Firing dynamics and phase synchronization in a memristor-coupled heterogeneous neuron network under electromagnetic radiation

Electromagnetic radiation and synaptic junctions can markedly modulate neuronal firing activity. In this work, we present a memristor-coupled Chialvo-Rulkov neuron network subjected to electromagnetic radiation, in which a locally active discrete memristor models the external radiation and a flux-controlled discrete memristor mimics the electromagnetic induction coupling between neurons. The firing dynamics are investigated comprehensively through bifurcation diagrams, Lyapunov exponents, iterative sequence plots, spectral entropy, and C0 complexity. Our results show that neurons can exhibit parameter-induced spiking-bursting patterns with average number of spikes per burst varying systematically with coupling strength and electromagnetic radiation intensities. Subsequently, heterogeneous multistability and coexisting firing modes are revealed. In addition, it is discovered that neurons can achieve phase synchronization. Finally, analog circuits for the discrete memristors and the discrete neuron network are designed and realized using PSIM software. This study offers valuable insights into firing pattern transitions and synchronization mechanisms in heterogeneous neural systems.