How the magnitude and precision of pain predictions shape pain experiences.

Background: In Bayesian models including predictive processing, the magnitude and precision of pain expectancies are key determinants of perception. However, relatively few studies have directly tested whether this holds for pain, and results so far have been inconclusive. Here, we investigated expectancy effects on pain experiences and associated affective responses.

How should uncertainty about upcoming painful procedures be communicated? An experimental study into highly uncertain pain predictions.

Objective: Uncertainty is unavoidable in the context of painful medical procedures. It is important to investigate the impact of different ways of communicating uncertainty on upcoming pain.

Methods: In our exploratory study, healthy participants (n = 30) were repeatedly presented with three highly uncertain pain predictions communicated by a hypothetical doctor.

Influencing the Insulin System by Placebo Effects in Patients With Diabetes Type 2 and Healthy Controls: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate whether placebo effect induced by pharmacological conditioning with intranasal insulin can affect glucose, insulin, C-peptide, hunger, and memory in patients with diabetes type 2 and healthy controls.

Methods: Placebo effect was induced by pharmacological conditioning. Thirty-two older patients (mean age = 68.