Distinct neural computations scale the violation of expected reward and emotion in social transgressions.

Traditional decision-making models conceptualize humans as adaptive learners utilizing the differences between expected and actual rewards (prediction errors, PEs) to maximize outcomes, but rarely consider the influence of violations of emotional expectations (emotional PEs) and how it differs from reward PEs. Here, we conducted a fMRI experiment (n = 43) using a modified Ultimatum Game to examine how reward and emotional PEs affect punishment decisions in terms of rejecting unfair offers. Our results revealed that reward relative to emotional PEs exerted a stronger prediction to punishment decisions.

The pharmacodynamic modulation effect of oxytocin on resting state functional connectivity network topology.

Introduction: Neuroimaging studies have demonstrated that intranasal oxytocin has extensive effects on the resting state functional connectivity of social and emotional processing networks and may have therapeutic potential. However, the extent to which intranasal oxytocin modulates functional connectivity network topology remains less explored, with inconsistent findings in the existing literature. To address this gap, we conducted an exploratory data-driven study.

How does oxytocin modulate human behavior?

While the highly evolutionarily conserved hypothalamic neuropeptide, oxytocin (OT) can influence cognitive, emotional and social functions, and may have therapeutic potential in disorders with social dysfunction, it is still unclear how it acts. Here, we review the most established findings in both animal model and human studies regarding stimuli which evoke OT release, its primary functional effects and the mechanisms whereby exogenous administration influences brain and behavior. We also review progress on whether OT administration can improve social symptoms in autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia and consider possible impediments to translational success.

Neural underpinnings of a two-phase memory suppression process in the neural response to self-related and observed perspective views.

Individuals often actively suppress intrusive memories to alleviate the distress they cause and maintain mental well-being. However, those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often exhibit difficulties particularly in inhibiting or suppressing negative memories compared to individuals without PTSD. These memories can involve a physical threat either to the individual themselves or to others.

Identifying brain targets for real-time fMRI neurofeedback in chronic pain: insights from functional neurosurgery.

Background: The lack of clearly defined neuromodulation targets has contributed to the inconsistent results of real-time fMRI-based neurofeedback (rt-fMRI-NF) for the treatment of chronic pain. Functional neurosurgery (funcSurg) approaches have shown more consistent effects in reducing pain in patients with severe chronic pain.

Objective: This study aims to redefine rt-fMRI-NF targets for chronic pain management informed by funcSurg studies.