Coherence Resonance in Complex Networks

Abstract

The paper is devoted to the analysis of coherence resonance phenomena in complex networks of coupled nonlinear oscillators. We explain how coherence and anticoherence resonances can be revealed and experimentally measured in stochastic and deterministic systems, and provide some evidence in various networks. Particular attention is paid to a study of the influence of coherent resonance on cognitive activity. According to our research, intrinsic brain noise, which affects neural activity at the microscopic level, has a positive effect at the macroscopic level. Namely, it coordinates responses of different brain areas and forces their interaction to efficiently process sensory information. We find that brain noise can be altered as a result of attention and cognitive training to optimize the efficiency of information processing. The experimental and theoretical studies provide substantial evidence for beneficial effects of internal brain noise on cognitive performance. Coherence resonance in the brain response to a cognitive task not only increases neural activity in certain brain areas, but also provides pathways for neural communication between distant regions. Thus, the study of cognitive resonance allows us to find optimal parameters for better system performance and efficient control of complex network dynamics.