Independent features form integrated objects: Using a novel shape-color “conjunction task” to reconstruct memory resolution for multiple object features simultaneously

Though much progress has been made to understand feature integration, debate remains regarding how objects are represented in mind based on their constituent features. Here, we advance this debate by introducing a novel shape-color “conjunction task” to reconstruct memory resolution for multiple object features simultaneously. In a first experiment, we replicated and extended a classic change detection paradigm using our task. Replicating previous work, memory resolution for individual features was reduced when the number of objects increased, regardless of the number of to-be-remembered features. Extending previous work, we found that high resolution memory near perfect in resemblance to the target was selectively impacted by the number of to-be-remembered features. Applying a statistical model of stochastic dependence, we found evidence primarily for integration of low-resolution feature memories, but less evidence for integration of high-resolution feature memories. These results suggest a resolution trade-off, such that memory resolution for individual features can be higher when those features are represented independently compared to when those features are integrated. In a second experiment which manipulated the nature of distracting information, we examined whether object features were directly bound to each other or by virtue of shared spatial location. Feature integration was disrupted by distractors sharing visual features of target objects but not disrupted when distractors shared spatial location – suggesting that feature integration was driven by direct binding between shape and color features. Our results constrain theoretical models of object representation, providing empirical support for hierarchical representations of both integrated and independent features.

THE ROLE OF HISTORICAL WORKS IN THE STUDY OF ALISHER NAVOI'S BIOGRAPHY

The life and work of the creators are naturally studied in connection with the historical and literary environment of the period in which he lived. In some places, it is expedient to compare the artists with their contemporaries, and in some places, the attitude of their fans, and vice versa, to give information about their opponents. In order to inform students about the biography of the artist, the teacher will need to study the most important information, use the necessary methodological manuals and literature in order to make the lesson meaningful and interesting. In particular, the use of memoirs written by his contemporaries, architectural works, or memoirs and letters written by the artist about himself, also provides a meaningful lesson. Either the works created by the artist also in some sense complement the information about his personality. Key words and phrases: Alisher Navoi's way of life. Hasbu hol. Architectural work. Memory of contemporaries. Tazkiranavislik. Historical sources. Translation hol. Autobiographical work. Textbook "Literature". Method of teaching and explanation.

The Restorative Effect of the Presence of Greenery on the Classroom in Children’s Cognitive Performance

Studies developed in a scholar context report a restorative effect of nature on human beings, specifically in terms of the psychological recovery from attention fatigue and restored mental resources that were previously spent in activities that require attention. Studies usually compare the performance of children in schools with or without access to green spaces. In this study, the effect of introducing greenery into the classroom context was compared across time. The experiment was developed in two primary schools with pupils in different socioeconomic contexts, at three moments: before introducing an artificial green wall into the classroom, one month later, and one month after the introduction of vegetable pots. Results showed a significant increase in sustained and selective attention, and work memory between the experimental and the control group, notably in the third moment when vegetable pots were introduced. In the second moment (green walls), only the work memory (tested with the inversed number) showed a significant effect. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed in terms of nature’s role both in terms of natural and artificial elements and the cumulative effect of direct interaction with natural elements.

Animal work, memory, and interspecies care: police horses in multispecies urban imaginaries

Mounted police units around the world have entered social media, with the aim of bringing the police closer to the public. In this paper, I analyze the Facebook page of the mounted police in the city of Helsinki, the capital of Finland. I ask how equine agency, animal work, interspecies care, and the relational networks of memory are interpreted, communicated, and performed on social media, contributing to the co-production of urban imaginaries. I approach the material as performances of animality and human–animal relations, concentrating on shared interpretations and representations of the horses and their agency. To be able to analyze human–animal encounters and interaction in urban space as they are experienced, imagined, remembered, and collectively shared, I suggest a novel concept of multispecies urban imaginary. Developing the concept widens the focus of understanding the multispecies nature of urban environments and includes animals in the experiences and perceptions of city space – where they belong.

Cognitive stimulation in people with mental disorders in the community: an integrative review

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze Cognitive Stimulation techniques effectiveness in the community and at home, in people with stabilized mental illness and their families. Method: an Integrative Literature Review, with inclusion criteria for primary studies that assess the Cognitive Stimulation techniques effectiveness in people with stable mental illness, older than 18 years, in the community and at home. Six articles were selected. Results: improvement of cognitive abilities such as attention, work memory and executive functions was observed. No conceptual differences or results were found among Cognitive Stimulation programs for people with different pathologies; computer tools are increasingly being used; sample size is limiting gain analysis; the nurse’s role has not been clarified; family gains were not studied. Final considerations: the results obtained in this review reveal the need to know more about the theme.

BODY MASS INDEX AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION DECLINE

Body composition has been proposed as an important modifiable risk factor of cognitive decline in multiple epidemiological studies. However, the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and cognitive function remains controversial and conflicting in diverse populations. This study aims to investigate the association between BMI and cognitive decline in U.S. Chinese older adults. Classifications of BMI are based on Asian criteria recommended by WHO (underweight: BMI<18.5, normal weight: 18.5≤BMI<23, overweight: 23≤bmi<27.5, obesity: bmi≥27.5). Logistic regression models were conducted. Compared with normal-weight participants, underweight participants were more likely to experience decline in episodic memory (OR=1.68, p=0.002) and work memory (OR=1.38, p=0.05). Being overweight and obesity were not associated with cognitive function decline. The findings indicate that underweight could potentially be a risk factor of cognitive function decline among U.S. Chinese older adults. Perspective studies may further investigate the association between weight loss and cognitive decline for the development of prevention strategies.