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Neuronal network characteristics in the cat superior colliculus

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Abstract

The system theoretical description of the superficial layers of neurons in the cat's superior colliculus is based on homogeneous linear space-time filters. The most important neurophysiological findings on the superior colliculus are simulated on the digital computer by generating suitable coupling functions and matching the space and time parameters. It is shown that the neurophysiological measurements can be interpreted by varying a few system parameters. The curves of velocity dependent responses, direction specificity and the effects of the colliculus specific surround are examined in particular. Computer simulation shows that such a surround can evaluate small moving stimuli differently from the moving environment. Basic characteristics of multiple layer systems (e.g., retina-colliculus) are also studied.

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This work was supported by a grant from the DFG and supervised by Prof. Dr.-Ing. W. v. Seelen

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Frömel, G. Neuronal network characteristics in the cat superior colliculus. Biol. Cybernetics 28, 15–26 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00360910

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