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Emulating the Visual Receptive Field Properties of MST Neurons with a Template Model of Heading EstimationWe have previously proposed a computational neural-network model by which the complex patterns of retinal image motion generated during locomotion (optic flow) can be processed by specialized detectors acting as templates for specific instances of self-motion. The detectors in this template model respond to global optic flow by sampling image motion over a large portion of the visual field through networks of local motion sensors with properties similar to neurons found in the middle temporal (MT) area of primate extrastriate visual cortex. The model detectors were designed to extract self-translation (heading), self-rotation, as well as the scene layout (relative distances) ahead of a moving observer, and are arranged in cortical-like heading maps to perform this function. Heading estimation from optic flow has been postulated by some to be implemented within the medial superior temporal (MST) area. Others have questioned whether MST neurons can fulfill this role because some of their receptive-field properties appear inconsistent with a role in heading estimation. To resolve this issue, we systematically compared MST single-unit responses with the outputs of model detectors under matched stimulus conditions. We found that the basic physiological properties of MST neurons can be explained by the template model. We conclude that MST neurons are well suited to support heading estimation and that the template model provides an explicit set of testable hypotheses which can guide future exploration of MST and adjacent areas within the primate superior temporal sulcus.
Document ID
20020052443
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Preprint (Draft being sent to journal)
Authors
Perrone, John A.
(Waikato Univ. Hamilton, New Zealand)
Stone, Leland S.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1997
Subject Category
Aerospace Medicine
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-4127
PROJECT: RTOP 199-12-06-37
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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