Attention as sigma-pi controlled ACh-based feedback

Abstract

We analyse experimental data on attention to indicate that any attention feedback control signals to lower order cortical sites will lead to a quadratic sigma-pi form of output in its dependence on the lower-order input and the feedback signal. The manner by which this structure works is shown by a brief simulation. We then discuss how such a structure could arise from the action of diffuse acetylcholine signals from the NBM, especially involving nicotinic receptors. We deduce certain structural regularities which should be expected both at local-and at micro-circuit level, mainly in cortical layer V (the output layer).