This older review paper provides background on the general approach of using encoding models to study sensory processing: https://hearingbrain.org/pdf/wu_david_gallant_annrev_2006.pdf
Here's a more recent study comparing performance of encoding models for auditory cortex that uses the NEMS library: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/534537v3
And finally, here's a review of behavior state-dependent models of the sort that can be fit using NEMS: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378595517303611?via%3Dihub