Articles
DreaM: A Computational Pipeline for Enhanced Short-Read Sequence Analysis in Repetitive Genomic Regions
bioRxiv – November 12, 2024
Summary
Short-read sequencing often struggles with repetitive genomic regions like centromeres, leading to potential misinterpretations. A new computational pipeline effectively removes duplicates and refines data, resulting in clearer detection of DNA-protein interactions. This innovation enhances our ability to study these complex areas accurately.
Abstract
Mapping short sequencing reads to repetitive genomic regions, such as centromeres, presents significant challenges, primarily due to PCR duplicates...
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Modified-Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction as a Treatment for Cognitive Recovery in Patients with Minor Stroke: a Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
medRxiv – November 11, 2024
Summary
Engaging in mindfulness can significantly aid cognitive recovery after a minor stroke. A pilot study tested a modified mindfulness program, revealing that participants showed notable improvements in attention and concentration. This promising approach highlights the potential of mindfulness as a valuable tool for cognitive rehabilitation.
Abstract
Background Well-developed rehabilitation paradigms exist for post-stroke language and motor impairments. However, no such recovery program has been...
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Transfer learning and DNA language models enhance transcription factor binding predictions
bioRxiv – November 08, 2024
Summary
Understanding how genes are regulated is crucial, yet traditional methods to identify transcription factor binding sites can be limited. By using advanced computational techniques, researchers developed a model that significantly enhances prediction accuracy. This approach combines DNA accessibility data with innovative machine learning strategies, achieving impressive results across various cell types and previously unseen transcription factors.
Abstract
Identification of in vivo transcription factor (TF) binding sites is crucial to understand gene regulatory networks, but the lack of scalability in...
Transdiagnostic alterations in white matter microstructure associated with suicidal thoughts and behaviours in the ENIGMA Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviours consortium
medRxiv – November 07, 2024
Summary
Research reveals that changes in white matter microstructure may play a role in suicidal thoughts and behaviors. A large analysis by the ENIGMA consortium found consistent alterations linked to these thoughts and actions, enhancing our understanding of their underlying neural mechanisms. This insight could inform future interventions and support strategies.
Abstract
Previous studies have suggested that alterations in white matter (WM) microstructure are implicated in suicidal thoughts and behaviours (STBs). How...
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Long-term effects of psilocybin on dynamic and effectivity connectivity of fronto-striatal-thalamic circuits
bioRxiv – November 06, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin not only provides immediate mental health benefits but also leads to lasting changes in brain connectivity. This study reveals that, weeks after administration, psilocybin enhances the flexibility of fronto-striatal-thalamic circuits, improving goal-directed behavior. These changes may help treat conditions like depression and substance abuse.
Abstract
Psilocybin has been shown to induce fast and sustained improvements in mental well-being across various populations, yet its long-term mechanisms o...
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Pyramidal cell types and 5-HT2A receptors are essential for psilocybin’s lasting drug action
bioRxiv – November 02, 2024
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, a promising treatment for mental health issues, enhances the growth of specific brain cells linked to stress relief. Researchers discovered that one type of pyramidal cell is crucial for this effect, while a receptor called 5-HT2A is vital for psilocybin’s lasting benefits. This highlights the drug's transformative potential in therapy.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a serotonergic psychedelic with therapeutic potential for treating mental illnesses1–4. At the cellular level, psychedelics induce st...
Health benefits of a five-day at-home modified fasting program: a randomised controlled trial
medRxiv – November 01, 2024
Summary
Imagine achieving significant health benefits from just five days of modified fasting at home. Researchers explored a low-calorie, ketogenic program and found it effectively improved cardiometabolic health, similar to prolonged fasting. Participants experienced positive metabolic changes, highlighting fasting's potential for better well-being.
Abstract
Background Fasting has been shown to be one of the most cost-effective methods to improve cardiometabolic health. We studied a 5-day hypocaloric (∼...
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Ayahuasca-Inspired DMT/HAR Formulation Reduces Brain Differentiation Between Self and Other Faces
medRxiv – October 28, 2024
Summary
Research reveals that a formulation inspired by ayahuasca can blur the lines between recognizing oneself and others. By examining brain responses to faces, the study found that participants experienced reduced differentiation when under the influence of DMT. This suggests psychedelics may enhance social connection and empathy.
Abstract
Background Psychedelics are known to profoundly alter perception and self-referential processing, yet their specific effects on face recognition—a ...
Multisensory integration in Peripersonal Space indexes consciousness states in sleep and disorders of consciousness
bioRxiv – October 25, 2024
Summary
Did you know that our awareness of the world around us is closely tied to how our brain processes sensory information about our body? Researchers discovered a neural marker linked to this process, revealing that multisensory integration in our immediate space can indicate conscious states. Using EEG, they found this marker present during dreams and conscious wakefulness but absent in unconscious states. Remarkably, it also predicted recovery outcomes in patients with consciousness disorders, highlighting its potential as a key indicator of conscious experience.
Abstract
Conscious experience encompasses not only the awareness of external objects, but also a phenomenal representation of the embodied subject of the ex...
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High-precision neurofeedback-guided meditation training optimises real-world self-guided meditation practice for well-being
bioRxiv – October 25, 2024
Summary
Personalized neurofeedback can significantly enhance meditation practices, especially for beginners. In a study with novice meditators, those using tailored feedback improved their ability to disengage from distracting thoughts, leading to better emotional well-being and mindfulness during self-guided meditation. This approach shows great promise for optimizing meditation benefits.
Abstract
Meditation can benefit well-being and mental health, but novices often struggle to effectively recognize and disengage from mental processes during...
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Artificial intelligence networks combining histopathology and machine learning can extract axon pathology in autism spectrum disorder
bioRxiv – October 25, 2024
Summary
Research reveals that axon structures in the brain differ significantly between neurotypical individuals and those with autism. By harnessing machine learning, scientists developed a method to analyze brain tissue more efficiently, achieving 98% accuracy in classifying white matter regions. This innovative approach promises to enhance our understanding of autism-related brain changes.
Abstract
Axon features that underlie the structural and functional organization of cortical pathways have distinct patterns in the brains of neurotypical co...
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Meditation in the third-person perspective modulates minimal self and heartbeat-evoked potentials
bioRxiv – October 24, 2024
Summary
Meditation can transform our sense of self, allowing practitioners to feel detached from their bodies and concerns. In a study using virtual reality, participants experienced guided meditation from either a third-person or first-person perspective. Those in the third-person reported greater disconnection and showed distinct neural responses, indicating a fascinating link between meditation and our perception of self.
Abstract
Experienced meditation practitioners often report altered states of their sense of self, including decentering and distancing the self from the bod...
Psilocybin Reduces Grooming in the SAPAP3 Knockout Mouse Model of Compulsive Behaviour
bioRxiv – October 23, 2024
Summary
Recent findings reveal that psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, effectively reduces compulsive grooming behaviors in a mouse model. This study highlights psilocybin's potential as a novel treatment for compulsive disorders, offering hope for those who struggle with current medications that often fall short and come with side effects.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a serotonergic psychedelic compound which shows promise for treating compulsive behaviours. This is particularly pertinent as compuls...
Neural Correlates of Psychedelic, Sleep, and Sedated States Support Global Theories of Consciousness
bioRxiv – October 23, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics increase global brain connectivity while reducing local neural synchrony, suggesting that consciousness arises from widespread brain interactions. In contrast, sleep and deep sedation show the opposite pattern. These findings support theories of consciousness that emphasize global network dynamics over localized brain activity, uniting differing theoretical perspectives.
Abstract
Understanding neural mechanisms of consciousness remains a challenging question in neuroscience. A central debate in the field concerns whether con...
Functional yeast promoter sequence design using temporal convolutional generative language models
bioRxiv – October 22, 2024
Summary
Controlling gene expression is vital for many biological processes. A new approach harnesses advanced deep learning to design synthetic yeast promoter sequences effectively. This method, called Gen-DNA-TCN, generates diverse sequences that mimic real ones, paving the way for innovative applications in synthetic DNA design.
Abstract
Promoter sequence design is the key to accurately control gene expression processes that play a crucial role in biological systems. Thanks to the r...
The forgotten psychedelic: Spatiotemporal mapping of brain organisation following the administration of 2C-B and psilocybin
bioRxiv – October 22, 2024
Summary
Recent findings suggest that 2C-B, a lesser-known psychedelic, may enhance brain connectivity more effectively than psilocybin, with fewer negative effects. By using advanced imaging techniques on healthy volunteers, researchers discovered that both substances improved brain complexity and connectivity, positioning 2C-B as a promising candidate for future therapeutic applications.
Abstract
As psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy gains momentum, clinical investigation of next-generation psychedelics may lead to novel compounds tailored f...
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Strategies to Reduce Hyperglycemia-Related Anxiety in Elite Athletes with Type 1 Diabetes: A Qualitative Analysis
medRxiv – October 19, 2024
Summary
Elite athletes with type 1 diabetes often face anxiety linked to fluctuating blood sugar levels, which can impact their performance. This study explores effective strategies they use to manage hyperglycemia-related anxiety during competitions. Findings reveal that tailored routines and mental techniques significantly enhance their confidence and focus, leading to better outcomes.
Abstract
Objective Managing blood glucose levels is challenging for elite athletes with type 1 diabetes (T1D) as competition can cause unpredictable fluctua...
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The non-hallucinogenic serotonin 1B receptor is necessary for the antidepressant-like effects of psilocybin in mice
bioRxiv – October 18, 2024
Summary
Excitingly, a non-hallucinogenic serotonin receptor plays a crucial role in the antidepressant effects of psilocybin. Researchers found that mice lacking this receptor showed diminished positive responses to psilocybin, highlighting its importance in enhancing mood and reducing anxiety. This discovery opens new avenues for effective depression treatments.
Abstract
Recent studies highlight the promising use of psychedelic therapies for psychiatric disorders, including depression. The persisting clinical effect...
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Nonlinear EEG Analysis for Distinguishing Mind Wandering and Focused Attention: A Machine Learning Approach
bioRxiv – October 18, 2024
Summary
Did you know that our brains can be analyzed to tell if we're daydreaming or focused? By examining EEG data, researchers successfully distinguished between mind wandering and focused attention using advanced machine learning. They achieved an impressive 75% accuracy, highlighting the potential of brain activity analysis in understanding our mental states.
Abstract
This study uses nonlinear analysis techniques to distinguish between mind wandering (MW) and focused attention (FA) states using EEG data. EEG reco...
Bio-medical Big Data Operating System (Bio-OS): An Integrated Data Mining Environment for Data Intensive Scientific Research
bioRxiv – October 17, 2024
Summary
High throughput sequencing has transformed life sciences, but integrating vast data remains challenging. An innovative open-source platform streamlines this process by organizing data, tools, and environments into user-friendly workspaces. It enhances reproducibility, supports advanced analytics, and promotes collaboration, paving the way for impactful biomedical research.
Abstract
The advent of high throughput sequencing has ushered life science and clinical research into the era of big data, posing significant challenges for...
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A survey investigating United States federal grant submissions proposing to investigate therapeutic applications of psychedelics
medRxiv – October 12, 2024
Summary
Interest in psychedelics for therapeutic use is growing, with federal grant applications increasing since 2006. A survey revealed that while only 16.7% of all submissions were funded, recent applications show a promising funding rate close to the NIH average. Researchers feel the funding landscape is improving for this innovative field.
Abstract
This study surveyed researchers to assess the contents and funding success of federal grant applications for research into therapeutic applications...
Human brain changes after first psilocybin use
bioRxiv – October 11, 2024
Summary
A single high dose of psilocybin can lead to lasting positive changes in brain function and well-being. In a study with 28 participants, significant improvements in cognitive flexibility and psychological insight were observed one month after use. Brain imaging revealed structural changes linked to enhanced emotional health, showcasing psilocybin's potential benefits.
Abstract
Psychedelics have robust effects on acute brain function and long-term behavior but whether they also cause enduring functional and anatomical brai...
Snapshot of 5-HT2A receptor activation in the mouse brain via IP1 detection
bioRxiv – October 11, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin activate a specific brain receptor linked to their unique effects. Researchers developed a method to measure this activation in mouse brains, revealing that certain drugs, including MDMA, impact receptor activity differently. This innovative approach enhances understanding of how psychedelics work.
Abstract
The distinct subjective effects that define psychedelics such as LSD, psilocybin or DOI as drug class are causally linked to activation of the sero...
Complex slow waves radically reorganise human brain dynamics under 5-MeO-DMT
bioRxiv – October 04, 2024
Summary
Inhaling a high dose of 5-MeO-DMT leads to profound changes in brain activity, disrupting typical patterns and creating a unique state of neural flow. This study reveals how the drug transforms low-frequency brain waves into complex, unstable patterns, offering new insights into its effects on consciousness and brain dynamics.
Abstract
5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a psychedelic drug known for its uniquely profound effects on subjective experience, reliably eradi...
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Measurement of doctor wellbeing prior to the Covid pandemic: a methodological systematic review
medRxiv – October 03, 2024
Summary
Before the Covid-19 pandemic, doctors' wellbeing was often overlooked. This review highlights various positive wellbeing outcomes measured in physicians and evaluates the tools used to assess their mental health. Understanding these metrics can enhance support for healthcare professionals, ensuring their wellbeing is prioritized.
Abstract
Objectives Attention has been focused on health professional during and after the Covid-19 pandemic, but relatively little is known about wellbeing...
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The Role of Interoception in Lifestyle Factors: A Systematic Review
medRxiv – October 02, 2024
Summary
Understanding our body's internal signals, known as interoception, can significantly influence lifestyle choices. This review highlights how better awareness of these signals can improve health behaviors, such as diet and exercise. By tuning into our body's cues, we can enhance well-being and promote healthier habits effectively.
Abstract
Background Interoception, the perception of the internal state of the body, offers an underrepresented and intriguing potential avenue for altering...
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Psilocybin prevents habituation to familiar stimuli and preserves sensitivity to sound following repeated stimulation in mouse primary auditory cortex
bioRxiv – September 27, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a compound from mushrooms known for its mind-altering effects, shows promise in enhancing sensory perception. In mice, it prevented the usual decline in responsiveness to repeated sounds, keeping their auditory sensitivity intact. This suggests psilocybin disrupts typical sensory processing, potentially aiding conditions like tinnitus.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a psychoactive substance derived from fungi, has been utilized historically by diverse cultures for both medicinal and non-medicinal pu...
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The oneirogen hypothesis: modeling the hallucinatory effects of classical psychedelics in terms of replay-dependent plasticity mechanisms
bioRxiv – September 27, 2024
Summary
Classical psychedelics can create vivid, dream-like hallucinations, reflecting a unique state of perception. This study introduces the oneirogen hypothesis, suggesting these effects arise from altered neural states resembling dreaming. By simulating psychedelic impacts on neural networks, researchers observed enhanced synaptic plasticity and variability in responses, revealing fascinating insights into how these substances transform perception.
Abstract
Classical psychedelics induce complex visual hallucinations in humans, generating percepts that are co-herent at a low level, but which have surrea...
A Wearable Mindfulness Brain–Computer Interface for Alleviating Car Sickness
bioRxiv – September 25, 2024
Summary
Car sickness affects many travelers, but a new wearable device offers hope. This innovative brain-computer interface uses AI to guide users through mindfulness meditation, helping them shift focus away from discomfort. In trials, over 84% of participants reported reduced symptoms, marking a promising non-drug solution for this common issue.
Abstract
Car sickness, an enormous vehicular travel challenge, affects a significant pro-portion of the population. Pharmacological interventions are limite...
Premorbid Characteristics of the SAPAP3-Mouse Model of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Behavior, Neuroplasticity, and Psilocybin Treatment
bioRxiv – September 22, 2024
Summary
SAPAP3-knockout mice, a model for obsessive-compulsive disorder, show signs of anxiety before developing compulsive grooming behaviors. This study explored their juvenile anxiety responses to psilocybin treatment and examined key proteins linked to brain plasticity. Remarkably, psilocybin reduced anxiety and promoted positive changes in neuroplasticity, highlighting its potential therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
Background SAPAP3-knockout (KO) mice develop excessive self-grooming behavior at 4-6 months of age, serving as a model for obsessive-compulsive dis...