Understanding the neural mechanisms that underpin higher cognitive functions is a complex and crucial area of neuroscience. These higher cognitive functions include sophisticated mental processes such as multisensory integration, working memory, and decision-making, all of which rely on the intricate interplay of neural networks across various brain regions.
At the core of these higher cognitive functions is sensory perception-the brain’s ability to perceive, interpret, and integrate sensory information to guide behavior and decision-making. Sensory perception is widely considered the foundation of higher cognitive functions that transform the basic sensory perception information into sophisticated cognitive functions. Without sensory processing, higher cognitive function would be severely compromised.
Recent advancements in neuroimaging techniques, including functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetoencephalography (MEG), and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), have provided unprecedented insights into these mechanisms. These tools allow researchers to observe brain activity in real-time, map structural connectivity between brain regions, and investigate the dynamic interactions of neural networks during cognitive tasks. This evolving research not only deepens our understanding of cognition but also holds promise for developing interventions to address cognitive impairments resulting from neurological disorders or brain injuries.
Exploring the neural mechanisms underlying sensory perception and higher cognitive functions aims to advance our understanding of the principles that govern human thought and behavior. By delving deeper into these neural foundations, researchers can elucidate how complex mental processes—such as multisensory integration, working memory, attention, and decision-making—are realized in the brain. This research has far-reaching implications, with potential to revolutionize fields such as artificial intelligence through biologically inspired models and clinical neuroscience by informing novel therapeutic strategies.
This research topic invites submissions on, but not limited to, the following areas:
- Psychological and neural mechanisms from sensory perception to higher cognitive functions
- Advanced technologies in cognitive neuroscience research
- Other relevant topics
Researchers are encouraged to submit original research papers, reviews, case studies, and theoretical perspectives that contribute to advancing knowledge in these areas. Submissions should adhere to scientific rigor, clarity, and relevance to the special topic's themes. Accepted manuscripts will undergo peer review and may be published in the journal's research topic.
This research topic is partnered with the
2024 18th International Conference on Complex Medical Engineering (CME2024) . Only papers presented at the conference are accepted for this topic and qualify for the publication fee discount. The CME2024 is set to take place in Kyoto, Japan, from November 8 to 10, 2024. Hosted by the Kyoto University and Institute of Complex Medical Engineering, the event provides a unique platform for academia and industry to exchange ideas and address challenges in optoelectronic medical instruments, brain information engineering, neurorehabilitation engineering and medicine, and communication technology.