Coding of spectral fine structure in the auditory nerve. I. Fourier analysis of period and interspike interval histograms

摘要: The temporal fine structure of discharge patterns single auditory‐ nerve fibers in adult cats was analyzed response to signals consisting a variable number equal‐intensity, in‐phase harmonics common low‐frequency fundamental. Two analytic methods were employed. first method considered Fourier spectra period histograms based on the fundamental, and second interspike interval (ISIH’s). Both analyses provide information about fiber tuning properties, but ISIH’s also allow estimates be made degree resolution individual stimulus components. At low intensities (within 20–40 dB threshold), indices synchronization components complex tones similar those obtained for pure tones. This true even when capable responding several signal simultaneously. Response at resembled fibers’ curves, with spontaneous rates tended better than high rates. Strongly nonlinear behavior existed higher intensities. In this, transmitted progressively fewer frequencies not present acoustic stimulus, component eliciting largest shifted away from fiber’s characteristic frequency toward edges spectrum. high‐intensity ‘‘edge enhancement’’ can result combined effects compressive input–output nonlinearity, suppression, fortuitous addition internally generated combination data indicate that sufficient exists auditory system determine narrowly spaced responses.