Advancements in Numerical Methods for Forward and Inverse Problems in Functional near Infra-Red Spectroscopy: A Review

Abstract

In the field of biomedical image reconstruction, functional near infra-red spectroscopy (fNIRs) is a promising technology that uses near infra-red light for non-invasive imaging and reconstruction. Reconstructing an image requires both forward and backward problem-solving in order to figure out what the image’s optical properties are from the boundary data that has been measured. Researchers are using a variety of numerical methods to solve both the forward and backward problems in depth. This study will show the latest improvements in numerical methods for solving forward and backward problems in fNIRs. The physical interpretation of the forward problem is described, followed by the explanation of the state-of-the-art numerical methods and the description of the toolboxes. A more in-depth discussion of the numerical solution approaches for the inverse problem for fNIRs is also provided.