Title
Toward Rigorous Parameterization of Underconstrained Neural Network Models Through Interactive Visualization and Steering of Connectivity Generation.
Abstract
Simulation models in many scientific fields can have non-unique solutions or unique solutions which can be difficult to find. Moreover, in evolving systems, unique final state solutions can be reached by multiple different trajectories. Neuroscience is no exception. Often, neural network models are subject to parameter fitting to obtain desirable output comparable to experimental data. Parameter fitting without sufficient constraints and a systematic exploration of the possible solution space can lead to conclusions valid only around local minima or around non-minima. To address this issue, we have developed an interactive tool for visualizing and steering parameters in neural network simulation models. In this work, we focus particularly on connectivity generation, since finding suitable connectivity configurations for neural network models constitutes a complex parameter search scenario. The development of the tool has been guided by several use cases-the tool allows researchers to steer the parameters of the connectivity generation during the simulation, thus quickly growing networks composed of multiple populations with a targeted mean activity. The flexibility of the software allows scientists to explore other connectivity and neuron variables apart from the ones presented as use cases. With this tool, we enable an interactive exploration of parameter spaces and a better understanding of neural network models and grapple with the crucial problem of non-unique network solutions and trajectories. In addition, we observe a reduction in turn around times for the assessment of these models, due to interactive visualization while the simulation is computed.
Year
DOI
Venue
2018
10.3389/fninf.2018.00032
FRONTIERS IN NEUROINFORMATICS
Keywords
Field
DocType
simulation and modeling,neural networks,structural plasticity,interactive systems,high performance computing,visualization software
Use case,Parametrization,Supercomputer,Computer science,Maxima and minima,Software,Interactive visualization,Artificial intelligence,Software visualization,Artificial neural network,Machine learning
Journal
Volume
ISSN
Citations 
12
1662-5196
1
PageRank 
References 
Authors
0.35
23
7
Name
Order
Citations
PageRank
Christian Nowke1202.31
Sandra Diaz-Pier232.09
Benjamin Weyers36422.95
Bernd Hentschel4163.21
Abigail Morrison576153.95
Torsten W. Kuhlen6275.98
Alexander Peyser752.11