Giulia Baracchini

Abstract The human brain must support both stable and flexible neural dynamics in order to adapt to changing contexts that are inherently non-linear. The thalamus has been linked to the coordination of these opposing dynamical regimens in the cerebral cortex, however existing methodological approaches have not integrated sufficient neurobiological details with a sensitive measure of neural dynamics that permits sensitivity to time-series non-linearities.

Abstract The human brain must support both stable and flexible neural dynamics in order to adapt to changing contexts. This paper investigates the role of the thalamus, a crucial subcortical structure, in orchestrating these opposing dynamics in the cerebral cortex. Through two distinct classes of cortical projections, the thalamus is able to support distinct dynamics modes: some cells relay precise information between cortical regions, whereas others diffusely modulate ongoing cortical dynamics.

Abstract The neuromodulatory subcortical nuclei within the isodendritic core (IdC) are the earliest sites of tauopathy in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). They project broadly throughout the brain’s white matter. We investigated the relationship between IdC microstructure and whole-brain white matter microstructure to better understand early neuropathological changes in AD.