Punch line: We found that MPFC theta increased just before trial onset when conflict was expected, revealing a putative mechanism for proactive control!

I future studies will explore and even manipulate this proactive theta signal in MPFC to test causal relevance for cognitive control.
5/5

Interestingly, all these signals were amplified when participants reacted to unexpected conflict, and they were suppressed when they anticipated (common) conflict. Pretty cool to see these canonical conflict signals nearly disappear when proactive control is prepared!
4/5

In both regions, we confirmed classic control signals where conflict boosted theta (4–8 Hz) & local high-frequency activity. We also saw that conflict modulated beta (13–30 Hz) rhythms and suppressed theta after the response.
3/5

Many studies show cognitive control signals in MPFC & LPFC, but how these regions adapt their dynamics when control shifts from reactive (conflict-triggered) to proactive (anticipatory) is less clear.
To study this, we recorded iEEG during proportion congruent manipulations in a Stroop task.
2/5

Ever slam on the brakes after seeing a speed trap? Or better yet, slow down ahead in anticipation?

In our new paper w/ @anask07.bsky.social in @cp-iscience.bsky.social, we use #iEEG to study the neural basis of reactive and proactive control in medial and lateral PFC.
tinyurl.com/4bbwbffv

Funder: "Write a detailed study plan with... descriptions of methods, models, outcome measures, and sample sizes. Clearly identify major risks and pitfalls, and outline alternative strategies to address them."

Also funder: Only 1 page for all clinical and preclinical aims.

Me:

Inspiring to see thousands united and marching down Market St in SF to support workers and oppressed peoples on #MayDay!

Courage is infectious, and many small acts build momentum to collective power 💪💪

Best sign- strong evidence that science works! 😂

Stand Up for Science!!! This is a critical moment for the public to make their voices heard, so please join us in SF or an event near you!

Fri 3/7
1-3pm
San Francisco Civic Plaza
Speeches: Nobel Laureate and more!
#sciencenotsilence #standupforscience2025

www.eventbrite.com/e/stand-up-f...

I had an amazing time at the Winter Brain Research Conference! I learned a lot at this friendly and engaging meeting, including a whole new brain region for me called the parasubthalamic nucleus (it's like extra-limbic STN!) that might inform DBS programming. #WBCR2025

Ahhh, so memory is the real controller, eh? Sounds interesting!

Was digging in an article from 1989 today, and found this ad calling for diversification of reviewers. Nice to see such efforts dating back, but the persistence of the issues underscores how ineffective our efforts have been!