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Updated: Jul 31, 2026

Cross-Modal Multivariate Pattern Analysis
Published on: November 9, 2011
Modal behavior of cortical neural networks during visual processing
1Cajal Neuroscience Research Center, Divisions of Life Sciences and Computer Science, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas 78249, USA.
Abstract:
The network behavior of cortical cells during the processing of a light flash was characterized in an isolated, but functionally intact, turtle visual system. Rapid changes in intracellular membrane potential were monitored optically using a voltage-sensitive dye (VSD). Spatially coherent changes in membrane potential were determined by subjecting high-speed movies of the VSD signals to Karhunen-Loéve decomposition. In all experimental trials analyzed (n > 50), coherent activity was restricted to a small number of similar spatial patterns or modes. At least four modes (M(1,1), M(1,2), M(2,1), and M(2,2)) have an organizational structure similar to the normal modes of a vibrating membrane (drum). This empirical observation of modal activity provides a useful framework for analyzing the macroscopic behavior of cortical networks.
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