Fractal Dimension Analysis in Brain Function: From Basic Mechanisms to Clinical Frontiers

Dear Colleagues,

Fractal dimension (FD) analysis is redefining the way we understand brain functions, providing a powerful lens through which to explore the dynamic, intricate, and often chaotic world of neural activity. This Special Issue of Fractal and Fractional seeks high-quality original research, comprehensive reviews, and insightful perspectives that demonstrate the versatility and impact of FD analysis in both basic neuroscience and clinical applications.

At the heart of brain functions is a delicate balance between order and chaos, a state known as criticality, which is thought to optimise processing, adaptability, and resilience. FD analysis provides a unique quantitative method of capturing this balance by measuring the complexity, regularity, and predictability of neural signals. From traditional modalities such as EEG, MEG, and fMRI to advanced multimodal setups such as TMS-EEG, the FD is emerging as a key biomarker with broad translational potential.

This Special Issue highlights the latest advances in FD-based methods and their application in cutting-edge technologies such as brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) and non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS), including their use in diagnostics, therapy, and neurorehabilitation. By bridging theory, computation, and clinical practice, this collection aims to accelerate innovation at the intersection of brain complexity and real-world impacts.

Prof. Dr. Camillo Porcaro
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. Fractal and Fractional 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 2700 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.

• innovative methods for FD extraction and analysis in neural signals
• FD-driven improvements in BCI design and decoding strategies
• personalised neuromodulation by tailoring NIBS interventions using FD metrics
• FD as a non-invasive biomarker for early diagnosis and monitoring of neurological and psychiatric disorders
• multimodal and cross-modal applications combining FD with EEG, MEG, fMRI, and TMS
• new theoretical frameworks linking brain criticality, fractal geometry, and functional connectivity