DE102020116997A1 - Procedure for recording electroencephalography (EEG) readings - Google Patents

Abstract

Method for recording electroencephalography (EEG) measured values, in particular voltage differences, comprising the following steps: recording EEG measured values in at least one session (S1), a session comprising at least one episode (E1, E2, E3), converting the measured values into Power values, recording the power values for different frequency ranges, characterized by the further steps: Recording of EEG measurement values in at least one other specified session (S2, S3), intrasessional processing, longitudinal comparison of the power values in essentially different frequency ranges, intersessional comparison of the power values in essentially different frequency ranges.

Description

The present invention relates to a method for recording electroencephalography (EEG) measured values according to independent method claim 1, a use of a method for recording electroencephalography values (EEG) according to independent use claim 13 and a computer program product for a method for recording electroencephalography values (EEG) according to independent claim 15.

Electroencephalography (EEG) is one of the standard neurological procedures and is used to examine the brain function of objects such as humans and animals. Measuring devices such as electrodes can be attached, mostly to the surface of the head. The electrodes can be attached with a specific system with regard to the geometric arrangement, which is also known as leads. Voltages in the order of magnitude of 5 to 100 µV can be measured via the electrodes on the surface of the head. The voltage fluctuations and, in particular, the accumulated voltage fluctuations that result from the electrical activity of the brain, enable neurological conclusions to be drawn about the state of the brain and its performance. The voltage fluctuations are usually shown graphically in an electroencephalogram. The macroscopically visible brain activity, which can be represented by voltage fluctuations, can have rhythmic motifs. For example, different degrees of wakefulness of the examination subject can be determined through changes in the voltage fluctuations or through changes in the associated frequency spectrum. Quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) is a further development of electroencephalography. In quantitative encephalography, the electroencephalographically recorded voltage values are converted into quantitative values, so-called power values, using suitable mathematical methods.

The measurement accuracy of quantitative electroencephalography is often insufficient for a comparison of performance values for individual examination objects. This can be due, for example, to the inadequate preanalytics, the method of recording the EEG or the inadequate selection of artifact-free EEG sections. Artifacts, for example due to movement, in particular movement of the eyes or artifacts due to perspiration, as well as imprecise values for impedance for the electrodes, can considerably impair the measurement accuracy of the quantitatively determined power values. In isolated studies in the state of the art it was also found that, despite the cognitive deterioration, the performance values of the delta and theta waves do not increase as expected. This is illustrated in Forstl H, Sattel H, Besthorn C, Daniel S, Geiger-Kabisch C, Hentschel F, Sarochan M, Zerfass R. (1996) Longitudinal cognitive, electroencephalographic and morphological brain changes in aging and Alzheimer's disease. Br J Psychiatry. 1996 Mar; 168 (3): 280-6 and Musaeus, Christian Sandoe, et al. 'EEG Theta Power Is an Early Marker of Cognitive Decline in Dementia Due to Alzheimer's Disease'. Jan. 1, 2018: 1359 - 1371 .

The object of the present invention is to at least partially remedy the disadvantages described above by means of a method, a use and a computer program product. In particular, an object of the present invention can be to provide a method that enables the evaluation of the performance values, in particular in the case of QEEG, to be improved and thus to optimize the informative value of individual or multiple measurements.

The object is achieved by a method for recording electroencephalography (EEG) measured values according to independent claim 1, a use of a method for recording electroencephalography values (EEG) according to independent claim 13 and a computer program product for a method for recording electroencephalography Values (EEG) according to independent claim 15. Further features and details of the invention emerge from the subclaims, the description and the drawings. Features and details that have been described in connection with the method according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the application according to the invention and / or the computer program product according to the invention and in each case vice versa, so that with regard to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention, reference is always made to the individual aspects of the invention. can be.

• - Aufnahme von EEG-Messwerten in mindestens einer Session (S1), wobei eine Session mindestens eine Episode (E1, E2, E3) umfasst,
• - Umwandeln der Daten in Leistungswerte,
• - Erfassen der Leistungswerte für verschiedenen Frequenzbereiche,
• - Aufnahme von EEG-Messwerten in mindestens einer weiteren vorgegebenen Session (S2, S3),
• - intrasessionales Prozessieren,
• - longitudinaler Vergleich der Leistungswerte in im Wesentlichen verschiedenen Frequenzbereichen,
• - intersessionaler Vergleich der Leistungswerte in im Wesentlichen verschiedenen Frequenzbereichen.

The core of the present invention is a method for recording electroencephalography (EEG) measured values, in particular voltage differences. This can include the following steps:

• - Recording of EEG measured values in at least one session (S1), whereby a session comprises at least one episode (E1, E2, E3),
• - converting the data into performance values,
• - Recording of the power values for different frequency ranges,
• - Recording of EEG measured values in at least one further specified session (S2, S3),
• - intrasessional processing,
• - longitudinal comparison of the power values in essentially different frequency ranges,
• - intersessional comparison of the performance values in essentially different frequency ranges.

In the context of the invention, the recording of electroencephalographic measurement values can be understood to mean the measurement of the brain activity of examination objects, in particular of people. In this case, measured values can be determined using sensors attached to the body of the examination subject, in particular using electrodes that can be arranged on the head. The measured values are advantageously voltages (electrical potentials) from which voltage differences (potential differences) can be calculated. The measured values can correspond to analog voltage values and can be digitized using machines, in particular computers, for example using an analog-digital converter. It can be provided that these measured values can be processed. In the context of the invention, this can be understood to mean processing of the electroencephalography measured values. This can be carried out manually or by a machine, for example a computer, FPGA (field programmable gate array) or ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit).

A recording and / or measurement can be carried out in at least one predetermined episode (E1, E2, E2, ...) during a session called S1 (or S2, S3, S4, ...). A session can include a session duration, which can be a period of time during which recording and / or processing can be carried out. A session duration can have a duration between 0 ms and 4 hours, preferably between 5 minutes and 2 hours, advantageously between 8 minutes and 90 minutes. Within a session, at least one episode e.g. B. E1 be included. An episode can include an episode duration which essentially represents the time period covered by the episode. At least one measured value can be recorded and / or processed within an episode. Advantageously, several, in particular all, measured values are recorded over the electrodes. Provision can be made for an episode pause (in the sense of an interruption) to take place before and / or after an episode, the episode pause before and / or after the episode being essentially between 0 ms and 3600 s, advantageously between 0 ms and 60 s s. Two or more episodes (E1, E2, E3, ...) are preferably carried out within a session, which episodes can be essentially identical or differ in at least one measurement. In other words, a session can extend over a specific session duration, at least one episode with a specific episode duration and either none or at least one episode pause being included. If there are several episodes, the same or different episode pauses can be carried out before and / or after the respective episodes. It can also be provided that an analysis can be carried out essentially parallel to the recording and / or that processing can only be carried out after the measured values have been recorded. In other words, both a session and an episode can be a continuous or discontinuous sequence of at least one and preferably several times (t1, t2,...), With a session duration in particular being a sequence of times that essentially either can be assigned to an episode duration and / or an episode pause. The episode duration and / or episode pause can also be a continuous or discontinuous sequence of at least one and preferably several times (t1, t2,...).

It can also be provided that a session also has at least a preparation time before the first episode and / or a follow-up time after the last episode. This can have the advantage that a rest phase or preparation time is possible before or after the measurements. It can further be provided that the session duration, by which the entire period of a session can be understood, essentially comprises the sum of at least episode durations and / or episode pauses and / or preparation time and / or follow-up time.

It can be provided that a session z. B. S1 is essentially repeated at least at a later point in time, as part of a further session z. B. S2, S3, etc. The sequence of the at least one further session can be essentially identical. This means that essentially an identical session duration can be covered, with essentially identical episodes, in particular essentially identical episode durations and episode pauses. This has the advantage that the results can be easily compared and deviations can be used to quantify relative or absolute changes, for example in brain performance. It is also conceivable that at least one further session can be carried out in which only partially essentially identical measurements and processes are carried out or even completely different. In other words, some or all of the components such as the number and episode length, the episodes and / or episode pauses, measurements and others can differ between the sessions. This can be advantageous if certain circumstances in the examination subject have changed, for example a different medication, changes in health, new clinical pictures. Provision can also be made for at least one measurement and / or session to run parallel to others or offset, in the sense that a session S1 is repeated in session S2, S3, etc., during examinations of a session S1 'in parallel or offset. are repeated in session S2 ', S3' etc. It can be provided that essentially identical session pauses pass between the sessions. This means that an essentially identical period of time can be covered in each case, in the sense that the same time elapses. It can also be provided that there are essentially different session pauses between at least two sessions. In other words, that these are repeated or continued at irregular intervals. It has proven to be particularly advantageous if different sessions include the same number of episodes. This is particularly advantageous if at least one comparison is to be made between the sessions or episodes.

A “TxEy” notation can be used, which links the session and the episode, e.g. B. S1E1 can correspond to session S1 and episode E1. Another example would be S3E6 where session S3 of episode E6 is meant. It can be provided that episodes with the same designation but from different sessions are essentially identical or comparable, in particular that essentially identical measurement conditions are present and, advantageously, essentially identical measurement values or power values result. However, it may also be that these are not achieved or are not provided. Accordingly, S1E1 and S2E1, for example, can provide essentially identical results, in particular if there are essentially no or only insignificant changes in the examination subject. It can also be that there are different results if there are changes in the examination subject.

It can be provided that the measured values can be converted into power values. This can be understood as the conversion of measured voltage values into power values, in particular by means of a Fourier analysis or Fourier transformation, which can advantageously be calculated using a computer. Preferably, at least the power values D, T, A, B and G are linked to the frequency ranges of the delta, theta, alpha, beta, gamma waves, so that the power values D essentially correspond to the delta waves that Power values T correspond to the theta waves, the power values A correspond to the alpha waves, the power values B correspond to the beta waves and the power values G correspond to the gamma waves. Power values can include either dimensionless and / or relative measured values or actual physical powers which can be specified relative to one another or in absolute terms. It can be provided within the scope of the invention that all examinations, comparisons and evaluations relate either to the measured values and / or to the power values, in particular this can be useful because a conversion, preferably by means of a Fourier analysis or Fourier transformation, is carried out in the Can be essentially reversible or essentially equivalent. For example, the Fourier transformation of a Gaussian bell function is again a Gaussian bell function. The same can apply to other similar functions, in particular delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma waves.

In the context of the invention, performance values can be values which can each essentially be assigned to different points in time. The power values can include, for example, a power value in pairs and an associated time and / or a frequency. It can be provided that the times and / or frequencies can be displayed continuously or non-continuously. It is also conceivable to represent these as vectors which systematically include the performance values as entries. Thus, for example, vectors of power values can be compared with essentially corresponding points in time and / or frequencies. A recording of the power values for different frequency ranges can be provided. This is to be understood as meaning that essentially different frequency ranges, in particular those of the delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma waves, are essentially extracted from the power values or are assigned to them. This enables an essentially separate evaluation or examination of the respective frequency ranges, which for example can each have certain features such as patterns or signal curves that are repeated over time. It can be provided that a certain measurement z. B. the measurement of measured values in an episode essentially only records measured values that correspond to the delta waves. However, it can also be provided that essentially all or a certain part of the measurements, in particular corresponding to the delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma waves, can be carried out during an episode.

It can also be provided that identical or different frequency ranges are compared. There are essentially two options that can be carried out independently of one another at the same time or at different times. In the context of the present invention, the terms values, quantitative values and performance values can be used interchangeably. The power values are usually recorded for individual frequency ranges (also called frequency bands, waves or EEG bands). The areas of delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma waves are of particular importance. The classification is not standardized. For example, the delta waves are assigned a comparatively low frequency, in particular essentially between 0.1 and 4 Hz. In terms of their frequency, theta waves are essentially above the delta waves and, for example, cover a frequency range essentially between 4 and 8 Hz. Alpha waves are essentially higher in frequency than theta waves and, for example, cover a frequency range essentially between 8 and 13 Hz. With regard to their frequency, beta waves are essentially above the alpha waves and, for example, cover a frequency range essentially between 13 and 30 Hz. With regard to their frequency, gamma waves are essentially above beta waves and, for example, cover a frequency range essentially between 30 and 100 Hz.

In this case, the occurrence of the waves can be focal, that is to say that the waves essentially occur in a local focus area or a focus from which propagation can originate. A generalized occurrence is also possible, in which there is essentially no specific focus area and the occurrence or spread is not limited locally, but occurs essentially “everywhere”. The evaluation of the measured values and / or the performance values can be carried out by trained specialists. In addition, it has recently become possible to use computer-implemented algorithms that detect at least one pattern or a recurring rhythm, for example, automatically or semi-automatically in the sense of an assistance system. The occurrence of the different waves is symptomatic of certain conditions and processes in the brain and can be used to clarify certain clinical pictures. For example, delta waves can tend to occur during dreamless deep sleep. Under pathological conditions, delta waves can also occur while awake.

The method of quantitative electroencephalography is naturally used for neurological and psychiatric diseases, in particular also for dementia and cerebral blood flow disorders. In the case of dementia processes, a quantitative increase in slow wave ranges can be ascertained from the frequency spectrum of the delta and theta waves. Usually, the power values of the individual frequency ranges such as the delta and theta waves are averaged over the respective group and then compared between the groups, especially after logarithmic transformation. In order to examine an examination subject at different points in time over a longer period of time, measurements are carried out repeatedly, the results of which are summarized in a longitudinal comparison of the performance values. This leads to longitudinal brain function control in the sense of cerebral monitoring or neuromonitoring. A comparison can mean that it is examined whether there are essentially one or no changes between at least two values or series of values, in particular vectors. In addition, a comparison can show that only minor or more pronounced changes occur. A simple example of a comparison is the difference between two values or a series of values such as B. vectors, the entries corresponding to one another being used here to form the difference. If a difference is small, for example, it can be assumed that there has been essentially no significant change in the examination object between the times of the measurements. If the difference is large, it can be assumed that essentially a significant change in the examination subject may have taken place between the times of the measurements.

The first possibility can be an intrasessional comparison. This can mean that at least one measured value and / or power value can be used as a basis for comparison within a session, in particular at different points in time and / or in different time periods. In this case, power values from different and / or the same episodes are preferably compared, for example by calculating differences between the power values A at different times. In other words, this can mean that a comparison can only be carried out within a session and there is therefore the advantage that no further examinations or sessions have to be carried out for a specific examination object. It can be provided that essentially different frequency ranges are used in intrasessional comparisons, for example that comparisons of at least one frequency range are carried out between different episodes in a session S1. An example would be a comparison between episodes E1 and E2 for the Frequency range of the alpha waves. However, additional frequency ranges, for example the delta waves, can also be carried out, these being compared for each of the episodes E1 and E2. It is also conceivable that frequency ranges of an episode are compared with frequency ranges of this or another episode, the frequency ranges not being essentially identical. An example would be the comparison between the alpha waves of episode E1 and the delta waves of episode E2.

The second possibility can be an intersessional comparison. This can be understood to mean that at least one measured value and / or power value can be compared between a session S1 and at least one further session S2. It can be provided that the session S1 and the at least one session S2 can be carried out essentially identically, in particular to the extent that the at least one measured value and / or power value is at an essentially identical or comparable point in time or at an essentially identical or comparable Period can be carried out. For example, this can mean that essentially identical examination processes are initiated and at least one measured value and / or power value according to a frequency range, in particular the alpha waves, is recorded after a certain period of time has elapsed after the start of the examination. This can also mean, for example, that these are recorded or recorded in a defined period, in particular during an episode duration, directly at the beginning of the examination. An intersessional comparison has the advantage that an essentially identical examination can be carried out repetitively. It is thus possible to detect the effects of changes in or in the examination object and / or to quantify changes in the performance of the brain. It can also be provided that the at least one measured value and / or power value differs at least partially from others, in particular measured values and / or power values that were recorded at a different point in time. It can be advantageous if essentially identical frequency ranges are compared in an intersessional comparison, for example to the extent that at least one measured value and / or power value of the delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma waves of session S1 are essentially it is compared with at least one measured value and / or power value of the delta, theta, alpha and beta waves of session S2.

It can also be provided that a longitudinal comparison of the power values takes place in essentially different frequency ranges. A longitudinal comparison is to be understood as a comparison in which the comparison values, in particular at least one measured value and / or a power value, result from essentially different sessions. In the simplest case, this can correspond to the comparison between session S1 and session S2. It can be provided that a longitudinal comparison comprises the comparison of at least one measured value and / or one power value between all the sessions that have been carried out. In other words, this means that in the case of several sessions S1, S2, S3, etc., comparisons between all permutations can be carried out, that is, between S1 and S2, S1 and S3, S2 and S3 etc. It can be an aspect of the present invention that at least one longitudinal comparison of at least one measurement and / or one power value can be carried out in essentially different frequency ranges. The power values of at least delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma waves are advantageously compared between at least one session S1 and at least one further session S2. A longitudinal comparison can include at least one intrasessional and / or one intersessional comparison.

It can be provided that at least part of the method is carried out in such a way that the examination subject is in the idle mode. In other words, this can mean that the examination object is physically and / or mentally at rest and does not have to process any special tasks. It can be provided that at least part of the method is carried out in such a way that physical and / or mental tasks are given to the examination subject. For example, it can be the case that visual stimuli are emitted, in particular via a screen, and the examination object has to make a selection, for example via a button, by pressing a certain button with a part of the body such as the hand. For example, it can further be provided that the examination subject is requested to keep the eyes closed or open for a certain time, which would correspond to a so-called Berger experiment.

One aspect of the invention can be that the intrasessional processing, the formation of power mean values, in particular for at least one, advantageously every, frequency range can be carried out and / or the longitudinal and / or intersessional comparison of the power mean values in essentially different frequency ranges, in particular taking into account the ratio slower and faster frequency ranges can be carried out with respect to one another, the frequency ranges including delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma waves, with fast frequency ranges in particular including delta and theta waves and slow frequency ranges include alpha and beta waves. A power mean value can generally be any desired calculable mean value of a set of at least one power value. In particular, the arithmetic, quadratic, geometric or harmonic mean value can be used. In the simplest case, power values that can be specifically assigned to a specific point in time can preferably be written in a vector. The mean power value, in particular the arithmetic mean power value, then results from the sum of the individual power values divided by the total number of power values. Such a power mean value can be carried out for at least one frequency range, preferably in each case for power values which correspond to at least one of delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma waves. These mean performance values can be formed for and / or over individual sessions and / or episodes. It is also conceivable to form an average power value for at least part of a session and / or episode.

Correspondingly, the power mean values can be used to carry out a comparison between the same or different frequency ranges and / or in the sense of a longitudinal comparison and / or an intersessional comparison. For example, it is conceivable that the mean power value of the frequency range of the alpha waves is calculated as part of a longitudinal comparison and a comparison is made between the first episode E1 of at least two different sessions S1 and S2. It is also conceivable that essentially all permutations between frequency ranges, episodes and sessions are calculated based on the mean power values. This can have the advantage that complex patterns can in particular be recognized by machine, preferably through the use of at least one algorithm for pattern recognition. Methods for machine learning can be used, especially neural networks. In the context of the invention, slow frequency ranges can in particular include delta and theta waves. In the context of the invention, fast frequency ranges can in particular include alpha and beta waves.

It can be a central aspect of the invention to carry out a comparison between at least one pair of sessions S1 and S2. It can be advantageous if at least one and preferably every frequency range is averaged over all episodes E1, E2, E3, ... of each session S1, S2, S3, .... The results can then be compared. In other words, it starts with session S1, for example. Here, for example, the power values of the alpha waves are subjected to a power averaging over all episodes E1, E2, E3, ... The same can be done for beta, gamma, delta and theta waves. This procedure can then be carried out for all further sessions. The order can be freely selected.

umfasst ist, wobei insbesondere eine Anpassung der Leistungswerte von wenigstens einem Frequenzbereich, insbesondere des Frequenzbereichs A, erfolgt, wobei eine Anpassung vorteilhafterweise die Division der Leistungswerte durch wenigstens einen der Quotienten oder die Multiplikation der Leistungswerte mit wenigstens einem der Quotienten umfasst.According to a further aspect of the invention it can be provided that in a further step a calculation of at least one quotient of the power values, in particular $$\frac{\mathrm{D.}+T}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}Oder\frac{T}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}Oder\frac{\mathrm{D.}}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}Oder\frac{T}{\mathrm{A.}}$$

is included, wherein in particular an adaptation of the power values of at least one frequency range, in particular frequency range A, takes place, wherein an adaptation advantageously includes dividing the power values by at least one of the quotients or multiplying the power values by at least one of the quotients.

It can also be provided that at least one, preferably two, advantageously three, or all quotients are calculated. It can also be provided that, instead of the above quotients, their reciprocal values are used for the method. The calculation of the quotients can mean that the respective power values for D, T, A, B and G are each written in vectors of essentially identical length and the individual elements are calculated for the quotient. Each entry corresponds to a specific point in time or period, in particular an episode or episode duration, in which the measurement is carried out.

It can also be provided that D, T, A, B and G each represent a function f (x) of the measured power values, in particular that D, T, A, and B and G each represent the mean power value of the power values. In this case, f (x) could accordingly be the function that represents the mean value, in particular the arithmetic mean value. In this respect, a further representation of the above quotients can, in other words, include the mean power values and alternatively be: $$\frac{\overline{\mathrm{D.}}+\overline{T}}{\overline{\mathrm{A.}}+\overline{\mathrm{B.}}}\text{or}\frac{\overline{T}}{\overline{\mathrm{A.}}+\overline{\mathrm{B.}}}\text{or}\frac{\overline{\mathrm{D.}}}{\overline{\mathrm{A.}}+\overline{\mathrm{B.}}}\text{or}\frac{\overline{T}}{\overline{\mathrm{A.}}}$$

Provision can be made for power values and / or power mean values to be used essentially interchangeably, so that for example an adjustment using a power value or a power mean value is possible.

A further aspect of the invention can be that power values of at least one frequency range, in particular of frequency range A, are subjected to an adaptation. In this case, an adaptation can advantageously include a form of scaling.

umfasst, oder die Anpassung eine Multiplikation der Leistungswerte mit zumindest einem dieser Quotienten umfasst. Es ist ebenso denkbar die Leistungswerte zumindest eines anderen Frequenzbereichs anzupassen. Der Vorteil der Anpassung ist, dass ein besserer relativer oder absoluter Vergleich zwischen unterschiedlichen Messungen erzielt werden kann.In the simplest case, an adaptation can take place via multiplication with a constant, for example a value of 5. An adaptation can preferably be carried out by multiplying the power values, in particular of the frequency range A, by a scaling factor, dividing them by this, or mathematically converting the power values using any other function g (x). It is particularly advantageous if an adaptation involves dividing the power values by at least one of the quotients $$\frac{\mathrm{D.}+T}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}Oder\frac{T}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}Oder\frac{\mathrm{D.}}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}\text{or}\frac{T}{\mathrm{A.}}$$

comprises, or the adaptation comprises a multiplication of the power values by at least one of these quotients. It is also conceivable to adapt the power values of at least one other frequency range. The advantage of the adaptation is that a better relative or absolute comparison between different measurements can be achieved.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a scaling factor X can be used to calculate at least one quotient according to the following formula: $$\begin{array}{l}\frac{\left(\text{D.}+\text{T}\right)\cdot X}{\text{A.}+\text{B.}}Oder\frac{\text{T}\cdot \text{X}}{\text{A.}+\text{B.}}Oder\\ \frac{\text{D.}\cdot X}{\text{A.}+\text{B.}}Oder\frac{\text{T}\cdot \text{X}}{\text{A.}}\end{array}$$

The scaling factor X can advantageously be the square root of the absolute power value of A. $$\sqrt{\left|\mathrm{A.}\right|}$$

It is also conceivable that the scaling factor X is the reciprocal of the square root of the absolute power value of A. $${\left(\sqrt{\left|\mathrm{A.}\right|}\right)}^{-1}$$

In other words, a scaling factor can be used mathematically in order to adapt different measured values. If, for example, two series of measured values have a similar profile but different amplitudes, with the measured values of one series of measured values always being around 10 times lower, an adjustment can be made by multiplying the measured values of this series of measured values by the scaling factor X = 10. More complex scaling factors are also conceivable within the scope of the present invention. A multiplication with a scaling factor corresponds to division by the reciprocal value of the scaling factor. Accordingly, it can be provided that the scaling factor or its reciprocal value is used to perform a scaling of at least one quotient.

It is particularly advantageous if the scaling factor X, which can be used to scale at least one quotient, corresponds to the square root of the absolute power value of A. In other words, this means that the mathematical magnitude of the power value of A is calculated and the square root is taken from this in order to obtain the scaling factor X. It can be provided that the amount of the power values of A essentially corresponds to the amount of the average power value of A. It can also be provided that the amount forms a function, in particular the norm, of the vector which includes the power values A; the power values A are advantageously included according to a time series of the measurement in the vector.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that 1 to 1200 episodes can be carried out per session, in particular that 2 to 6 episodes can be carried out per session, preferably that 3 episodes can be carried out per session. It can be provided that, for better comparability, essentially the same number of episodes with corresponding pauses before or after the episode can be provided for each session. It has been found to be advantageous if 2 to 6 episodes are carried out per session. This has the advantage that sufficient information is available and / or certain measured values are present multiple or redundantly in order to increase the robustness of the method and reduce errors. It can also be provided that the episodes are short, for example on the order of a few milliseconds, and thus between 50 and 1,000,000 ms, in particular between 50 and 10,000 ms, episodes are provided per session.

It can also be provided that for long-term monitoring there is a session break of 1 to 48 months between the sessions, in particular that a session break of 3 to 24 months is between the sessions, preferably a session break of 6 to 12 months between the sessions. This has the advantage that long-term changes, which in particular essentially take place in the order of magnitude of months, for example in the brain of the examination subject, can be monitored over a long period of time. Monitoring can include essentially repeated recording of measured values.

In addition or as an alternative, medium-term monitoring can be provided, with a session break of 1 to 6 months between the sessions for medium-term monitoring, in particular that a session break of 2 to 4 months between the sessions, preferably that a session break of 3 months between sessions. This is advantageously used in the case of examination objects in which, for example, changes occur, in particular in measured values and / or performance values, which are essentially in the order of magnitude of weeks and a few months.

Additionally or alternatively, short-term monitoring can be provided, with a session break of 0.001 to 7200 seconds between the sessions for short-term monitoring, in particular that a session break of 0.1 to 25 seconds between the sessions, advantageously that a session break of There is 1 to 10 seconds between the sessions, particularly advantageously that there is a session break of essentially 7 seconds between the sessions. This can be advantageous if there are acute cases and rapid changes occur, in particular in the brain or musculoskeletal system of an examination subject. Provision can also be made for an object to be examined to carry out at least one further break or activity in the context of short-term monitoring between the sessions in order to examine a specific behavior or to bring about defined measurement conditions. For example, it can be provided that at least one brain function is monitored before and after the presentation of at least one stimulus or a cognitive task. The intersessional comparison can preferably be carried out between different, advantageously identical, modalities. It has proven to be advantageous that an intersessional comparison is made between two sessions that were carried out in idle mode (default mode). It can be provided that the rest mode essentially comprises the absence of stimuli, and in particular the examination object is not exposed to any stimulations or movements and / or does not perform any movements or actions. A further aspect of the invention can be that, in a further step, a correlation calculation between at least two power values of different frequency ranges, in particular the power values A and T and A and D, is carried out. In other words, this means that at least two power values of different frequency ranges, for example A and T, which can each be measured at essentially different times, are used to calculate the correlation between these power values. It can also be provided that the power values of the same frequency range are used, but which are measured at different times. Different points in time can be those that measure performance values within the same or in different episodes. Additionally or alternatively, this can mean that the performance values can be measured within the same and / or different sessions.

It is also conceivable that a correlation between the power mean values is calculated. In this context, a correlation can be understood to mean the mathematical term correlation, which is used to quantify at least one relationship between two or more variables. In general, the correlation can indicate whether two or more variables are related (are correlated) and how strong the relationship is. It can be provided that at least one of the following methods is used to calculate the correlation: Bravais-Pearson correlation coefficient, cross correlation, transinformation.

It can be provided that the correlation is calculated using at least one correlation coefficient or is determined by this. For example, it can be provided that at least one correlation coefficient between at least two variables, in particular performance values, essentially covers the interval between -1 and 1. Preferably, a value which is around zero, in particular corresponds to 0, means that no correlation is included between the variables. Advantageously, a small, in particular negative or positive, value for the correlation means that one variable essentially means a small influence on the other variable at an essentially comparable point in time. In other words, the variables are then not or only weakly correlated. A large value, in particular close to 1, preferably means that there is a strong correlation between the variables and advantageously, a large value of one variable also means a large value of the other variable at an essentially comparable point in time. In other words, the variables are then positively correlated. A small value, in particular close to -1, preferably means that there is a strong anti-correlation between the variables, and advantageously a large value of one variable means a small value of the other variable at an essentially comparable point in time. In other words, the variables are then negatively correlated, or anti-correlated.

It can be an aspect of the invention that, depending on the resulting performance values of the correlation calculation, a comparison is carried out between the performance values for which the differences between the alpha waves are essentially minimized. This means that a comparison between at least two power values can be useful in particular when at least one calculation of the correlation between the power values is as small as possible, that is to say is minimized. For example, it can be the case that two performance values of episode E1 are measured in a session S1 (ie S1E1) and furthermore in a session S2 (ie S2E1). According to the previous example, it can thus be that the differences between S1E1 and S2E1 are essentially small. This can be found out by forming the difference or by calculating a correlation. For example, it can be that the correlation coefficient between at least two performance values S1E1 and S2E1 is essentially 1 or results in a value greater than 0.5. In this case, the differences can be described as minor or minimized, respectively. A comparison between the performance values can then be used in order to essentially reliably determine changes on or in the examination object.

It can thus be an aspect of the invention that differences between at least two frequency ranges, preferably the alpha waves, are minimized. Advantageously, the differences between the power values of at least two alpha waves can be essentially minimized. This can take place via the correlation calculation, a comparison between the alpha waves being able to be carried out depending on the result of the correlation, in particular the correlation coefficient. Provision can also be made for at least one frequency range to be compared between these measurements if there is a good match or an essentially minimized difference between the alpha waves of at least two measurements, in particular episodes. For example, it can be provided that if the difference between the alpha waves is essentially minimized, the delta, theta, alpha, beta and / or gamma waves can be used for a comparison.

Provision can be made for the correlation calculation of the power values A in the episodes (E1, E2, E3) with the power values T or D in the episodes (E1, E2, E3) to be carried out in a further step, in particular in the case of positive correlation values Above a limit value, a correction of the power values T or D, measured on the comparison of the power mean values for A, is carried out, with the further step advantageously being able to be carried out intersessionally and / or intrasessionally. It can be provided that in a further step the correlation calculation of the power values A is used in at least one of the episodes (E1, E2, E3, ...). It can also be provided that several or all power values A of the respective episodes of at least one session are used. A correlation calculation of the power values A with the power values of at least one of the power values T and / or D from the episodes (E1, E2, E3, ...) can be carried out. In other words, this means that a correlation calculation of the performance values A of one, several or all episodes with one, several or all of the performance values of T and / or D is carried out.

It can thus be provided that in the case of a positive correlation above a limit value, a correction of the power values T or D, measured on the comparison of the power mean values for A, is carried out. In particular, a correlation above a limit value can be fulfilled if, in particular, a correlation coefficient is greater than a cut-off value k, where k essentially fulfills the condition 0 <k 1, preferably 0.3 <k 1, advantageously 0, 5 <k 1, particularly preferably 0.7 <k 1. It can also be provided that k essentially fulfills the condition -1 k 0, preferably -1 k -0.3, advantageously -1 K -0.5, particularly preferably -1 k - 0.7. It can also be provided that no correction is carried out below or above the cut-off value.

A correction can be understood here to mean that the power values T and / or D are corrected, in particular scaled. This can be achieved by calculating the mean power values for A for at least one episode, preferably for all affected or all episodes. It can then be provided that at least one power value or all power values of a frequency range, in particular T and / or D, are scaled by dividing or multiplying them by a power mean value A, in particular the power mean value A of the same episode. This corresponds to an adjustment using the scaling factor A̅, which represents the mean power value A. It is also conceivable to choose a scaling factor that corresponds to the mean power value of another episode. It may be that an increase in the power values D or T from time t1 to time t2 to a certain extent cannot be attributed to an actual change in the or in the examination subject, but may have other reasons such as measurement inaccuracy, artifacts and / or falsification, etc. This can be corrected via an adaptation in accordance with the power mean values A in order to establish comparability, which is an advantage of the correction or scaling. In the simplest case, a scaling factor X can be the quotient of the power mean values A of different episodes. For example, the scaling factor X could correspond to the quotient A (E1) / A (E2), the power values T and / or D being scaled by multiplying them by the scaling factor X or its reciprocal value. A correction can thus be made between the performance values of different episodes.

verwendet wird. Somit können Leistungswerte über die Quotienten berechnet werden und/oder über diese skaliert werden.It can also be provided that one of the quotients provided according to the invention $$\frac{\mathrm{D.}+T}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}Oder\frac{T}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}Oder\frac{\mathrm{D.}}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}Oder\frac{T}{\mathrm{A.}}$$

is used. Thus, power values can be calculated using the quotients and / or scaled using them.

durchführbar ist, indem Leistungswerte über die Quotienten berechnet werden und/oder über diese skaliert werden.It is also conceivable that an adaptation according to the scaling with one of the quotients mentioned above $$\begin{array}{l}\frac{\left(\text{D.}+\text{T}\right)\cdot X}{\text{A.}+\text{B.}}\text{or}\frac{\text{T}\cdot \text{X}}{\text{A.}+\text{B.}}\text{or}\\ \frac{\text{D.}\cdot X}{\text{A.}+\text{B.}}\text{or}\frac{\text{T}\cdot \text{X}}{\text{A.}}\end{array}$$

can be carried out by calculating power values using the quotients and / or scaling them using them.

It can be an aspect of the present invention that the further step can advantageously be carried out intersessionally and / or intrasessionally.

In this context, intrasessional can mean that the frequency ranges, in particular A, B, G, D and / or T, from a session can be used. A correlation calculation of the performance values A with the performance values of at least one of the performance values T and / or D from the episodes (E1, E2, E3, ...) can be carried out. In other words, this means that a correlation calculation of the performance values A of one, several or all episodes with one, several or all of the performance values of T and / or D is carried out. For example, the further step can take place intrasessionally in that the performance values A of two episodes (E1, E2) are correlated with the respective performance values T and / or D.

In this context, intersessional can mean that the frequency ranges, in particular A, B, G, D and / or T, can be used from at least one session, in particular from several or all sessions. In other words, it can be provided that the further step can only be carried out intrasessionally for at least one session. It can also be provided that this is carried out for several or all sessions. This has the advantage that scaling can then be carried out for several or all sessions and / or episodes. It is thus possible to compare the performance values over at least one, preferably several or all sessions and / or episodes.

• - A(S1E1) - A(S2E1)
• - A(S2E1) - A(S1E1)
• - A(S1 E2) - A(S2E2)
• - A(S1E2) - A(S2E1)
• - usw.

It can also be an aspect of the invention to carry out an intersessional comparison of episodes with similar performance values, in particular for performance values A. At least one difference can be formed from a certain number of sessions (S1, S2, S3, ...) each with any number of episodes (E1, E2, E3, ...). In particular, the differences for the power values of A, advantageously for the power mean values A, can be formed. At least one difference, several or all differences can be formed. Examples of at least one difference can be:

• - A (S1E1) - A (S2E1)
• - A (S2E1) - A (S1E1)
• - A (S1 E2) - A (S2E2)
• - A (S1E2) - A (S2E1)
• - etc.

In principle, all possible permutations are possible. These can be calculated in a computer-assisted manner with little expenditure of time and with high precision.

The aim of this aspect of the invention can be to use the lowest absolute value of the differences, in particular for the comparison of the power values, preferably the power values of D and / or T. The absolute value can be the mathematical amount. If, for example, the formation of the difference A (S1E1) - A (S2E1) results in the lowest absolute value, then D (S1E1) can be examined with D (S2E1) in the sense of a comparison. Accordingly, it can be provided that the power values, in particular the power values D and / or T, are compared which have the second lowest absolute value in the sense of the above procedure. Correspondingly, with the third lowest, fourth lowest, ..., x-lowest absolute value the Difference. The advantage is that these comparison values can be used to estimate whether there is an increase (or decrease) in the power values of D and / or T. An increase can indicate a worsened condition, in particular the brain function, of the examination subject. It is also conceivable that a decrease can accordingly speak for an improved state, in particular of the brain function. Furthermore, it is conceivable that there is essentially no change when the result is essentially constant, in particular that there is essentially no change, in particular in the brain function. It can be provided that there is a correlation between the power values A and T or A and D. In each of the cases, a correction can then be made as described.

Electroencephalography, in particular quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG), can also be carried out in which an arithmetic operation, in particular a Fourier analysis, is carried out in at least one frequency range, whereby focal deviations in particular can be determined. The term focal can be understood in the medical sense, that is to say that a focal deviation relates to an essentially spatially limited area.

It can be provided that an arithmetic operation, in particular a Fourier analysis, can be used, advantageously in order to achieve at least a frequency component of at least one frequency range, in particular the measured values and / or power values A, B, G, D and / or T. It is also conceivable to use at least one alternative arithmetic operation which can in particular offer an insight into the composition of at least one frequency range. A goal can be to determine at least one absolute or relative change, in particular whether changes have occurred locally and / or temporally and / or in relation to the frequency, whereby changes can be related to the same examination object at a different point in time (other Session or episode) and / or can be related to at least one other examination subject. This can be useful for detecting anomalies. In other words, it is conceivable that essentially focal deviations occur intra-individually, that is to say in the case of an examination object, or inter-individually, that is to say between examination objects.

One aspect of the invention can be to determine at least one focal deviation, in particular by using the results of an arithmetic operation such as, for example, a Fourier analysis. Focal deviations can occur and be examined specifically for at least one frequency range.

It can be an aspect of the invention to record the measured values and / or power values A, B, D and / or T repetitively, in particular in the sense of monitoring. This has the advantage that at least one specific function of one or more examination objects can be monitored over a defined period of time, in particular an episode duration and / or session duration, and in a simple manner.

It can be provided that in particular at least one focal deviation can be measured at at least one temporal and / or occipital EEG position, in particular according to the international ten-twenty system, whereby the localizations T5 / T6 / O1 / O2 are preferably made usable be able. This has the advantage that an essentially early detection of dementia, in particular Alzheimer's, is made possible.

1. a) Untersuchung zumindest eines Risikofaktors (RF) zu einem Zeitpunkt (t1)
2. b) Untersuchung des Risikofaktors (RF) zu einem Zeitpunkt (t2).

In a further aspect of the invention, the method can further comprise at least one of the following steps:

1. a) Investigation of at least one risk factor (RF) at a point in time (t1)
2. b) Investigation of the risk factor (RF) at a point in time (t2).

• - Diabetes mellitus
• - arterieller Hypertonus
• - Hyperlipidämie
• - Vorhofflimmern
• - Schlafapnoe, die über pathologische Gefäßveränderungen mit der Folge reduzierter zerebraler vaskulärer Perfusion Hirnfunktionsstörungen induzieren
• - Bewegungsmangel
• - reduzierte geistige Betätigung
• - Fehl- und Überernährung
• - Rauchen
• - Alkoholkonsum
• - Mangelzustände, insbesondere niedrige Serumspiegel für Vitamin B12
• - reduzierter sensorischer Input bei Mangel an sozialen Kontakten, Depressivität und Schwerhörigkeit

A risk factor (RF) can be a property that is particularly representative and / or has an influencing effect on an examination object, in particular on at least one aspect of the state of the examination object, advantageously on the brain function. A risk factor can also be a symptom or some other medical sign that can be ascertained, in particular through the use of a method, preferably through electroencephalography, in particular QEEG. In particular, a risk factor can also have an impact on brain function or endanger it. Risk factors that affect brain function in the medium and / or long term, in particular, can include:

• - diabetes mellitus
• - arterial hypertension
• - hyperlipidemia
• - atrial fibrillation
• - Sleep apnea, which induces brain dysfunction via pathological vascular changes with the consequence of reduced cerebral vascular perfusion
• - sedentary lifestyle
• - reduced mental activity
• - Malnutrition and overeating
• - Smoking
• - alcohol consumption
• - Deficiencies, especially low serum levels of vitamin B12
• - Reduced sensory input in the case of lack of social contact, depression and hearing loss

It can be an aspect of the present invention to examine at least one risk factor at at least one point in time t1. This at least one risk factor is preferably examined repeatedly at at least one further point in time t2. This results in the advantage that comparability can be achieved, in particular because measurement data associated therewith can be stored by a computer, in particular a storage medium. The time course of properties of the examination object, in particular the measured values and / or performance measured values, advantageously the risk factors, can thus be recorded, stored and / or called up. This can result in a time monitoring option.

It can be an aspect of the invention that, depending on the result of steps a) and b), a further examination of the at least one risk factor (RF) and / or at least one further risk factor (RF ') at at least one further point in time (t3, t4 , ...) can be carried out. On the one hand, this can mean that the at least one risk factor (RF) is repeatedly examined. Alternatively or additionally, it can mean that, depending on the examination results and / or the evaluation, at least one further risk factor (RF ') can be examined, or that the risk factor (RF) can be examined in at least one different manner.

It can be provided that at least one period, in particular a session break, between these points in time is at least partially dependent on at least one past result of a previous electroencephalography, in particular QEEG, and / or another criterion, in particular on at least one risk factor. It can be provided for at least one point in time (t1, t2, t3, t4, ...) or for all points in time that these can be carried out in connection with at least one session.

In a further core of the invention, use of a method for recording electroencephalography values (EEG) according to the embodiments described here can be made available. The use according to the invention thus brings the same advantages as have already been described in detail with regard to the method according to the invention and the computer program product according to the invention.

This can have the advantage that the method can be carried out in a screening test with essentially little expenditure of time. A screening test can be understood to mean recording and / or processing measured values and / or performance values with the aid of at least one aspect of the invention described here. It can be provided that at least one screening test is used, which can be carried out with essentially little expenditure of time, in particular in less than 2 hours, advantageously in less than an hour, preferably in less than 30 minutes, particularly preferably in less than 10 minutes. A screening test can be understood to mean that at least one person, advantageously a substantially large number of people, can be examined, preferably inexpensively, on the basis of the execution and / or the duration of the test. This has the advantage that technically more data can be made available for evaluations and / or forecasts. The reduced expenditure of time can enable a precise and / or area-wide examination, which is not possible without the present method and the present use and without the present computer program product.

• - Blutdruckmessungen
• - Laboruntersuchungen des Blutes
• - kognitive Tests

A screening test can include the following examinations, either isolated or combined with electroencephalography:

• - blood pressure measurements
• - laboratory blood tests
• - cognitive tests

It can be provided here to examine at least one, in particular a substantially large number of risk factors. These can be examined repeatedly. The number of examined risk factors can depend in particular on the resilience of the examination subject, in particular the potential progress of at least one disease. For example, essentially fewer risk factors can be examined in the case of an examination subject with advanced dementia than in the case of an essentially healthy examination subject with little or no influence from, for example, dementia.

One aspect of the invention can be that recognized risk factors, for example increased blood pressure, are treated essentially at or after their first occurrence or that they can be influenced in a regulating manner, in particular through medication. In other words Regulatory action can be taken to reduce at least one risk, in particular of at least one special risk factor. In particular, it can be provided that a therapy, in particular at least one risk factor, can be carried out if the quotient is essentially unexpected and / or essentially deviating from the norm. An intersessional comparison between at least two sessions can also be provided.

1. 1) Im Wesentlichen schlechtere Hirnfunktion:
   • Dabei kann es sinnvoll sein zumindest einen weiteren Risikofaktor zu erfassen, wobei sich die Anzahl dieser weiteren Risikofaktoren nach zumindest einem Kriterium richtet, wobei beispielsweise das erste und/oder letztmalige Auftreten, der Verlauf, die Schwere und weitere Kriterien umfasst werden. Es kann vorgesehen sein, dass regulierend eingegriffen wird, insbesondere dadurch, dass auf den Risikofaktor Einfluss genommen wird, insbesondere regulierend Einfluss genommen wird. Es kann vorgesehen sein, dass zumindest ein weiterer Risikofaktor untersucht wird, wenn keiner der bisher untersuchten Risikofaktoren eine Veränderung aufweist.
2. 2) Im Wesentlichen bessere Hirnfunktion:
   • In diesem Fall kann es vorgesehen sein, keinen regulierenden Einfluss zu nehmen und/oder keine weiteren Risikofaktoren zu untersuchen.
3. 3) Im Wesentlichen konstante Hirnfunktion:
   • In diesem Fall kann es vorgesehen sein, wie unter Punkt 2 zu verfahren. Dabei kann es vorgesehen sein keinen regulierenden Einfluss zu nehmen und/oder keine weiteren Risikofaktoren zu untersuchen.

Provision can be made for at least one examination, in particular an EEG or, advantageously, a QEEG, indications, in particular at least one change in at least one risk factor, which point to an essentially poorer, improved, or constant brain function, in particular global brain function, of the examination subject at the time , for example t2, in comparison to an earlier point in time, for example t1. Global brain function can be understood to mean the entire performance of the brain, in particular that the performance does not relate to a specific area. It can be provided that at least one of the following options is included:

1. 1) Essentially worse brain function:
   • It can be useful to record at least one further risk factor, the number of these further risk factors being based on at least one criterion, for example the first and / or last occurrence, the course, the severity and further criteria being included. Provision can be made for regulating intervention to take place, in particular by influencing the risk factor, in particular by exerting a regulating influence. It can be provided that at least one further risk factor is examined if none of the previously examined risk factors shows a change.
2. 2) Essentially better brain function:
   • In this case, provision can be made not to exert any regulating influence and / or not to investigate any further risk factors.
3. 3) Essentially constant brain function:
   • In this case, the procedure under point 2 can be provided. It can be provided that there is no regulating influence and / or no further risk factors are investigated.

It can be provided that at further times (for example t3, t4,. There is explicitly no restriction to a sequence of the steps and / or times and / or the sessions and a repetition can take place at least once and / or more often.

It can be provided that if the brain function of the examination subject is essentially poorer than the previous examination, a session pause until the next examination time can be selected to be shorter, for example essentially 3 months, preferably 1 month, particularly preferably 2 months, advantageously 4 or 5 months . If the brain function is essentially better or constant, a longer session pause until the next examination time can be selected, in particular essentially 6 months, preferably 9 months, particularly preferably 12 months, advantageously 15 months. Provision can be made not to exceed a session break of essentially 18 months.

Provision can be made to carry out at least one accompanying test, in particular a screening test, at at least one examination time, or a screening test can be included, which is carried out in particular in parallel to at least one QEEG examination. This can be the Mini-Mental-Status-Test (MMST), the DemTect and / or a comparable test.

It can be provided that an at least accompanying test, in particular a screening test, results in a deterioration in brain function while no deterioration can be determined in at least one EEG and / or QEEG examination. In this case, it can be provided that at least one risk factor, which particularly points to a depressive disorder, is examined and, if one is present, at least one therapeutic measure is taken, in particular an anti-depressive measure, advantageously medication and / or psychotherapy.

It can be provided that within the scope of the examination, in particular the screening test, at least one further modality can be carried out essentially in parallel and / or before or after. The further modality can in particular a method based on nuclear magnetic resonance, in particular magnetic resonance tomography (MRT), functional magnetic resonance tomography (fMRI), a method based on X-rays, in particular computed tomography (CT), a method based on radionuclides, in particular positron emission tomography (PET ), Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), an ultrasound method, an infrared method, an impedance-based method, a light-based method, Magnetoencephalography (MEG) or electrocardiogram (EKG).

Provision can be made to use a method according to the invention for recording quantitative electroencephalography values (QEEG), in particular for testing substances or physical methods, advantageously with a direct or indirect influence on brain function. In this context, a test of substances can be understood to mean that substances such as medicaments, for example, can be detected, in particular via the recording of EEG and / or QEEG values and / or performance values. In other words, the method can be used to at least partially detect at least one substance or a physical method. In particular, it is conceivable that substances or physical processes, advantageously with a direct and / or indirect influence on the brain function, preferably on the global brain function, can be detected.

Furthermore, according to the invention, a computer program product is provided for a method according to the invention for recording electroencephalography values (EEG), the computer program product having an algorithm which implements the method according to the invention. The computer program product according to the invention thus brings the same advantages as have already been described in detail with regard to the method according to the invention and the use according to the invention.

One aspect of the invention can be that a computer program product records EEG, in particular QEEG, measured values and / or power values. It can also be provided that this is carried out by at least one algorithm which can be implemented on at least one computer, an FPGA or an ASIC. A computer can be a conventional personal computer and in particular have the components known to the person skilled in the art. Advantageously, the measured values and / or power values and other data relevant to the measurement can be stored. It is also conceivable that a database that can be connected locally or via an intranet or Internet is used in order to enable data to be accessed or exchanged.

Another aspect of the computer program product can be that it is able to recognize, minimize and / or eliminate at least one risk factor. In particular, it can be an aspect of the invention that risk factors are identified from the measured values and / or the performance values. This can be made possible, for example, by at least one algorithm that is at least partially based on artificial intelligence, in particular a training database, which advantageously comprises data that form a gold standard. This can mean that data exist in which there is a traceable and verified link between influences such as symptoms and / or risk factors and / or a treatment method and / or a regulatory intervention with regard to a risk factor. The algorithm can use suggestions to suggest a course of action, in particular a form of therapy, such as medication and / or changed influences, in particular on at least one risk factor. It can also be provided that the algorithm can only be used to recognize certain structures, in particular patterns. It can be advantageous to recognize risk factors and / or substances and / or environmental toxins on the basis of the measured values and / or performance values. In this context, environmental toxins can be fine dust, heavy metals or gases, for example. Other substances that are interpreted as environmental toxins in higher doses can also be included. These can include: per- and polyfluorinated alkyl compounds, in particular per- and polyfluorinated chemicals, lead, mercury, chromium, arsenic, pesticides and radionuclides, as well as other products from combustion processes. In particular, it can be provided that with the aid of learning algorithms, for example using the propositional logic in the context of a symbolic approach, patterns in the measured values and / or performance values can be determined. These can be assigned to risk factors, substances or environmental toxins and thus enable identification.

It can be provided that in particular an improved test of substances, in particular at least one medicament that has been administered, is carried out. This can mean that the effectiveness and in particular the influence on the brain function of the at least one drug is checked. For example, substances with hypothetical effectiveness can be tested for dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease. It can be provided that the effect of other influences, in particular other risk factors, is minimized or completely eliminated. This can have the advantage that fewer measurements and / or measurement results are necessary in order to determine certain clinical pictures with a certain degree of certainty. Another advantage can be that the computer program product and in particular an algorithm, substances and their effects can be detected better or at all, since an isolation of at least one risk factor is made possible. For example, it can be an aspect, neuropathological processes, especially in disease Alzheimer's disease, advantageously the aggregation of β-amyloid, can be detected. This can be achieved in that at least one risk factor is examined in a dedicated manner, in particular in that the influence of at least one and advantageously all of the other risk factors is minimized.

• 1: Messwerte für Delta-, Theta-, Alpha-, Beta- und Gamma-Wellen mit im Wesentlichen zunehmender Frequenz bzw. abnehmender Langwelligkeit.
• 2: Mehrere Sessions S1 bis S5 und darin potenziell umfasste Episoden E1 bis E4, sowie Sessionpausen, Episodenpausen, Vorbereitungszeiten, Nachbereitungszeiten.

Further measures improving the invention emerge from the following description of some exemplary embodiments of the invention, which are shown schematically in the figures. All of the features and / or advantages arising from the claims, the description or the drawing, including structural details, spatial arrangements and method steps, can be essential to the invention both individually and in a wide variety of combinations. It should be noted that the figures are only of a descriptive character and are not intended to restrict the invention in any way. Show it:

• 1 : Measured values for delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma waves with essentially increasing frequency or decreasing long waviness.
• 2 : Several sessions S1 to S5 and potentially included episodes E1 to E4, as well as session breaks, episode breaks, preparation times, follow-up times.

In the following figures, the same reference numerals are used for the same technical features from different exemplary embodiments.

1 shows an exemplary embodiment for measured values of essentially different frequency bands in an EEG measurement. Here are delta ( 1 ), Theta ( 2 ), Alpha ( 3 ), Beta ( 4th ) and gamma ( 5 ) Waves with essentially decreasing frequency of the oscillations shown. The measured values shown can be converted into power values with the aid of a Fourier transformation.

2 shows an embodiment for EEG measurements in the sessions S1, S2, S3, S4 and S5, which each include the episodes E1, E2, E3. Session S5 also includes episode E4 in which, for example, at least one measurement can be repeated or an additional measurement can be carried out.

The session break can be between sessions S1 and S2 10 lie. It can also be provided that a session pause 20th between S2 and S3 is a session break 30th is between S3 and S4, and a session break 40 is between S4 and S5. The session breaks 10 , 20th , 30th , 40 be essentially the same or different. For example, it can be provided that all session pauses 3 Months. It is also conceivable that the session breaks 10 , 20th 2 months each and the session breaks 30th , 40 each be 4 months.

The session duration preferably includes at least all episodes. It can also be provided that the session duration includes all episode pauses. For example, the session S2 includes the episodes E1, E2, E3 with the respective episode durations 21 , 23 , 25th as well as the episode pauses 22nd , 24 . Overall, the session duration in this case corresponds to the sum of all episode durations and episode pauses. It can also be provided that the session, as in the case of session S4, also has at least one preparation time 401 before the first episode E1 and / or a follow-up period 402 after the last episode, in this case E3. This can have the advantage that a rest phase or preparation time is possible before or after the measurements. In the example at hand, this is the duration of the session 400 for session S4 then from the sum of the episode durations, episode pauses, the preparation time and the follow-up time.

The episode lengths of episodes E1, E2, E3, E4 are in 2 with odd numbers for the reference symbols 11th , 13th , 15th , 21 , 23 , 25th , 31 , 33 , 35 , 41 , 43 , 45 , 51 , 53 , 55 , 57 marked, while the episode pauses between episodes with even numbers for the reference characters 12th , 14th , 22nd , 24 , 32 , 34 , 42 , 44 , 52 , 54 , 56 Marked are.

In the example of session S1, the episode pause lies between episodes E1 and E2 12th . The episode pause is between episodes E2 and E3 14th . It can be provided that the episode pauses 12th and 14th are essentially the same length. It can also be provided that, as in the case of sessions S1 and S2, episodes E1, E2, E3 each have essentially an identical episode length 11th , 13th , 15th , 21 , 23 , 25th and / or the episode pauses 12th , 14th , 22nd , 24 are essentially identical in episode length. In this case, the session duration of session S1 also corresponds to the session duration of session S2.

Furthermore, it can be provided that, as in session S3, the episode lengths 31 , 33 , 35 the episode lengths of at least one previous session z. B. the episode lengths 11th , 13th , 15th correspond, but the time of the measurements within session S3 is started with a delay compared to session S1 or S2. The episode breaks 32 , 34 compared to previous sessions S1 or S2 be different or essentially identical to 12th , 14th , 22nd , 24 .

One possible embodiment as illustrated for session S4 can be episode lengths 41 , 43 , 45 that differ from the episode lengths of previous sessions. The episode breaks 42 , 44 be longer or shorter compared to previous sessions. The episode pauses and / or episode lengths can be equidistant for each session, that is to say have essentially identical periods of time or can be different. It can be provided that certain measurements are repeated and / or additional measurements are carried out. As a result, the number of episodes and / or their episode lengths and / or the episode pauses can vary.

Another embodiment is represented by session S5. This comprises the episodes E1, E2, E3, E4, all of which have a substantially different episode length 51 , 53 , 55 , 57 exhibit. The episode breaks 52 , 54 , 56 are also essentially different.

The above explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention exclusively in the context of examples. Of course, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another, provided that they are technically sensible, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

List of reference symbols

1

Measured values for delta

2

Readings for theta

3

Readings for alpha

4th

Measured values for beta

5

Readings for gamma

10, 20, 30, 40, 50

Session break

11, 13, 15,

Session S1 episode lengths

21, 23, 25,

Session S2 episode lengths

31, 33, 35,

Session S3 episode lengths

41, 43, 45,

Session S4 episode lengths

51, 53, 55, 57

Session S5 episode lengths

12, 14,

Episode breaks from Session S1

22, 24,

Episode breaks from Session S2

32, 34,

Episode breaks from Session S3

42, 44,

Episode pauses from Session S4

52, 54, 56

Episode pauses from Session S5

400

Duration of session S4

401

Preparation time for session S4

402

Follow-up time for session S4

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Non-patent literature cited

• Forstl H, Sattel H, Besthorn C, Daniel S, Geiger-Kabisch C, Hentschel F, Sarochan M, Zerfass R. (1996) Longitudinal cognitive, electroencephalographic and morphological brain changes in aging and Alzheimer's disease. Br J Psychiatry. 1996 Mar; 168 (3): 280-6 [0003]
• Musaeus, Christian Sandoe, et al. 'EEG Theta Power Is an Early Marker of Cognitive Decline in Dementia Due to Alzheimer's Disease'. Jan. 1, 2018: 1359 - 1371 [0003]

Claims (15)

A method for recording electroencephalography (EEG) measured values, in particular voltage differences, comprising the following steps: recording EEG measured values in at least one session (S1), with a session comprising at least one episode (E1, E2, E3), converting the Measured values in power values - Recording of the power values for different frequency ranges, characterized by the following steps: - Recording of EEG measured values in at least one further specified session (S2, S3), - Intrasessional processing, - Longitudinal comparison of the power values in essentially different frequency ranges, - intersessional comparison of the performance values in essentially different frequency ranges. Procedure according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the intrasessional processing comprises the formation of power mean values, in particular for at least one, advantageously each, frequency range and / or the longitudinal and / or intersessional comparison of the power mean values in essentially different frequency ranges, in particular taking into account the ratio of slow and fast frequency ranges includes, wherein the frequency ranges include delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma waves, in particular slow frequency ranges include delta and theta waves and fast frequency ranges include alpha, beta and gamma waves. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in a further step a calculation of at least one quotient of the power values, in particular $$\frac{\mathrm{D.}+T}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}\text{or}\frac{T}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}\text{or}\frac{\mathrm{D.}}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}\text{or}\frac{T}{\mathrm{A.}}$$

is included, wherein in particular an adaptation of the power values of at least one frequency range, in particular frequency range A, takes place, wherein in particular an adaptation advantageously comprises dividing the power values by at least one of the quotients or multiplying the power values by at least one of the quotients. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a scaling factor X can be used to calculate at least one quotient according to the following formula: $$\begin{array}{l}\frac{\left(\mathrm{D.}+T\right)\cdot X}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}\text{or}\frac{T\cdot X}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}\text{or}\\ \frac{\mathrm{D.}\cdot X}{\mathrm{A.}+\mathrm{B.}}\text{or}\frac{T\cdot X}{\mathrm{A.}}\end{array}$$

where the scaling factor X is advantageously the square root of the absolute power value of A. $$\sqrt{\left|\mathrm{A.}\right|}$$

or the scaling factor X is the reciprocal of the square root of the absolute power value of A. $${\left(\sqrt{\left|\mathrm{A.}\right|}\right)}^{-1}$$

Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that 1 to 1200 episodes can be carried out per session, in particular that 2 to 6 episodes can be carried out per session, preferably that 3 episodes can be carried out per session. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for long-term monitoring there is a session break of 1 to 48 months between the sessions, in particular that a session break of 3 to 24 months between the sessions, preferably that a session break of 6 to 12 months between the sessions and / or that for medium-term monitoring there is a session break of 1 to 6 months between the sessions, in particular that a session break of 2 to 4 months between the sessions, preferably that a session break of 3 months between the sessions and / or that for short-term monitoring there is a session break of 0.001 to 7,200 seconds between the sessions, in particular that a session break of 0.1 to 25 seconds is between the sessions, advantageously that a session break of 1 to 10 seconds between the sessions is, particularly advantageously, that a session break from in the W There is a substantial 7 seconds between the sessions, with monitoring in particular comprising an essentially repeated recording of measured values. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in a further step a correlation calculation between at least two power values of different frequency ranges, in particular the power values A and T as well as A and D, is carried out. Procedure according to Claim 7 , characterized in that, depending on the correlation calculation of the resulting power values, a comparison is carried out between the power values in which the differences between the alpha waves are essentially minimized. Procedure according to Claim 7 or 8th , characterized in that, in a further step, the correlation calculation of the power values A in the episodes (E1, E2, E3) with the power values T or D in the episodes (E1, E2, E3) is carried out, with above in particular in the case of positive correlation values of a limit value, a correction of the power values T and D, measured on the comparison of the power mean values for A, is carried out, the further step advantageously being able to be carried out intersessionally and / or intrasessionally. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) is carried out in which an arithmetic operation, in particular a Fourier analysis, of at least one frequency range is carried out. Procedure according to Claim 10 , characterized in that at least one of the following further steps is included: a) investigation of at least one risk factor (RF) at a point in time (t1) b) investigation of the risk factor (RF) at a point in time (t2). Procedure according to Claim 11 , characterized in that, depending on the result of at least one step a) and / or b), a further examination of the at least one risk factor (RF) and / or at least one further risk factor (RF ') at at least one further point in time (t3, t4 ) is carried out. Use of a method for recording electroencephalography values (EEG) according to one of the Claims 1 until 12th , characterized in that the method can be carried out in a screening test with essentially little expenditure of time. Use of a method for recording quantitative electroencephalography values (QEEG) according to Claim 13 for testing substances or physical processes. Computer program product for a method for recording electroencephalography values (EEG), characterized in that the computer program product has an algorithm that executes the method according to one of the Claims 1 until 12th implemented.

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