Synchronization transitions and spike dynamics in a higher-order Kuramoto model with Lévy noise

Synchronization in complex networks is influenced by higher-order interactions and non-Gaussian perturbations, yet their mechanisms remain unclear. We investigate the synchronization and spike dynamics in a higher-order Kuramoto model subjected to Lévy noise. Using the mean order parameter, mean first-passage time, and basin stability, we identify boundaries distinguishing synchronization and incoherence. The stability index governs the tail heaviness of the probability density function for Lévy noise, while the scale parameter affects the magnitude. Synchronization weakens as the stability index decreases, and even completely disappears when the scale parameter exceeds a critical threshold. By varying coupling, we find bifurcations and hysteresis. Lévy noise smooths the synchronization transitions and requires stronger coupling compared to Gaussian white noise. We then define spikes as extreme excursions of the order parameter and study their statistical and spectral properties. The maximum number of spikes is observed at small-scale parameters. A generalized spectral analysis based on an edit distance algorithm measures the similarity between spike sequences and identifies spike patterns. These findings deepen the understanding of synchronization and extreme events in complex networks driven by non-Gaussian noise. (Figure presented.)