Brain function and oscillation. Vol. 1: Brain oscillations, principles and approaches (Q1271463)

The book is the work of Erol Başar and 14 others who coauthor some of the chapters. They attempt to come to terms with the ultimate problem in brain science: understanding the mechanisms by which the neurons in the human brain interact to produce higher cognitive functions. Emphasis is on the level of brain function at which neuron populations interact with each other by means of large tracts of axons traversing extended regions of the brain. The authors aim to construct a framework for brain theory based on neural oscillations by integrating results from experiments on electroencephalograms (EEG's), magnetoencephalograms, and related oscillatory phenomena. The basic theoretical proposition is that stimulus induced slow-wave oscillations are related to higher-order neural operations which are intercalated between central sensory processes and such complex functions as perception, pattern recognition, motor activity, and memory. Oscillations in firing patterns arise from resonances in the brain and are interpreted as mechanisms for encoding information. An outline of the brain dynamics research program on which the theory is based is preceded by an introduction to the neurophysiology of the brain. The program is based on modern methods of frequency analysis which trace their origin to Fourier analysis. These methods involve wavelet analysis, phase locking of oscillatory responses, and resonance phenomena. The authors summarize their major concepts as follows: (1) The EEG consists of the activity of an ensemble of generators producing rhythmic activity in several frequency ranges. These oscillators are usually active in a random way. However, by application of sensory stimulation, they become coupled and act coherently. This synchronization gives rise to evoked potentials (EP's). (2) The EEG appears at the cellular level. (3) The EEG is not noise but reflects deterministic chaos. (4) The EP is a superposition of EEG oscillations. These concepts are illustrated by application to human development and aging and to multiple sclerosis.