Rhonda Dzakpasu

The overall goal of my research is to understand the mechanisms that underlie spatial and temporal pattern formation in weakly coupled oscillator networks. The evolution of these patterns helps to shed light on the dynamics of information processing. To this end, we have developed a method that monitors and analyzes temporal interdependencies between weakly interacting non-identical systems. Causal relationships between the elements in the networks are typical features that are captured by this method. I have investigated the behavior of this measure by using it to study the evolution of asymmetrical temporal relationships between two coupled Rössler oscillators as these oscillators are versatile dynamical non-linear oscillators that can display a wide range of temporal behavior. I am currently using this measure to study temporal patterns in networks of coupled Rössler oscillators as the network topology is modified.

Experimentally, I am using novel optical imaging techniques to study dynamics of networks of dissociated rat cortical neurons. I use voltage sensitive dyes to record rapid changes in cell membrane potential corresponding to the generation of an action potential. I am currently investigating neural network dynamics of spontaneous electrical activity from these cultures and am using our measure to analyze the temporal behavior of the networks as the network matures over time. Future work will involve the introduction of pharmacological agents to modulate changes in network communication.