Abstract

Optical functional brain mapping presents a versatile, portable, and cost-effective alternative to conventional functional imaging techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). However, optical imaging does not inherently capture anatomical details and relies on existing structural imaging to generate accurate brain maps. By employing head models that incorporate participant-specific anatomy, imaging array placement, and the optical properties of underlying tissues, optical functional brain mapping can achieve results comparable to those of fMRI. Despite advances in registration techniques, the creation of atlas-derived yet participant-specific head models remains a significant challenge. My research endeavors to develop innovative registration and analysis pipelines for optical functional brain mapping by (1) estimating participant-specific scalp morphology using three-dimensional (3D) scanning, photogrammetry, and an atlas, (2) localizing imaging array placement in 3D from two-dimensional (2D) images, and (3) establishing and validating an alternative analysis and registration method for longitudinal optical functional brain mapping studies. The focus is on developing scalable algorithms that are independent of imaging array design, computationally efficient, and applicable in low-resource environments. This work aims to establish accurate registration in the absence of participant-specific structural imaging and promote the development of simplified pipelines for more widespread use.

Committee Chair

Adam Eggebrecht

Committee Members

Christopher Smyser; Hong Chen; Janine Bijsterbosch; Quing Zhu

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Author's Department

Biomedical Engineering

Author's School

McKelvey School of Engineering

Document Type

Dissertation

Date of Award

8-4-2025

Language

English (en)

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