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Modulating Brain Network Dynamics Through Training: Impacts on Perception, Cognition,...
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Modulating Brain Network Dynamics Through Training: Impacts on Perception, Cognition, and Action in Health and Disorder

A special issue of Brain Sciences (ISSN 2076-3425). This special issue belongs to the section "Behavioral Neuroscience".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2026 | Viewed by 15487

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Mukesh Dhamala

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Department of Physics and Astronomy, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
2. Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
3. Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Center for Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
4. Tri-Institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science (TReNDS), Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
Interests: cognitive neuroscience; computational neuroscience; neuroimaging; neurophysics; nonlinear dynamics
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are thrilled to announce our upcoming Special Issue of Brain Sciences titled "Modulating Brain Network Dynamics Through Training: Impacts on Perception, Cognition, and Action in Health and Disorder". This Special Issue aims to gather cutting-edge research exploring how various forms of behavioral training can modulate brain network dynamics, affecting perceptual processes, cognitive functions, and motor actions in both healthy individuals and those with neurological or psychiatric disorders.

Behavioral training, including activities such as physical exercises, cognitive exercises, motor skills practice, music, and video game playing, has been shown to induce significant changes in brain network dynamics, leading to enhanced cognitive and motor abilities. This Special Issue seeks to highlight research that delves into the mechanisms through which these training regimens bring about neural adaptations. We encourage submissions that utilize advanced neuroimaging techniques, computational models, and interdisciplinary approaches to uncover the underlying principles of brain plasticity induced by training.

We are particularly interested in studies that investigate the differential effects of training on brain networks in health versus disorder. This includes examining how training can ameliorate deficits in perceptual, cognitive, and motor functions in individuals with conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, and other neurological or psychiatric disorders. Additionally, research exploring the impact of training on decision-making processes and the long-term sustainability of training-induced changes in brain network dynamics is highly welcomed. Video game playing, in particular, offers a unique lens through which to study these phenomena due to its immersive and interactive nature, making it a valuable tool for understanding and enhancing cognitive functions.

By compiling a diverse range of studies, this Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on the modulation of brain network dynamics through training. We hope to foster a deeper understanding of how targeted behavioral interventions can optimize brain function and contribute to the development of effective therapeutic strategies for various neurological and psychiatric conditions. We invite researchers from across the globe to submit their work and contribute to this important and rapidly evolving field.

We are looking forward to receiving your submissions and joining in the collective exploration of this exciting field.

Sincerely,

Dr. Mukesh Dhamala
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Brain Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • perception
  • cognition
  • motor actions
  • behavioral training
  • music
  • video game playing
  • neuroimaging
  • computational models
  • physical exercise

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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21 pages, 5784 KB  
Article
Activity Patterns in Relation to Dynamic Functional Network States: A Longitudinal Feasibility Study of Brain–Behavior Associations in Young Adults
by Najme Soleimani, Maria Misiura, Ali Maan, Sir-Lord Wiafe, Jennalyn Burnette, Asia Hemphill, Vonetta M. Dotson, Rebecca Ellis, Tricia Z. King, Erin B. Tone and Vince D. Calhoun
Brain Sci. 2026, 16(3), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16030327 - 19 Mar 2026
Viewed by 285
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Young adulthood is a critical developmental period during which lifestyle behaviors may shape intrinsic brain network dynamics that support cognition. This pilot longitudinal intervention study examined whether variability in physical activity and sedentary behavior during an 8-week exercise and/or cognitive intervention protocol [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Young adulthood is a critical developmental period during which lifestyle behaviors may shape intrinsic brain network dynamics that support cognition. This pilot longitudinal intervention study examined whether variability in physical activity and sedentary behavior during an 8-week exercise and/or cognitive intervention protocol was associated with changes in intrinsic brain dynamics and cognitive and mood outcomes in undergraduate young adults. Methods: Participants (n = 32) completed resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) at baseline (T1) and post-intervention (T2). Dynamic functional network connectivity (dFNC) was estimated from 53 intrinsic connectivity networks derived using spatially constrained independent component analysis (ICA). Ten recurring dynamic connectivity states were identified and individualized using constrained dynamic double functional independent primitives (c-ddFIPs). State occupancy and dynamic convergence and divergence metrics were computed to characterize network flexibility. Results: Greater moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was modestly but consistently associated with increased occupancy of integrative higher-order states, particularly States 6 and 7, and reduced occupancy of more segregated configurations. More physically active individuals also demonstrated greater divergence between integrative and low-engagement states, whereas greater sedentary time corresponded to increased similarity among segregated configurations. Working memory performance showed parallel associations with more integrative and better-differentiated dynamic patterns. Conclusions: These findings suggest that dynamic functional network reconfiguration may represent a neurobiological mechanism linking lifestyle behaviors and cognitive health in young adulthood. Furthermore, they highlight the translational promise of engagement-driven, low-burden programs for college-aged young adults, showing that even modest variability in habitual physical activity corresponds to greater engagement and differentiation of integrative connectivity states linked to executive and broader cognitive functions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modulating Brain Network Dynamics Through Training: Impacts on Perception, Cognition, and Action in Health and Disorder)
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16 pages, 1771 KB  
Article
An Investigation of the Modulating Effects of Sensory Stimulation and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Memory-Related Brain Activity
by Stevan Nikolin, Matthew Wang, Adriano Moffa, Haijing Huang, Mei Xu, Siddhartha Raj Pande and Donel Martin
Brain Sci. 2025, 15(11), 1182; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15111182 - 31 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1278
Abstract
Background/Objectives: As the global population ages, the prevalence of disorders associated with memory dysfunction (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease) continues to increase. There is a need for novel interventions that can enhance memory and support affected individuals. Non-invasive brain stimulation provides a promising approach [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: As the global population ages, the prevalence of disorders associated with memory dysfunction (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease) continues to increase. There is a need for novel interventions that can enhance memory and support affected individuals. Non-invasive brain stimulation provides a promising approach to engage circuits within the hippocampal network, a group of brain regions critical for episodic memory, and thereby improve cognition. Methods: Twenty healthy participants completed a single-blind, within-subject crossover study over four sessions. In each session, they received one of four interventions whilst viewing pictures of real-world objects: 40 Hz synchronised audiovisual stimulation (AVS), theta burst stimulation (TBS), a combination of synchronised 5 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation with AVS (rTMS + AVS), or sham rTMS. Electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded to measure associated brain activity changes. Following each intervention, participants completed a recognition memory task. Results: Mixed-effect repeated measure models (MRMMs) revealed no significant differences in recognition memory performance or theta (5 Hz) activity across conditions. However, both TBS and rTMS + AVS significantly increased gamma (40 Hz) activity compared to sham rTMS, and TBS induced a widespread increase in theta-gamma phase-amplitude coupling during picture viewing. Conclusions: While the neuromodulatory interventions did not enhance memory performance, the observed increase in gamma activity, particularly following rTMS-based stimulation, suggests potential engagement of neural processes associated with memory. These findings warrant further investigation into the role of gamma oscillations in memory and cognitive enhancement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modulating Brain Network Dynamics Through Training: Impacts on Perception, Cognition, and Action in Health and Disorder)
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15 pages, 619 KB  
Article
The Effect of Animation Therapy on Time Perception and Daily Routines in Primary School Children: A Randomized Controlled Study
by Özgün Belen and Gonca Bumin
Brain Sci. 2025, 15(11), 1176; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15111176 - 30 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1174
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Time is a valuable and limited source that must be managed to participate in life domains efficiently. Time perception is an essential skill for managing the time, based on executive functions. This study examined the effects of animation therapy on time [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Time is a valuable and limited source that must be managed to participate in life domains efficiently. Time perception is an essential skill for managing the time, based on executive functions. This study examined the effects of animation therapy on time perception and daily routines in 7–10-year-old children through executive functions. Methods: Sixty-three typically developing children were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group received 10 weeks of animation therapy, while the control group followed daily routines. Time perception was assessed using Duration Discrimination and Reproduction tasks, and daily routines with the Executive Functions and Occupational Routines Scale (EFORTS). Results: The intervention group showed significant improvements in Duration Discrimination (500 ms: p = 0.02; 800 ms: p = 0.01), Duration Reproduction (800 ms: p = 0.05), and EFORTS subscales (p = 0.00), except Morning and Evening Routines (p > 0.05). Medium to large effect sizes were observed for time perception (r = −0.34 to −0.61) and small to large for EFORTS (r = −0.28 to −0.75). The control group showed no to small effects in time perception (r = −0.02 to −0.14) and no to medium effects in EFORTS (r = −0.07 to −0.45). Conclusions: Animation therapy may enhance children’s synchronization of time perception with physical time, benefiting social, leisure, and play routines through executive functions. Thus, it could be a valuable addition to occupational therapy interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modulating Brain Network Dynamics Through Training: Impacts on Perception, Cognition, and Action in Health and Disorder)
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17 pages, 3152 KB  
Article
Connectivity in the Dorsal Visual Stream Is Enhanced in Action Video Game Players
by Kyle Cahill, Timothy Jordan and Mukesh Dhamala
Brain Sci. 2024, 14(12), 1206; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14121206 - 28 Nov 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4352
Abstract
Action video games foster competitive environments that demand rapid spatial navigation and decision-making. Action video gamers often exhibit faster response times and slightly improved accuracy in vision-based sensorimotor tasks. Background/Objectives: However, the underlying functional and structural changes in the two visual streams of [...] Read more.
Action video games foster competitive environments that demand rapid spatial navigation and decision-making. Action video gamers often exhibit faster response times and slightly improved accuracy in vision-based sensorimotor tasks. Background/Objectives: However, the underlying functional and structural changes in the two visual streams of the brain that may be contributing to these cognitive improvements have been unclear. Methods: Using functional and diffusion MRI data, this study investigated the differences in connectivity between gamers who play action video games and nongamers in the dorsal and ventral visual streams. Results: We found that action video gamers have enhanced functional and structural connectivity, especially in the dorsal visual stream. Specifically, there is heightened functional connectivity—both undirected and directed—between the left superior occipital gyrus and the left superior parietal lobule during a moving-dot discrimination decision-making task. This increased connectivity correlates with response time in gamers. The structural connectivity in the dorsal stream, as quantified by diffusion fractional anisotropy and quantitative anisotropy measures of the axonal fiber pathways, was also enhanced for gamers compared to nongamers. Conclusions: These findings provide valuable insights into how action video gaming can induce targeted improvements in structural and functional connectivity between specific brain regions in the visual processing pathways. These connectivity changes in the dorsal visual stream underpin the superior performance of action video gamers compared to nongamers in tasks requiring rapid and accurate vision-based decision-making. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modulating Brain Network Dynamics Through Training: Impacts on Perception, Cognition, and Action in Health and Disorder)
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Review

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17 pages, 1139 KB  
Review
The Influence of Music on Mental Health Through Neuroplasticity: Mechanisms, Clinical Implications, and Contextual Perspectives
by Yoshihiro Noda and Takahiro Noda
Brain Sci. 2025, 15(11), 1248; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15111248 - 20 Nov 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 7271
Abstract
Music is a near-universal anthropological and sensory phenomenon that engages distributed brain networks and peripheral physiological systems to shape emotion, cognition, sociality, and bodily regulation. Evidence from electrophysiology, neuroimaging, endocrinology, randomized controlled trials, and longitudinal training studies indicates that both receptive and active [...] Read more.
Music is a near-universal anthropological and sensory phenomenon that engages distributed brain networks and peripheral physiological systems to shape emotion, cognition, sociality, and bodily regulation. Evidence from electrophysiology, neuroimaging, endocrinology, randomized controlled trials, and longitudinal training studies indicates that both receptive and active musical experiences produce experience-dependent neural and systemic adaptations. These include entrainment of neural oscillations, modulation of predictive and reward signaling, autonomic and neuroendocrine changes, and long-term structural connectivity alterations that support affect regulation, cognition, social functioning, motor control, sleep, and resilience to neuropsychiatric illness. This narrative review integrates mechanistic domains with clinical outcomes across major conditions, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, dementia, and selected neurodevelopmental disorders, by mapping acoustic and procedural parameters onto plausible biological pathways. We summarize how tempo, beat regularity, timbre and spectral content, predictability, active versus passive engagement, social context, dose, and timing influence neural entrainment, synaptic and network plasticity, reward and prediction-error dynamics, autonomic balance, and immune/endocrine mediators. For each condition, we synthesize randomized and observational findings and explicitly link observed improvements to mechanistic pathways. We identify methodological limitations, including heterogeneous interventions, small and biased samples, sparse longitudinal imaging and standardized physiological endpoints, and inconsistent acoustic reporting, and translate these into recommendations for translational trials: harmonized acoustic reporting, pre-specified mechanistic endpoints (neuroimaging, autonomic, neuroendocrine, immune markers), adequately powered randomized designs with active controls, and long-term follow-up. Contextual moderators including music education, socioeconomic and cultural factors, sport, sleep, and ritual practices are emphasized as critical determinants of implementation and effectiveness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modulating Brain Network Dynamics Through Training: Impacts on Perception, Cognition, and Action in Health and Disorder)
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