Pinning synchronization and optimization of complex networks with sign inner-coupling configurations

The problems of pinning synchronization and optimization for complex dynamical networks with sign inner-coupling configurations are investigated in this paper. Due to the negative interactions between the node variables, some new ragged synchronized regions are discovered for the chaotic Chen system. A modified optimization algorithm of weight assignment in arbitrary networks subjected to pinning control is developed. It is shown that the synchronizability of the pinned network can be effectively improved by reassigning the edge weights. It is found that edge removals can be used to enhance and optimize the network synchronizability. This counter-intuitive result demonstrates why “less can be more” in network synchronization.