Summary
A quantitative approach to characterization of unit response in the visual system was proposed. Temporal parameters of response were analyzed by post stimulus time-histograms obtained from point visual stimulation. Explicit temporal intervals were chosen to coincide with discrete response components. By calculating net firing rate within these intervals as a function of stimulus position, quantitative receptive field maps were constructed. To estimate response between stimulated matrix mesh points, a general contouring program was described. Latency, and synchronicity — a logarithmic probability function sensitive to temporal consistency of response — were also mapped as functions of stimulus position.
Representative firing rate maps morphologically resembled previously described receptive fields; latency and synchronicity maps, it is argued, allow for additional mechanistic and functional analysis of striate units. By explicitly separating temporal and spatial variables and quantifying unit response, the present methods will hopefully enlarge the scope and sensitivity of receptive field analysis.
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Supported by AF 33(615)-5453 and AF 49(643)-201 and the Digital Equipment Corporation
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Sasaki, H., Bear, D.M. & Ervin, F.R. Quantitative characterization of unit response in the visual system. Exp Brain Res 13, 239–255 (1971). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00234948
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00234948