A testable model of global cortical organization

This report advances a testable model of cortical organization which is tied to gamma band (20-150 Hz) neuroelectric oscillations. The elements of the model function as pattern recognizers and are assumed to be composed of a few cm2 of cortical tissue. Presumed modes of instability in the activity of this network of large units are proposed as the underlying neurophysiological basis of a variety of psychopathologies. The model is used to predict macroscopic neuroelectric measureables which will be present in patients who display these psychopathologies. Two techniques are described for identifying gamma band oscillations in neurophysiological recordings.