Critical brain networks

TL;DR

This paper discusses the concept that the brain operates at a critical point with power-law correlations, balancing between synchronization and desynchronization to optimize information processing.

Contribution

It explores the hypothesis that the brain functions at a critical regime, integrating ideas from Per Bak about criticality in neural dynamics.

Findings

Brain dynamics exhibit power-law correlations at criticality

Criticality balances synchronization and information flow

Supports the hypothesis of the brain operating near a critical point

Abstract

Highly correlated brain dynamics produces synchronized states with no behavioral value, while weakly correlated dynamics prevents information flow. We discuss the idea put forward by Per Bak that the working brain stays at an intermediate (critical) regime characterized by power-law correlations.