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...
Sleep is a complex physiological state that is essential for overall health and well-being. It is characterized by a reversible state of reduced responsiveness to external stimuli and decreased muscle activity. Sleep plays a critical role in various bodily functions, including physical health, cognitive performance, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life. The detailed explanation of sleep, including its stages, functions, mechanisms, and the impact of sleep disorders. Stages of Sleep Sleep is divided into two main types: Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) sleep and Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. Each type has distinct stages and characteristics. 1. Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) Sleep NREM sleep is further divided into three stages: Stage 1 (N1) : This is the lightest stage of sleep, marking the transition from wakefulness to sleep. It lasts for a few minutes and is characterized by slow eye movements and reduced muscle activity. Brain waves transition fr...