In:
Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Cambridge University Press (CUP), Vol. 20, No. 4 ( 1997-12), p. 657-683
Abstract:
It is worthwhile to search for forms of coding, processing,
and learning common to various cortical regions and cognitive functions. Local cortical processors may coordinate their activity by
maximizing the transmission of information coherently related to the context in which it occurs, thus forming synchronized population
codes. This coordination involves contextual field (CF) connections that link processors within and between cortical regions. The effects
of CF connections are distinguished from those mediating receptive field (RF) input; it is shown how CFs can guide both learning and
processing without beco ming confused with the transmission of RF
information. Simulations explore the capabilities of networks built from local processors with both RF and CF connections. Physiological
evidence for synchronization, CFs, and plasticity of the RF and CF connections is described. Coordination via CFs is related to
perceptual grouping, the effects of context on contrast sensitivity, amblyopia, implicit influences of color in achromotopsia, object and
word perception, and the discovery of distal environmental variables and their interactions through self-organization. Cortical computation
could thus involve the flexible evaluation of relations between input signals by locally specialized but adaptive processors whose activity
is dynamically associated and coordinated within and between regions through specialized contextual connections.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0140-525X
,
1469-1825
DOI:
10.1017/S0140525X9700160X
Language:
English
Publisher:
Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Publication Date:
1997
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1481789-5
detail.hit.zdb_id:
423721-3
SSG:
7,11
Bookmarklink
