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Two-point heterogeneous connections in a continuum neural field model

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Abstract

We examine a novel heterogeneous connection scheme in a 1D continuum neural field model. Multiple two-point connections are added to a local connection function in order to model the “patchy” connections seen in, for example visual cortex. We use a numerical approach to solve the equations, choosing the locations of the two-point connections stochastically. We observe self-sustained persistent fluctuations of activity which can be classified into two types (one of which is similar to that seen in network models of discrete excitable neurons, the other being particular to this model). We study the effect of parameters such as system size and the range, number and strength of connections, on the probability that a particular realisation of the connections is able to exhibit persistent fluctuations.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Physics, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK

    C. A. Brackley & M. S. Turner

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  1. C. A. Brackley
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  2. M. S. Turner
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Correspondence to C. A. Brackley.

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Brackley, C.A., Turner, M.S. Two-point heterogeneous connections in a continuum neural field model. Biol Cybern 100, 371–383 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00422-009-0308-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00422-009-0308-7

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