Further Predictions: a Modest Success and Two Problem Cases

Abstract

One of the essential features of Coupled Stochastic System is that the value of discriminator threshold prevailing at the time the animal awakens plays a critical role in pacemaker performance. Regardless of parameters of the specific model, modifying the value of light intensity prevailing at this time should appreciably alter period of the pacemaker, not only on a single-cycle basis as in phase-shifting experiments (preceding chapter) but on a long-term basis as well. In order to examine this expectation while minimizing other effects of light on the system, a novel experimental design is proposed here, in which a circadian light cycle is administered so that the timing of a light stimulus is “clamped” to some fixed phase of the pacemaker rhythm. A modified or clamped free-run will result, with a period determined by the responses of the pacemaker to the repetitive light stimuli.