Towards Spike based Models of Visual Attention in the Brain

A numerical solution of Hodgkin Huxley equations is presented to simulate the spiking behavior of a biological neuron. The solution is illustrated by building a graphical chart interface to finely tune the behavior of the neuron under different stimulations. In addition, a Multi-Agent System (MAS) has been developed to simulate the Visual Attention Network Model of the brain. Tasks are assigned to the agents according to the Attention Network Theory, developed by neuroscientists. A sequential communication model based on simple objects has been constructed, aiming to show the relations and the workflow between the different visual attention networks. Each agent is being used as an analogy to a role or function of the visual attention systems in the brain. Some experimental results based on this model have been presented in an earlier paper. The two approaches are at the moment not integrated. The long term goal is to develop an integrated parallel layered object model of the visual attention process, as a tool for simulating neuron interactions described by Hodgkin Huxley's equations or the Leaky-Integrate-and-Fire model.