Articles
Time-to-onset and temporal dynamics of EEG during breath-watching meditation
bioRxiv – February 11, 2025
Summary
Engaging in breath-watching meditation can lead to swift improvements in mental clarity and emotional balance. This study explored how quickly brain activity shifts during this practice. By measuring EEG patterns, researchers found significant changes in brain waves shortly after starting meditation, highlighting its immediate benefits for mental well-being.
Abstract
Introduction Mind-body practices, such as meditation, enhance mental well-being. Research studies consistently demonstrate improved brain function ...
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Incorporation of complex narratives into dreaming
bioRxiv – February 11, 2025
Summary
Dreams can actively enhance our memory! This study explored how listening to audiobooks before sleep influences dream content and memory retention. Participants who dreamed about their audiobooks remembered them better, while unrelated experimental elements in dreams hindered recall. The results highlight the connection between dreaming and memory consolidation.
Abstract
Reactivation of waking neuronal activity during sleep holds a functional role in memory consolidation. Reprocessing of daytime memory in dreams mig...
ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL CORRELATES OF CONSCIOUS EXPERIENCES DURING SLEEP: LUCID DREAMS, SLEEP PARALYSIS, OUT-OF-BODY EXPERIENCES, AND FALSE AWAKENINGS
bioRxiv – February 10, 2025
Summary
Did you know that consciousness can re-emerge during sleep? This study explores how lucid dreams, sleep paralysis, out-of-body experiences, and false awakenings are linked to specific brain activity. By analyzing these states, researchers shed light on the fascinating interplay between consciousness and sleep, revealing intriguing neurophysiological patterns.
Abstract
Consciousness does not always fade during sleep. Instead, it can re-emerge, giving rise to lucid dreams (LDs), sleep paralysis (SP), out-of-body ex...
DMT-induced shifts in criticality correlate with ego-dissolution
bioRxiv – February 08, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like DMT can significantly change our perception and brain function. This study reveals that DMT alters brain oscillations, moving them away from a balanced state known as criticality. Notably, this shift correlates with feelings of ego-dissolution, suggesting new insights into how psychedelics influence consciousness.
Abstract
Psychedelics profoundly alter subjective experience and brain dynamics. Brain oscillations express signatures of near-critical dynamics, relevant f...
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Dissociable effects of LSD and MDMA on striato-cortical connectivity in healthy subjects
bioRxiv – February 07, 2025
Summary
LSD and MDMA, popular psychoactive substances, may hold promise for treating mental health issues. This study explored how they affect connectivity in brain regions linked to reward and motivation. By examining healthy subjects, researchers found distinct effects on striatal connectivity, highlighting their unique potential in psychiatric therapies.
Abstract
Introduction Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) are widely used psychoactive drugs and their potential u...
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Noradrenaline and Acetylcholine shape Functional Connectivity organization of NREM substages: an empirical and simulation study
bioRxiv – February 06, 2025
Summary
Sleep onset marks a fascinating shift in brain activity, transitioning from wakefulness to distinct stages. This study reveals how the neurotransmitters Acetylcholine and Noradrenaline influence brain connectivity during NREM sleep. By modeling these changes, researchers found that ACh and NA shape functional connectivity differently across sleep stages, enhancing our understanding of sleep dynamics and consciousness transitions.
Abstract
Sleep onset is characterized by a departure from arousal, and can be separated into well-differentiated stages: NREM (which encompasses three subst...
Psilocybin alters visual contextual computations
bioRxiv – February 06, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a compound found in certain mushrooms, significantly influences how we perceive visual contexts. Using advanced imaging and modeling techniques, researchers demonstrated that it modifies our perception of illusions and alters brain responses to visual stimuli. These findings suggest a broader mechanism for how psychedelics affect our perception.
Abstract
Psilocybin alters perception and brain dynamics. Contextual computations are ubiquitous in the brain. Here, we investigate the effects of psilocybi...
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A reservoir model of respiration-induced perceptual alternation in binocular rivalry
bioRxiv – February 06, 2025
Summary
Did you know that your breathing can influence what you see? This study reveals that perceptual shifts in binocular rivalry are linked to respiratory phases. Using a neural network model, researchers found that a brain chemical, norepinephrine, helps facilitate these visual changes, regardless of its excitatory or inhibitory effects.
Abstract
Perceptual alternation in human binocular rivalry is more likely to occur during certain respiratory phases. In this paper, we show that the respir...
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Adolescents’ Use of Music for Pain Management
medRxiv – February 04, 2025
Summary
Adolescents with chronic pain often turn to music as a powerful tool for relief. In interviews, they highlighted music's role in distraction and motivation during treatment. This suggests that integrating music into pain management strategies could enhance their overall effectiveness, offering a promising avenue for improving care.
Abstract
To investigate the experiences of adolescents with chronic pain who participated in an intensive interdisciplinary pain treatment program, this sec...
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Dynamical repertoire of brain networks in mindfulness cognitive behavioural therapy during rumination: A randomized controlled trial
medRxiv – February 04, 2025
Summary
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy effectively reduces depressive rumination by enhancing emotional regulation and awareness. A recent study revealed that this approach positively alters brain network dynamics, helping individuals manage their thoughts and emotions better. These findings highlight the transformative potential of mindfulness in overcoming depression.
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a prevalent and debilitating affective disorder characterised by the dominance and persistence of depressive rumination. M...
Reduced Pain Medication Use Following Virtual Art Therapy in a Skilled Nursing Facility Patient: A Case Report.
Cureus – February 01, 2025
Summary
A 78-year-old woman in skilled nursing care experienced significant improvement in chronic pain and insomnia through virtual art therapy. Using a digital coloring app for just 1.5 hours daily, she increased her sleep to four to five hours and reduced her pain medication use. This non-pharmacological therapy highlights the potential of art therapy in enhancing well-being for older adults.
Abstract
Chronic pain and sleep disturbances significantly affect quality of life, particularly in older adults. Effective management often combines pharmac...
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for the Treatment of Vestibular Migraine: A Prospective Pilot Study.
Cureus – February 01, 2025
Summary
A mindfulness-based stress reduction program significantly alleviated dizziness and improved quality of life for individuals with vestibular migraine. Over eight weeks, participants engaged in meditation and guided sessions, leading to notable reductions in vertigo severity and anxiety levels. This approach highlights the power of mindfulness in managing stress and dizziness.
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to describe the implementation and efficacy of a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program for treati...
Dose-dependent changes in global brain activity and functional connectivity following exposure to psilocybin: a BOLD MRI study in awake rats
bioRxiv – February 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, significantly boosts brain activity and connectivity in a dose-dependent manner. This study observed awake rats receiving varying doses of psilocybin through MRI. Results showed enhanced brain function, particularly in sensory processing areas, with females being more responsive at lower doses.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a hallucinogen with complex neurobiological and behavioral effects. This is the first study to use MRI to follow functional changes i...
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The feasibility of an innovative online mind-body wellness program for medical students.
Canadian medical education journal – February 01, 2025
Summary
Medical students often face high stress levels, yet few wellness programs cater to them. A recent pilot study introduced a 12-week online program focusing on yoga, meditation, and nutrition. Participants reported increased satisfaction and accessibility, with notable reductions in stress and anxiety, alongside improved mindfulness. The program shows promising potential for enhancing well-being among medical students.
Abstract
Medical students have higher stress levels than their age-matched peers; however, few online wellness interventions have been trialed in this popul...
Effects of a Loosening Meditation Practice on Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Pilot Study.
Cureus – February 01, 2025
Summary
Engaging in loosening meditation may boost psychological well-being and reduce stress in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. In a pilot study, participants showed improved mood and decreased cortisol levels after just one session. This accessible practice could support cognitive function and emotional health in this population.
Abstract
Background Holistic medical practices, including meditation and mindfulness, are increasingly recognized for their benefits in mental health and st...
New Species of Anthurium (Araceae) from Huánuco Department, Peru
bioRxiv – January 31, 2025
Summary
In a remarkable discovery, researchers identified two new species of Anthurium in Peru's Huánuco Department. By thoroughly characterizing these plants and comparing them to existing species, they highlighted their unique features. This finding enriches our understanding of biodiversity and showcases the region's ecological wealth.
Abstract
Two new species are described as new, fully characterized and compared with all other related congeners.
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Delayed Trp53 activation protects Dnmt3a-mutant hematopoietic stem cells from inflammatory attrition
bioRxiv – January 27, 2025
Summary
Hematopoietic stem cells can adapt remarkably to stress, especially those with DNMT3A mutations. This study reveals that these mutant cells thrive during inflammation by delaying a key protective response, allowing them to avoid exhaustion while normal cells struggle. Targeting this mechanism could lead to new therapies for related blood disorders.
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) accumulate somatic mutations over time, some conferring a fitness advantage that can lead to clonal hematopoiesis (...
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Current and Novel Therapies for Cluster Headache: A Narrative Review
Pain and Therapy – January 26, 2025
Summary
Cluster headaches, affecting up to 1.3% of the population, are often misdiagnosed and can severely impact quality of life. This review highlights effective therapies, including acute treatments like sumatriptan and innovative options such as noninvasive vagal nerve stimulation. A multifaceted approach is crucial for better management and relief.
Abstract
Abstract Cluster headache (CH) is an excruciating and debilitating primary headache disorder. The prevalence is up to 1.3%, and the typical onset i...
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Predicting gene expression using millions of yeast promoters reveals cis-regulatory logic
bioRxiv – January 25, 2025
Summary
Researchers have unlocked new insights into gene regulation by analyzing millions of yeast promoters. Using advanced deep learning techniques, they successfully predicted gene expression patterns, revealing the intricate logic behind how transcription factors interact. This breakthrough enhances our understanding of genetic control mechanisms.
Abstract
Motivation Gene regulation involves complex interactions between multiple transcription factors. While early attempts to train deep neural networks...
The E2F4 transcriptional repressor is a key mechanistic regulator of colon cancer resistance to irinotecan (CPT-11)
bioRxiv – January 22, 2025
Summary
Cancer cells often evade treatment, but a recent study highlights a promising target for overcoming resistance in colon cancer. Researchers found that the E2F4 repressor plays a crucial role in helping cancer stem cells survive chemotherapy with irinotecan. By reducing E2F4 levels, they significantly increased the effectiveness of the drug in multiple models, paving the way for new strategies to enhance treatment outcomes.
Abstract
Background. Colorectal carcinomas (CRCs) are seldom eradicated by cytotoxic chemotherapy. Cancer cells with stem-like functional properties, often ...
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Psychedelic-mediated Reversal of General Anesthesia and Restoration of Brain Dynamics in Rat
bioRxiv – January 22, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, a serotonergic psychedelic can awaken anesthetized rats, restoring brain activity linked to alertness. Researchers found that administering DOI led to wakefulness even under anesthesia, enhancing brain connectivity. This breakthrough suggests psychedelics may uniquely reverse anesthesia effects and revive normal brain function.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics enhance neurophysiological complexity and the repertoire of brain states, whereas general anesthetics produce opposite ef...
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Detecting and avoiding homology-based data leakage in genome-trained sequence models
bioRxiv – January 22, 2025
Summary
Models predicting gene function from DNA sequences are vital for understanding genetics. However, similarities between sequences can skew results, leading to misleading performance assessments. A new method, ‘hashFrag,’ effectively reduces this issue, enhancing model accuracy and ensuring more reliable insights into gene expression.
Abstract
Models that predict function from DNA sequence have become critical tools in deciphering the roles of genomic sequences and genetic variation withi...
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Persistent large-scale changes in alternative splicing in prefrontal cortical neuron types following psychedelic exposure
bioRxiv – January 16, 2025
Summary
A single dose of psychedelics can lead to lasting changes in how neurons in the brain communicate. This study reveals that these substances significantly alter gene splicing in key neuron types, enhancing neuroplasticity. These changes may explain improved cognitive and emotional functions following psychedelic use, highlighting their therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Psychedelics engage the serotonergic system as potent neuromodulators, increasing neuroplasticity in humans and rodents. Persistent changes in cogn...
Subjective Sleep Quality and Its Subcomponents Among Homeless Individuals in São Paulo.
Revista brasileira de psiquiatria (Sao Paulo, Brazil : 1999) – January 16, 2025
Summary
In São Paulo, a surprising 67% of homeless individuals reported good sleep quality despite significant challenges. A study examined the sleep patterns of ill-housed persons, revealing that substance use negatively impacted sleep. Women faced greater sleep issues than men. These insights emphasize the importance of tailored support and better shelters for this vulnerable group.
Abstract
Sleep quality is essential for health, with sleep deprivation linked to physical and mental issues. Homeless populations face additional sleep chal...
Cortical travelling waves may underpin variation in personality traits
bioRxiv – January 15, 2025
Summary
Did you know that the way your brain communicates could influence your personality? Researchers found that specific patterns of brain activity, known as cortical travelling waves, are linked to traits like openness and conscientiousness. This study highlights how these neural processes shape our personalities, offering new insights into human behavior.
Abstract
Objectives Personality traits must relate to stable neural processes, yet few robust neural correlates of personality have been discovered. Recent ...
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Multi-center benchmarking of cervical spinal cord RF coils for 7 T MRI: A traveling spines study
bioRxiv – January 13, 2025
Summary
Innovative imaging techniques are enhancing our understanding of the cervical spinal cord. This study evaluated four radiofrequency coil designs for 7 T MRI, aiming to improve image quality. By establishing a quality control protocol, researchers found significant performance variations, paving the way for better diagnostic tools in spinal health.
Abstract
Purpose The depth within the body, small diameter, long length, and varying tissue surrounding the spinal cord impose specific considerations when ...
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Real-time fMRI neurofeedback modulates auditory cortex activity and connectivity in schizophrenia patients with auditory hallucinations: A controlled study
bioRxiv – January 13, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking approach using real-time neurofeedback has shown promise in reducing auditory hallucinations in schizophrenia patients. By targeting the auditory cortex, this method successfully modulated brain activity and connectivity, leading to fewer hallucinations. These findings suggest innovative avenues for treatment and improved patient well-being.
Abstract
Background and Hypothesis We have reported previously a reduction in superior temporal gyrus (STG) activation and in auditory verbal hallucinations...
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Age- and estrous-dependent effects of psilocybin in rats
bioRxiv – January 10, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, found in “magic” mushrooms, shows potential for treating psychiatric disorders, particularly in females. This research reveals that adult rats exhibit strong reactions to psilocybin, unlike adolescents. Interestingly, female responses vary with their hormonal cycle. Importantly, no lasting behavioral changes were noted from adolescent exposure.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound in “magic” mushrooms, has promise as a novel treatment for psychiatric disorders, many of which are more prevale...
Temporal recurrence as a general mechanism to explain neural responses in the auditory system
bioRxiv – January 08, 2025
Summary
Neurons in the auditory system have a remarkable internal memory that influences their responses. By utilizing a new recurrent neural network model, researchers analyzed data from various species and brain areas, revealing that this temporal recurrence significantly enhances understanding of auditory processing. The findings highlight the potential of deep learning in sensory neuroscience.
Abstract
Computational models of neural processing in the auditory cortex usually ignore that neurons have an internal memory: they characterize their respo...
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Single-cell sequencing reveals psilocybin induces sustained cell-type specific plasticity in mouse medial prefrontal cortex
bioRxiv – January 08, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin may offer new hope for treating psychiatric disorders. In a study using advanced sequencing techniques, researchers found that psilocybin significantly enhances neuroplasticity in specific neurons of the mouse brain's medial prefrontal cortex. This lasting change suggests a promising pathway for therapeutic applications.
Abstract
The ever-increasing burden of psychiatric disorders and limitations of current treatments have fueled enormous interest in the therapeutic potentia...