About this Research Topic

Background

This Research Topic focuses on understanding of underlying neurophysiologic mechanism of speech and language processing in general, as well as understanding individual responses to speech-language therapy. It aims to uncover mechanisms of speech and language processing in different settings (i.e. during neurosurgical procedures, and neurological settings) and to identify neural markers and predictors that can help determine which individuals are likely to benefit the most from specific interventions and track the effectiveness of these interventions over time.

Researchers in this field employ advanced neuroimaging and neurophysiologic techniques to investigate speech and language processing and the neural changes that occur as a result of speech-language therapy. By examining brain activity patterns and connectivity before, during, and after therapy, they aim to identify neural biomarkers that can predict treatment outcomes and inform personalized approaches to intervention. Also, lesioning of critical speech and language brain areas can be prevented by functional brain mapping during neurosurgical procedures.

Furthermore, this research seeks to uncover the neurophysiological mechanisms of speech and language processing and neural correlates of treatment response by identifying specific brain regions or networks that are associated with improved speech and language skills following therapy. By understanding the neurobiological changes that occur in response to treatment, clinicians can develop more targeted and effective interventions tailored to the unique needs of individuals with communication disorders. Also, research in this field is promising to patients undergoing neurosurgical procedures to prevent injuries of speech and language brain areas which can lead to postoperative speech and language deficits.

This emerging field of research holds great promise in advancing our understanding of the neuroplasticity of the brain and its role in speech-language intervention. By investigating the neural markers, predictors, and correlates of treatment response, researchers can enhance our ability to optimize treatment outcomes and improve the quality of life for patients and individuals with communication difficulties.

This topic welcomes articles on all aspects of Speech-language neurophysiology and intervention: Neural markers, predictors, and correlates of treatment response but particularly on these themes:

• speech and language therapy following brain injury and in neurodegenerative diseases

• postoperative speech and language therapy after intraoperative speech and language mapping procedures (during neurosurgical approaches)

• intraoperative neurophysiologic techniques (i.e., DCS, TES, SEP, VEP, AEP, MEP) in uncovering speech and language processing during surgical procedures

• research of speech and language by neuro-modulatory techniques like TMS and tDCS

• preoperative speech and language mapping (biomarkers) for guiding the neurosurgical procedures

• uncovering neurophysiological mechanisms of neurological conditions (i.e. rare condition of laryngeal dystonia) affecting speech generation

Keywords: Speech - Language Intervention, Treatment Response, Neural Correlates

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