Dynamic pattern formation leads to 1F noise in neural populations

Abstract

We present a generic model that generates long-range (power-law) temporal correlations, 1f noise, and fractal signals in the activity of neural populations. The model consists of a two-dimensional sheet of pulse coupled nonlinear oscillators (neurons) driven by spatially and temporally uncorrelated external noise. The system spontaneously breaks the translational symmetry, generating a metastable quasihexagonal pattern of high activity clusters. Fluctuations in the spatial pattern cause these clusters to diffuse. The macroscopic dynamics (diffusion of clusters) translate into 1f power spectra and fractal (power-law) pulse distributions on the microscopic scale of a single unit. © 1995 The American Physical Society.