Simultaneously recorded single units in the frontal cortex go through sequences of discrete and stable states in monkeys performing a delayed localization task.

摘要: To test whether spiking activity of six to eight simultaneously recorded neurons in the frontal cortex a monkey can be characterized by sequence discrete and stable states, neuronal is analyzed hidden Markov model (HMM). Using HMM method, we are able detect distinct states within which firing rates approximately stationary. Transitions between as expressed concomitant changes several units, occur quite abruptly. The significance consistency confirmed comparison with simulated data. detected specific monkey’s response delayed localization task, allowing correct prediction -90% trials. Similar predictive power achieved based simply on histograms (PSTH) units. two models reach this ability different time courses: PSTH gains higher rate first second delay, next 3 sec. In later period, conventional methods such cannot any modulations, but successfully captures transitions that behavioral at highly variable times from trial trial. Our results suggest period described best among may reflect steps mental processes.