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Unveiling Hidden Neural Codes: SIMPL – A Scalable and Fast Approach for Optimizing Latent Variables and Tuning Curves in Neural Population Data

Dr. Rishabh Pathak
This research paper presents SIMPL (Scalable Iterative Maximization of Population-coded Latents), a novel, computationally efficient algorithm designed to refine the estimation of latent variables and tuning curves from neural population activity. Latent variables in neural data represent essential low-dimensional quantities encoding behavioral or cognitive states, which neuroscientists seek to identify to understand brain computations better. Background and Motivation Traditional approaches commonly assume the observed behavioral variable as the latent neural code. However, this assumption can lead to inaccuracies because neural activity sometimes encodes internal cognitive states differing subtly from observable behavior (e.g., anticipation, mental simulation). Existing latent variable models face challenges such as high computational cost, poor scalability to large datasets, limited expressiveness of tuning models, or difficulties interpreting complex neural network-based functio...
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Bone Formation

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Dr. Rishabh Pathak

Bone formation, also known as ossification, is a complex process involving the deposition of mineralized matrix by specialized cells to create and maintain the skeletal system. There are two main types of bone formation: intramembranous ossification and endochondral ossification. Here is an overview of bone formation processes:


1.    Intramembranous Ossification:

o    Description: Intramembranous ossification is the process by which flat bones, such as the skull and clavicles, are formed directly from mesenchymal (undifferentiated) connective tissue.

o    Steps:

§  Mesenchymal cells differentiate into osteoblasts, which secrete organic matrix (osteoid).

§  Osteoid becomes mineralized with calcium salts, forming trabeculae of woven bone.

§  Woven bone is remodeled into compact bone with lamellar structure, creating flat bones.

2.    Endochondral Ossification:

o    Description: Endochondral ossification is the process by which most bones in the body are formed from a hyaline cartilage model.

o    Steps:

§  Hyaline cartilage model is formed, serving as a template for bone development.

§  Chondrocytes in the cartilage model hypertrophy and secrete factors that attract blood vessels and osteoblasts.

§  Osteoblasts deposit bone matrix around the cartilage model, forming a primary ossification center.

§  Blood vessels invade the center, bringing osteoclasts that resorb bone and create a marrow cavity.

§  Secondary ossification centers form in the epiphyses of long bones, leading to the growth of bone length.

§  Epiphyseal plates (growth plates) allow for longitudinal bone growth until closure during adulthood.

3.    Bone Remodeling:

o    Description: Bone remodeling is a continuous process involving the resorption of old bone by osteoclasts and the formation of new bone by osteoblasts.

o    Functions:

§  Repair micro-damage and fractures.

§  Adapt bone structure to mechanical stress.

§  Regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body.

4.    Cellular Players:

o    Osteoblasts: Bone-forming cells that secrete collagen and mineral components to build bone matrix.

o    Osteoclasts: Bone-resorbing cells that break down old or damaged bone tissue.

o    Osteocytes: Mature bone cells embedded in the bone matrix, involved in maintaining bone health and signaling.

5.    Factors Influencing Bone Formation:

o    Hormones: Growth hormone, thyroid hormone, estrogen, and testosterone play crucial roles in bone growth and remodeling.

o    Nutrients: Adequate intake of calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients is essential for bone mineralization.

o    Mechanical Stress: Weight-bearing activities and mechanical loading stimulate bone formation and remodeling.

Understanding the processes of bone formation is essential for comprehending skeletal development, bone healing, and the maintenance of bone health throughout life. The intricate interplay between cells, signaling molecules, and mechanical stimuli regulates the dynamic nature of bone tissue and its adaptation to changing physiological demands.

 

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