The relationship between memory and choices following non-reinforced behavioral change

This project focuses on the role of memory processes in value-based decision-making. It is conducted in collaboration with the lab of Prof. Daphna Shohamy from Columbia University in NYC. We are using the non-reinforced cue-approach paradigm to study how memory is related to choices. We are testing choices, memory modifications and most importantly the relationships between memory and choices, following cue-approach training. We hypothesized that preference changes induced by cue-approach training are based on enhancement of memory accessibility, leading to greater preferences toward cued items by enhancing accessibility of their positive associative memories. (Rotem Botvinik-Nezer)

Narps: Neuroimaging Analysis Replication and Prediction Study

The goal of this study is to estimate the variability of neuroimaging results across analysis teams. We collected fMRI data from n=108 participants on two versions of the mixed gambles task. For the data analysis, analysis teams were given the raw data and nine pre-defined hypotheses regarding specific fMRI activity in specific brain regions, based on previous results with the task. Analysis teams were asked to independently and freely analyze the data to answer these nine hypotheses. The main outcome variable will be the number of teams reporting a statistically significant whole-brain corrected result for each hypothesis. Moreover, we will run prediction markets for all hypotheses, providing an estimate of peer beliefs about the results. (Rotem Botvinik-Nezer)

For more information see: https://www.narps.info

CAT with Faces – fMRI study

Using fMRI we aim to uncover underlying plasticity processes induced by CAT with faces.  (Tom Salomon)

Effort and Motivation

The lab has obtained the Biopac package to collect physiological measurements. In this project we will use a dynamometer to test how physical force can be used to induce long lasting behavioral changes. This ecologically valid tool mimics exertion of physical force in the real world and can thus be used in controlled laboratory settings to test how effort influences behaiovral change. (Nadav Aridan)

Value Representation and Change of Primary Reinforcers

This project focuses on human (mal) adaptive eating behavior. Every day, people choose to eat unhealthy food, despite being aware of severely damaging consequences, such as diabetes and heart disease. Many remain captives by primal behavior, despite technological and scientific advances of our time, even despite their own better judgment. I study the neural and behavioral processes of decision making, with emphasis on the comparison of different behavioral change interventions, and the exploration of sensory vs. value representations of tastes. I believe the key to effective interventions is understanding such behaviors. This way we can help people regain control of their well-being. (Shiran Oren)

Language and Representation

In this project we aim to explore the role of underlying decision-making processes in fluent reading. We practice the field of computational psychiatry (specifically tendency to depression) by exploring various aspects of representation, decision making and attention during fluent reading. The study incorporates natural language processing (NLP) tools to establish objective measures and by combining it with physiological and neural measures our goal is to characterise yet to be unveiled attributes of language understanding and semantics. (Oren Kobo)

Individualized learning and the underlying neural mechanism

Characterizing habit learning in the human brain at the individual and group levels (using multi-modal MRI methods)

This project focuses on characterizing the formation and manifestation of habits in humans. We are particularly interested in the transition from goal-directed to habitual action control (through repetitive training). We use behavioral, physiological and multi-modal MRI methods in a well-powered sample. Specifically, we try to (1) replicate the substantial neurobehavioral findings of Tricomi et al. (2009), to date the only study that has demonstrated habit formation through repetitive training, (2) test for functional and microstructural neuroplasticity associated with habit formation and manifestation, (3) investigate the relationships between similar functional and microstructural plasticity and individual habit expression, and (4) try to predict individual tendency to form habits based on functional networks (at resting state). This study has been granted an “in principle acceptance” for a special registered report volume in Neuroimage. (Rani Gera)

The Effect of Value and Arousal on Conscious Awareness