CalTrig: A GUI-based Machine Learning Approach for Decoding Neuronal Calcium Transients in Freely Moving Rodents.

Advances in imaging using miniature microscopes have enabled researchers to study single-neuron activity in freely-moving animals. Tools such as MiniAN and CalmAn have been developed to convert isual signals umerical data, collectively referred to as CalV2N. However, substantial challenges remain in analyzing the large datasets generated by CalV2N, particularly in integrating data streams, evaluating CalV2N output quality, and reliably and efficiently identifying transients.

Decoding Secondary Motor Cortex Neuronal Activity during Cocaine Self-Administration: Insights from Longitudinal Calcium Imaging.

Background: We recently reported that the risk of cocaine relapse is linked to hyperexcitability in the secondary motor cortex (M2) after prolonged withdrawal following intravenous self-administration (IVSA). However, the neuronal mechanisms underlying drug-taking behaviors and the response of M2 neurons to contingent drug delivery remain poorly understood.

Methods: Mice received cocaine as reinforcement (RNF) following active lever presses (ALP) but not inactive lever presses (ILP).