Abstract: A method includes selecting artificial neural network parameters; sampling the parameters; selecting connection weights; initializing the artificial neural networks; running the artificial neural networks on cognitive tasks; and determining whether activity is within an acceptable range. A computing system includes a processor; and a memory having stored thereon computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the computing system to select artificial neural network parameters; sample the parameters; select connection weights; initialize the artificial neural networks; run the artificial neural networks on cognitive tasks; and determine whether activity is within an acceptable range.