Event--related desynchronization in diffusively coupled oscillator models

TL;DR

This paper models event-related desynchronization (ERD) using diffusively coupled nonlinear oscillators, demonstrating how sufficient event strength induces ERD and exploring its implications for brain and physical systems.

Contribution

It introduces a novel oscillator-based model to explain ERD, providing both numerical and analytical insights into its emergence and potential applications.

Findings

ERD occurs when event strength exceeds a threshold

Desynchronization correlates with behavioral task performance

Applicable to both limit cycle and chaotic systems

Abstract

We seek explanation for the neurophysiological phenomenon of event related desynchronization (ERD) by using models of diffusively coupled nonlinear oscillators. We demonstrate that when the strength of the event is sufficient, ERD is found to emerge and the accomplishment of a behavioral/functional task is determined by the nature of the desynchronized state. We illustrate the phenomenon for the case of limit cycle and chaotic systems. We numerically demonstrate the occurrence of ERD and provide analytical explanation. We also discuss possible applications of the observed phenomenon in real physical systems other than the brain.