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{{For|the scientific journal|Neuroinformatics (journal)}} |
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==Overview== |
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{{Short description|Field of research}} |
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'''Neuroinformatics''' is the emergent field that combines [[informatics]] and [[neuroscience]]. Neuroinformatics is related with neuroscience data and information processing by [[artificial neural network]]s.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Frontiers in Neuroinformatics |url=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroinformatics |website=www.frontiersin.org |language=en}}</ref> There are three main directions where neuroinformatics has to be applied:<ref>{{Cite web |title=Working groups {{!}} INCF|url=https://www.incf.org/resources/working-groups |website=www.incf.org}}</ref> |
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* the development of computational models of the nervous system and neural processes; |
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* the development of tools for analyzing and modeling neuroscience data; and |
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* the development of tools and databases for management and sharing of neuroscience data at all levels of analysis. |
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Neuroinformatics encompasses [[philosophy]] ([[computational theory of mind]]), [[psychology]] ([[information processing theory]]), [[computer science]] ([[natural computing]], [[bio-inspired computing]]), among others disciplines. Neuroinformatics doesn't deal with matter or energy,<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Wang |first=Yingxu |date=2003-08-01 |title=On Cognitive Informatics |url=https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1025401527570 |journal=Brain and Mind |language=en |volume=4 |issue=2 |pages=151–167 |doi=10.1023/A:1025401527570 |s2cid=61495426 |issn=1573-3300}}</ref> so it can be seen as a branch of [[neurobiology]] that studies various aspects of [[nervous system]]s. The term ''neuroinformatics'' seems to be used synonymously with [[cognitive informatics]], described by ''[[Journal of Biomedical Informatics]]'' as interdisciplinary domain that focuses on human information processing, mechanisms and processes within the context of [[computing]] and computing applications.<ref>{{Cite journal |date=2015-02-01 |title=Cognitive informatics in biomedicine and healthcare |journal=Journal of Biomedical Informatics |language=en |volume=53 |pages=3–14 |doi=10.1016/j.jbi.2014.12.007 |issn=1532-0464|last1=Patel|first1=Vimla L. |last2=Kannampallil |first2=Thomas G.|pmid=25541081|doi-access=free}}</ref> According to [[German National Library]], neuroinformatics is synonymous with [[neurocomputing]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Katalog der Deutschen Nationalbibliothek |url=https://portal.dnb.de/opac.htm?method=simpleSearch&cqlMode=true&query=nid=4655105-0 |access-date=2020-12-12|website=portal.dnb.de}}</ref> At ''Proceedings of the 10th IEEE International Conference on Cognitive Informatics and Cognitive Computing'' was introduced the following description: ''Cognitive Informatics (CI) as a transdisciplinary enquiry of computer science, information sciences, cognitive science, and intelligence science. CI investigates into the internal information processing mechanisms and processes of the brain and natural intelligence, as well as their engineering applications in cognitive computing.<ref>{{Cite journal |title=Cognitive Informatics in Year 10 and Beyond: summary of the plenary panel |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/221470928 |journal=Proceedings of the 10th IEEE International Conference on Cognitive Informatics and Cognitive Computing}}</ref> According to ''INCF, neuroinformatics is a research field devoted to the development of neuroscience data and knowledge bases together with computational models.<ref>{{Cite web |title=What is Neuroinformatics {{!}} INCF |url=https://www.incf.org/about/what-is-neuroinformatics |website=www.incf.org}}</ref> |
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[[Neuroscience]] has reached a point where the level of its research result in the emerging of a new scientific field: neuroinformatics, which stands at the intersection of [[neuroscience]] and information science. Other sciences, like [[genomics]], have proved the effectiveness of applying theoretical and computational models for solving complex problems in the field and how this can be used for the benefit of mankind. Through neuroinformatics facilities researchers can share their data and contribute to other disciplines using available tools for the analysis and integration of data, researchers can more easily quantitatively confirm their working theories by means of computational modeling, collaborative research provides better possibilities to study the brain at multiple levels of brain structure. |
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==Neuroinformatics in neuropsychology and neurobiology== |
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Understanding the human nervous system is one of the greatest challenges of 21st century science. Its abilities dwarf any man-made system - perception, decision-making, cognition and reasoning. Its functioning spans many scientific disciplines - from [[molecular biology]] to [[anthropology]]. |
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===Models of neural computation=== |
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{{Main|Models of neural computation}} |
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Models of neural computation are attempts to elucidate, in an abstract and mathematical fashion, the core principles that underlie information processing in biological nervous systems, or functional components thereof. Due to the complexity of nervous system behavior, the associated experimental error bounds are ill-defined, but the relative merit of the different models of a particular subsystem can be compared according to how closely they reproduce real-world behaviors or respond to specific input signals. In the closely related field of computational neuroethology, the practice is to include the environment in the model in such a way that the loop is closed. In the cases where competing models are unavailable, or where only gross responses have been measured or quantified, a clearly formulated model can guide the scientist in designing experiments to probe biochemical mechanisms or network connectivity. |
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{{See also|Cognitive science|Cognitive informatics|Cognitive psychology|Computational neuroscience|Brain science}} |
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Neuroinformatics integrates these endeavours through the application of computational methods and ideas in modelling and analysis. |
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==Neurocomputing technologies== |
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In order to understand the nervous system, we need to bridge many different levels of investigation, from molecules to cells, from systems to organisms, which are addressed in diverse disciplines — [[genomics]], [[proteomics]], [[systems biology]], [[neuroscience]], [[cognitive science]], [[linguistics]], [[psychology]], [[anthropology]] to name some. While the accumulation of facts and data on the brain has been rapid and impressive, the depth of our insight regarding their meaning remains much more limited. Similarly, over the last few decades we have seen tremendous advances in [[computer science]], yet our most advanced computer system is surpassed in many real-world tasks by even so-called primitive creatures, such as the ant or the honey-bee. Both from a practical and a conceptual perspective there are many points of contact between the neuroscience-related life-sciences (e.g., [[neuroscience]], [[neuroethology]], [[psychology]], [[linguistics]], [[philosophy]]) and the information sciences and related disciplines (e.g., [[computer science]], [[mathematics]], [[statistics]], [[physics]], [[electrical engineering]] and neurorobotics). |
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{{Main|Bio-inspired computing}} |
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===Artificial neural networks=== |
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The new transdisciplinary field of neuroinformatics develops the potential synergies between these domains. Neuroinformatics is concerned with: |
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{{Main|Artificial neural networks|Neural computation}} |
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Artificial neural networks (ANNs), usually simply called neural networks (NNs), are computing systems vaguely inspired by the [[biological neural network]]s that constitute animal [[brain]]s.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Chen |first1=Yung-Yao |last2=Lin |first2=Yu-Hsiu |last3=Kung |first3=Chia-Ching |last4=Chung |first4=Ming-Han |last5=Yen |first5=I.-Hsuan |date=January 2019 |title=Design and Implementation of Cloud Analytics-Assisted Smart Power Meters Considering Advanced Artificial Intelligence as Edge Analytics in Demand-Side Management for Smart Homes |journal=Sensors |volume=19 |issue=9 |pages=2047 |doi=10.3390/s19092047 |pmc=6539684 |pmid=31052502 |bibcode=2019Senso..19.2047C |doi-access=free}}</ref> An ANN is based on a collection of connected units or nodes called [[artificial neuron]]s, which loosely model the [[neuron]]s in a biological brain. Each connection, like the [[synapse]]s in a biological brain, can transmit a signal to other neurons. An artificial neuron that receives a signal then processes it and can signal neurons connected to it. The "signal" at a connection is a [[real number]], and the output of each neuron is computed by some non-linear function of the sum of its inputs. The connections are called ''edges''. Neurons and edges typically have a ''[[weight (mathematics)|weight]]'' that adjusts as learning proceeds. The weight increases or decreases the strength of the signal at a connection. Neurons may have a threshold such that a signal is sent only if the aggregate signal crosses that threshold. Typically, neurons are aggregated into layers. Different layers may perform different transformations on their inputs. Signals travel from the first layer (the input layer), to the last layer (the output layer), possibly after traversing the layers multiple times. |
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===Brain emulation and mind uploading=== |
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* developing and applying computational methods to the study of brain and behaviour |
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{{Main|Brain emulation|Mind uploading}} |
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[[Brain emulation]] is the concept of creating a functioning computational model and [[Emulator|emulation]] of a brain or part of a brain. In December 2006,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bluebrain.epfl.ch/Jahia/site/bluebrain/op/edit/pid/19085|title=Project Milestones |work=Blue Brain|access-date=2008-08-11}}</ref> the [[Blue Brain]] project completed a simulation of a rat's [[cortical column|neocortical column]]. The neocortical column is considered the smallest functional unit of the [[neocortex]]. The neocortex is the part of the brain thought to be responsible for higher-order functions like conscious thought, and contains 10,000 neurons in the rat brain (and 10<sup>8</sup> [[synapse]]s). In November 2007,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bluebrain.epfl.ch/page18700.html |title=News and Media information|work=Blue Brain|access-date=2008-08-11|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080919051656/http://bluebrain.epfl.ch/page18700.html|archive-date=2008-09-19}}</ref> the project reported the end of its first phase, delivering a data-driven process for creating, validating, and researching the neocortical column. An [[artificial neural network]] described as being "as big and as complex as half of a mouse brain"<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2007/04/28/supercomputer-mimics-mous_n_47135.html|title=Supercomputer Mimics Mouse's Brain |date=2008-03-28 |work=Huffington Post|access-date=2018-06-05 |language=en-US}}</ref> was run on an IBM [[Blue Gene]] supercomputer by the University of Nevada's research team in 2007. Each second of simulated time took ten seconds of computer time. The researchers claimed to observe "biologically consistent" nerve impulses that flowed through the virtual cortex. However, the simulation lacked the structures seen in real mice brains, and they intend to improve the accuracy of the neuron and synapse models.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/6600965.stm |work=[[BBC News]] |date=27 April 2007 |title=Mouse brain simulated on computer}}</ref> |
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[[Mind uploading]] is the process of [[brain scanning|scanning]] a physical structure of the brain accurately enough to create an [[emulator|emulation]] of the mental state (including long-term memory and "self") and copying it to a computer in a [[Digital data|digital]] form. The [[computer]] would then run a [[computer simulation|simulation]] of the brain's information processing, such that it would respond in essentially the same way as the original brain and experience having a [[sentient]] [[conscious]] [[mind]].<ref name="sim.me.uk"/><ref>{{Cite journal |title=Introduction|journal=International Journal of Machine Consciousness |volume=04|pages=1–3|doi=10.1142/S1793843012020015|year=2012|last1=Goertzel|first1=BEN|last2=Ikle'|first2=Matthew}}</ref><ref name="kajsotala.fi"/> Substantial mainstream research in related areas is being conducted in animal brain mapping and simulation, development of faster supercomputers, [[virtual reality]], [[brain–computer interface]]s, [[connectomics]], and information extraction from dynamically functioning brains.<ref>{{cite journal|vauthors=Kay KN, Naselaris T, Prenger RJ, Gallant JL|date=March 2008 |title=Identifying natural images from human brain activity |journal=Nature |volume=452 |issue=7185 |pages=352–5 |bibcode=2008Natur.452..352K |doi=10.1038/nature06713|pmc=3556484|pmid=18322462}}</ref> According to supporters, many of the tools and ideas needed to achieve mind uploading already exist or are currently under active development; however, they will admit that others are, as yet, very speculative, but say they are still in the realm of engineering possibility. |
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[[File:Brain-computer interface (schematic).jpg|thumb|Diagram of the BCI developed by Miguel Nicolelis and colleagues for use on [[rhesus monkeys]]]] |
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* applying advanced IT methods to deal with the huge quantity and great complexity of neuroscientific data |
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===Brain–computer interface=== |
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* exploiting our insights into the principles underlying brain function to develop new IT technologies. |
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{{Main|Brain–computer interface}} |
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Research on brain–computer interface began in the 1970s at the [[University of California, Los Angeles]] under a grant from the [[National Science Foundation]], followed by a contract from [[DARPA]].<ref name="Vidal1">{{cite journal |last1=Vidal |first1=JJ |year=1973 |title=Toward direct brain–computer communication|journal=Annual Review of Biophysics and Bioengineering |volume=2 |issue=1 |pages=157–80|doi=10.1146/annurev.bb.02.060173.001105|pmid=4583653|doi-access=free }}</ref><ref name="Vidal2">{{cite journal|author=J. Vidal |year=1977 |title=Real-Time Detection of Brain Events in EEG|url=http://www.cs.ucla.edu/~vidal/Real_Time_Detection.pdf |journal=Proceedings of the IEEE|volume=65|issue=5|pages=633–641|doi=10.1109/PROC.1977.10542|s2cid=7928242}}</ref> The papers published after this research also mark the first appearance of the expression ''brain–computer interface'' in scientific literature. Recently, studies in [[Human-computer interaction]] through the application of [[machine learning]] with statistical temporal features extracted from the [[frontal lobe]], [[Electroencephalography|EEG brainwave]] data has shown high levels of success in classifying [[mental state]]s (Relaxed, Neutral, Concentrating) mental emotional states (Negative, Neutral, Positive)<ref>{{cite book |last1=Bird|first1=Jordan J.|url=https://www.disp-conference.org|title=Mental Emotional Sentiment Classification with an EEG-based Brain-Machine Interface|last2=Ekart|first2=Aniko|last3=Buckingham|first3=Christopher D.|last4=Faria|first4=Diego R. |date=2019 |publisher=The International Conference on Digital Image and Signal Processing (DISP'19)|location=St Hugh's College, University of Oxford, United Kingdom|ref=birdeegemotions|access-date=3 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181203202733/https://www.disp-conference.org/|archive-date=3 December 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> and [[thalamocortical dysrhythmia]].<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Vanneste S, Song JJ, De Ridder D |date=March 2018 |title=Thalamocortical dysrhythmia detected by machine learning |journal=Nature Communications |language=En |volume=9 |issue=1 |pages=1103 |bibcode=2018NatCo...9.1103V |doi=10.1038/s41467-018-02820-0 |pmc=5856824 |pmid=29549239}}</ref> |
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===Neuroengineering & Neuroinformatics=== |
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Neuroinformatics is a research field that encompases the development of [[neuroscience]] data, knowledge and application of computational models and analytical tools for the integration and analysis of experimental data and for improving existing theories about nervous system and brain. Neuroinformatics provides tools, databases, models, networks technologies and models for the clinical and research purposes in the neuroscience community and other fields. |
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[[File:Neuron reconstruction and tracing illustration.png|250px|thumb|right|Schematic illustration of digital tracing of a neuron's morphology]] |
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Neuroinformatics is the scientific study of information flow and processing in the nervous system. Institute scientists utilize brain imaging techniques, such as [[magnetic resonance imaging]], to reveal the organization of brain networks involved in human thought. Brain simulation is the concept of creating a functioning [[Computer simulation|computer model]] of a brain or part of a brain. There are three main directions where neuroinformatics has to be applied: |
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There are three main directions where neuroinformatics has to be applied:<br /> (a) the development of tools for management and sharing of neuroscience data,<br /> (b) the development of tools for analyzing and modeling,<br /> (c) the development of computational models of the [[nervous system]] and neural processes.<br /> |
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* the development of [[Models of neural computation|computational model]]s of the [[nervous system]] and neural processes, |
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In the recent decade, when the vast amount of diverse data about brain was gathered by many research groups, raised the problem to integrate the data from thousands publications in order to perform efficient tools for further research. The biological and neuroscience data are highly interconnected and complex, and by itself represents a great challenge for scientists and an acute need in the global information management system, which can integrate such kind of data, was evident. |
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* the development of tools for analyzing data from devices for neurological diagnostic devices, |
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Combining [[informatics]] research and [[brain]] research allows not only resolve this problem but also provides profits for both fields of science. From one hand informatics facilitates brain [[data processing]] and data handling, by providing new electronic and software technologies for arranging [[databases]], modeling and communication in brain research. From another hand, enhanced discoveries in the field of neuroscience will invoke developing of new methods in [[information technologies]] (IT). |
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* the development of tools and databases for management and sharing of patients brain data in healthcare institutions. |
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One of the most important profits which neuroinformatics offers to the society is the contribution to learning how to prevent and treat [[brain diseases]]. |
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===Brain mapping and simulation=== |
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==History== |
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[[Brain simulation]] is the concept of creating a functioning computational model of a brain or part of a brain.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Fan |first1=Xue |last2=Markram |first2=Henry |date=2019 |title=A Brief History of Simulation Neuroscience |journal=Frontiers in Neuroinformatics |volume=13 |page=32 |doi=10.3389/fninf.2019.00032 |doi-access=free |issn=1662-5196 |pmc=6513977 |pmid=31133838}}</ref> In December 2006,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://bluebrain.epfl.ch/Jahia/site/bluebrain/op/edit/pid/19085|title=Project Milestones|work=Blue Brain |access-date=2008-08-11}}</ref> the [[Blue Brain]] project completed a simulation of a rat's [[cortical column|neocortical column]]. The neocortical column is considered the smallest functional unit of the [[neocortex]]. The neocortex is the part of the brain thought to be responsible for higher-order functions like conscious thought, and contains 10,000 neurons in the rat brain (and 10<sup>8</sup> [[synapse]]s). In November 2007,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bluebrain.epfl.ch/page18700.html|title=News and Media information |work=Blue Brain|access-date=2008-08-11|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080919051656/http://bluebrain.epfl.ch/page18700.html |archive-date=2008-09-19}}</ref> the project reported the end of its first phase, delivering a data-driven process for creating, validating, and researching the neocortical column. An [[artificial neural network]] described as being "as big and as complex as half of a mouse brain"<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2007/04/28/supercomputer-mimics-mous_n_47135.html|title=Supercomputer Mimics Mouse's Brain |date=2008-03-28 |work=HuffPost |access-date=2018-06-05 |language=en-US}}</ref> was run on an IBM [[Blue Gene]] supercomputer by the University of Nevada's research team in 2007. Each second of simulated time took ten seconds of computer time. The researchers claimed to observe "biologically consistent" nerve impulses that flowed through the virtual cortex. However, the simulation lacked the structures seen in real mice brains, and they intend to improve the accuracy of the neuron and synapse models.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/6600965.stm |work=[[BBC News]] |date=27 April 2007 |title=Mouse brain simulated on computer}}</ref> |
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===Mind uploading=== |
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[[Mind uploading]] is the process of [[brain scanning|scanning]] a physical structure of the brain accurately enough to create an [[emulator|emulation]] of the mental state (including long-term memory and "self") and copying it to a computer in a [[Digital data|digital]] form. The [[computer]] would then run a [[computer simulation|simulation]] of the brain's information processing, such that it would respond in essentially the same way as the original brain and experience having a [[sentient]] [[conscious]] [[mind]].<ref name="sim.me.uk">{{cite journal |vauthors=Bamford S |title=A framework for approaches to transfer of a mind's substrate. |journal=International Journal of Machine Consciousness |date=June 2012 |volume=4 |issue=1 |pages=23–34 |doi=10.1142/S1793843012400021 |url=http://www.sim.me.uk/neural/JournalArticles/Bamford2012IJMC.pdf}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Goertzel B, Ikle M |year=2012 |title=Introduction |journal=International Journal of Machine Consciousness |volume=04 |pages=1–3 |doi=10.1142/S1793843012020015}}</ref><ref name="kajsotala.fi">{{cite journal |vauthors=Sotala K, Valpola H |title=Coalescing minds: brain uploading-related group mind scenarios. |journal=International Journal of Machine Consciousness |date=June 2012 |volume=4 |issue=1 |pages=293–312 |doi=10.1142/S1793843012400173 |url=http://kajsotala.fi/Papers/CoalescingMinds.pdf}}</ref> Substantial mainstream research in related areas is being conducted in animal brain mapping and simulation, development of faster supercomputers, [[virtual reality]], [[brain–computer interface]]s, [[connectomics]], and information extraction from dynamically functioning brains.<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Kay KN, Naselaris T, Prenger RJ, Gallant JL |title=Identifying natural images from human brain activity |journal=Nature |volume=452 |issue=7185 |pages=352–5 |date=March 2008 |pmid=18322462 |pmc=3556484 |doi=10.1038/nature06713 |bibcode=2008Natur.452..352K}}</ref> According to supporters, many of the tools and ideas needed to achieve mind uploading already exist or are currently under active development; however, they will admit that others are, as yet, very speculative, but say they are still in the realm of engineering possibility. |
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==Auxiliary sciences of neuroinformatics== |
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The date of establishing of neuroscience, which is the foundation for neroinformatics, is 1906, when [[Santiago Ramon y Cajal]] and [[Camillo Golgi]] received the [[Nobel Prize]] for [[Physiology]] or Medicine for their work on the structure of the nervous system. |
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===Data analysis and knowledge organisation=== |
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Neuroinformatics was formally established in the late 80s with the lunching of the Human Brain Project led by National Institutes of Health in USA. Neuroinformatics is indebted to rapid development and success of the Internet technologies in the beginning of 90s. In the end of 90s the Human Brain Project included 40 web-based projects with digital databases, from the field of molecular biology and cellular physiology to the brain scans and behavior. Later, in the USA in 2003 on the base of the Human Brain Project the Society of Neuroscience (SfN) was established, which aim is to support and organize the development and popularization of the neuroscience in the world society. In 2004 SfN announced a Neuroscience Database Gateway (NDG) which is a universal resource for neuroscientists from where interested persons can reach almost any databases and tools for research in the field. Now it includes more than 100 resources! |
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{{Main|Data analysis|Library science}} |
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On the international level remarkable achievements has been reached by providing, in the context of the [[Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development]] (OECD), Mega Science Forum Working Group on Biological Informatics (1996-1998) and later the OECD Global Science Forum Working Group on Neuroinformatics (2002). One of the goals of the Neuroinformatics Working Groups was to develop neuroinformatics national nodes and as a result has appeared remarkable international web portals in Belgium and Germany, International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility and The Neuroinformatics Portal Pilot accordingly. A decision to create the International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility (INCF) was confirmed by OECD’s science ministers in 2004. Sixteen countries (Australia, Canada, China, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States), and EU commission established the legal basis for the INCF and the Programme in International Neuroinformatics (PIN). To date, ten countries (Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States) are members of the INCF. Membership is in preparation for several more countries. The goal of the INCF is to coordinate and promote international activities in neuroinformatics. The INCF contributes to the development and maintenance of database and computational infrastructure and support mechanisms for neuroscience applications. The system is expected to provide access to all freely accessible human brain data and resources to the international research community. Under guide of INCF exchange of information between institutes, private companies and the publication industry will take place. The more general task of INCF is to provide conditions for developing convenient and flexible applications for neuroscience laboratories in order to improve our knowledge about the human brain and its disorders. |
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Neuroinformatics (in context of [[library science]]) is also devoted to the development of neurobiology knowledge with computational models and analytical tools for sharing, integration, and analysis of experimental [[data]] and advancement of theories about the [[nervous system]] function. In the INCF context, this field refers to scientific information about primary experimental data, ontology, metadata, analytical tools, and computational models of the nervous system. The primary data includes experiments and experimental conditions concerning the genomic, molecular, structural, cellular, networks, systems and behavioural level, in all species and preparations in both the normal and disordered states.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.incf.org/about/what-is-neuroinformatics |title=What is Neuroinformatics {{!}} INCF - International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility |website=www.incf.org |access-date=2020-04-19}}</ref> In the recent decade, as vast amounts of diverse data about the brain were gathered by many research groups, the problem was raised of how to integrate the data from thousands of publications in order to enable efficient tools for further research. The biological and neuroscience data are highly interconnected and complex, and by itself, integration represents a great challenge for scientists. |
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==History== |
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==Collaboration with other disciplines== |
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The United States [[National Institute of Mental Health]] (NIMH), the [[National Institute of Drug Abuse]] (NIDA) and the [[National Science Foundation]] (NSF) provided the National Academy of Sciences [[Institute of Medicine]] with funds to undertake a careful analysis and study of the need to introduce computational techniques to brain research. The positive recommendations were reported in 1991.<ref>{{cite report |date=1991 |title=Mapping the Brain and Its Functions: Integrating Enabling Technologies into Neuroscience Research |type=Consensus study report |publisher=[[National Academy Press]] |location=Washington, DC |editor1-last=Pechura |editor1-first=Constance M. |editor2-last=Martin |editor2-first=Joseph B. |isbn=978-0-309-04497-4 |doi=10.17226/1816 |doi-access= |url=https://archive.org/details/mappingbrainits00inst }}</ref> This positive report enabled NIMH, now directed by Allan Leshner, to create the "Human Brain Project" (HBP), with the first grants awarded in 1993. Next, Koslow pursued the globalization of the HPG and neuroinformatics through the [[European Union]] and the [[Office for Economic Co-operation and Development]] (OECD), Paris, France. Two particular opportunities occurred in 1996. |
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* The first was the existence of the US/European Commission Biotechnology Task force co-chaired by [[Mary Clutter]] from NSF. Within the mandate of this committee, of which Koslow was a member the United States European Commission Committee on Neuroinformatics was established and co-chaired by Koslow from the United States. This committee resulted in the European Commission initiating support for neuroinformatics in Framework 5 and it has continued to support activities in neuroinformatics research and training. |
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* A second opportunity for globalization of neuroinformatics occurred when the participating governments of the Mega Science Forum (MSF) of the OECD were asked if they had any new scientific initiatives to bring forward for scientific cooperation around the globe. The [[White House Office of Science and Technology Policy]] requested that agencies in the federal government meet at NIH to decide if cooperation were needed that would be of global benefit. The NIH held a series of meetings in which proposals from different agencies were discussed. The proposal recommendation from the U.S. for the MSF was a combination of the NSF and NIH proposals. Jim Edwards of NSF supported databases and data-sharing in the area of biodiversity. |
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Study of neuroinformatics. |
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The two related initiatives were combined to form the United States proposal on "Biological Informatics". This initiative was supported by the [[White House Office of Science and Technology Policy]] and presented at the OECD MSF by Edwards and Koslow. An MSF committee was established on Biological Informatics with two subcommittees: 1. Biodiversity (Chair, James Edwards, NSF), and 2. Neuroinformatics (Chair, Stephen Koslow, NIH). At the end of two years the Neuroinformatics subcommittee of the Biological Working Group issued a report supporting a global neuroinformatics effort. Koslow, working with the NIH and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to establishing a new Neuroinformatics working group to develop specific recommendation to support the more general recommendations of the first report. The Global Science Forum (GSF; renamed from MSF) of the OECD supported this recommendation. |
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Neuroinformatics is formed at the intersections of the next fields: |
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==Community== |
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*[[neuroscience]]<br /> |
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; Institute of Neuroinformatics, University of Zurich |
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*[[computer science]]<br /> |
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: The Institute of Neuroinformatics was established at the [[University of Zurich]] and ETH Zurich at the end of 1995. The mission of the Institute is to discover the key principles by which brains work and to implement these in artificial systems that interact intelligently with the real world.<ref>{{Cite web |last=ETH|first=Zurich|title=Institute of Neuroinformatics, University of Zurich |date=11 September 2023 |url=https://www.ini.uzh.ch/en.html}}</ref> |
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*[[biology]]<br /> |
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; '''Institute for Adaptive and Neural Computation, School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh''' |
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*[[medicine]]<br /> |
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: ''Computational Neuroscience and Neuroinformatics Group'' in Institute for Adaptive and Neural Computation of [[University of Edinburgh]]'s [[School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh|School of Informatics]] study how the brain [[Information processing (psychology)|processes information]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Computational Neuroscience and Neuroinformatics {{!}} InfWeb |url=https://web.inf.ed.ac.uk/anc/research/neuroscience|access-date=2020-12-12 |website=web.inf.ed.ac.uk|date=5 November 2020 |language=en}}</ref> |
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*[[engineering]]<br /> |
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*[[physical sciences]]<br /> |
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*[[mathematics]]<br /> |
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*[[chemistry]]<br /> |
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;The International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility |
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Biology concerned with molecular data (from genes to cell specific expression); medicine and anatomy with the structure of synapses and systems level anatomy); engineering - electrophysiology (from single channels to scalp surface EEG), brain imaging; computer science – databases, software tools, mathematical sciences – models, chemistry – neurotransmitters etc. |
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: An international organization with the mission<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.incf.org/about-incf|title=Mission {{!}} INCF |website=www.incf.org |language=en |access-date=2019-10-09}}</ref> to develop, evaluate, and endorse standards and best practices that embrace the principles of open, fair,<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.force11.org/group/fairgroup/fairprinciples|title=The FAIR Data Principles |last=Hagstrom |first=Stephanie |date=2014-09-03 |work=FORCE11|access-date=2017-12-04|language=en}}</ref> and citable neuroscience. As of October 2019, the INCF has active nodes in 18 countries.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.incf.org/network/nodes |title=Governing and Associate Nodes {{!}} INCF|website=www.incf.org|language=en|access-date=2019-10-09}}</ref> This committee presented 3 recommendations to the member governments of GSF. These recommendations were: |
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Neuroscience uses all aforementioned experimental and theoretical studies to learn the brain through its various levels. Medical and biological specialists help to identify the unique cell types, their elements, and anatomical connections. Functions of complex organic molecules and structures, including myriad of biochemical, molecular, and genetic mechanisms which regulate and control brain function are determined by specialists in chemistry and cell biology. Brain imaging determines structural and functional information during mental and behavioral activity. Specialists in biophysics and physiology study physical processes within neural cells neuronal networks. The data from these fields of research is analyzed and arranged in databases and neural models in order to integrate various elements into a sophisticated system, this is the point where neuroinformatics meets other disciplines. |
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# National neuroinformatics programs should be continued or initiated in each country should have a national node to both provide research resources nationally and to serve as the contact for national and international coordination. |
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Neuroscience provides next types of data and information that neuroinformatics operates: |
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# An International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility should be established. The INCF will coordinate the implementation of a global neuroinformatics network through integration of national neuroinformatics nodes. |
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(a) Molecular and cellular data (ion channel, action potential, genetics, cytology of neurons, protein pathways). |
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# A new international funding scheme should be established. |
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(b) Data from organs and systems (visual cortex, perception, audition, sensory system, pain, taste, motor system, spinal cord. |
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This scheme should eliminate national and disciplinary barriers and provide a most efficient approach to global collaborative research and data sharing. In this new scheme, each country will be expected to fund the participating researchers from their country. The GSF neuroinformatics committee then developed a business plan for the operation, support and establishment of the INCF which was supported and approved by the GSF Science Ministers at its 2004 meeting. In 2006 the INCF was created and its central office established and set into operation at the Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden under the leadership of [[Sten Grillner]]. Sixteen countries (Australia, Canada, China, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States), and the EU Commission established the legal basis for the INCF and Programme in International Neuroinformatics (PIN). To date, eighteen countries (Australia, Belgium, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Republic of Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States) are members of the INCF. Membership is pending for several other countries. The goal of the INCF is to coordinate and promote international activities in neuroinformatics. The INCF contributes to the development and maintenance of database and computational infrastructure and support mechanisms for neuroscience applications. The system is expected to provide access to all freely accessible human brain data and resources to the international research community. The more general task of INCF is to provide conditions for developing convenient and flexible applications for neuroscience laboratories in order to improve our knowledge about the human brain and its disorders. |
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(c) Cognitive data language, emotion, motor learning, sexual behavior, decision making, social neuroscience. |
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(d) Developmental information (neuronal differentiation, cell survival, synaptic formation, motor differentiation, injury and regeneration, axon guidance, growth factors). |
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(e) Information about Diseases and Aging (autonomic nervous system, depression, anxiety, Parkinson's disease, addiction, memory loss). |
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(f) Neural engineering data (brain-computer interface) |
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(g) Computational neuroscience data (computational models of various neuronal systems, from membrane currents, proteins to learning and memory). |
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Neuroinformatics uses databases, Internet and visualization in the storage and analysis of the aforementioned neuroscience data. |
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; Laboratory of Neuroinformatics, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology |
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==Research programs and groups== |
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: The main activity of the group is development of computational tools and models, and using them to understand brain structure and function.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Javatech|title=Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology - Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology |url=http://en.nencki.gov.pl/laboratory-of-neuroinformatics |website=en.nencki.gov.pl|language=en}}</ref> |
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; Neuroimaging & Neuroinformatics, Howard Florey Institute, University of Melbourne |
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: Institute scientists utilize brain imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging, to reveal the organization of brain networks involved in human thought. Led by Gary Egan. |
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; Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University |
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''The Blue Brain Project''<br /> |
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: Led by Alan Evans, MCIN conducts computationally-intensive brain research using innovative mathematical and statistical approaches to integrate clinical, psychological and brain imaging data with genetics. MCIN researchers and staff also develop infrastructure and software tools in the areas of image processing, databasing, and high performance computing. The MCIN community, together with the [http://ludmercentre.ca Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health], collaborates with a broad range of researchers and increasingly focuses on open data sharing and open science, including for the Montreal Neurological Institute. |
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The Blue Brain Project will run on an 8000 processor Blue Gene/L prototype supercomputer developed by IBM. |
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The most unique tools that is used in the Blue Brain Project is the Blue Gene computer system - the world’s fastest supercomputer! |
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The project involves: |
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(a) Databases: 3D reconstructed model neurons, synapses, synaptic pathways, microcircuit statistics, computer model neurons, virtual neurons. |
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(b) Visualization: microcircuit builder and simulation results visualizator, 2D, 3D and immersive visualization systems are being developed. |
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(c) Simulation: a simulation environment for large scale simulations of morphologically complex neurons on 8000 processors of IBM's Blue Gene supercomputer. |
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(d) Simulations and experiments: iterations between large scale simulations of neocortical microcircuits and experiments in order to verify the computational model and explore predictions. |
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The Mission of the Blue Brain Project is to understand mammalian brain function and dysfunction through detailed simulations. The Blue Brain Project will soon invite researchers to build their own models of different brain regions in different species and at different levels of detail using Blue Brain Software for simulation on Blue Gene. These models will be deposited in an Internet Database from which Blue Brain software can extract and connect models together to build brain regions and begin the first whole brain simulations! |
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; The THOR Center for Neuroinformatics |
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''The Neuroinformatics Portal Pilot''<br /> |
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: Established April 1998 at the Department of Mathematical Modelling, Technical University of Denmark. Besides pursuing independent research goals, the THOR Center hosts a number of related projects concerning neural networks, functional neuroimaging, multimedia signal processing, and biomedical signal processing. |
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The project is part of a larger effort to enhance the exchange of neuroscience data, data-analysis tools, and modeling software. The portal is supported from many members of the OECD Working Group on Neuroinformatics. The Portal Pilot is promoted by the German Ministry for Science and Education.<br /> |
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''The THOR Center for Neuroinformatics'' was established April 1998 at the Department of Mathematical Modelling, Technical University of Denmark. Besides pursuing independent research goals, the THOR Center hosts a number of related projects concerning neural networks, functional neuroimaging, multimedia signal processing, and biomedical signal processing.<br /> |
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''Netherlands state program'' in neuroinformatics started in the light of the international OECD Global Science Forum which aim is to create a world-wide program in Neuroinformatics.<br /> |
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''The Neuronal Time Series Analysis''(NTSA) |
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NTSA Workbench is a set of tools, techniques and standards designed to meet the needs of neuroscientists who work with neuronal time series data. |
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The goal of this project is to develop information system that will make the storage, organization, retrieval, analysis and sharing of experimental and simulated neuronal data easier. The ultimate aim is to develop a set of tools, techniques and standards in order to satisfy the needs of neuroscientists who work with neuronal data.<br /> |
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''Japan national neuroinformatics resource''. Visiome Platform is the Neuroinformatics Search Service that provides access to mathematical models, experimental data, analysis libraries and related resources.<br /> |
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''The Institute of Neuroinformatics'' (INI) was established at the University of Zurich at the end of 1995. The mission of the Institute is to discover the key principles by which brains work and to implement these in artificial systems that interact intelligently with the real world.<br /> |
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''The Neuroinformatics Group in Bielefeld'' has been active in the field of Artificial Neural Networks since 1989. Current research programmes within the group are focused on the improvement of man-machine-interfaces, robot-force-control, eye-tracking experiments, machine vision, virtual reality and distributed systems.<br /> |
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; The Neuroinformatics Portal Pilot |
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''Research groups'':<br /> |
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: The project is part of a larger effort to enhance the exchange of neuroscience data, data-analysis tools, and modeling software. The portal is supported from many members of the OECD Working Group on Neuroinformatics. The Portal Pilot is promoted by the German Ministry for Science and Education. |
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(a) Shun-ichi Amari, Laboratory for Mathematical Neuroscience, RIKEN Brain Science Institute Wako, Saitama, Japan |
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; Computational Neuroscience, ITB, Humboldt-University Berlin |
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The target of Laboratory for Mathematical Neuroscience is to establish mathematical foundations of brain-style computations toward construction of a new type of information science.<br /> |
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: This group focuses on computational neurobiology, in particular on the dynamics and signal processing capabilities of systems with [[spiking neuron]]s. Led by Andreas VM Herz. |
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(b) Gary Egan, Neuroimaging & Neuroinformatics, Howard Florey Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia |
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; The Neuroinformatics Group in Bielefeld |
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Institute scientists utilize brain imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging, to reveal the organization of brain networks involved in human thought.<br /> |
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: Active in the field of Artificial Neural Networks since 1989. Current research programmes within the group are focused on the improvement of man-machine-interfaces, robot-force-control, eye-tracking experiments, machine vision, virtual reality and distributed systems. |
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(c) Andreas VM Herz Computational Neuroscience, ITB, Humboldt-University Berlin, Berlin Germany. |
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This group focuses on computational neurobiology, in particular on the dynamics and signal processing capabilities of systems with spiking neurons.<br /> |
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(d) Nicolas Le Novère, EBI Computational Neurobiology, EMBL-EBI Hinxton, United Kingdom |
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The main goal of the group is to build realistic models of neuronal function at various levels, from the synapse to the micro-circuit, based on the precise knowledge of molecule functions and interactions (Systems Biology)<br /> |
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(e) Terry Sejnowski, Computational Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute, La Jolla, United States |
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The goal of the laboratory is to understand the computational resources of brains from the biophysical to the systems levels.<br /> |
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; Laboratory of Computational Embodied Neuroscience (LOCEN)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.istc.cnr.it/group/locen|title=Laboratory of Computational Embodied Neuroscience - Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies|website=www.istc.cnr.it|access-date=2 April 2018}}</ref> |
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''Books in the field'': <br /> |
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: This group, part of the Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, Italian National Research Council (ISTC-CNR) in Rome and founded in 2006 is currently led by Gianluca Baldassarre. It has two objectives: (a) understanding the brain mechanisms underlying learning and expression of sensorimotor behaviour, and related motivations and higher-level cognition grounded on it, on the basis of embodied computational models; (b) transferring the acquired knowledge to building innovative controllers for autonomous humanoid robots capable of learning in an open-ended fashion on the basis of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations. |
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; Japan national neuroinformatics resource |
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(a) Computing the Brain: A Guide to Neuroinformatics by Michael A. Arbib and Jeffrey S. Grethe,<br /> |
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: The Visiome Platform is the Neuroinformatics Search Service that provides access to mathematical models, experimental data, analysis libraries and related resources. An online portal for neurophysiological data sharing is also available at [http://brainliner.jp BrainLiner.jp] as part of the [[Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology|MEXT]] Strategic Research Program for Brain Sciences (SRPBS). |
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(b) Electronic Collaboration in Science (Progress in Neuroinformatics Research Series) by Stephen H. Koslow and Michael F. Huerta,<br /> |
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; Laboratory for Mathematical Neuroscience, RIKEN Brain Science Institute (Wako, Saitama) |
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(c) Databasing the Brain: From Data to Knowledge (Neuroinformatics) by Steven H. Koslow and Shankar Subramaniam,<br /> |
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: The target of Laboratory for Mathematical Neuroscience is to establish mathematical foundations of brain-style computations toward construction of a new type of information science. Led by Shun-ichi Amari. |
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(d) Neuroinformatics: An Overview of the Human Brain Project (Progress in Neuroinformatics Research Series) by Stephen H. Koslow and Michael F. Huerta,<br /> |
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(e) Neuroscience Databases: A Practical Guide by Rolf Kötter,<br /> |
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(f) Brain Mapping: The Methods, Second Edition by Arthur W. Toga and John C. Mazziott,<br /> |
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(g) Biomedical Informatics: Computer Applications in Health Care and Biomedicine (Health Informatics) by James J. Cimino and Edward H. Shortliffe.<br /> |
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; Netherlands state program in neuroinformatics |
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''Journals in the field'': |
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: Started in the light of the international OECD Global Science Forum which aim is to create a worldwide program in Neuroinformatics. |
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; NUST-SEECS Neuroinformatics Research Lab<ref>{{cite web|url=http://neuro.seecs.nust.edu.pk/|title=Neuro-Informatics Lab @ SEECS, NUST - School of Electrical Engineering & Computer Sciences, National University of Sciences & Technology |website=neuro.seecs.nust.edu.pk|access-date=2 April 2018}}</ref> |
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(a) “Neuroinformatics”. The aim of this journal is to encourage, facilitate, and disseminate the use of software tools and databases in the neuroscience community to discover the key principles by which brains work,<br /> |
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: Establishment of the Neuro-Informatics Lab at SEECS-NUST has enabled Pakistani researchers and members of the faculty to actively participate in such efforts, thereby becoming an active part of the above-mentioned experimentation, simulation, and visualization processes. The lab collaborates with the leading international institutions to develop highly skilled human resource in the related field. This lab facilitates neuroscientists and computer scientists in Pakistan to conduct their experiments and analysis on the data collected using state of the art research methodologies without investing in establishing the experimental neuroscience facilities. The key goal of this lab is to provide state of the art experimental and simulation facilities, to all beneficiaries including higher education institutes, medical researchers/practitioners, and technology industry. |
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(b) “Journal on Web Semantics”. Theory and Applications, Artificial Intelligence,<br /> |
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(c) “Journal of Integrative Neuroscience”. Journal of Neuroscience,<br /> |
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(d) “Neural Computation”. Neuroscience, Computational Theory and Applications, Neural Networks,<br /> |
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(e) “Neural Information Processing”. Letters and Review Neuroscience, Computational, Neuroinformatics, Theory and Applications,<br /> |
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(f) “Interdisciplinary Description of Complex Systems”. General science,<br /> |
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(g) “Neuron”. General Neuroscience, Cellular Neuroscience,<br /> |
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(h) “Science”. General Science<br /> |
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; The Blue Brain Project |
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==Technologies and developments== |
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: The [[Blue Brain]] Project was founded in May 2005, and uses an 8000 processor [[Blue Gene]]/L supercomputer developed by IBM. At the time, this was one of the fastest supercomputers in the world. |
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:The project involves: |
|||
:* '''Databases''': 3D reconstructed model neurons, synapses, synaptic pathways, microcircuit statistics, computer model neurons, virtual neurons. |
|||
:* '''Visualization''': microcircuit builder and simulation results visualizator, 2D, 3D and immersive visualization systems are being developed. |
|||
:* '''Simulation''': a simulation environment for large-scale simulations of morphologically complex neurons on 8000 processors of IBM's Blue Gene supercomputer. |
|||
:* '''Simulations and experiments''': iterations between large-scale simulations of neocortical microcircuits and experiments in order to verify the computational model and explore predictions. |
|||
: The mission of the Blue Brain Project is to understand mammalian brain function and dysfunction through detailed simulations. The Blue Brain Project will invite researchers to build their own models of different brain regions in different species and at different levels of detail using Blue Brain Software for simulation on Blue Gene. These models will be deposited in an internet database from which Blue Brain software can extract and connect models together to build brain regions and begin the first whole brain simulations. |
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; Genes to Cognition Project |
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: Genes to Cognition Project, a neuroscience research programme that studies genes, the brain and behaviour in an integrated manner. It is engaged in a large-scale investigation of the function of molecules found at the synapse. This is mainly focused on proteins that interact with the NMDA receptor, a receptor for the neurotransmitter, glutamate, which is required for processes of synaptic plasticity such as long-term potentiation (LTP). Many of the techniques used are high-throughout in nature, and integrating the various data sources, along with guiding the experiments has raised numerous informatics questions. The program is primarily run by Professor [[Seth Grant]] at the [[Wellcome Trust]] [[Sanger Institute]], but there are many other teams of collaborators across the world. |
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; The CARMEN project<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.carmen.org.uk/|title=Welcome to CARMEN|website=Welcome to CARMEN|access-date=2 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191030005343/http://www.carmen.org.uk/|archive-date=30 October 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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: The CARMEN project is a multi-site (11 universities in the United Kingdom) research project aimed at using [[GRID computing]] to enable experimental neuroscientists to archive their datasets in a structured database, making them widely accessible for further research, and for modellers and algorithm developers to exploit. |
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; EBI Computational Neurobiology, EMBL-EBI (Hinxton) |
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: The main goal of the group is to build realistic models of neuronal function at various levels, from the synapse to the micro-circuit, based on the precise knowledge of molecule functions and interactions (Systems Biology). Led by Nicolas Le Novère. |
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; Neurogenetics GeneNetwork |
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The main technological tendencies in neuroinformatics are:<br /> |
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: [[Genenetwork]] started as component of the NIH Human Brain Project in 1999 with a focus on the genetic analysis of brain structure and function. This international program consists of tightly integrated genome and phenome data sets for human, mouse, and rat that are designed specifically for large-scale systems and network studies relating gene variants to differences in mRNA and protein expression and to differences in CNS structure and behavior. The great majority of data are open access. GeneNetwork has a companion neuroimaging web site—the Mouse Brain Library—that contains high resolution images for thousands of genetically defined strains of mice. |
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(a) Application of computer science for building databases, tools, and networks in neuroscience;<br /> |
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; The Neuronal Time Series Analysis (NTSA)<ref>{{cite web |title=NTSA Workbench |url=http://soma.npa.uiuc.edu/ntsa/ |publisher=University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign |archive-date=21 July 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060721115355/http://soma.npa.uiuc.edu/ntsa/ }}</ref> |
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(b) Analysis and modeling of neuronal systems.<br /> |
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: NTSA Workbench is a set of tools, techniques and standards designed to meet the needs of neuroscientists who work with neuronal time series data. The goal of this project is to develop information system that will make the storage, organization, retrieval, analysis and sharing of experimental and simulated neuronal data easier. The ultimate aim is to develop a set of tools, techniques and standards in order to satisfy the needs of neuroscientists who work with neuronal data. |
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In order to organize and operate with neural data scientists need to use the standard terminology and atlases that precisely describe the brain structures and their relationships. |
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; The Cognitive Atlas<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cognitiveatlas.org/|title=Cognitive Atlas|website=www.cognitiveatlas.org|access-date=2 April 2018}}</ref> |
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XML (extensible markup language) based systems is the best platform for such databases, which provides interoperability between different types of data. BrainML project is a good example of the method.<br /> |
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: The Cognitive Atlas is a project developing a shared knowledge base in cognitive science and neuroscience. This comprises two basic kinds of knowledge: tasks and concepts, providing definitions and properties thereof, and also relationships between them. An important feature of the site is ability to cite literature for assertions (e.g. "The Stroop task measures executive control") and to discuss their validity. It contributes to [[NeuroLex]] and the [[Neuroscience Information Framework]], allows programmatic access to the database, and is built around [[semantic web]] technologies. |
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''BrainML'' is a system that provides a standard XML metaformat for exchanging neuroscience data. |
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; Brain Big Data research group at the Allen Institute for Brain Science (Seattle, WA) |
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Grid computing is an emerging computing model that provides the ability to perform higher productivity and speed in computing by using connection of many networked computers to model a virtual computer architecture that is able to distribute process execution across a parallel infrastructure. |
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: Led by Hanchuan Peng,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://home.penglab.com|title=Hanchuan Peng's Homepage|website=home.penglab.com|access-date=2 April 2018}}</ref> this group has focused on using large-scale imaging computing and data analysis techniques to reconstruct single neuron models and mapping them in brains of different animals. |
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Grids use the resources of many separate computers connected by a network (usually the Internet) to solve large-scale computation problems. |
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Grids provide the ability to perform computations on large data sets, by breaking them down into many smaller ones, or provide the ability to perform many more computations at once than would be possible on a single computer. |
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Grid network systems are very important in the neuroscience research because of temporary nature of the neuroscience’s web-sources; it’s common for such data to disappear due to maintain problems of the websites. Storage Resource Broker one of the most advanced grid systems can offer the obvious advantages for neuronal research. <br /> |
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''The Biomedical Informatics Research Network'' (BIRN) is a good example of the advance grid system for neuroscience. BIRN is a geographically distributed virtual community of shared resources offering vast scope of services to advance the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The BIRN enhance the communication and collaboration between research disciplines, such as biomedical and clinical by providing necessary tools and technologies for biomedical community. |
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BIRN allow combining databases, interfaces and tools into a single environment. |
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The data exchange between cells and structures of the bran are very complicated and interconnected process. The expressed genes and changes in their expressions are good tools for determining current state of the brain and for evaluating its function. The gene expression analysis helps to find out the reasons of brain disease rising from genes.<br /> |
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''GeneWays'' system concerned with cellular morphology and circuits. |
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GeneWays is a system for automatically extracting, analyzing, visualizing and integrating molecular pathway data from the research literature. The system focuses on interactions between molecular substances and actions, providing a graphical view on the collected information and allows researchers to review and correct the integrated information. |
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Mathematical modeling is very important for neuroinformatics such as models on cellular and neuronal levels.<br /> |
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''Neurocortical Microcircuit Database'' (NMDB). A profound database of versatile brain’s data from cells to complex structures. Researchers are able not only to add data to the database but also to acquire and edit one.<br /> |
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''SenseLab'' – a collection of multilevel neuronal databases and tools. SenseLab contains six related databases that support experimental and theoretical research on the membrane properties that mediate information processing in nerve cells, using the olfactory pathway as a model system. |
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Detailed imaging of brain structure and function is provided by the web-based high-resolution anatomical brain atlases. One of the examples is a BrainMaps.org.<br /> |
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''BrainMaps.org'' is an interactive high-resolution digital brain atlas using a high-speed database and virtual microscope that is based on over 12 million megapixels of scanned images of several species, including human.<br /> |
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Another approach in the area of the brain mappings is the probabilistic atlases obtained from the real data from different group of people, formed by specific factors, like age, gender, diseased etc. Provides more flexible tools for brain research and allow obtaining more reliable and precise results, which cannot be achieved with the help of traditional brain atlases. |
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== |
==See also== |
||
{{columns-list|colwidth=22em| |
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* [[Outline of the human brain]] |
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* [[Outline of brain mapping]] |
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* [[List of neuroscience databases]] |
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* [[Brain simulation]] |
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* [[Computational neuroscience]] |
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* [[Computational anatomy]] |
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* [[Systems neuroscience]] |
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* [[Vision science]] |
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* [[Brain-reading]] |
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* [[Human Brain Project]] |
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* [[Connectogram]] |
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* [[Neuroethology]] |
|||
}} |
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== References == |
|||
*Gardner, D., Shepherd, G. M.(2004) A gateway to the future of Neuroinformatics. Neuroinformatics 2(3), 271-274 |
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=== Citations === |
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*Giorgio A. Ascoli, Erik De Schutter, David N. Kennedy An information science infrastructure for neuroscience. Neuroinformatics ISSN 1539-2791/03/01:1-2 |
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{{Reflist}} |
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*Society for neuroscience Annual Report. Navigating a changing landscape. FY2006 |
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*Stephen H. Koslow, Michael F. Huerta Neuroinformatics. An overview of the Human Brain Project |
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*F. Beltrame and S. H. Koslow, "Neuroinformatics as a megascience issue," IEEE Trans. Inf. Technol. Biomed., vol. 3, pp. 239-240, Sept. 1999. |
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*Steven H. Koslow and Shankar Subramaniam Databasing the Brain: From Data to Knowledge (Neuroinformatics). |
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*M. A. Arbib and J. S. Grethe, Computing the Brain, A Guide to Neuroinformatics. San Diego, CA, USA, 2001. |
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== |
=== Sources === |
||
{{refbegin}} |
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* [http://bluebrainproject.epfl.ch The Blue Brain Project] |
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* {{cite journal |last=Adee |first=Sally |date=June 2008 |title = Reverse Engineering the Brain |journal = [[IEEE Spectrum]] |volume=45 |issue=6 |pages = 51–53 |doi = 10.1109/MSPEC.2008.4531462 |s2cid=41761224 }} |
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* [http://brainmaps.org/index.php BrainMaps.org] |
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* {{cite web |year = 2006 |website = Society for neuroscience |title = Annual Report FY2006: Navigating a changing landscape |url = http://www.sfn.org/~/media/SfN/Documents/Annual%20Reports/2006_annual_report.ashx |format = PDF }} |
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* [http://www.incf.org International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility (INCF)] |
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* {{cite book |editor1-last = Arbib |editor1-first = Michael A. |editor2-last = Grethe |editor2-first = Jeffrey S. |year = 2001 |title = Computing the Brain, A Guide to Neuroinformatics |publisher = Academic Press |location = San Diego, CA |isbn = 978-0-12-059781-9 |oclc = 162129478 }} |
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* [http://www.nbirn.net The Biomedical Informatics Research Network (BIRN)] |
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* {{cite journal |last1 = Ascoli |first1 = Giorgio A. |last2 = De Schutter |first2 = Erik |last3 = Kennedy |first3 = David N. |title = An information science infrastructure for neuroscience |journal = [[Neuroinformatics (journal)|Neuroinformatics]] |volume=1 |issue=1 |pages=001–002 |date = March 2003 |pmid = 15055390 |doi = 10.1385/NI:1:1:001 |s2cid = 34221083 }} |
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* [http://www.neuroinf.de The Neuroinformatics Portal Pilot] |
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* {{cite journal |last1 = Beltrame |first1 = F. |last2 = Koslow |first2 = S.H. |title = Neuroinformatics as a megascience issue |journal = [[IEEE Transactions on Information Technology in Biomedicine]] |volume=3 |issue=3 |pages=239–40 |date=September 1999 |pmid = 10719488 |doi = 10.1109/4233.788587 |s2cid = 346372 }} |
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* [http://ndg.sfn.org Neuroscience Database Gateway] |
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* {{cite journal |last1 = Gardner |first1 = Daniel |last2 = Shepherd |first2 = Gordon M. |author2-link=Gordon M Shepherd (neuroscientist) |date = September 2004 |title = A gateway to the future of Neuroinformatics |journal = [[Neuroinformatics (journal)|Neuroinformatics]] |volume = 2 |issue = 3 |pages=271–274 |doi = 10.1385/NI:2:3:271 |pmid = 15365191 |s2cid = 6011369 }} |
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* [http://apu.sfn.org Society of Neuroscience (SfN)] |
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* {{cite book |editor1-last = Koslow |editor1-first = Stephen H. |editor2-last = Huerta |editor2-first = Michael F. |year = 1997 |title = Neuroinformatics: An overview of the Human Brain Project |series = Progress in neuroinformatics research |publisher = L. Erlbaum |location = Mahwah, NJ |isbn = 978-0-8058-2099-7 |oclc = 34958678 }} |
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* [http://brainmaps.org BrainMaps] |
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* {{cite book |editor1-last = Koslow |editor1-first = Steven H. |editor2-last = Subramaniam |editor2-first = Shankar |year = 2005 |title = Databasing the Brain: From Data to Knowledge |series = Neuroinformatics |publisher = Wiley-Liss |location = Hoboken, NJ |isbn = 978-0-471-30921-5 |oclc = 60194822 }} |
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* [http://braininfo.org BrainInfo] |
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* {{cite web |title = Strategy Overview 2008–2010 |date = 8 July 2008 |website = INCF |publisher = International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility |url = https://files.incf.org/dl/y7FLrWCmVh }}{{Dead link|date=April 2020 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} |
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* [http://www.neuroinformatics.nl/ Netherlands state program in neuroinformatics] |
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{{refend}} |
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* [http://www.cma.mgh.harvard.edu/ibvd/index.phpThe Internet Brain Volume Database] |
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* [http://eivind.imm.dtu.dk/thor/home.htm The THOR Center for Neuroinformatics] |
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* [http://brancusi.usc.edu/bkms/ Brain Architecture Management System] |
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* [http://www.fmridc.org/ The fMRI Data Center] |
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* [http://senselab.med.yale.edu/senselab/ SenseLab] |
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* [http://www.neurogems.org/ NeuroGEMS neuroinformatics software] |
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* [http://tng.ccs.fau.edu Theoretical Neuroscience Group (TNG), Florida Atlantic University] |
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* [http://www.nimh.nih.gov Official website of NIMH: National Institute of Mental Health neuroinformatics] |
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* [http://www.incf.org/med Report on Neuroinformatics from The Global Science Forum Neuroinformatics Working Group of the Organisation for economic Co-operation and Development, June 2002] |
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* [http://www.cma.mgh.harvard.edu/ibvdInternet Analysis Tools Registry (IATR)] |
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* [http://soma.npa.uiuc.edu/isnpa/isnpa.htmlThe Neuronal Time Series Analysis (NTSA)] |
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* [http://brainml.org BrainML project] |
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* [http://www.grid-support.ac.uk Storage Resource Broker] |
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* [http://geneways.genomecenter.columbia.edu GeneWays project] |
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* [http://microcircuit.epfl.ch Neurocortical Microcircuit Database (NMDB)] |
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* [http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=131040 Probabilistic brain atlases] |
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* [http://humanapress.com/index.php?option=com_journalshome&task=viewjournaldetails&journalmasterid=20&category=journals Journal of Neuroinformatics] |
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==Further reading== |
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Research centers: |
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===Books=== |
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* [http://www.ini.unizh.ch/ Institute of Neuroinformatics, Zurich, Switzerland] |
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{{refbegin}} |
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* [http://www.cns.caltech.edu/ Computation and Neural Systems at Caltech, Pasadena, California, USA] |
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* {{cite book |editor-last=Ascoli |editor-first=Giorgio |date=2002 |title=Computational Neuroanatomy: Principles and Methods |publisher=Humana |location=Totowa, NJ |isbn=978-1-58829-000-7 |oclc=48399178 }} |
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* [http://fias.uni-frankfurt.de/ Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies, Frankfurt, Germany] |
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* {{cite book |editor-last=Crasto |editor-first=Chiquito Joaquim |date=2007 |title=Neuroinformatics |series=Methods in Molecular Biology |volume=401 |publisher=Humana |location=Totowa, NJ |isbn=978-1-58829-720-4 |oclc=123798711 |url=https://archive.org/details/neuroinformatics00cras }} |
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* [http://www.techfak.uni-bielefeld.de/ags/ni/ The Neuroinformatics Group in Bielefeld] |
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* {{cite book |editor1-last=Koslow |editor1-first=Stephen H. |editor2-last=Huerta |editor2-first=Michael F. |date=2000 |title=Electronic Collaboration in Science |series=Progress in Neuroinformatics Research |volume=2 |isbn=978-1-138-00318-7 |oclc=47009543 }} |
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* [http://platform.visiome.org/index.html Neuroinformatics center in Japan Visiome Platform] |
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* {{cite book |last=Kötter |first=Rolf |date=2003 |title=Neuroscience Databases: A Practical Guide |publisher=Springer |location=Boston, MA |isbn=978-1-4615-1079-6 |oclc=840283587 }} |
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* [http://www.anc.inf.ed.ac.uk/neuroinformatics/ Neuroinformatics Doctoral Training Centre] |
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* {{cite book |last1=Mitra |first1=Partha P. |last2=Bokil |first2=Hemant |date=2008 |title=Observed Brain Dynamics |publisher=Oxford University Press |location=Oxford |isbn=978-0-19-517808-1 |oclc=213446303 }} |
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* {{cite book |editor1-last=Shortliffe |editor1-first=Edward H. |editor1-link=Edward H. Shortliffe |editor2-last=Cimino |editor2-first=James J. |editor2-link=James J. Cimino |date=2013 |title=Biomedical Informatics: Computer Applications in Health Care and Biomedicine |edition=4th |series=Health Informatics |publisher=Springer |location=New York |isbn=978-1-4471-4474-8 |oclc=937648601 }} |
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* {{cite book |last1=Sterratt |first1=David |last2=Graham |first2=Bruce |last3=Gillies |first3=Andrew |last4=Willshaw |first4=David |date=2011 |title=Principles of Computational Modeling in Neuroscience |publisher=Cambridge University Press |location=Cambridge |isbn=978-1-139-04255-0 |oclc=739098279 }} |
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{{refend}} |
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===Journals and conferences=== |
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{{columns-list|colwidth=30em| |
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* ''[[Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems]]'' |
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* ''International Journal of Cognitive Informatics and Natural Intelligence'' |
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* ''[https://web.archive.org/web/20111016112903/http://www.springerlink.com/content/100465/ Biological Cybernetics]'' |
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* ''[https://www.springer.com/computer/ai/journal/40708 Brain Informatics]'' |
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* ''[http://frontiersin.org/neuroinformatics Frontiers in Neuroinformatics]'' |
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* ''[[Interdisciplinary Description of Complex Systems]]'' |
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* ''[https://web.archive.org/web/20111016121751/http://www.springerlink.com/content/100282/ Journal of Computational Neuroscience]'' |
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* ''[[Journal of Integrative Neuroscience]]'' |
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* ''[[The Journal of Neuroscience|Journal of Neuroscience]]'' |
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* ''[[Journal of Web Semantics]]'' |
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* ''[[Neural Computation (journal)|Neural Computation]]'' |
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* ''Neural Information Processing'' (In [[Springer Science+Business Media|Springer]]'s ''[[Lecture Notes in Computer Science]]'') |
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* ''[[Neuroinformatics (journal)|Neuroinformatics]]'' |
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* ''[[Neuron (journal)|Neuron]]'' |
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* ''[[PLOS Computational Biology|PLoS Computational Biology]]'' |
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* ''[[Science (journal)|Science]]'' |
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}} |
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{{Neuroscience}} |
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[[zh:神经信息学]] |
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{{emerging technologies|topics=yes|neuro=yes|infocom=yes}} |
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{{Informatics}} |
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{{Authority control}} |
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[[Category:Neuroinformatics| ]] |
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{{neuroscience-stub}} |
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[[Category:Computational neuroscience]] |
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[[Category:Bioinformatics]] |
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[[Category:Computational fields of study]] |
Latest revision as of 18:17, 3 April 2024
Neuroinformatics is the emergent field that combines informatics and neuroscience. Neuroinformatics is related with neuroscience data and information processing by artificial neural networks.[1] There are three main directions where neuroinformatics has to be applied:[2]
- the development of computational models of the nervous system and neural processes;
- the development of tools for analyzing and modeling neuroscience data; and
- the development of tools and databases for management and sharing of neuroscience data at all levels of analysis.
Neuroinformatics encompasses philosophy (computational theory of mind), psychology (information processing theory), computer science (natural computing, bio-inspired computing), among others disciplines. Neuroinformatics doesn't deal with matter or energy,[3] so it can be seen as a branch of neurobiology that studies various aspects of nervous systems. The term neuroinformatics seems to be used synonymously with cognitive informatics, described by Journal of Biomedical Informatics as interdisciplinary domain that focuses on human information processing, mechanisms and processes within the context of computing and computing applications.[4] According to German National Library, neuroinformatics is synonymous with neurocomputing.[5] At Proceedings of the 10th IEEE International Conference on Cognitive Informatics and Cognitive Computing was introduced the following description: Cognitive Informatics (CI) as a transdisciplinary enquiry of computer science, information sciences, cognitive science, and intelligence science. CI investigates into the internal information processing mechanisms and processes of the brain and natural intelligence, as well as their engineering applications in cognitive computing.[6] According to INCF, neuroinformatics is a research field devoted to the development of neuroscience data and knowledge bases together with computational models.[7]
Neuroinformatics in neuropsychology and neurobiology
[edit]Models of neural computation
[edit]Models of neural computation are attempts to elucidate, in an abstract and mathematical fashion, the core principles that underlie information processing in biological nervous systems, or functional components thereof. Due to the complexity of nervous system behavior, the associated experimental error bounds are ill-defined, but the relative merit of the different models of a particular subsystem can be compared according to how closely they reproduce real-world behaviors or respond to specific input signals. In the closely related field of computational neuroethology, the practice is to include the environment in the model in such a way that the loop is closed. In the cases where competing models are unavailable, or where only gross responses have been measured or quantified, a clearly formulated model can guide the scientist in designing experiments to probe biochemical mechanisms or network connectivity.
Neurocomputing technologies
[edit]Artificial neural networks
[edit]Artificial neural networks (ANNs), usually simply called neural networks (NNs), are computing systems vaguely inspired by the biological neural networks that constitute animal brains.[8] An ANN is based on a collection of connected units or nodes called artificial neurons, which loosely model the neurons in a biological brain. Each connection, like the synapses in a biological brain, can transmit a signal to other neurons. An artificial neuron that receives a signal then processes it and can signal neurons connected to it. The "signal" at a connection is a real number, and the output of each neuron is computed by some non-linear function of the sum of its inputs. The connections are called edges. Neurons and edges typically have a weight that adjusts as learning proceeds. The weight increases or decreases the strength of the signal at a connection. Neurons may have a threshold such that a signal is sent only if the aggregate signal crosses that threshold. Typically, neurons are aggregated into layers. Different layers may perform different transformations on their inputs. Signals travel from the first layer (the input layer), to the last layer (the output layer), possibly after traversing the layers multiple times.
Brain emulation and mind uploading
[edit]Brain emulation is the concept of creating a functioning computational model and emulation of a brain or part of a brain. In December 2006,[9] the Blue Brain project completed a simulation of a rat's neocortical column. The neocortical column is considered the smallest functional unit of the neocortex. The neocortex is the part of the brain thought to be responsible for higher-order functions like conscious thought, and contains 10,000 neurons in the rat brain (and 108 synapses). In November 2007,[10] the project reported the end of its first phase, delivering a data-driven process for creating, validating, and researching the neocortical column. An artificial neural network described as being "as big and as complex as half of a mouse brain"[11] was run on an IBM Blue Gene supercomputer by the University of Nevada's research team in 2007. Each second of simulated time took ten seconds of computer time. The researchers claimed to observe "biologically consistent" nerve impulses that flowed through the virtual cortex. However, the simulation lacked the structures seen in real mice brains, and they intend to improve the accuracy of the neuron and synapse models.[12] Mind uploading is the process of scanning a physical structure of the brain accurately enough to create an emulation of the mental state (including long-term memory and "self") and copying it to a computer in a digital form. The computer would then run a simulation of the brain's information processing, such that it would respond in essentially the same way as the original brain and experience having a sentient conscious mind.[13][14][15] Substantial mainstream research in related areas is being conducted in animal brain mapping and simulation, development of faster supercomputers, virtual reality, brain–computer interfaces, connectomics, and information extraction from dynamically functioning brains.[16] According to supporters, many of the tools and ideas needed to achieve mind uploading already exist or are currently under active development; however, they will admit that others are, as yet, very speculative, but say they are still in the realm of engineering possibility.
Brain–computer interface
[edit]Research on brain–computer interface began in the 1970s at the University of California, Los Angeles under a grant from the National Science Foundation, followed by a contract from DARPA.[17][18] The papers published after this research also mark the first appearance of the expression brain–computer interface in scientific literature. Recently, studies in Human-computer interaction through the application of machine learning with statistical temporal features extracted from the frontal lobe, EEG brainwave data has shown high levels of success in classifying mental states (Relaxed, Neutral, Concentrating) mental emotional states (Negative, Neutral, Positive)[19] and thalamocortical dysrhythmia.[20]
Neuroengineering & Neuroinformatics
[edit]Neuroinformatics is the scientific study of information flow and processing in the nervous system. Institute scientists utilize brain imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging, to reveal the organization of brain networks involved in human thought. Brain simulation is the concept of creating a functioning computer model of a brain or part of a brain. There are three main directions where neuroinformatics has to be applied:
- the development of computational models of the nervous system and neural processes,
- the development of tools for analyzing data from devices for neurological diagnostic devices,
- the development of tools and databases for management and sharing of patients brain data in healthcare institutions.
Brain mapping and simulation
[edit]Brain simulation is the concept of creating a functioning computational model of a brain or part of a brain.[21] In December 2006,[22] the Blue Brain project completed a simulation of a rat's neocortical column. The neocortical column is considered the smallest functional unit of the neocortex. The neocortex is the part of the brain thought to be responsible for higher-order functions like conscious thought, and contains 10,000 neurons in the rat brain (and 108 synapses). In November 2007,[23] the project reported the end of its first phase, delivering a data-driven process for creating, validating, and researching the neocortical column. An artificial neural network described as being "as big and as complex as half of a mouse brain"[24] was run on an IBM Blue Gene supercomputer by the University of Nevada's research team in 2007. Each second of simulated time took ten seconds of computer time. The researchers claimed to observe "biologically consistent" nerve impulses that flowed through the virtual cortex. However, the simulation lacked the structures seen in real mice brains, and they intend to improve the accuracy of the neuron and synapse models.[25]
Mind uploading
[edit]Mind uploading is the process of scanning a physical structure of the brain accurately enough to create an emulation of the mental state (including long-term memory and "self") and copying it to a computer in a digital form. The computer would then run a simulation of the brain's information processing, such that it would respond in essentially the same way as the original brain and experience having a sentient conscious mind.[13][26][15] Substantial mainstream research in related areas is being conducted in animal brain mapping and simulation, development of faster supercomputers, virtual reality, brain–computer interfaces, connectomics, and information extraction from dynamically functioning brains.[27] According to supporters, many of the tools and ideas needed to achieve mind uploading already exist or are currently under active development; however, they will admit that others are, as yet, very speculative, but say they are still in the realm of engineering possibility.
Auxiliary sciences of neuroinformatics
[edit]Data analysis and knowledge organisation
[edit]Neuroinformatics (in context of library science) is also devoted to the development of neurobiology knowledge with computational models and analytical tools for sharing, integration, and analysis of experimental data and advancement of theories about the nervous system function. In the INCF context, this field refers to scientific information about primary experimental data, ontology, metadata, analytical tools, and computational models of the nervous system. The primary data includes experiments and experimental conditions concerning the genomic, molecular, structural, cellular, networks, systems and behavioural level, in all species and preparations in both the normal and disordered states.[28] In the recent decade, as vast amounts of diverse data about the brain were gathered by many research groups, the problem was raised of how to integrate the data from thousands of publications in order to enable efficient tools for further research. The biological and neuroscience data are highly interconnected and complex, and by itself, integration represents a great challenge for scientists.
History
[edit]The United States National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) provided the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine with funds to undertake a careful analysis and study of the need to introduce computational techniques to brain research. The positive recommendations were reported in 1991.[29] This positive report enabled NIMH, now directed by Allan Leshner, to create the "Human Brain Project" (HBP), with the first grants awarded in 1993. Next, Koslow pursued the globalization of the HPG and neuroinformatics through the European Union and the Office for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Paris, France. Two particular opportunities occurred in 1996.
- The first was the existence of the US/European Commission Biotechnology Task force co-chaired by Mary Clutter from NSF. Within the mandate of this committee, of which Koslow was a member the United States European Commission Committee on Neuroinformatics was established and co-chaired by Koslow from the United States. This committee resulted in the European Commission initiating support for neuroinformatics in Framework 5 and it has continued to support activities in neuroinformatics research and training.
- A second opportunity for globalization of neuroinformatics occurred when the participating governments of the Mega Science Forum (MSF) of the OECD were asked if they had any new scientific initiatives to bring forward for scientific cooperation around the globe. The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy requested that agencies in the federal government meet at NIH to decide if cooperation were needed that would be of global benefit. The NIH held a series of meetings in which proposals from different agencies were discussed. The proposal recommendation from the U.S. for the MSF was a combination of the NSF and NIH proposals. Jim Edwards of NSF supported databases and data-sharing in the area of biodiversity.
The two related initiatives were combined to form the United States proposal on "Biological Informatics". This initiative was supported by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and presented at the OECD MSF by Edwards and Koslow. An MSF committee was established on Biological Informatics with two subcommittees: 1. Biodiversity (Chair, James Edwards, NSF), and 2. Neuroinformatics (Chair, Stephen Koslow, NIH). At the end of two years the Neuroinformatics subcommittee of the Biological Working Group issued a report supporting a global neuroinformatics effort. Koslow, working with the NIH and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to establishing a new Neuroinformatics working group to develop specific recommendation to support the more general recommendations of the first report. The Global Science Forum (GSF; renamed from MSF) of the OECD supported this recommendation.
Community
[edit]- Institute of Neuroinformatics, University of Zurich
- The Institute of Neuroinformatics was established at the University of Zurich and ETH Zurich at the end of 1995. The mission of the Institute is to discover the key principles by which brains work and to implement these in artificial systems that interact intelligently with the real world.[30]
- Institute for Adaptive and Neural Computation, School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh
- Computational Neuroscience and Neuroinformatics Group in Institute for Adaptive and Neural Computation of University of Edinburgh's School of Informatics study how the brain processes information.[31]
- The International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility
- An international organization with the mission[32] to develop, evaluate, and endorse standards and best practices that embrace the principles of open, fair,[33] and citable neuroscience. As of October 2019, the INCF has active nodes in 18 countries.[34] This committee presented 3 recommendations to the member governments of GSF. These recommendations were:
- National neuroinformatics programs should be continued or initiated in each country should have a national node to both provide research resources nationally and to serve as the contact for national and international coordination.
- An International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility should be established. The INCF will coordinate the implementation of a global neuroinformatics network through integration of national neuroinformatics nodes.
- A new international funding scheme should be established.
This scheme should eliminate national and disciplinary barriers and provide a most efficient approach to global collaborative research and data sharing. In this new scheme, each country will be expected to fund the participating researchers from their country. The GSF neuroinformatics committee then developed a business plan for the operation, support and establishment of the INCF which was supported and approved by the GSF Science Ministers at its 2004 meeting. In 2006 the INCF was created and its central office established and set into operation at the Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden under the leadership of Sten Grillner. Sixteen countries (Australia, Canada, China, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States), and the EU Commission established the legal basis for the INCF and Programme in International Neuroinformatics (PIN). To date, eighteen countries (Australia, Belgium, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Republic of Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States) are members of the INCF. Membership is pending for several other countries. The goal of the INCF is to coordinate and promote international activities in neuroinformatics. The INCF contributes to the development and maintenance of database and computational infrastructure and support mechanisms for neuroscience applications. The system is expected to provide access to all freely accessible human brain data and resources to the international research community. The more general task of INCF is to provide conditions for developing convenient and flexible applications for neuroscience laboratories in order to improve our knowledge about the human brain and its disorders.
- Laboratory of Neuroinformatics, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology
- The main activity of the group is development of computational tools and models, and using them to understand brain structure and function.[35]
- Neuroimaging & Neuroinformatics, Howard Florey Institute, University of Melbourne
- Institute scientists utilize brain imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging, to reveal the organization of brain networks involved in human thought. Led by Gary Egan.
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University
- Led by Alan Evans, MCIN conducts computationally-intensive brain research using innovative mathematical and statistical approaches to integrate clinical, psychological and brain imaging data with genetics. MCIN researchers and staff also develop infrastructure and software tools in the areas of image processing, databasing, and high performance computing. The MCIN community, together with the Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, collaborates with a broad range of researchers and increasingly focuses on open data sharing and open science, including for the Montreal Neurological Institute.
- The THOR Center for Neuroinformatics
- Established April 1998 at the Department of Mathematical Modelling, Technical University of Denmark. Besides pursuing independent research goals, the THOR Center hosts a number of related projects concerning neural networks, functional neuroimaging, multimedia signal processing, and biomedical signal processing.
- The Neuroinformatics Portal Pilot
- The project is part of a larger effort to enhance the exchange of neuroscience data, data-analysis tools, and modeling software. The portal is supported from many members of the OECD Working Group on Neuroinformatics. The Portal Pilot is promoted by the German Ministry for Science and Education.
- Computational Neuroscience, ITB, Humboldt-University Berlin
- This group focuses on computational neurobiology, in particular on the dynamics and signal processing capabilities of systems with spiking neurons. Led by Andreas VM Herz.
- The Neuroinformatics Group in Bielefeld
- Active in the field of Artificial Neural Networks since 1989. Current research programmes within the group are focused on the improvement of man-machine-interfaces, robot-force-control, eye-tracking experiments, machine vision, virtual reality and distributed systems.
- Laboratory of Computational Embodied Neuroscience (LOCEN)[36]
- This group, part of the Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, Italian National Research Council (ISTC-CNR) in Rome and founded in 2006 is currently led by Gianluca Baldassarre. It has two objectives: (a) understanding the brain mechanisms underlying learning and expression of sensorimotor behaviour, and related motivations and higher-level cognition grounded on it, on the basis of embodied computational models; (b) transferring the acquired knowledge to building innovative controllers for autonomous humanoid robots capable of learning in an open-ended fashion on the basis of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations.
- Japan national neuroinformatics resource
- The Visiome Platform is the Neuroinformatics Search Service that provides access to mathematical models, experimental data, analysis libraries and related resources. An online portal for neurophysiological data sharing is also available at BrainLiner.jp as part of the MEXT Strategic Research Program for Brain Sciences (SRPBS).
- Laboratory for Mathematical Neuroscience, RIKEN Brain Science Institute (Wako, Saitama)
- The target of Laboratory for Mathematical Neuroscience is to establish mathematical foundations of brain-style computations toward construction of a new type of information science. Led by Shun-ichi Amari.
- Netherlands state program in neuroinformatics
- Started in the light of the international OECD Global Science Forum which aim is to create a worldwide program in Neuroinformatics.
- NUST-SEECS Neuroinformatics Research Lab[37]
- Establishment of the Neuro-Informatics Lab at SEECS-NUST has enabled Pakistani researchers and members of the faculty to actively participate in such efforts, thereby becoming an active part of the above-mentioned experimentation, simulation, and visualization processes. The lab collaborates with the leading international institutions to develop highly skilled human resource in the related field. This lab facilitates neuroscientists and computer scientists in Pakistan to conduct their experiments and analysis on the data collected using state of the art research methodologies without investing in establishing the experimental neuroscience facilities. The key goal of this lab is to provide state of the art experimental and simulation facilities, to all beneficiaries including higher education institutes, medical researchers/practitioners, and technology industry.
- The Blue Brain Project
- The Blue Brain Project was founded in May 2005, and uses an 8000 processor Blue Gene/L supercomputer developed by IBM. At the time, this was one of the fastest supercomputers in the world.
- The project involves:
- Databases: 3D reconstructed model neurons, synapses, synaptic pathways, microcircuit statistics, computer model neurons, virtual neurons.
- Visualization: microcircuit builder and simulation results visualizator, 2D, 3D and immersive visualization systems are being developed.
- Simulation: a simulation environment for large-scale simulations of morphologically complex neurons on 8000 processors of IBM's Blue Gene supercomputer.
- Simulations and experiments: iterations between large-scale simulations of neocortical microcircuits and experiments in order to verify the computational model and explore predictions.
- The mission of the Blue Brain Project is to understand mammalian brain function and dysfunction through detailed simulations. The Blue Brain Project will invite researchers to build their own models of different brain regions in different species and at different levels of detail using Blue Brain Software for simulation on Blue Gene. These models will be deposited in an internet database from which Blue Brain software can extract and connect models together to build brain regions and begin the first whole brain simulations.
- Genes to Cognition Project
- Genes to Cognition Project, a neuroscience research programme that studies genes, the brain and behaviour in an integrated manner. It is engaged in a large-scale investigation of the function of molecules found at the synapse. This is mainly focused on proteins that interact with the NMDA receptor, a receptor for the neurotransmitter, glutamate, which is required for processes of synaptic plasticity such as long-term potentiation (LTP). Many of the techniques used are high-throughout in nature, and integrating the various data sources, along with guiding the experiments has raised numerous informatics questions. The program is primarily run by Professor Seth Grant at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, but there are many other teams of collaborators across the world.
- The CARMEN project[38]
- The CARMEN project is a multi-site (11 universities in the United Kingdom) research project aimed at using GRID computing to enable experimental neuroscientists to archive their datasets in a structured database, making them widely accessible for further research, and for modellers and algorithm developers to exploit.
- EBI Computational Neurobiology, EMBL-EBI (Hinxton)
- The main goal of the group is to build realistic models of neuronal function at various levels, from the synapse to the micro-circuit, based on the precise knowledge of molecule functions and interactions (Systems Biology). Led by Nicolas Le Novère.
- Neurogenetics GeneNetwork
- Genenetwork started as component of the NIH Human Brain Project in 1999 with a focus on the genetic analysis of brain structure and function. This international program consists of tightly integrated genome and phenome data sets for human, mouse, and rat that are designed specifically for large-scale systems and network studies relating gene variants to differences in mRNA and protein expression and to differences in CNS structure and behavior. The great majority of data are open access. GeneNetwork has a companion neuroimaging web site—the Mouse Brain Library—that contains high resolution images for thousands of genetically defined strains of mice.
- The Neuronal Time Series Analysis (NTSA)[39]
- NTSA Workbench is a set of tools, techniques and standards designed to meet the needs of neuroscientists who work with neuronal time series data. The goal of this project is to develop information system that will make the storage, organization, retrieval, analysis and sharing of experimental and simulated neuronal data easier. The ultimate aim is to develop a set of tools, techniques and standards in order to satisfy the needs of neuroscientists who work with neuronal data.
- The Cognitive Atlas[40]
- The Cognitive Atlas is a project developing a shared knowledge base in cognitive science and neuroscience. This comprises two basic kinds of knowledge: tasks and concepts, providing definitions and properties thereof, and also relationships between them. An important feature of the site is ability to cite literature for assertions (e.g. "The Stroop task measures executive control") and to discuss their validity. It contributes to NeuroLex and the Neuroscience Information Framework, allows programmatic access to the database, and is built around semantic web technologies.
- Brain Big Data research group at the Allen Institute for Brain Science (Seattle, WA)
- Led by Hanchuan Peng,[41] this group has focused on using large-scale imaging computing and data analysis techniques to reconstruct single neuron models and mapping them in brains of different animals.
See also
[edit]References
[edit]Citations
[edit]- ^ "Frontiers in Neuroinformatics". www.frontiersin.org.
- ^ "Working groups | INCF". www.incf.org.
- ^ Wang, Yingxu (2003-08-01). "On Cognitive Informatics". Brain and Mind. 4 (2): 151–167. doi:10.1023/A:1025401527570. ISSN 1573-3300. S2CID 61495426.
- ^ Patel, Vimla L.; Kannampallil, Thomas G. (2015-02-01). "Cognitive informatics in biomedicine and healthcare". Journal of Biomedical Informatics. 53: 3–14. doi:10.1016/j.jbi.2014.12.007. ISSN 1532-0464. PMID 25541081.
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Further reading
[edit]Books
[edit]- Ascoli, Giorgio, ed. (2002). Computational Neuroanatomy: Principles and Methods. Totowa, NJ: Humana. ISBN 978-1-58829-000-7. OCLC 48399178.
- Crasto, Chiquito Joaquim, ed. (2007). Neuroinformatics. Methods in Molecular Biology. Vol. 401. Totowa, NJ: Humana. ISBN 978-1-58829-720-4. OCLC 123798711.
- Koslow, Stephen H.; Huerta, Michael F., eds. (2000). Electronic Collaboration in Science. Progress in Neuroinformatics Research. Vol. 2. ISBN 978-1-138-00318-7. OCLC 47009543.
- Kötter, Rolf (2003). Neuroscience Databases: A Practical Guide. Boston, MA: Springer. ISBN 978-1-4615-1079-6. OCLC 840283587.
- Mitra, Partha P.; Bokil, Hemant (2008). Observed Brain Dynamics. Oxford: Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-517808-1. OCLC 213446303.
- Shortliffe, Edward H.; Cimino, James J., eds. (2013). Biomedical Informatics: Computer Applications in Health Care and Biomedicine. Health Informatics (4th ed.). New York: Springer. ISBN 978-1-4471-4474-8. OCLC 937648601.
- Sterratt, David; Graham, Bruce; Gillies, Andrew; Willshaw, David (2011). Principles of Computational Modeling in Neuroscience. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. ISBN 978-1-139-04255-0. OCLC 739098279.
Journals and conferences
[edit]- Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems
- International Journal of Cognitive Informatics and Natural Intelligence
- Biological Cybernetics
- Brain Informatics
- Frontiers in Neuroinformatics
- Interdisciplinary Description of Complex Systems
- Journal of Computational Neuroscience
- Journal of Integrative Neuroscience
- Journal of Neuroscience
- Journal of Web Semantics
- Neural Computation
- Neural Information Processing (In Springer's Lecture Notes in Computer Science)
- Neuroinformatics
- Neuron
- PLoS Computational Biology
- Science