Date of Graduation

5-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Physics

Advisor/Mentor

Shew, Woodrow

Committee Member/Reader

Barrett, David

Committee Member/Second Reader

Kumar, Pradeep

Committee Member/Third Reader

Wheeler, Jill

Abstract

Various modes of neuronal computations have long been theorized to be possible based on the structure and geometry of the brain. These computations also seem necessary for many of the integral functions of the brain, like information processing and regulatory processes in the body. However, experimental data directly supporting these claims have been rare.

In this study, data collected in mice from a large number of neurons over a long period of time provided the opportunity to search for some of these computations, specifically change detection and squaring calculations. Using Matlab, the goal of this analysis was to find statistically significant evidence that these processes happen in the brain and to open the door for further exploration into the possible computations occurring on the level of individual neurons.

Results illustrate that both change detection and squaring calculations are happening in the brain, which gives new experimental support for theories about neural computation. These processes might be essential to brain function and might also explain how certain population-level dynamics emerge from the properties of individual neurons.

Future studies might focus on logarithmic or integral computations, as these seem like logical operations that would be useful to the brain. In addition, future studies with more time and processing power might focus on additional multiplicative processes.

Keywords

Neuronal Computation; Neuronal Calculus; Neuronal Change Detection; Neuronal Multiplication; Service Learning

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