Research has shown that the nucleus basalist neurons are activated shortly after a condition stimulus or after a primary reward. The nucleus basalist is found in the forebrain. In this picture, the nucleus basalist is labeled BF-slash hypothalamus. The nucleus basalist neurons release acetylcholine throughout the cerebral cortex. Acetylcholine is effective at delivering sodium ions which stimulate muscle contractions and excite nerves. When acetylcholine is released after a condition stimulus or a primary reward, it causes the subject to pay attention at that moment. This helps with the learning process. Acety neurons are equally active whether the stimulus is positive or negative and has been demonstrated to cause plasticity in many cortical regions. Evidence also exists that dopamine is activated at similar times. There is also considerable evidence that dopamine participates in both reinforcement and aversion learning. Dopamine helps control the flow of information in your brain. It also provides feelings of pleasure or enjoyment that reinforce a certain behavior.