Biologically relevant neural network architectures for support vector machines.

Neural network architectures that implement support vector machines (SVM) are investigated for the purpose of modeling perceptual one-shot learning in biological organisms. A family of SVM algorithms including variants of maximum margin, 1-norm, 2-norm and ν-SVM is considered. SVM training rules adapted for neural computation are derived. It is found that competitive queuing memory (CQM) is ideal for storing and retrieving support vectors. Several different CQM-based neural architectures are examined for each SVM algorithm. Although most of the sixty-four scanned architectures are unconvincing for biological modeling four feasible candidates are found. The seemingly complex learning rule of a full ν-SVM implementation finds a particularly simple and natural implementation in bisymmetric architectures. Since CQM-like neural structures are thought to encode skilled action sequences and bisymmetry is ubiquitous in motor systems it is speculated that trainable pattern recognition in low-level perception has evolved as an internalized motor programme.

Natural evolution of neural support vector machines.

Two different neural implementations of support vector machines are described and applied to one-shot trainable pattern recognition. The first model is based on oscillating associative memory and is mapped to the olfactory system. The second model is founded on competitive queuing memory originally employed for generating motor action sequences in the brain. Both models include forward pathways where a stream of support vectors is evoked from memory and merges with sensory input to produce support vector machine classifications. Misclassified events are imprinted as new support vector candidates. Support vector machine weights are tuned by virtual experimentation in sleep. Recalled training examples masquerade as sensor input and feedback from the classification process drives a learning process where support vector weights are optimized. For both support vector machine models it is demonstrated that there is a plausible evolutionary path from a simple hard-wired pattern recognizer to a full implementation of a biological kernel machine. Simple and individually beneficial modifications are accumulated in each step along this path. Neural support vector machines can apparently emerge by natural processes.

A neural support vector machine.

Support vector machines are state-of-the-art pattern recognition algorithms that are well founded in optimization and generalization theory but not obviously applicable to the brain. This paper presents Bio-SVM, a biologically feasible support vector machine. An unstable associative memory oscillates between support vectors and interacts with a feed-forward classification pathway. Kernel neurons blend support vectors and sensory input. Downstream temporal integration generates the classification. Instant learning of surprising events and off-line tuning of support vector weights trains the system. Emotion-based learning, forgetting trivia, sleep and brain oscillations are phenomena that agree with the Bio-SVM model. A mapping to the olfactory system is suggested.

Signatures of depression in non-stationary biometric time series.

This paper is based on a discussion that was held during a special session on models of mental disorders, at the NeuroMath meeting in Stockholm, Sweden, in September 2008. At this occasion, scientists from different countries and different fields of research presented their research and discussed open questions with regard to analyses and models of mental disorders, in particular depression. The content of this paper emerged from these discussions and in the presentation we briefly link biomarkers (hormones), bio-signals (EEG) and biomaps (brain-maps via EEG) to depression and its treatments, via linear statistical models as well as nonlinear dynamic models. Some examples involving EEG-data are presented.