Complex networks exhibit intermittent synchronization

Area of Science:

• Complex Systems
• Network Science
• Dynamical Systems

Background:

• Synchronization is crucial in many natural and artificial systems.
• Intermittent synchronization is a state observed near complete synchronization, with functional relevance in biological networks.
• Network topology plays a key role in the dynamics of synchronization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize intermittent synchronization as a function of network topology.
• To investigate how different network structures influence the onset and behavior of intermittency.
• To explore the potential of local intermittency analysis for understanding node roles within a network.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of dynamical units and their connection networks.
• Characterization of the intermittent synchronization state.
• Investigation of local intermittency and node incorporation patterns.
• Study of various network topologies and their impact on synchronization transitions.

Main Results:

• Network topology significantly affects the emergence and characteristics of intermittent synchronization.
• Specific network structures can either promote or suppress early signs of intermittency.
• Nodes incorporate into intermittent synchronization in a hierarchical order.
• The hierarchical incorporation provides insights into node topological roles.

Conclusions:

• Network topology is a critical determinant of intermittent synchronization in dynamical systems.
• Understanding local intermittency and node hierarchy can reveal functional roles within networks, even without complete structural knowledge.
• This research highlights the importance of network structure in phenomena near criticality, particularly in biological systems.