A model for cortical analysis of auditory-objects. (360G-Wellcome-102561_Z_13_Z)

I aim to define auditory-object analysis at the systems and neuronal level. I will use a systematic approach based on 'stochastic' stimuli that are equally relevant to animal and human perception. Project 1 will determine whether the perception of a spectral flux stimulus (PMID: 19052218) is similar in animals and humans. Recent work by my group has demonstrated similar perceptual pitch boundaries in animals and humans [doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2014.00998]. I will use similar psychophysical paradigms to establish spectral flux discrimination and compare performance with human data. Project 2 uses fMRI to define the network for spectral-flux analysis compared to the known physiological areas in the same three subjects. Specifically, I would test the hypothesis (based on my M.Res work) that the representations of spectral flux are fundamentally different in core and belt/parabelt areas, and define systems based on the analysis of effective connectivity with Granger Causality and Dynamic Causal Modelling. Finally, in Project 3 I would record LFPs and and single-unit responses from core and belt areas identified in the fMRI work to establish neuronal bases for spectral flux analysis.