Characterization of periodic attractors in neural ring networks

The paper presents a discussion of parameterized discrete dynamics of neural ring networks. For specific parameter domains stable periodic orbits coexist. Their periods and the number of orbits of a given period are determined. Even n-rings, i.e. rings with an even number of inhibitory connections, exhibit mainly stable period-n orbits. Odd n-rings display mainly stable period-2n orbits. The dynamical effects of inhibitory connections are analysed, and a characterization of attractors in terms of their “firing pattern” is presented. ∗published in Neural Networks, 8, 421 – 429 (1995).