Theoretical foundations of studying criticality in the brain

Abstract Criticality is hypothesized as a physical mechanism underlying efficient transitions between cortical states and remarkable information-processing capacities in the brain. While considerable evidence generally supports this hypothesis, nonnegligible controversies persist regarding ubiquity of criticality neural dynamics its role information processing. Validity issues frequently arise during identifying potential brain from empirical data. Moreover, functional benefits implied by are misconceived or unduly generalized. These problems stem nontriviality immaturity theories that analytically derive statistic techniques estimate To help solve these problems, we present systematic review reformulate foundations studying criticality, is, ordinary (OC), quasi-criticality (qC), self-organized (SOC), (SOqC), using terminology neuroscience. We offer accessible explanations statistical providing step-by-step derivations to characterize system with avalanches. summarize error-prone details existing limitations analysis suggest possible solutions. forward-looking perspective on how optimizing can deepen our understanding various neuroscience questions.