Articles
Acute psilocybin and ketanserin effects on cerebral blood flow: 5-HT2AR neuromodulation in healthy humans
medRxiv – September 19, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a psychedelic linked to potential mental health benefits, significantly impacts cerebral blood flow (CBF) in healthy individuals. In a study, researchers found that psilocybin reduced CBF by about 11.5%, while the antagonist ketanserin had no notable effect. This highlights psilocybin's unique role in brain function modulation.
Abstract
Psilocin, the active metabolite of psilocybin, is a psychedelic and agonist at the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) that has shown positive therapeu...
The effects of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) on sleep quality improvement in adolescents
medRxiv – September 14, 2024
Summary
Recent findings highlight that ASMR can significantly enhance sleep quality in adolescents facing sleep challenges. By examining high school students, researchers discovered that listening to ASMR content improved relaxation and reduced anxiety, leading to better sleep. This innovative approach offers a promising solution for improving adolescent well-being.
Abstract
Background In recent years, there has been a notable surge in sleep-related challenges among adolescents. The emergence of Autonomous Sensory Merid...
Meta-awareness, mind-wandering, and the control of ‘default’ external and internal orientations of attention
bioRxiv – September 13, 2024
Summary
Our attention shifts based on context: when engaging with less interesting tasks, we tend to drift into our thoughts. In a study using brain imaging, participants showed more mind-wandering during repetitive videos or engaging internal tasks. This highlights how both internal and external distractions influence focus, revealing the dynamic nature of our attention.
Abstract
The “default mode” of cognition usually refers to an automatic tendency to simulate past, future, and hypothetical experiences, rather than attendi...
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Mindfulness-based Neurofeedback: A Systematic Review of EEG and fMRI studies
bioRxiv – September 12, 2024
Summary
Neurofeedback combined with mindfulness meditation shows promise for enhancing mental health by influencing brain activity. A review of EEG and fMRI studies found that while neurofeedback can reduce activity in key brain networks, the positive effects on mental well-being are not yet fully confirmed. Overall, this approach holds exciting potential for future therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Neurofeedback concurrent with mindfulness meditation may reveal meditation effects on the brain and facilitate improved mental health outcomes. Her...
Psilocybin alters brain activity related to sensory and cognitive processing in a time-dependent manner
medRxiv – September 09, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, known for its mood-enhancing effects, alters brain activity in fascinating ways. A study with 20 participants revealed that this psychedelic impacts sensory and cognitive processing over time. Initial increases in brain signal diversity were noted, alongside changes in connectivity and perception, suggesting a profound link between brain activity and personal experiences during the trip.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a classic psychedelic and a novel treatment for mood disorders. Psilocybin induces dose-dependent transient (4-6 hours) usually pleas...
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The induction of dissociative states: A meta-analysis
medRxiv – September 09, 2024
Summary
Dissociative states, where awareness and perception become fragmented, can arise in various psychiatric conditions. This study reveals that different experimental methods effectively induce these states, highlighting their potential for research and therapeutic applications. Understanding these techniques could enhance treatment strategies for affected individuals.
Abstract
Objective Dissociative states, characterised by discontinuities in awareness and perception, occur in a diverse array of psychiatric disorders and ...
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The serotonergic psychedelic DOI impairs deviance detection in the auditory cortex
bioRxiv – September 06, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics can reshape our perception, and recent findings reveal how one compound affects our auditory processing. In awake mice, the psychedelic DOI heightened variability in neural responses while blurring the lines between expected and unexpected sounds. This suggests that DOI dampens the brain's ability to detect surprising auditory changes, offering insights into how such substances alter sensory experiences.
Abstract
Psychedelics are known to induce profound perceptual distortions, yet the neural mechanisms underlying these effects, particularly within the audit...
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An online, group Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is acceptable to stroke survivors: A qualitative interview study
medRxiv – September 05, 2024
Summary
Stroke survivors often face mental health challenges, making support crucial. A new online group program, based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, has shown promise. Participants found it engaging and beneficial for emotional adjustment, highlighting its potential as an effective tool for enhancing well-being after stroke.
Abstract
Mental health difficulties are common post-stroke and developing support for psychological adjustment is a research priority. Wellbeing After Strok...
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Assisting focused attention meditation through EEG-based alpha-theta cross-frequency neurofeedback
medRxiv – September 05, 2024
Summary
Imagine enhancing your meditation practice by training your brainwaves! This study explored how real-time monitoring of brain activity can boost focused attention during meditation. Participants trained to regulate alpha and theta rhythms showed improved meditation outcomes, highlighting the potential of neurofeedback in mindfulness practices.
Abstract
Objectives Neurofeedback training involves real-time monitoring and self-regulation of neural activity. Neurofeedback training paradigms have been ...
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Development and Validation of Collaborative Robot-assisted Cutting Method for Iliac Crest Flap Raising: Randomized Crossover Trial
medRxiv – September 04, 2024
Summary
Imagine a surgical method that enhances precision while reducing invasiveness. This study explored a robot-assisted technique for raising iliac crest flaps, aiming to improve on traditional 3D-printed guides. The results showed that this innovative approach is both feasible and accurate, offering surgeons greater flexibility and better patient outcomes.
Abstract
The current gold standard of computer-assisted jaw reconstruction includes raising microvascular bone flaps with patient-specific 3D-printed cuttin...
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Religion and COVID 19 Pandemic for better or for worse?
medRxiv – September 04, 2024
Summary
During the pandemic, many found hope in spirituality. A study explored how COVID-19 patients in Kurunegala used religious practices and personal beliefs to cope with stress. Key themes included adherence to health guidelines and the positive role of fatalism in self-care. Religion emerged as a vital support during these challenging times.
Abstract
COVID-19 has negative repercussions on psychological aspects of the individual. Provision of personalized assistance to each individual is a task w...
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Brain-Body Interactions Influence the Transition from Mind Wandering to Awareness of Ongoing Thought
bioRxiv – September 03, 2024
Summary
Did you know that your body plays a crucial role in shaping your thoughts? This study explores how our physiological states, like heartbeats and breathing, influence our awareness of mind wandering. Researchers found that as people shifted from distraction to focus, specific brain and heart activity patterns emerged, highlighting the connection between body and awareness. Focusing on breathing further enhanced this transition, suggesting that our physical state can help us regain mental clarity.
Abstract
Our thoughts are inherently dynamic and often wander far from our current situation (mind wandering, MW). Although previous research revealed that ...
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Is Personal Experience Essential for Effective Psychedelic Therapists?: The Challenges of Small, Accumulating Therapist Effects.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – September 01, 2024
Summary
Research shows that personal experiences with psychedelics can enhance the effectiveness of therapists in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Clients, particularly from underrepresented groups, value this experiential learning in their guides. While legal barriers limit access for training, allowing these experiences could significantly improve treatment outcomes and therapist effects.
Abstract
Many authors assert that those who provide psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) likely benefit from having personal experiences with psychedelics (PE...
Nurses' Perceptions of Psychedelics to Address Mental Health Problems in the United States.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – September 01, 2024
Summary
Nearly half of surveyed nurses support the decriminalization of psychedelics for mental health treatment. While many are open to their therapeutic use, confidence in knowledge about these substances remains low. As psychedelics gain FDA attention, nursing education will be vital for effective policy and patient care in mental health.
Abstract
To explore nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and perceived social norms about psychedelic use to address mental health conditions. Data were collected ...
Patients' Experiences Discussing Psychedelics for Therapeutic Purposes with Physicians and Other Health Care Providers.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – September 01, 2024
Summary
Around 80% of adults using psychedelics for therapeutic purposes believe in their benefits. However, only 30% discuss these experiences with their physicians, often hindered by stigma and perceived knowledge gaps. Those with mood disorders are more likely to engage in these vital conversations about plant medicine and therapeutic intent.
Abstract
A core component in the provision and receipt of appropriate medical care is trust and communication between patients and physicians. The use of ps...
Temporal dynamics and long-term effects of a mindfulness-based intervention for young adults with adverse childhood experiences.
Mindfulness – September 01, 2024
Summary
Mindfulness-based interventions can significantly improve mental health for young adults with adverse childhood experiences. This study found that after an 8-week program, participants showed long-term reductions in stress, depression, and somatization. Increases in mindfulness were linked to these positive changes, suggesting lasting benefits over time.
Abstract
Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have been shown to be beneficial for young adults with adverse childhood experiences (ACE), but the temporal...
Nucleocytoviricota viral factories are transient organelles made by liquid-liquid phase separation
bioRxiv – September 01, 2024
Summary
Viruses from the diverse Nucleocytoviricota phylum create unique structures called viral factories, crucial for their replication. This study reveals these factories form through a process called liquid-liquid phase separation, driven by specific scaffold proteins. This insight redefines our understanding of viral organization and function.
Abstract
Phase separation is a widespread mechanism in viral processes, mediating replication, host manipulation and virion morphogenesis. The phylum Nucleo...
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The Balanced Mind and its Intrinsic Neural Timescales in Advanced Meditators
bioRxiv – August 29, 2024
Summary
Meditation can enhance mental balance, known as equanimity, which is linked to a unique brain function. Researchers studied advanced meditators and found they exhibited shorter neural response times during focused tasks, indicating a deeper mental state. This suggests that quicker brain processing may reflect a more balanced mindset.
Abstract
A balanced mind, or equanimity, cultivated through meditation and other spiritual practices, is considered one of the highest mental states. Its co...
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A 10 Years Update of Effects of Exercise on Depression Disorders – in otherwise healthy adults: A Systematic Review of Meta-Analyses and Neurobiological Mechanisms
medRxiv – August 28, 2024
Summary
Regular exercise can significantly alleviate depression symptoms in healthy adults. This review highlights that physical activity not only improves mood but also fosters neurobiological changes that support mental well-being. With compelling evidence backing its effectiveness, exercise emerges as a powerful alternative treatment for depression.
Abstract
Background Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses worldwide and is a major burden for those affected. As conventional therapies do n...
Behavioral pharmacology of mescaline - the role of serotonin 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C and 5-HT1A receptors
bioRxiv – August 28, 2024
Summary
Mescaline, a classic psychedelic, shows promise in understanding consciousness through its action on serotonin receptors. This study explores how 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, and 5-HT1A receptors influence its effects. Findings reveal that these receptors play distinct roles in mescaline's behavioral impacts, enhancing our grasp of psychedelics and their potential benefits.
Abstract
Rationale Mescaline is a classical psychedelic compound with a phenylethylamine structure that primarily acts on serotonin 5-HT2A/C receptors, but ...
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Can Psychedelic Use Benefit Meditation Practice? Examining Individual, Psychedelic, and Meditation-Related Factors
medRxiv – August 27, 2024
Summary
Imagine enhancing your meditation practice through psychedelics! This study explored how individual traits and the nature of both psychedelics and meditation influence this synergy. Findings suggest that many meditators feel psychedelics can enrich their experiences, potentially leading to deeper insights and personal growth.
Abstract
Introduction Meditation practice and psychedelic use have attracted increasing attention in the public sphere and scientific research. Both methods...
The results of a study of the causes and correlations between stress and sleep disorders by medical professionals
European Psychiatry – August 27, 2024
Summary
Nearly 44% of medical professionals experience significant stress, impacting their sleep and overall well-being. A study revealed strong links between stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders among doctors. Enhancing coping skills and adopting healthier lifestyles can help alleviate these issues, fostering better mental health in healthcare settings.
Abstract
Introduction Prolonged exposure to stress can adversely affect mental health and lead to mental illness, which can adversely affect the provision ...
Imputation of cancer proteomics data with a deep model that learns from many datasets
bioRxiv – August 26, 2024
Summary
Missing data in cancer proteomics can obscure vital insights, but a new deep learning tool, Lupine, changes that. By learning from multiple datasets, it accurately estimates missing values in protein data from over 1,000 cancer patients. This innovative method enhances the identification of key proteins and improves analysis across various cancer types.
Abstract
Missing values are a major challenge in the analysis of mass spectrometry proteomics data. Missing values hinder reproducibility, decrease statisti...
The phenomenology of psilocybin’s experience mediates subsequent persistent psychological effects independently of sex, previous experience or setting
medRxiv – August 26, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a compound found in certain mushrooms, may lead to lasting psychological benefits. This study reveals that the nature of one’s psilocybin experience significantly influences enduring positive effects, regardless of factors like sex or prior use. The findings highlight psilocybin's potential as a transformative mental health tool.
Abstract
Background Recent studies have intensively explored the potential antidepressant effects of psilocybin. However, important variables such as previo...
Perturbation of de novo lipogenesis hinders MERS-CoV assembly and release, but not the biogenesis of viral replication organelles
bioRxiv – August 21, 2024
Summary
Infection by coronaviruses like MERS-CoV relies heavily on the host's lipid metabolism. This study found that blocking key enzymes in fat production significantly disrupts the virus's ability to release new particles, although it doesn't affect its replication machinery. These insights highlight potential targets for antiviral strategies.
Abstract
Coronaviruses hijack host cell metabolic pathways and resources to support their replication. They induce extensive host endomembrane remodeling to...
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A virtual clinical trial of psychedelics to treat patients with disorders of consciousness
bioRxiv – August 16, 2024
Summary
Disorders of consciousness, like unresponsive wakefulness syndrome, often lack effective treatments. Excitingly, research indicates that psychedelics may offer new hope. By simulating LSD and psilocybin effects on brain models of affected patients, the study found these substances can enhance brain connectivity, particularly benefiting those in a minimally conscious state.
Abstract
Disorders of consciousness (DoC), including the unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) and the minimally conscious state (MCS), have limited treat...
The brain simulates actions and their consequences during REM sleep
bioRxiv – August 13, 2024
Summary
Did you know that during REM sleep, our brains actively simulate actions? Researchers found that in mice, a brain region responsible for movement sends out commands similar to those when awake. These commands shift the brain's perception of direction, suggesting that even in sleep, we mentally engage with our environment.
Abstract
Vivid dreams mostly occur during a phase of sleep called REM1–5. During REM sleep, the brain’s internal representation of direction keeps shifting ...
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Aperiodic neural activity distinguishes between phasic and tonic REM sleep
bioRxiv – August 08, 2024
Summary
Did you know that REM sleep isn't just one uniform phase? This study reveals how aperiodic neural activity can distinguish between two types of REM sleep: phasic and tonic. By analyzing these patterns, researchers found significant differences in brain activity, alertness, and information processing, highlighting the complexity of our sleep.
Abstract
Introduction Traditionally categorized as a uniform sleep phase, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep exhibits substantial heterogeneity with its phasic ...
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Effects of serotonergic psychedelics on synaptogenesis and immediate early genes expression – comparison with ketamine, fluoxetine and lithium
bioRxiv – August 07, 2024
Summary
Recent findings show that serotonergic psychedelics may enhance brain connectivity more effectively than traditional antidepressants. By comparing these substances to ketamine, fluoxetine, and lithium, researchers discovered that psychedelics promote synaptogenesis and activate immediate early genes, suggesting a promising avenue for treating depression.
Abstract
Background Recent evidence suggests that psychedelics are able to induce rapid and long-lasting antidepressant effects. The generally acknowledged ...
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Single-cell differential expression analysis between conditions within nested settings
bioRxiv – August 01, 2024
Summary
By examining gene expression at the single-cell level, researchers can uncover vital biological processes more accurately. This study highlights a novel approach to differential expression analysis that accounts for the interconnectedness of cells, leading to more reliable results and enhancing our understanding of cellular responses in different conditions.
Abstract
Differential expression analysis provides insights into fundamental biological processes and with the advent of single-cell transcriptomics, gene e...