Real-time functional near-infrared imager and imaging of human brain activity

A real time functional near infrared imager (fNIRI) was introduced. The imager was controlled by a computer and the signals from the detectors were converted and processed in real time. A user-friendly software was programmed with Visual C++ language. Relative changes of oxy - Hb, Hb, and total blood concentration in 16 channels and the corresponding images can be displayed in real time on the computer. The imager was used as a real time monitor in psychological tests to record the response of the frontal cortex of human subjects. In mental work and pattern recognition tests, we recorded oxygen consumption and blood flow changes of volunteers' frontal cortex. The psychological results showed that the lower part of the left frontal gyres had intensive relation to pattern recognition and has definite boundaries. However, the mental work involved more zones of the frontal gyres and may be a complex conceptual model. The results also suggested that the human brain has an precise and complicated adjustability. The oxygen supplement in the stimulated area increased as the neuron stimulation.