Neural Coordination of Distinct Motor Learning Strategies: Latent Neurofunctional Mechanisms Elucidated via Computational Modeling

In this dissertation, a neurofunctional theory of learning is presented as an extension of functional analysis. This new theory clarifies the distinction— via applied quantitative analysis— between functionally intrinsic (essential) mechanistic structures and irrelevant structural details. This thesis is supported by a review of the relevant literature to provide historical context and sufficient scientific background. Further, the scope of this thesis is elucidated by two questions that are posed from a neurofunctional perspective— (1) how can specialized neuromorphology contribute to the functional dynamics of neural learning processes? (2) Can large-scale neurofunctional pathways emerge via inter-network communication between disparate neural circuits? These questions motivate the specific aims of this dissertation. Each aim is addressed by posing a relevant hypothesis, which is then tested via a neurocomputational experiment. In each experiment, computational techniques are leveraged to elucidate specific mechanisms that underlie neurofunctional learning processes. For instance, the role of specialized neuromorphology is investigated via the development of a computational model that replicates the neurophysiological mechanisms that underlie cholinergic interneurons’ regulation of dopamine in the striatum during reinforcement learning. Another research direction focuses on the emergence of large-scale neurofunctional pathways that connect the cerebellum and basal ganglia— this study also involves the construction of a neurocomputational model. The results of each study illustrate the capability of neurocomputational models to replicate functional learning dynamics of human subjects during a variety of motor adaptation tasks. Finally, the significance— and some potential applications— of neurofunctional theory are discussed

Social context of creativity

This thesis analyses the long-distance control of the environmentally-situated imagination, in both spatial and temporal dimensions. Central to the project is what I call the extended social brain hypothesis. Grounded in the Peircean conception of 'pragmaticism‘, this re-introduces technical intelligence to Dunbar‘s social brain—conceptually, through Clark‘s 'extended mind‘ philosophy, and materially, through Callon‘s 'actor–network theory‘. I claim that: There is no subjectivity without intersubjectivity. That is to say: as an evolutionary matter, it was necessary for the empathic capacities to evolve before the sense of self we identify as human could emerge. Intersubjectivity is critical to human communication, because of its role in interpreting intention. While the idea that human communication requires three levels of intentionality carries analytical weight, I argue that the inflationary trajectory is wrong as an evolutionary matter. The trend is instead towards increasing powers of individuation. The capacity for tool-use is emphasized less under the social brain hypothesis, but the importance of digital manipulation needs to be reasserted as part of a mature ontology. These claims are modulated to substantiate the work-maker, a socially situated (and embodied) creative agent who draws together Peircean notions of epistemology, phenomenology and oral performance

Electrostimulation Contingencies and Attention, Electrocortical Activity and Neurofeedback

There is a growing body of evidence for diverse ways of modulating neuronal processing to improve cognitive performance. These include brain-based feedback, self-regulation techniques such as EEG-neurofeedback, and stimulation strategies, alone or in combination. The thesis goal was to determine whether a combined strategy would have advantages for normal cognitive function; specifically operant control of EEG activity in combination with transcutaneous electro-acustimulation. In experiment one the association between transcutaneous electroacustimulation (EA) and improved perceptual sensitivity was demonstrated with a visual GO/NOGO attention task (Chen et al, 2011). Furthermore reduced commission errors were related to an electrocortical motor inhibition component during and after alternating high and low frequency EA, whereas habituation in the control group with sham stimulation was related to different independent components. Experiment two applied frequency-domain ICA to detect changes in EEG power spectra from the eyes-closed to the eyes-open state (Chen et al, 2012). A multiple step approach was provided for analysing the spatiotemporal dynamics of default mode and resting state networks of cerebral EEG sources, preferable to conventional scalp EEG data analysis. Five regions were defined, compatible with fMRI studies. In experiment three the EA approach of Exp I was combined with sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) neurofeedback. SMR training improved perceptual sensitivity, an effect not found in a noncontingent feedback group. However, non-significant benefits resulted from EA. With ICA spectral power analysis changes in frontal beta power were associated with contingent SMR training. Possible long-term effects on an attention network in the resting EEG were also found after SMR training, compared with mock SMR training. In conclusion, this thesis has supplied novel evidence for significant cognitive and electrocortical effects of neurofeedback training and transcutaneous electro-acustimulation in healthy humans. Possible implications of these findings and suggestions for future research are considered

Analytics and Intuition in the Process of Selecting Talent

In management, decisions are expected to be based on rational analytics rather than intuition. But intuition, as a human evolutionary achievement, offers wisdom that, despite all the advances in rational analytics and AI, should be used constructively when recruiting and winning personnel. Integrating these inner experiential competencies with rational-analytical procedures leads to smart recruiting decisions