Learning new sensorimotor contingencies:Effects of long-term use of sensory augmentation on the brain and conscious perception

Theories of embodied cognition propose that perception is shaped by sensory stimuli and by the actions of the organism. Following sensorimotor contingency theory, the mastery of lawful relations between own behavior and resulting changes in sensory signals, called sensorimotor contingencies, is constitutive of conscious perception. Sensorimotor contingency theory predicts that, after training, knowledge relating to new sensorimotor contingencies develops, leading to changes in the activation of sensorimotor systems, and concomitant changes in perception. In the present study, we spell out this hypothesis in detail and investigate whether it is possible to learn new sensorimotor contingencies by sensory augmentation. Specifically, we designed an fMRI compatible sensory augmentation device, the feelSpace belt, which gives orientation information about the direction of magnetic north via vibrotactile stimulation on the waist of participants. In a longitudinal study, participants trained with this belt for seven weeks in natural environment. Our EEG results indicate that training with the belt leads to changes in sleep architecture early in the training phase, compatible with the consolidation of procedural learning as well as increased sensorimotor processing and motor programming. The fMRI results suggest that training entails activity in sensory as well as higher motor centers and brain areas known to be involved in navigation. These neural changes are accompanied with changes in how space and the belt signal are perceived, as well as with increased trust in navigational ability. Thus, our data on physiological processes and subjective experiences are compatible with the hypothesis that new sensorimotor contingencies can be acquired using sensory augmentation

Are there seasonal variations of trace element concentrations (Cd, Pb, Zn) in wood of Fagus trees in Germany?

Hagemeyer J, Lülfsmann A, Perk M, Breckle S-W. Are there seasonal variations of trace element concentrations (Cd, Pb, Zn) in wood of Fagus trees in Germany? Vegetatio. 1992;101(1):55-63.Concentrations of Cd, Pb and Zn were determined in stem wood of beech trees (Fagus sylvatica L.) from 3 sites in northern Germany. Distinct radial distribution patterns of the elements were observed in the xylem. Concentrations of Cd and Pb increased from the youngest, outermost annual rings towards the center of the stem. With Zn intermediate concentrations were observed in the sapwood and higher levels at the center of the stem. Temporal and spatial stability of such distribution patterns in the trunks was investigated. Wood samples taken from the same individual tree in different months of the year were analysed. Marked seasonal variations of mineral concentrations were observed. Also the shape of the distribution patterns of the elements varied with the season. Such variations were larger than those observed with samples taken simultaneously from different sides of the trunk. Furthermore, Pb concentrations in the stem showed variations with height above ground. The results indicate, that radial distribution patterns of Cd, Pb and Zn in xylem rings of beech are not stable. Biomonitoring trace element pollution levels by analysis of beech wood is, thus, questionable. To obtain a reliable historical record of pollution from tree rings, the distribution patterns should be stable over a long period of time. This basic requirement of the dendroanalytical method does not hold for the examined beech. Still, with other tree species and under more favourable conditions the dendroanalytical biomonitoring method may prove valuable

Brain imaging in RBD.

Neuroimaging studies can provide in vivo insights to the early structural and functional brain changes in patients with idiopathic RBD (iRBD) and may help give a prognosis of disease course. This chapter summarizes the major findings of neuroimaging studies in iRBD, a specific prodromal stage of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and other α-synucleinopathies. Molecular imaging techniques, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and transcranial sonography (TCS) are all discussed