biomagnetic field
subject
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Frank M. Skidmore
James C. Sackellares
Mark Davidson
Bernard F. Whiting
Panos M. Pardalos
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University of Florida Research Foundation Inc
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University of Florida Research Foundation Inc
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Publication of US20100219820A1 publication Critical patent/US20100219820A1/en
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/242—Detecting biomagnetic fields, e.g. magnetic fields produced by bioelectric currents
    • A61B5/245—Detecting biomagnetic fields, e.g. magnetic fields produced by bioelectric currents specially adapted for magnetoencephalographic [MEG] signals
    • A61B5/246—Detecting biomagnetic fields, e.g. magnetic fields produced by bioelectric currents specially adapted for magnetoencephalographic [MEG] signals using evoked responses
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/68—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient
    • A61B5/6801—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be attached to or worn on the body surface
    • A61B5/6813—Specially adapted to be attached to a specific body part
    • A61B5/6814—Head
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01R—MEASURING ELECTRIC VARIABLES; MEASURING MAGNETIC VARIABLES
    • G01R33/00—Arrangements or instruments for measuring magnetic variables
    • G01R33/02—Measuring direction or magnitude of magnetic fields or magnetic flux
    • G01R33/035—Measuring direction or magnitude of magnetic fields or magnetic flux using superconductive devices
    • G01R33/0354—SQUIDS
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2562/00—Details of sensors; Constructional details of sensor housings or probes; Accessories for sensors
    • A61B2562/02—Details of sensors specially adapted for in-vivo measurements
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2562/00—Details of sensors; Constructional details of sensor housings or probes; Accessories for sensors
    • A61B2562/04—Arrangements of multiple sensors of the same type
    • A61B2562/046—Arrangements of multiple sensors of the same type in a matrix array
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/103—Measuring devices for testing the shape, pattern, colour, size or movement of the body or parts thereof, for diagnostic purposes
    • A61B5/11—Measuring movement of the entire body or parts thereof, e.g. head or hand tremor or mobility of a limb
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/242—Detecting biomagnetic fields, e.g. magnetic fields produced by bioelectric currents
    • A61B5/245—Detecting biomagnetic fields, e.g. magnetic fields produced by bioelectric currents specially adapted for magnetoencephalographic [MEG] signals

Definitions

  • the field of various embodiments is the detection of biomagnetic fields, and more specifically the detection of magnetic fields of the brain and other aspects of the nervous system.
  • EEGs electroencephalograms
  • NCS nerve conduction studies
  • EMGs electromyograms
  • EMGs electrocardiograms
  • the analysis of electrical patterns derived from biological tissue has a number of applications, including detection and localization of seizures, detection and categorization of deficits of other neurological syndromes such as encephalopathies, encephalitidies, and some neurodegenerative disorders, detection and categorization of sleep states and sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, REM behavior disorders, other disorders of arousal, identification of lesions in spinal cord, peripheral nerve disease, and characterization of dysfunction of muscle tissues.
  • EEGs With EEGs, the strength of a particular EEG signal is proportional to the proximity of the sensor to the signal. Signals that are closer to the scalp may therefore overwhelm deeper signals. In epilepsy, this has practical applications, as in many cases, including in most cases of temporal lobe epilepsy (the most common indication for epilepsy surgery) where the focus of the seizure activity is deep and difficult to detect with scalp electrodes. It is therefore common practice in epilepsy surgery centers to perform invasive surgery to place deep electrodes to obtain localization information. Additionally, the EEG detects transmitted electrical currents. Therefore, locations on the scalp may not directly overlie the source of the signal. Further, subject movement can affect and obscure the EEG signal.
  • nerve conduction studies only some areas are accessible using current techniques, and the activity of nerve roots and nerves that are deep to the external surfaces of the body, such as autonomic nerves, the phrenic nerve (a nerve important for respiration), and areas where nerve roots interact (called nerve plexuses) are difficult to discern using commonly available techniques.
  • MEG detects current induced magnetic fields (flux through a sensing coil) rather than transmitted current.
  • the MEG signal is less distorted by passage through the brain and scalp. The signal is therefore a direct measure of signal strength and direction, and the MEG can directly localize and measure sources of brain activity. Access to an MEG can therefore allow, for example, localization of a seizure focus without the morbidity of an invasive procedure, or monitoring of a deep nerve root that is otherwise not accessible using surface electrodes.
  • EEG, EMG and nerve conduction studies are volume-conducted. In the case of EEGs, this can make source localization difficult, while in the case of nerve conduction studies, certain potential sources of magnetic fields are not even detectable using surface electrodes. In contrast, magnetic fields are not distorted when traveling through tissue.
  • MEG typically provides better spatial resolution than the EEG, particularly for deeper structures such as the hippocampus. This property makes the MEG an ideal noninvasive method for localizing epileptogenic foci and for functional brain mapping prior to neurosurgical procedures.
  • the MEG however is available at a relative paucity of medical centers, and clinical utilization is currently limited, due primarily to the expense of this technology. In many centers, despite a clinical utilization for detection of epilepsy focus, the major utilization of the MEG is in clinical research. There are a number of factors that are responsible for the relative limited scope of the MEG in current clinical practice.
  • a typical MEG uses 60 or more magnetic detecting coils in a dewar (an insulated vacuum chamber). Each coil is a Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID).
  • SQUID Superconducting Quantum Interference Device
  • SQUIDs require cryogenic cooling with liquid helium, which must be delivered by a pump or other means.
  • An MEG typically requires a magnetically shielded room using specially designed Mu metals that can absorb and deflect magnetic fields.
  • the plurality of SQUIDs are typically contained in a large, heavy, non-portable device that fits over the subject's head. SQUIDs measure magnetic flux, which is used to estimate field strength.
  • the energy requirements, cooling requirements, and shielding requirements of the typical MEG result in a technology that is large, bulky, non-portable and expensive (often requiring an investment of 2-3 million dollars per MEG system). The cost of an MEG is markedly greater than that of an EEG.
  • Atomic magnetometers have several characteristics that require new methodologies to deal with the issue of sensor cross-talk.
  • Atomic magnetometers generate a magnetic field in the course of operation. This particular characteristic of these sensors requires special methodologies of operation and signal processing in order to produce a system that can actually measure biologically relevant magnetic fields in the brain or elsewhere.
  • the atomic magnetometers operate at elevated temperature and thus may require some level of thermal isolation from the patient. This can come in the form of an insulating layer or active cooling.
  • U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/319,792 to Park discloses an array of optical magnetometer, not unlike optical magnetometers described by a multiple of inventors and authors, (e.g. see U.S. Pat. No. 3,206,671 to Colegrove, and Fitzgerald, New Atomic Magnetometer Achieves Subfemtotesla Sensitivity, Physics Today 2003 (July), 21-23 for an excellent review of utilization of atomic magnetometers for biomagnetism).
  • Park describes a substrate and an array of optical magnetometers placed on the substrate.
  • At least one of the magnetometers comprises a container having a chamber filled with an atomic vapor with an optical property capable of being changed by the presence of an external magnetic field across the chamber.
  • the concept of utilizing an array of optical magnetometers to detect biological signals has been described (see Savukov I M, Romalis M V. NMR Detection with an Atomic Magnetometer. Physical Review Letters, 123001, April 2005; also publicly announced Navy STTR application proposal number N045-002-0070 (FY 2004), which discusses development of multi-magnetometer arrays useful for, among other purposes, “the field of biomagnetism”, also see: Claire Bowles.
  • Cheap hand-held MRI scanners may one day be a reality, Website http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/22435.php (e.g. popular science web-based science press), April 2005).
  • Park fails to address sensor crosstalk, and specific algorithms necessary for sensor calibration and data interpretation related to the specific capabilities of the sensors and fails to adequately address magnetic shielding. Further, Park and the other references noted above do not disclose a device and method that allows for subject mobility. Nor do they discuss advantages of the system related to vectoral sensing capacity, or the possibility of a system to utilize selective sensor activation to improve clinical utility.
  • Sensor crosstalk is an issue with respect to construction of a functional multi-celled device—specifically the propensity of atomic or “optical” magnetometers to generate magnetic fields in the context of use.
  • the presence of an adjacent firing cell creates significant interfering magnetic fields which may prevent detection of brain magnetic waves.
  • atomic magnetometers arrayed around a patient's head in a mobile helmet, provide the significant advantages of allowing prolonged monitoring (which as noted cannot be easily performed now) as well as more comfortable monitoring which is necessary for example in optimally measuring children and disabled patients.
  • a biomagnetic field detection system comprises: (A) a portable support structure; and (B) a plurality of sensors attached adjacent the portable support structure, each of the sensors being adapted for measuring magnetic field changes generated by a target structure within a living subject's body.
  • the biomagnetic field detection system is adapted to detect and measure magnetic fields emanating from a target area within the subject's body and each of the plurality of sensors is an atomic magnetometer.
  • a subject monitoring system comprises: (A) a monitored area, (B) a sensor shielding apparatus for shielding sensors within the monitored area from the effects of magnetic fields external to the monitored area, and (C) a portable biomagnetic field detection system that is adapted to measure magnetic signals from a target area within a living subject while the living subject is within the monitored area.
  • FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an exemplary MEG according to various embodiments.
  • FIG. 1B is a plan view of two sensors that are paired for scalar detection in a plane.
  • FIG. 1C is a perspective view of three sensors that are clustered and that are adapted to cooperate to act as a single scalar and vector sensor.
  • FIG. 1D is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a portion of an exemplary MEG according to a particular embodiment.
  • FIG. 1E is a schematic diagram depicting a single mixed layer of sensors that are, respectively, adapted to operate in vector and scalar modes.
  • FIG. 1F is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a portion of an exemplary MEG according to a particular embodiment that features an additional layer of sensors for noise reduction purposes.
  • FIG. 1G is a schematic diagram depicting a single mixed layer of sensors that are, respectively, adapted to detect field strength and magnetic flux.
  • FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a sensor assembly according to a particular embodiment.
  • FIG. 3 includes two cross-sectional, schematic views of a human eye.
  • FIG. 4 depicts the areas of peak flux associated, respectively, with horizontal and vertical eye movements.
  • FIG. 5 depicts a magnetometer or group of magnetometers with sensitivity along a single field direction as compared to one or more magnetometers that have scalar sensitivity.
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram that depicts how mathematical modeling may be used to define distance from current source.
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an MEG device according to particular embodiments.
  • FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary atomic magnetometer that is suitable for use in various embodiments.
  • FIGS. 9A and 9B are schematic diagrams showing how a single laser generator may be used to simultaneously illuminate multiple sensors.
  • FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing how a single heat source may be used to simultaneously heat multiple sensors.
  • FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing examples of various types of measurement errors that may develop in the course of developing a large array of magnetic sensors.
  • FIG. 12A depicts a first representative monitored mobile setting, including a confined recumbent setting allowing mobility specifically for repositioning.
  • FIG. 12B depicts a second representative monitored mobile setting in which freer movement is possible ( 12 . 2 ).
  • FIG. 13 is a schematic representation of shielding and positioning that may be utilized to minimize inter-sensor interactions.
  • FIG. 14A is a schematic diagram of a sensor array that is adapted for in-utero measurement.
  • FIG. 14B is a schematic diagram of a sheet of sensors that may be wrapped or draped over a member such as a patient's arm or chest.
  • FIG. 14C is a schematic diagram of a sheet of sensors that may be wrapped or draped over a patient's spinal cord.
  • FIGS. 15A-C depicts a multiplexing sensor array.
  • these figures demonstrate the concept of multiplexing, which involves operating sensors at temporally disparate points.
  • Various embodiments are directed to magnetoencephalographic systems (MEGs) that use Atomic Magnetometers to provide an MEG with mobility, reduced size and cost.
  • MEGs magnetoencephalographic systems
  • Various issues are addressed, including sensor crosstalk, electromagnetic shielding and cancellation requirements, and data registration and calibration.
  • atomic magnetometers typically operate at a high temperature, in particular embodiments, in order to ensure patient comfort, the system comprises an array of atomic magnetometers and an insulating layer between the atomic magnetometers and the subject's head.
  • the system may optionally also include magnetic shielding around at least some of the atomic magnetometers.
  • the atomic magnetometers record the magnetic fields generated by neuronal activity or other sources of magnetic fields and this information is transmitted by the MEG to a computer (which may be internal or external to the MEG). The computer then saves this information to memory.
  • data will be processed by an algorithm that allows for optimal source location.
  • Sensor registration techniques are utilized to optimize array output to maximize the overall accuracy of the array for the purposes of source localization.
  • the sensors will be calibrated and registered prior to use to allow sensor output to be accurately interpreted.
  • the sensor registration process involves measuring a known signal at a known position with respect to the sensor or sensor array and obtaining information from each sensor related to its position, direction, and response.
  • the sensor registration process characterizes cross-talk between sensors and unexpected noise in order to allow accurate signal deconvolution from interfering elements.
  • Sensor registration is often important in accurate reading of large sensor arrays due to the many common sources of intra and inter-sensor differences in sensitivity, position, and interferences.
  • Sensor registration may allow correction for inaccuracies in sensor placement, response, or operation (see FIG. 11 ).
  • the information obtained by, and transmitted from, the MEG is used to estimate the magnitude, direction, and distance of the field generated by the magnetic field source. Due to the vectoral information available in many atomic magnetometers, special algorithms are required to convert the raw data into useful information related to source localization.
  • An MEG comprises a helmet, a sensor array (e.g., an array of atomic magnetometers) disposed adjacent an interior surface of the helmet, and a heat insulator (e.g., a molded heat insulator) that is shaped to fit over the subject's scalp.
  • a sensor array e.g., an array of atomic magnetometers
  • a heat insulator e.g., a molded heat insulator
  • the sensors may measure absolute magnetic field rather than magnetic flux. In other embodiments, more traditional devices measuring magnetic flux may also be used.
  • the sensor array is disposed between the heat insulator and the helmet's interior surface.
  • the sensor array may, for example, include a plurality of atomic magnetometers that are arrayed adjacent the subject's scalp. Also, in particular embodiments, each sensor within a particular array of sensors may comprise a cluster of individual sensors that are adapted to cooperate to function as either a single scalar or directional magnetometer.
  • a stacked array of two or more positioned atomic magnetometers with capacity to sense magnetic field vectors will be arrayed adjacent to a target. Sensors may also be arranged in such a way to allow scalar detection of field strength at a specific point in space. In other embodiments, more complex arrangements may be utilized. It is understood that nearby sensors will generate magnetic fields during operation that will create an unwanted signal that will interfere with the capability of a given sensor to detect the target signal. In the case of an array of sensors, therefore, it is desirable to address inter-sensor cross-talk.
  • a number of strategies are disclosed to manage sensor cross-talk, including simple multiplexing, which is a strategy that, in various embodiments, involves serially polling individual sensors.
  • the sensor is typically operating and both detecting a field and generating a field.
  • adjacent sensors are typically not activated and, therefore, are neither generating a field nor detecting a field.
  • activation of the first sensor is discontinued, and a second sensor is activated.
  • this method prevents development of inter-sensor cross-talk.
  • a potential disadvantage of various embodiments of this technique is that, in large arrays, the time to poll all sensors can be prohibitively long.
  • a further refinement of this technique is serial polling of groups of sensors that do not experience cross talk. There are several parameters that are useful for selecting which sensor groups might be simultaneously activated. For example, in some atomic magnetometers, there are certain angles of minimal sensitivity. Therefore, in various embodiments, sensors with this property, when located at the appropriate angle, may be simultaneously activated with acceptably small inter-sensor interference. Once these sensors are activated, and make their measurement of the field, the sensors are de-activated.
  • each cluster of sensors functions as a unit that can be safely activated with minimal inter-sensor interference, increasing the number of sensors that can be simultaneously activated during multiplexing.
  • the distance between sensors, as well as relevant in-device shielding is used to determine which subgroups are selected for simultaneous activation (see FIGS. 13 , 15 ).
  • FIG. 13 depicts shielding and positioning that may be utilized to minimize inter-sensor interactions.
  • reference number “ 1 ” refers to insulation/internal structure
  • reference numbers “ 2 ” and “ 3 ” refer to alternating sensors
  • reference number “ 4 ” refers to magnetic shielding.
  • sensors may generate spurious magnetic fields during operation, which may be measured by adjacent sensors. In an array, methods of packing the sensors may be required to mitigate these effects.
  • the atomic magnetometer is assumed to generate a magnetic field related to the direction of light propagation within the sensor. In this case, alternating the direction of light propagation in the sensors, and/or including placing sensors in a random orientation, may be utilized to minimize the generation of large scale field effects, although in this case local field effects might still apply.
  • different angles may be utilized, such as positioning sensors at angles of low sensitivity, to minimize inter-sensor interactions.
  • multiplexing may be utilized to periodically turn on and off sensors to allow temporal dissipation of magnetic field effects.
  • shielding may or may not be interposed between specific sensors or sensor pairs to direct magnetic field lines away from adjacent sensors.
  • magnetic shielding e.g., creating a window of measurability
  • signal processing may be utilized to remove known frequencies related to operation of sensors from measurements (not shown). It should be understood, in light of this disclosure, that many other configurations using these concepts is possible.
  • signal processing algorithms are utilized to allow localization and deconvolution of distal signals within a target by subtracting more proximal signals. In other embodiments, signal processing algorithms are used to subtract environmental noise. In some embodiments, one purpose of deconvolution will be the reconstruction of a three-dimensional map of the locations and intensities of the signals generated by the target structure.
  • the sensors do not require cryogenic cooling, and because of the relatively small size of the sensors, sensor density within a particular array of sensors may be higher than in a traditional MEG.
  • the sensors may be placed less than 3 mm from the subject's scalp in a closely packed array, thus allowing a higher sensor density that is closer to the target than typically utilized within a conventional MEG.
  • a second sensor (comprising a single magnetometer or cluster of magnetometers) may be positioned distal to a first sensor along the same axis (e.g., an axis that is perpendicular to the surface of the patient's head) at a sufficient distance to measure environmental noise.
  • the first sensor is located closer to the signal source than the second sensor, subtracting the signals measured by the two devices will yield a difference in measured magnetic field. This information may then be used to determine signal and noise at the first sensor.
  • Stacking and grouping of arrays of sensors or arrays of sensor clusters may be utilized to progressively screen signal from noise and to account for spatially uniform sources of noise, or other externally induced magnetic fields. Since atomic magnetometers or similar sensors develop magnetic fields in the course of normal operation (typically related to the direction of light propagation along the sensor), the direction of light propagation among sensors may be alternated, or a random pattern of orientation may be utilized (see FIG. 13 ) to minimize large scale field effects. In some cases, additional magnetic shielding (such as mu-metal shielding) may be placed around a sensor or a cluster of sensors, for the purpose of further mitigating inter-sensor interference, and/or in order to provide a further screen for environmental noise. Since sensor-related magnetic fields typically have a particular magnitude and occur at a particular frequency, signal analysis techniques may be utilized to remove the influence of inter-sensor interference from the information derived from the sensors.
  • fiducial markers may be used as necessary to define the relationship of sensors to the target.
  • a selective activation of sensors can be utilized to increase the response speed of the system while monitoring between events.
  • a limited number of sensors is continuously monitored until specified event is detected.
  • the appropriate local sensors to best characterize the critical event will be activated using multiplexing or other relevant techniques.
  • induction of a magnetic field in at least some of the various sensors within the MEG allows these magnetometers to be used as specific, vector magnetometers.
  • magnetic sensitivity may vary along the axis of the sensor, allowing clusters of sensors to mathematically calculate magnetic field direction.
  • a particular embodiment comprises a plurality of groups of single or clustered sensors. These groups are preferably adapted to detect specific direction of magnetic field.
  • the combination of two sensors in which the two sensors are positioned relative to each other to form a predetermined angle
  • FIG. 1B An example of such a combination of sensors is shown in FIG. 1B . This figure shows a bimodal array of sensors.
  • two sensors are paired to allow for scalar detection in a plane.
  • some directional information may be available as well, which may be combined with directional information from other sensors.
  • three sensors arrayed at a non-zero angle detect both the magnitude and the direction of a magnetic field.
  • three or more individual MEG sensors may be arranged to form angles relative to each other (with each specific angle dependant on individual sensor properties) to allow for estimation of both field direction and gradient with respect to a single point—e.g., within a single cluster of sensors (See FIG. 1C ).
  • atomic magnetometers may be arrayed in clusters of one or more sensors at an appropriate angle. Two examples are shown to indicate that a variety of angles dependant on the direction of maximal sensitivity of the sensor may be used. In this setting, mathematical techniques may be used to operate the sensors to determine both the size and vector of the field.
  • the MEG may include two or more layers of sensors (See FIG. 1D ). These layers of sensors may, in various embodiments, be used to gather field gradient information, which may be used to improve the spatial resolution of the field source.
  • clusters of sensors may be arrayed in groupings to maximize scalar, vector, and gradient detection of field, allowing maximization of localization.
  • three-sensor clusters shown as cubes
  • levels A through D are arranged as in FIG. 1A .
  • the MEG's sensors may be alternatingly arranged within the MEG's various rows of sensors (See FIG. 1E ). As shown in FIG. 1E , sensors may also be grouped so that sensors in a vector mode (“V”) are located adjacent to sensors operating in a scalar mode (“S”), and/or in overlapping arrays. One layer is shown, for the sake of simplicity, but multiple layers, with columns of vector and scalar sensors or overlapping vector and scalar sensors, may be used. In most cases, the ideal arrangement of sensors is defined by the best mathematical fit for a particular application.
  • V vector mode
  • S scalar mode
  • One layer is shown, for the sake of simplicity, but multiple layers, with columns of vector and scalar sensors or overlapping vector and scalar sensors, may be used. In most cases, the ideal arrangement of sensors is defined by the best mathematical fit for a particular application.
  • the MEG's sensors may be arranged so that magnetic shielding is positioned between a first array of sensors and another array of sensors (See FIG. 1F ).
  • FIG. 1F an additional layer of sensors, with each sensor comprising one or more atomic magnetometers, is grouped outside of a shielded region to allow for noise reduction.
  • item “A” is a patient's scalp
  • item “B” is insulation
  • item “C” is a three-dimensional vector, scalar, and gradient detection array (see also FIG.
  • item “D” is a layer of Magnetic shielding, such as mu metal shielding
  • item “E” is a noise reduction array
  • item “F” is an outer shell.
  • One or more arrays of sensors in vector, scalar, and/or gradient mode may be utilized, depending on the application.
  • the first sensor array may be utilized for signal detection, and the second sensor array may be utilized to assess the level of noise present in the signals measured by the first sensor array.
  • the signals measured by the first sensor array may include both magnetic fields from a target area within the patient's body (e.g., the patient's brain) and noise.
  • the second sensor array may be shielded from magnetic field's emanating from the target area, in various embodiments, the second sensor may measure substantially only the noise adjacent the first magnetometer. Accordingly, the magnetic fields from the target area may be determined by subtracting the noise (as measured by the second array) from the signals measured by the first sensor array.
  • atomic magnetometers that detect absolute field strength may be alternated with sensors that detect changes in magnetic flux (See FIG. 1G ).
  • FIG. 1G one layer of sensors is shown, for the sake of simplicity, but other arrangements are possible and the ideal arrangement is defined by the application.
  • FIG. 1A depicts an MEG according to a particular embodiment, that may allow for vector and gradient detection.
  • the MEG includes: (1) an internal insulator that is adapted to insulate the subject's scalp from heat; (2) a sensor compartment that may optionally be thermally cooled; and (3) an outer shell that may comprise magnetic shielding (e.g., Mu metal shielding).
  • the MEG includes additional layers of sensors. These additional layer may be used, for example, as described above, for noise reduction purposes.
  • item “A” is patient's scalp
  • item “B” is a heat insulator
  • item “C” is the interior of a helmet
  • item “D” is an external helmet array, which may comprise magnetic shielding such as Mu metal shielding.
  • sensors are typically arrayed in a substantially linear formation substantially parallel to the subject's scalp. Additional sensors (one or more rows) may be located substantially parallel to the row of sensors closest to the scalp for improvement in targeting and noise reduction. Mathematical techniques across multiple sensors in the array may be used to derive directional information and distance.
  • a plurality of sensor assemblies may be individually placed adjacent to a target.
  • a plurality of sensor assemblies (such as the sensor assemblies shown in FIG. 2 ) may be attached directly to a subject's head using a suitable medical adhesive. Such assemblies may be used within a helmet, as well.
  • item “A” is a subject's scalp; (2) item “B” is thermal insulation; and (3) item “C” is a sensor array comprising one or more sensors. Each cube in this figure may represent one or more magnetometers grouped as a single sensor.
  • item “D” refers to magnetic shielding, including mu-metal shielding; (2) item “E” refers to an unshielded sensor array; (3) item “F” refers to external thermal shielding and electronics; (4) item “G” refers to the body of the external device, and (5) item “H” refers to a wire for transmitting information.
  • one sensor is shown. However, more than one sensor may be included in the array.
  • the positions of the elements shown in this figure are exemplary. Other positions, based on issues of best evaluating potential sources of noise, may be included.
  • sensors may be placed laterally adjacent the sensor (e.g., at location E 1 ) or at other locations.
  • Other mechanisms of transmitting information to a central processor e.g. wireless communication may also be used.
  • the MEG is adapted to measure magnetic fields associated with eye movements, and to use these signals in monitoring the subject. For example, these signals may be used to monitor the subject's alertness.
  • the human eye is polarized (see FIGS. 3 and 4 ), and movement of the eye causes a magnetic flux that can be detected with magnetometers.
  • Ions are pumped across the retinal epithelium leading to the development of a relative charge differential in the eye that is concentrated in the posterior and lateral aspect of the globe. There is minimal charge differential in the anterior aspect of the globe.
  • the motion through space of the relative charge differential associated with the retinal epithelium creates a time dependent magnetic field that can be detected with magnetic field sensors.
  • the peak magnetic flux from an individual eye movement depends on the direction of the eye movement. Eye movements can therefore be detected and either screened from the MEG output, or individually evaluated for additional information.
  • a plurality of sensors may be arranged to optimize measuring the magnetic fields associated with the subject's eye movements.
  • a plurality of sensors may be embedded into a set of eyewear such as goggles or eyeglasses (e.g., with a plurality of sensors mounted adjacent the circumference of one or more of the goggle's lenses) and used to continuously monitor the magnetic fields associated with the eye movements of a subject who is wearing the eyewear.
  • the target may be the source of much of the polarization of the eye—the neural tissue at the back of the subject's eyes (the retina).
  • the sensors are used to conduct a magnetoretinogram.
  • a plurality of sensors may be embedded into a helmet (e.g., adjacent the portion of the helmet that would be disposed immediately adjacent to the subject's forehead and/or temples when the helmet is worn by the subject).
  • sensors may be used, for example, for screening purposes for noise reduction, or conversely to monitor eye movements (as described above) for a specific application.
  • Various embodiments include other focused groups of sensors that are similar to the focused groups of sensors included in the goggle example above.
  • a compact group of sensors may be imbedded in the posterior interior portion of a helmet and used to monitor the patient's level of arousal.
  • focused arrays of sensors may be positioned, for example: (1) along the subject's spinal cord; and/or (2) along other nerve pathways, such as peripheral nerves. Such focused arrays may be used separately or in conjunction with cerebral sensors to monitor a subject.
  • sensors may be vector sensitive.
  • vector-sensitive sensors that are most closely aligned with a particular focus may obtain a relatively weak signal or no signal if the field vector is aligned along an axis of minimal detection sensitivity.
  • detection of the field depends on (1) the vector product of the field with respect to the vector of maximal detection of the sensor, and (2) the distance from the field source ( FIG. 5 ).
  • FIG. 5 demonstrates the concept of a vectoral and a scalar input.
  • This figure shows a magnetometer or group of magnetometers with sensitivity along a single field line ( 1 a through 1 e ) and magnetometers that have scalar sensitivity ( 2 a through 2 e ).
  • the magnetometers in FIG. 5 are adapted for evaluating the location of a current traveling into the page. A schematic representation of magnetic field lines emanate from this current.
  • the sensors are displayed as being sensitive to field strength along the vertical axis. In this mode, even though field strength is high at 1 a , effective detected strength in a vertical direction is 0. In arrays where three scalar sensors are arrayed at an angle, addition and subtraction of the relevant current strengths at each sensor can be used to develop information at each sensor in each mode.
  • the sensors are operating in a scalar mode. As the magnetic field decays by the inverse square of the distance, progressively smaller amounts of flux may be detected with increased distance. A single line of sensors is shown in FIG. 6 . However, the same or another sensor or group of sensors in a scalar or additive mode may be able to further define the absolute direction and magnitude of the current source.
  • a particular mathematical computation will, in particular embodiments, allow a scalar mapping of field strength ( FIG. 6 , second row).
  • the different angle of detection will also result in a change in shape of the detected signal which can also be used to better characterize the localization of the focus.
  • a second row or more rows of sensors can be also used to better characterize distance of the source, using the law of decreasing signal by the square of the distance.
  • FIG. 6 an exemplary two-dimensional array of magnetometers is shown to illustrate how mathematical modeling might be used to define distance from current source.
  • a strong dipole is located traveling into the page (in this case, we would assume we are visualizing a dipole traveling into a horizontal gyrus).
  • Sensors are arrayed such that the array has vectoral, scalar, and gradient detection capacity. Combining gradient, vectoral, and scalar detection components, size of current source, direction, and distance can be calculated. Temporal relationships of inputs across the array may also be utilized to resolve location.
  • a row of sensors having vector and scalar detection capabilities are arrayed in layers in order to determine information on the current location, strength, and distance of the various magnetic fields.
  • these layers of sensors are embedded in or adjacent a portable, helmet-shaped device (which is preferably of a weight that is suitable to be carried on the subject's head for an extended period of time while the subject is walking from place to place, or at least mobile).
  • the layers of sensors are arrayed within an internal layer of insulation and an external layer of shielding, with or without external noise reduction sensors.
  • FIG. 7 An exemplary embodiment of a portable MEG device is shown in FIG. 7 .
  • This embodiment includes an array of sensors located within the helmet.
  • other localized arrays of sensors such as the eyeglasses or paraspinal arrays described above
  • the MEG device (A) may be connected to a data analysis pack via an electrical cable (B) or via another communication device, including, for example, a fiber-optic cable or a wireless communication device.
  • the data analysis pack (C) might contain, for example common analysis tools used in the state of the art, such as a photodiode, A/D Converter, Amplifier, High and Low Pass Filters, and 60 hz filter.
  • a microprocessor with data analysis software and a graphics display station (D) may be included.
  • a portable data analysis unit comprising items B through D above (recording input but with or without a remote graphics display capability) that can be attached to the subject during mobile capable activity may also be utilized.
  • exemplary embodiments of a portable MEG device may include a sensing array located in a helmet (as discussed above), the MEG device may be in forms other than a helmet, such as in the form of eyeglasses or a paraspinal array.
  • the MEG's various sensor arrays are adapted to communicate (in any suitable manner) with a data analysis pack.
  • the sensor arrays may be connected to communicate with the data analysis pack via an electrical cable, a fiber-optic cable, or a wireless communication device.
  • a suitable data analysis pack may include, for example, suitable analysis tools, such as a photodiode, an A/D Converter, an Amplifier, High and Low Pass Filters, and/or a 50 and/or 60 Hz multiple notch filter.
  • suitable analysis tools such as a photodiode, an A/D Converter, an Amplifier, High and Low Pass Filters, and/or a 50 and/or 60 Hz multiple notch filter.
  • the data analysis pack may further include data analysis software and a graphics display station.
  • the MEG includes a plurality of arrayed sensors that are connected to a portable power source and recording system.
  • the MEG is preferably adapted to transfer (e.g., upload) data to a remote computer where the data may be processed and viewed.
  • a rigid helmet may be used, another embodiment might include embedding sensors in a flexible material that can be expanded to fit a larger head or can contract to closely fit smaller heads.
  • the device is flexible, it is anticipated that different device sizes may be needed for different populations (e.g. pediatric versus adult).
  • various embodiments may include introduction of a portable device into a CT, PET, SPECT, or MRI scanner or other imaging scanner, allowing for MEG to be performed in an MRI suite either temporally close to or, in the presence of appropriate time-locked field information, simultaneously with MRI or fMRI, or simultaneously with a PET scan.
  • CT, MRI, fMRI, SPECT, PET scanning, or MR Spectroscopy may be performed in temporal proximity to a MEG.
  • an ultrasound may assist with targeting a mobile array or be performed simultaneously or in close temporal proximity to add relevant information.
  • EEG analysis techniques for defining a known lesion or nucleus may also be utilized to provide useful targeting information to allow for more efficient modeling of potential mathematical solutions to the prospective target.
  • a time-locked signal (such as a somatosensory signal or a movement, such as a leg movement or hand movement) may be used as a repeated signal, and repeated averaging of the evoked response may be used to define a specific signal at a specific location in the brain.
  • a sensor array with a specific field bias may be arrayed to triangulate maximal sensitivity in the direction of deep structure such as the locus coeruleus, basal ganglia, the substantia nigra, or other brainstem or deep nuclear structures of interest.
  • Mathematical algorithms may be used to screen out noise (in this case, other brain activity as well as external activity). This can be used for a registration signal that then allows for further refinement of signal localization and isolation of deep brain signals.
  • these systems described may be utilized for the specific purpose of evaluating the brain during sleep, during coma, during psychiatric disease (including drug or alcohol addiction), or during periods of altered mental status.
  • the mobility of this device may allow for more effective prolonged monitoring of the brain in order to localize epileptiform foci.
  • Functional mapping includes mapping of the specific anatomical localization of various brain functions such as language or motor functions. Functional mapping in various embodiments may be utilized for localization of cortical function prior to neurosurgical procedures to guide surgical approach. In other embodiments, it may be utilized for intra-operative mapping or monitoring.
  • functional mapping may be used to gauge the results of therapy for neurological or psychiatric disease, or for the purposes of research to better understand brain function. It is anticipated that various embodiments may be able to evaluate or diagnose certain conditions, such as evaluating signals emanating from the brain or eyes that may indicate a decreased level of arousal. In the case of monitoring of level of arousal, it is anticipated that such monitoring may be useful for individuals involved in tasks where a high level of arousal is important.
  • Utilization of arrays that have specific vectoral capacities and that are adapted to be rotated and focused on an area of interest may also be utilized to improve signal detection.
  • the apparatuses and techniques described herein may be used in a wide variety of applications.
  • the techniques described herein may be used to monitor a subject's eye movements by monitoring changes in magnetic fields caused by the movement of the subject's eyes.
  • the sensors may be built into portable helmets or eyeglasses that may be used, for example, for continuously monitoring a subject's eye movements or brain electrical patterns (e.g., as the subject conducts their daily activities).
  • Other biomagnetic applications e.g. detection of signals from peripheral nerves, autonomic nerves, spinal cord, or biomagnetic signals from other non-neural organs
  • biomagnetic applications e.g. detection of signals from peripheral nerves, autonomic nerves, spinal cord, or biomagnetic signals from other non-neural organs
  • cryogenic cooling is not needed for the performance of various atomic magnetometers, no dewar is needed in particular embodiments.
  • a cooling fan may be needed in some configurations, due to the fact that, in some embodiments, each atomic magnetometer incorporates heaters which heat the detection cell. In some embodiments, heating methods that operate over multiple sensors may have a greater total heat load heating and may result in the need for insulation or other cooling methods. For example, cooled water or another cooling substance may be circulated in an insulator between the subject and the heater in order to minimize unwanted heat transfer.
  • the subject's head should be aligned and held steady within a helmet-shaped cavity.
  • the alignment of the subject's head within this cavity may permit a close approximation of the desired location of the magnetic field sensors.
  • the midpoint of the subject's head may be determined by aligning: (1) a fiducial mark placed on the subject's nose one-half of the distance between the inner edges of the subject's eyes, with (2) a fiducial mark on the posterior aspect of the MEG's helmet portion.
  • fiducial markers may be placed in other appropriate locations.
  • fiducial markers may be used, preferably oriented or even connected with an inner helmet cavity associated with the MEG. Because one purpose of various embodiments of the MEG is be to correlate brain activity with localization, in particular embodiments, non-magnetic but radio-dense fiducial markers may be used to allow subjects to have a head CT performed after the MEG is conducted. The fiducial markers may then be used to merge the results of the CT scan into the results of a previously performed MRI, allowing precise localization of MEG output.
  • a mobile array may be combined with stationary fiducials. These may be used to correct for any relative motion between, for example, a mobile helmet and the patient. Additionally a mobile helmet may be combined with stationary sensors located elsewhere in the room or nearby the patient which are used to correct for environmental noise, for example. In these cases, motion tracking technology may be utilized to augment sensor registration.
  • MEGs may include larger numbers or a more dense placement of sensors for primary sensing, and a similar number of sensors may be utilized, for example, external to Mu metal shielding in a helmet for noise reduction purposes.
  • specialized signal processing methods are used to sort signal from noise and optimize the detection capacity of the MEG. Therefore, methods of optimization are used to evaluate signals and remove non-random errors and biases.
  • optimization is utilized to manage sensor registration.
  • a significant problem in some sensor arrays is the accurate registration of sensors in the network.
  • a number of sources of error, including sensor calibration offset, platform flexure, sensor perspective offset, sensor internal clock errors, and coordinate transforms can all degrade the accuracy of a network of sensors.
  • Sensor registration can be seen as the process of accounting for (e.g., removing) non-random errors, or biases, in the sensor data. Without properly accounting for the errors, the quality of the composite image can suffer.
  • Recently, Hirsch, Panos, et al. Hirsch, Panos, 2006 developed a rapid algorithm for solving the sensor registration problem using a novel continuous meta-heuristic.
  • sensor registration which broadly applied refers to applying correction factors to sets of data measured by more than one sensor. Examples of how sensor registration may be used in various embodiments is described below:
  • a magnetic sensor may read a particular field at the location of the sensor. Other sensors sample values over the region.
  • the magnetic field characteristics (magnitude, direction, and estimated distance) may be mapped.
  • more detailed characterization of the field characteristics may be acquired if multiple sensors overlap.
  • the field characteristics may be averaged over the readings from multiple sensors, for example.
  • the process of aggregating data from multiple sensors is referred to as data fusion. Proper data fusion requires sensor registration.
  • magnetic field offsets among the various measurements (magnitude, direction, and estimated distance) are determined.
  • the relationship between the coordinates of a point measured relative to a specific sensor and the coordinates of the same point with respect to a different sensor are determined.
  • FIG. 11 shows some examples of errors that might occur in a fabricated atomic magnetometer array. The figure is meant to be exemplary, and does not display all the types of errors that may occur in an array.
  • an offset in sensors from other sensors in the array may result in alterations sensor signal measurement.
  • sensor movement may be another source of errors. This may be caused, for example, when a sensor moves during the course of measurement (for example, due to patient head movement or internal mechanical vibration).
  • a fixed offset in sensor angle may cause a change in characteristics of a sensor signal measurement (see Item 3 in FIG. 11 ).
  • an internal source of magnetic fields may occur and alter sensor signal measurement (see Item 4 in FIG. 11 ).
  • multiple sets of data are collected from multiple signal sources by multiple sensors.
  • the sensor registration should be performed in each mode that will be used for data collection.
  • correct identification of the signals must therefore by developed with a process to minimize local non-zero sources of noise (such as magnetic interference that might develop from a design flaw in magnetic shielding or insulation, improper sensor location registration, improper sensor orientation registration, or internal variability from sensor to sensor in sensitivity).
  • One approach to sensor registration between two sensors involves minimizing a likelihood function associating the measurement of the signal by two or more sensors. With this approach, sensor registration falls into the category of optimization problems.
  • a method for registering a first magnetic sensor and a second sensor may be used using a two-step process wherein a systematic error function is separated from an assignment function.
  • the systematic error function is based at least in part on a likelihood function associating a data element from the first set of measurements with a data element from a second set of measurements.
  • the minimum of the systematic error function is generated to determine a correction factor for the systematic error.
  • An assignment method is then used to assign a signal from a first plurality of signals to a signal from a second plurality of signals, based at least in part on the minimized systematic error function. Decomposing the problem into a systematic error problem followed by an assignment problems leads to a less complex, more computationally efficient method for sensor registration.
  • the systematic error function is minimized by applying a global minimization technique.
  • An advantageous global minimization technique is Continuous Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure, which is computationally efficient and has a high probability of finding global minima, or a least a good estimate of global minima.
  • data after the registration process (in the cases where it is used), data must be interpreted.
  • the data coming from each sensor is a convolution of signals from throughout a large area and the response function of the sensor.
  • the results from these sensors is unintelligible without an algorithm for deconvolution of all of the responses of the sensors allowing for localization of each individual signal to a specific region of the brain.
  • One example of a simple algorithm was mentioned earlier, in which common signals from adjacent sensors are subtracted to yield (to first order) signals from deep brain.
  • a full algorithm allows for solution in 3 dimensions of the deconvolution of the each sensor response. Without such an algorithm, the array of optical magnetometers does not yield a 3 dimensional image of the magnetic sources.
  • optical atomic magnetometers use optical atomic magnetometers to evaluate magnetic fields.
  • many of these devices (1) can be made small (e.g., less than 12 mm 3 ); (2) do not require cryogenic cooling; (3) are adapted to detect magnetic fields in the picoTesla or femtotesla range; (4) can be made to have a low power requirement ( ⁇ 200 mW and theoretically as low as 25 mW of power); and (5) can be designed to be produced using wafer-level fabrication techniques, potentially significantly lowering the cost of an MEG.
  • FIG. 8 shows an example of a particular style of chip-scale magnetometer that is suitable for use in various embodiments.
  • the VCSEL laser
  • the VCSEL laser
  • a local oscillator modulates the current to the VCSEL at 3.4 GHz, half the hyperfine splitting of the Rb ground state, creating two laser sidebands that are resonant with two hyperfine ground states.
  • the magnetic field is measured by probing the hyperfine transitions between two magnetically sensitive hyperfine states at optical frequencies.
  • Another similar device from the same group uses a slightly different method, using a single beam Larmor frequency, which achieves maximal sensitivity to a field oriented at 45 degrees with respect to the sensor's optical axis (the device is not sensitive to magnetic fields perpendicular or parallel to the axis of the optical axis).
  • Larmor frequency the device is not sensitive to magnetic fields perpendicular or parallel to the axis of the optical axis.
  • sensors of various embodiments are described herein as atomic magnetometers, it should be understood that any suitable sensor may be used in accordance with various alternative embodiments.
  • FIG. 9 is a representation of a remote laser generator with fiber optic lines directing lasers to sensors for an atomic magnetometer array.
  • item “A” is a laser generator
  • item “B” refers to fiber optic cables carrying lasers
  • item “C” refers to sensors.
  • a single laser can be directed to multiple sensors.
  • absolute orientation of the sensors is arbitrary, and dependant on application.
  • the MEG may include a uniform heating mechanism. This may be advantageous because individualized heaters often produce a magnetic field with the induction of electrical current that can interfere with the efficiency of the MEG's sensors, or require more complex multiplexing to avoid interference. Additionally, a method for uniformly heating sensors may result in a lower overall power requirement for a closely packed array of sensors. Suitable exemplary uniform heating mechanisms may include, for example, a heated gas or liquid (See FIG. 10 ).
  • a method to collectively heat an array of sensors may be employed.
  • the operation of the sensor may cause magnetic effects that can be measured by other sensors.
  • sequential temporal multiplexing of sensors may be utilized ( FIG. 15 ).
  • multiplexing single or multiple sensors at various locations in the array are triggered along a time course.
  • Sensor registration techniques and optimization paradigms as described above are utilized to account for magnetic effects (if multiple sensors are simultaneously triggered at a particular time), and temporal effects, allowing for signal reconstruction.
  • FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of a Multiplexing Array.
  • sensors are represented to be detecting a brain magnetic wave arising in the right temporal lobe.
  • Inset A a selected series of sensors fire (e.g. are in a detecting mode).
  • each firing magnetic sensor both senses adjacent fields and develops a magnetic field that may be detected by adjacent sensors.
  • insets B and C additional sensors series are shown in detecting mode.
  • a number of processing issues may arise during multiplexing, including temporal processing issues (each sensor series is detecting at a slightly different point in the time series, see Inset D) and spatial processing issues engendered by signal and noise created by other sensors in the series.
  • sensor registration and processing methods, and global optimization paradigms are utilized in order to modify the signal to re-create an accurate spatiotemporal map of the location and strength of the signal.
  • series of sensors may be fired in order to take advantage of such sensor characteristics as maximal and minimal detection regions. For example, if sensors are utilized in which an orthogonal direction is not detected at the individual sensor level, then orthogonally arrayed sensor series may be triggered simultaneously.
  • Atomic magnetometers typically require some magnetic shielding in order to function at the sensitivity levels required for biologically relevant signals.
  • Most optical magnetometers are not functional in large external fields. Even devices that are designed to function correctly in the relatively large DC offsets and slow drifts present due to the earth's magnetic field or other offsets are adversely affected by AC interference at 60 Hz, 120 Hz, 180 Hz and further multiples of line frequency which are present in the neurologically interesting frequency spectrum of DC-1 kHz.
  • the device In order to have a useful MEG based on optical magnetometers, the device must be shielded from these external sources of noise. This can be accomplished in several ways.
  • each individual sensor is shielded by one or more layers of one or more materials such as Mu metal or ferrites or aluminum which are capable of attenuating magnetic fields.
  • the entire array of atomic magnetometers is shielded by one or more layers of one or more materials such as Mu metal or ferrites or aluminum which are capable of attenuating magnetic fields.
  • the atomic magnetometers are each surrounded by coils which are actively driven to cancel out external noise fields.
  • the entire array of atomic magnetometers is surrounded by a set of coils designed to be actively driven to cancel out external noise magnetic fields.
  • the shielding solutions can also be applied to the room or a sub-space within the room to allow a smaller field free region. This allows the magnetic shielding to be in place without the necessity of the additional weight and bulk attached to a helmet type device. In addition, combinations of all of these can be used to maximize the effectiveness of the shielding for a given size and weight limitation.
  • FIG. 14A is an example of a device utilized for in-utero measurement.
  • the device is designed to be inserted intra-vaginally.
  • item “ 1 ” is the cervix
  • item “ 2 ” is a support device, which may include a gynecologic speculum
  • item “ 3 ” is insulation
  • Item “ 4 ” is a sensor array
  • item “ 5 ” is magnetic shielding
  • item “ 6 ” is a set of electronics associated with the device.
  • FIG. 14B demonstrates that sensors may be embedded in a form-fitting structure or embedded into a flexible structure which may be draped or wrapped around a location of interest such as the uterus, a particular nerve or nerve plexus, or muscle. Shielding, insulation, and signal processing/electronics would be included but is not shown in this figure.
  • a sheet of sensors may be created to lie along the spinal column.
  • the sensors are shown without shielding, insulation, or signal processing/electronics for purposes of clarity.
  • FIGS. 12A and 12B depict some examples of monitored mobile settings made possible by various embodiments of the invention.
  • an individual is freely able to move his head and neck as well as other portions of his body while continuing to be monitored.
  • the subject is confined to a relatively small space (e.g. a confined shielded area) in which ambulation may not be possible.
  • the individual may not be confined to a recumbent posture, but may ambulate, and/or lie in a recumbent posture (see, for example, FIG. 12B above).
  • the individual may be able to eat, and/or sleep while wearing a device according to various embodiments of the invention.
  • the patient may be free to move about without being confined to a specific area or may enter or exit a specific monitored space such as an airplane cockpit or a truck cab.
  • a specific monitored space such as an airplane cockpit or a truck cab.
  • the environments described above may be made possible by embodiments of the invention that are in the form of portable helmets or form fitting arrays, as described above.
  • Other aspects, including the size of the environment (e.g. a small area where the subject may move the head, neck, and limbs within a confined shielded area, or a larger room allowing ambulation and larger scale positional changes), as well as furniture and other amenities may depend on the specific setting.

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