Wireless Near-Infrared Devices for Neural Monitoring in Operational Environments

Measuring functional activation of the human brain has been advancing rapidly through development of several non-invasive techniques. Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and diffuse optical tomography (DOT) offer the possibility of measuring simultaneouslyand non-invasively neuronal and vascular signals in the brain cortex. Although optical measurement of hemodynamic signals is well established, optical measurement of neuronal activation (the Fast signal) is just emerging and requires further optimization.The main goals of this feasibility proposal are to advance neuronal monitoring and DOT methodology, by demonstrating a portable (helmet and backpack), Proof of Concept (POC) wireless NIRS device. By miniaturizing existing NIRS laser and detector modules,and integrating wireless link capability, we will build a portable, light weight, functional NIRS system. The wireless link will couple real-time NIRS data to a portable computer for display. Validation test will use an existing DOT instrument(hemodynamic signals) and an EEG system (Fast signals) to locate and digitize ideal human head sensor sites, and to acquire baseline data. POC system sensors will then be placed at the same head locations and acquired data verified against the referencedata thereby establishing the feasibility of using the Proof of Concept system for portable neuronal monitoring. A wireless monitoring device that offers both neuronal and vascular signals has a huge commercial potential. The market for non-intrusiveportable monitoring by means of non-invasive brain monitoring offers a most exciting and significant break-through, impacting many industries. Early adapters are expected from the military for training under stress; medical - head trauma evaluations;educational- diagnosis of learning disabilities; and law enforcement - for interrogation. Medical research will also benefit from this research and development effort, because many brain studies may be improved by portable monitoring of functionalactivities including stroke rehabilitation and epilepsy. Other research benefits are for the study of normal brain development in infants, the diagnosis and follow-up of cerebrovascular diseases, and psychiatric syndromes in adults and children.