Speaker: Farshad Shirani (Emory University)
Title: Infinite-Dimensional Dynamics, Spatiotemporal Gamma Oscillations, and Balance of Excitation and Inhibition in Cortical Networks
Zoom Link: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/84907159401?pwd=JboBtq30vntVuEpj8s3yYfAdwlb258.1
Abstract: In this talk, I first present some analytical and computational results on the global dynamics of a mean field model of EEG activity in the neocortex. The model is a degenerate system of coupled ODEs and PDEs, with subtle solution irregularities. I show that the model possesses a global attracting set, which is non-compact for some biologically reasonable parameter values. This further implies that the model can present infinite-dimensional dynamics, a property that sounds crucial for the functionality of the neocortex. I also present computational results on generation and spatial propagation of gamma oscillations in the solutions of the model. The results identify challenges in interpreting and modelling temporal patterns of EEG recordings, originating mainly from the low spatial resolution of EEG electrodes. I then switch to a biologically more detailed but local mean-field model and present some results on how variations in key structural and physiological parameters of cortical networks may affect balance of excitation and inhibition in the networks. When a critical level of imbalance is created, the results predict a transition of cortical activity to a high amplitude slow oscillatory (1-4 Hz) regime. Such oscillatory activities are known to be strongly correlated with states of diminished consciousness.
The Midwest Mathematical Biology Seminar will be a series of virtual talks on mathematical biology featuring speakers from the Midwest region and beyond. All areas of mathematical biology will be represented in the seminar series, and a goal for this seminar is to build connections and foster research collaborations.
More information: https://sites.google.com/view/midwest-mathbio-seminar/home
Tiffany Leighton
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