Integration of distributed cortical systems by reentry: a computer simulation of interactive functionally segregated visual areas

摘要: A computer model based on visual cortex has been constructed to analyze how the operations of multiple, functionally segregated cortical areas can be coordinated and integrated yield a unified perceptual response. We propose that integration arises through process reentry--the ongoing, parallel, recursive signaling between separate maps along ordered anatomical connections. To test efficacy this reentrant (RCI) model, we have carried out detailed simulations 3 interconnected in striate extrastriate macaque. The simulated networks contained total over 222,000 units 8.5 million modeled areas, called VOR, VOC, VMO, incorporate major physiological properties V1, V3, V5 but are vastly simplified compared with monkey cortex. Simulated area VOR contains both orientation directionally selective units; VMO discriminates direction motion arbitrarily oriented objects; VOC responds luminance occlusion boundaries stimulus. Area is able respond illusory contours (Kanizsa, 1979) by means same neural architecture used for discrimination boundaries. This also generates responses structure-from-motion virtue connections from VOC. these illusions consistent humans other species presented stimuli. manner novel illusion combines structure-from-motion. response synthesized combined provides strong argument supporting need Functional RCI were found depend upon action processes: (1) conflicting among competitively eliminated, (2) outputs each their own operations, (3) an "reentered" back itself (through lower areas) thus iteratively synthesize complex or Transection selectively abolished integrative processes led failure figural synthesis. proposed reentry suggests basis understanding multiple as well may within distributed system.