Functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy

Anemia is a global public health concern and is closely linked to dysfunction of brain cognitive neural networks, a key mechanism underlying cognitive impairment. Such deficits-including declines in memory, learning, processing speed, and executive function-reduce daily living abilities and increase risks of falls and depression. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) enables real-time monitoring of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin fluctuations, reflecting brain network function. This study aims to identify affected neural network regions in anemic patients and visualize connectivity changes using heatmaps and arc-based mapping. The findings will support early detection of cognitive impairment and guide precise clinical interventions, ultimately informing individualized treatment strategies to enhance therapeutic outcomes and quality of life.

The proposed research is to determine the clinical efficacy and neurobiological mechanisms of acupuncture analgesia in patients with sickle cell disease.