A model based on coupled mechanisms for place recognition, path integration, and maintenance of head direction in rodents replicates a variety of neurophysiological and behavioral data. Here we consider a task described in [Collett et al. 1986] in which gerbils were trained to find food equidistant from three identical landmarks arranged in an equilateral triangle. In probe trials with various manipulations of the landmark array, the model produces behaviors similar to those of the animals. We discuss computer simulations and an implementation of portions of the model on a mobile robot.

Current theories posit that memories encoded during experiences are subsequently consolidated into longer-term storage. Hippocampal sharp-wave-ripple (SWR) events have been linked to this consolidation process during sleep, but SWRs also occur during awake immobility, where their role remains unclear. We report that awake SWR rates at the reward site are inversely related to the prevalence of vicarious trial and error (VTE) behaviors, thought to be involved in deliberation processes. SWR rates were diminished immediately after VTE behaviors and an increase in the rate of SWR events at the reward site predicted a decrease in subsequent VTE behaviors at the choice point. Furthermore, SWR disruptions increased VTE behaviors. These results suggest an inverse relationship between SWRs and VTE behaviors and suggest that awake SWRs and associated planning and memory consolidation mechanisms are engaged specifically in the context of higher levels of behavioral certainty.