Article
Article
Neural network
Article By:
Gustafson, David A. Department of Computing and Information Science, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas.
Last reviewed:February 2018
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.449750
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- Neural network, published June 2014:Download PDF
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A computer program that simulates the behavior of a set of neurons responsible for the mental activities of humans; also known as an artificial neural network (ANN). In humans and other animals, sets of a particular kind of cells, called neurons, analyze information and transmit commands throughout the body. The human brain contains billions of neurons. Each neuron has connections, called synapses, which allow inputs from other neurons. The neuron takes these inputs and, if appropriate, creates a signal pulse that travels down fibers called axons to synapses with other neurons. Some synapses encourage the next neuron to fire. Other synapses are inhibitory; they tend to prevent the next neuron from firing. These collections of neurons are responsible for the mental activities of humans. See also: Information processing (psychology); Learning; Neurobiology
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