Neurodynamical top-down processing during auditory attention

Abstract

Understanding the neural dynamics underlying the fast discrimination of music and speech in noise is a very challenging task for neurocomputational and speech recognition models. In this paper, we present a model of interacting neural ensembles which includes a top-down modulation of the peripheral system dynamics, based on bottom-up perceptual predictions. This bi-directional processing could enable the detection of sudden changes in the input sounds in noise; advancing in the understanding of how listeners can improve their perception by focusing their attention. Our preliminary work opens the possibility of developing a pioneering class of neurophysiological-based speech processors for cochlear implants and speech recognition devices under degraded conditions. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.