Spiral-shaped signals of neural activity - Geometry Matters

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The human brain is a complex organ responsible for various cognitive functions. Scientists from the University of Sydney and Fudan University have made a significant discovery regarding brain signals that traverse the outer layer of neural tissue and form spiral patterns. These spirals, observed during both resting and cognitive states, have been found to play a crucial role in organizing brain activity and cognitive processing.

The research study, published in Nature Human Behaviour, focuses on the identification and analysis of spiral-shaped brain signals and their implications for understanding brain dynamics and functions. The study utilized functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) brain scans of 100 young adults to observe and analyze these brain signals. By adapting methods used in understanding complex wave patterns in turbulence, the researchers successfully identified and characterized the spiral patterns observed on the cortex.

Our study suggests that gaining insights into how the spirals are related to cognitive processing could significantly enhance our understanding of the dynamics and functions of the brain. —Associate Professor Pulin Gong

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