Research
Effects of s-ketamine combined with sevoflurane anesthesia on postoperative cellular immune function and inflammatory response in radical esophageal cancer surgery: A double-blind randomized trial.
Medicine – June 20, 2025
Summary
Anesthesia choices can profoundly impact recovery after major surgery. Researchers explored if adding s-ketamine to standard anesthesia for esophageal cancer surgery could improve immunity and reduce inflammation. Patients undergoing tumor removal received either standard sevoflurane or s-ketamine combined. While cellular immunity and inflammation markers were similar, patients given s-ketamine had a significantly shorter hospital stay, a positive recovery benefit.
Abstract
Immunosuppression and inflammation are associated with postoperative rehabilitation and tumor prognosis. This study aimed to explore the effects of...
Effect of low-dose supplemental esketamine infusion on the intraoperative frontal electroencephalography dynamics and postoperative sleep disturbance during gynecological laparoscopic surgery: a double-blind, randomized clinical trial.
International journal of surgery (London, England) – June 20, 2025
Summary
Brain activity during surgery can impact your recovery. A recent investigation explored if a low dose of esketamine during gynecological laparoscopic surgery could reduce postoperative sleep disturbance. Researchers monitored brain waves using an electroencephalograph in 98 patients. They found that esketamine significantly improved immediate sleep quality, reducing sleep disturbance incidence. This was linked to increased specific brain wave activity in the power spectrum, suggesting a positive connection between these brain changes and better rest after surgery.
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that intraoperative administration of subanesthetic esketamine not only induced an active prefrontal electroencephalogram...
Beyond surgery: Repurposing anesthetics for treatment of central nervous system disorders.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – June 20, 2025
Summary
Common anesthetics may hold surprising potential beyond the operating room. Research shows that drugs like ketamine and nitrous oxide can effectively treat various neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. Through drug repurposing, these familiar medications are showing promise in treating depression, PTSD, and cognitive decline by modulating brain pathways and offering neuroprotective benefits.
Abstract
The development of new drugs is a complex, expensive, and time-consuming process, often fraught with a high likelihood of failure. Amid these obsta...
Adverse Effects Associated With High-Dose Ketamine Infusions For Refractory Pain And Psychiatric Conditions.
Current pain and headache reports – June 19, 2025
Summary
Even powerful treatments like Ketamine, when used at high doses for conditions such as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome or Treatment Resistant Depression, require careful consideration. Examining high-dose Ketamine infusions reveals common Adverse Effects. Patients may experience psychiatric symptoms, including Emergence Reactions, agitation, or sleep disturbances, alongside emesis and potentially transient Hepatotoxicity. When properly monitored in a hospital, high-dose Ketamine appears safe, though some effects are dose-dependent.
Abstract
As higher doses of ketamine are being used in numerous medical conditions such as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), it is critical to examine ...
Functional connectivity alterations of the pregenual anterior cingulate cortex by ketamine and the modulation by lamotrigine.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – June 19, 2025
Summary
Brain imaging shows Ketamine's mental health benefits relate to altered brain communication. This study investigated if Ketamine's ability to enhance functional connectivity during resting state and working memory tasks depends on glutamate release. In 75 healthy volunteers, Ketamine significantly boosted beneficial functional connectivity in key brain areas. However, lamotrigine pretreatment prevented these positive changes, indicating Ketamine's effects are tied to glutamate.
Abstract
Neuroimaging studies have linked the beneficial effects of subanaesthetic ketamine doses in psychiatric conditions characterized by chronic stress ...
Investigating the Synergistic Neuroprotective Effects of Plant-Derived Antioxidants and the Psychedelic N,N-Dimethyltryptamine in Alzheimer's Disease Therapy.
Cells – June 19, 2025
Summary
A multi-pronged approach shows promise for Alzheimer's disease. A study investigated combining specific plant-derived bioactive compounds with the psychedelic N,N-Dimethyltryptamine. Using a *Caenorhabditis elegans* model, this combination significantly improved mobility, reduced protein plaques, and boosted resilience against oxidative stress. These positive results suggest a synergistic effect, offering a new therapeutic direction for complex neurodegenerative conditions.
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic and complex neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cognitive decline, memory loss, and irrev...
The Emerging Use of Psilocybin in Adult Populations with Alcohol Use Disorder: A Scoping Review
Preprints.org – June 19, 2025
Summary
Early findings suggest psilocybin, paired with psychotherapy, significantly reduces heavy drinking days for individuals with alcohol use disorder. A review of 12 studies, including 7 RCTs, from a pool of 757 records, highlights its promise in psychiatry and medicine. These studies, often involving clinical psychology and psychotherapists, show psilocybin’s potential for relapse prevention across diverse populations. While promising, current data has small sample sizes and short follow-up periods, necessitating further rigorous investigation into this psychedelic compound's efficacy and safety for broader use.
Abstract
Background: Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a chronic pathological condition with significant burdens throughout the world. Despite the effectiveness...
Enhancing mindfulness and compassion through an ayahuasca-inspired formulation containing N,N-DMT and harmine: A randomized controlled trial in healthy subjects.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – June 19, 2025
Summary
A single dose of a specific compound can significantly enhance feelings of mindfulness and compassion. Researchers explored if an ayahuasca-inspired formulation, combining N,N-DMT and harmine, could acutely boost these traits in healthy individuals. Participants received the formulation, harmine-only, or placebo. Results showed a notable increase in mindfulness, self-compassion, and compassion towards others just one day after receiving the N,N-DMT and harmine combination. These findings suggest this formulation holds potential for acutely enhancing these beneficial qualities.
Abstract
Mindfulness and compassion are therapeutically relevant and can be increased through different forms of meditation practices. However, meditation p...
The Music for Subanesthetic Infusions of Ketamine randomised clinical trial: ketamine as a psychedelic treatment for highly refractory depression
The British Journal of Psychiatry – June 18, 2025
Summary
A randomized controlled trial reveals profound, sustained relief from severe depression and anxiety through a psychological intervention combining Ketamine with psychotherapy. Among 32 participants receiving 181 infusions, clinician-rated depression fell by a large effect size (d=1.2), while anxiety also significantly improved (d=0.8). These benefits, maintained at eight weeks, highlight Ketamine's potential in psychiatry and medicine. Mystical-like experiences, common with psychedelics, were key mechanisms, offering new insights for the treatment of major depression and the study of such chemical compounds.
Abstract
Background Ketamine exerts potent but transient antidepressant effects in treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Combinations of ketamine and psycho...
Naturalistic use of psychedelics is associated with longitudinal improvements in anxiety and depression during global crisis times.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – June 18, 2025
Summary
Tracking mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic revealed a notable finding: while many drug use patterns correlated with worsening anxiety and depression, individuals using psychedelics and cannabis experienced improved mental health. Their well-being, including reduced anxiety and depression, eventually matched those who used no drugs. This large-scale observation suggests potential benefits of psychedelics for mental health during global crises.
Abstract
Mental health implications of COVID-19 drug use patterns are still unclear. We used data-driven clustering in a large citizen science cohort recrui...
Exploring Self-Reported Effects of Naturalistic Psychedelic Use Among Gender and Sexual Minorities: A Quantitative Survey Study.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – June 18, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, over two-thirds of LGBTQIA+ individuals report positive shifts in gender identity attitudes after naturalistic psychedelic use. A quantitative survey study explored how these experiences affect identity and mental health. Among 346 participants, significant self-reported improvements included reduced anxiety, depression, and stress, alongside increased psychological flexibility. Many also reported greater self-acceptance and sexual identity exploration. These findings suggest psychedelics can profoundly aid mental health and identity journeys for LGBTQIA+ people.
Abstract
This study investigated subjective psychedelic experiences in the global LGBTQIA+ population. Using validated measures of acute psychedelic effects...
Design, Synthesis, and In Vitro Characterization of a Tryptamine-Based Visible-Light Photoswitchable 5-HT2AR Ligand Showing Efficacy Preference for β-Arrestin over Mini-Gq.
Journal of medicinal chemistry – June 18, 2025
Summary
Imagine controlling brain signals with light to understand complex brain functions. Scientists designed a unique light-activated molecule targeting the serotonin 2A receptor. This molecule precisely activates one specific pathway, β-arrestin2, over others, even at very low concentrations. This offers a powerful new tool to unravel the receptor's role in conditions like depression and its connection to psychedelic effects.
Abstract
The serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) modulates various neurotransmitter systems and is implicated in psychiatric disorders, including depression and...
A cell-permeable fluorescent probe reveals temporally diverse PI(4,5)P2 dynamics evoked by distinct GPCR agonists in neurons.
Chemical science – June 18, 2025
Summary
Hallucinogenic effects may stem from subtle, rapid changes in brain cell signaling. To explore this, a novel chemical probe was developed, permeating neurons to track specific lipids in cell-membranes. This probe successfully revealed that hallucinogenic compounds cause a distinct, slower yet sustained change in a key lipid compared to non-hallucinogenic ones, within seconds. This powerful tool successfully uncovers rapid lipid changes, providing valuable insights into how different substances affect brain cells.
Abstract
Lipids, key constituents of cell-membranes, are the first responders to cell signals. At the crux of spatiotemporal dynamics of lipid-signaling res...
Comparing the effects of ECT and intravenous ketamine in psychiatric patients with major depressive episodes.
Journal of affective disorders – June 18, 2025
Summary
While ketamine offers rapid relief for depression, a recent review suggests another treatment may be even more impactful. A comparison of severe depression treatments found that ECT demonstrated greater effectiveness than ketamine. Analyzing 146 patients, researchers observed that ECT led to significantly more robust antidepressant effects, with 67.3% responding compared to 45.7% for ketamine. This highlights ECT's strong role in managing major depressive episodes.
Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and intravenous (IV) ketamine are treatments used for severe depression and/or treatment-resistant depression (TRD)...
Impact of Low-Dose Ketamine Infusion on Intracranial Pressure and Hemodynamics in Septic Shock Patients.
Neurocritical care – June 18, 2025
Summary
In patients experiencing septic shock, managing sedation without increasing intracranial pressure is crucial. A recent investigation explored whether low-dose ketamine infusion could safely manage sedation in these patients. Using noninvasive methods like optic nerve sheath diameter and transcranial doppler to monitor intracranial pressure, researchers found ketamine infusion did not significantly elevate ICP. Importantly, patients required substantially less other sedatives and vasopressors, showing ketamine's positive role in stabilizing hemodynamics and reducing medication burden during septic shock.
Abstract
Septic shock is a recognized cause of global mortality in intensive care units. Sedation and analgesia management are essential for patients with s...
Increased recreational ketamine use and subsequent outbreak of urological complications in The Netherlands.
Clinical toxicology (Philadelphia, Pa.) – June 17, 2025
Summary
The number of patients with severe urological disease linked to recreational ketamine use in the Netherlands jumped from zero to 137 in just six years, according to data from poison centers and clinics. This alarming rise in complications from the arylcyclohexylamine class of designer drugs, including ketamine, stems from extensive use, often by young males. It underscores a critical public health issue, highlighting the urgent need for awareness regarding these recreational drugs to mitigate such severe outcomes.
Abstract
Recreational ketamine use has increased in the last decades with incidental reports of urological complications. This study aimed to explore trends...
Genetics of Response to ECT, TMS, Ketamine and Esketamine.
American journal of medical genetics. Part B, Neuropsychiatric genetics : the official publication of the International Society of Psychiatric Genetics – June 17, 2025
Summary
Imagine tailoring mental health treatment to your unique genetic makeup! While intensive therapies like ECT, TMS, ketamine, and esketamine effectively treat severe mood disorders, understanding how genetics influences individual response is crucial. Early genetic explorations are paving the way to identify specific genetic markers. This will empower clinicians to recommend the most effective intervention for each patient's unique genetic profile, ensuring optimal outcomes and truly personalized care.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant mood disorders are often managed with intensive interventions that include electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnet...
Safety, tolerability and subjective effects of vaporized N,N-Dimethyltryptamine: A randomized double-blind clinical trial.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – June 17, 2025
Summary
Vaporized N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) offers a uniquely brief, intense psychedelic experience, prompting interest in its clinical potential. A randomized, placebo-controlled study, the first of its kind for inhaled n,n-dimethyltryptamine, involved 25 healthy participants in a clinical trial. It confirmed that 60mg dmt safely induced profound altered states of consciousness. Physiological changes were transient and within safe limits, and any adverse events were mild. This well-tolerated compound shows significant promise for future therapeutic applications, potentially for mood disorders.
Abstract
Vaporized N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) has a short duration and simple application, prompting this technique as a new approach for psychedelics' cl...
“Diversity makes the richness of humanity”: The emergence and persistence of mental imagery after self-reported psilocybin truffles intake in an autistic woman with “blind imagination” (aphantasia): A 33-month retrospective case report
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – June 17, 2025
Summary
A 34-year-old autistic woman with lifelong aphantasia, unable to form mental images, experienced a profound shift after consuming psilocybin truffles. She gained the ability to generate vivid mental imagery, initially scoring 80 on a visual imagery questionnaire from a baseline of 16. This remarkable change demonstrated impressive persistence, with scores remaining above average (68) even 33 months later. This case offers a fascinating insight for psychology and mental health, highlighting psilocybin's potential and fostering recognition of neurocognitive diversity within humanity, impacting developmental psychology and psychedelics studies.
Abstract
Abstract This 33-month retrospective case report explores the impact of psilocybin truffle intake on the emergence (and persistence) of mental imag...
Metabolic fate of drugs of abuse and new psychoactive substances: A pilot study on a novel workflow using a zebrafish embryo model combined with human microdosing.
British journal of clinical pharmacology – June 16, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, tiny zebrafish are proving instrumental in understanding drug metabolism. A new workflow hypothesized that zebrafish embryos could rapidly identify human urine biomarkers for drugs of abuse and new psychoactive substances. By exposing zebrafish, then confirming findings with human microdosing and LC-HRMS/MS analysis, key human metabolites were successfully identified. This offers a quick, reliable method for predicting drug screening markers.
Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop a novel workflow to identify human urine biomarkers for drugs of abuse and new psychoactive substances. Metabo...
The Sex-Dependent Effects of Psychedelics on Myelination in APOE4 Mice
arXiv Preprint Archive – June 16, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic compounds may boost brain insulation, but sex matters! Researchers explored if a specific psychedelic could improve myelination in female mice with a genetic risk for brain disorders (q-bio.NC). Administering the compound, they found only females showed significant increases in brain insulation and reduced anxiety. This q-bio.TO finding reveals distinct biological mechanisms, suggesting potential for sex-specific therapies.
Abstract
Several studies have linked myelin abnormalities with neuropsychiatric disorders; others have implicated psychedelics as a potential therapeutic fo...
Using life and death education to guide the teaching and research of mindfulness.
Front Public Health – June 16, 2025
Summary
Considering life's impermanence significantly deepens mindfulness practice. Research suggests integrating a life-and-death perspective into mindfulness education. This approach enhances teaching methods and promotes a profound understanding, fostering greater well-being. The findings highlight a powerful way to enrich personal growth.
Abstract
Using life and death education to guide the teaching and research of mindfulness.
The molecular mechanisms through which psilocybin prevents suicide: evidence from network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses
Translational Psychiatry – June 16, 2025
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin, a potent psychedelic, holds significant promise for suicide prevention. Using advanced pharmacology and molecular docking techniques, 46 potential targets were identified. Specifically, four key neurotransmitter receptors (HTR2A, HTR2C, HTR7, PRKACA) were found to strongly bind psilocybin. This suggests the alkaloid, a product of chemical synthesis, influences behavior by modulating crucial brain signaling pathways, including serotonergic synapses and calcium signaling. These drug studies offer vital insights into psilocybin's therapeutic potential in medicine and psychology.
Abstract
Psilocybin is among the most extensively studied psychedelics, with previous research suggesting its potential therapeutic role in suicide preventi...
Efficacy of subanaesthetic esketamine on the prevention of postoperative delirium in older adult patients after cardiovascular surgery: protocol for a single-centre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (SEPDOC trial) in China.
BMJ open – June 16, 2025
Summary
Postoperative delirium affects many aged patients after cardiovascular surgery, prolonging recovery. A new clinical protocol explores if a specific anaesthesia strategy, using subanaesthetic esketamine, can prevent this serious delirium. This double-blind trial involves 778 older adults with Cardiovascular Disease, comparing esketamine to placebo. The goal is to establish if this approach improves outcomes, reducing delirium incidence and enhancing recovery for patients.
Abstract
Postoperative delirium (POD) is a common and serious complication in older adult patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery. Esketamine is known fo...
The phenomenology of psilocybin's experience mediates subsequent persistent psychological effects independently of sex, previous experience, or setting.
Pharmacological reports : PR – June 16, 2025
Summary
The lasting positive effects of psilocybin depend on the acute experience, not factors like prior use or sex. Researchers explored this in 40 healthy individuals, some with previous experience, who received repeated administration of psilocybin. Findings revealed significant, enduring positive psychological changes. Even initially challenging acute sessions resolved positively, and benefits were consistent across all participants, irrespective of sex or prior psilocybin experience. Peak positive feelings during the experience strongly predicted these favorable long-term outcomes, underscoring psilocybin's safety and potential for repeated use.
Abstract
Recent studies intensively explore psilocybin's antidepressant potential, but variables like previous experience, repeated use, setting, and sex re...
Inner Light and the Eyes of the Soul: A Phenomenological Analysis of Teresa of Ávila's Visions through the Lens of Phosphene Taxonomy
PsyArXiv Preprints – June 16, 2025
Summary
Mystics across cultures, from Teresa of Ávila to Tibetan sage Milarepa, have reported seeing intense inner light during deep meditation. New analysis reveals these visions match patterns of phosphenes—natural light phenomena in our visual system. By comparing Teresa's detailed accounts with those of Hildegard of Bingen and Longchenpa, researchers found that mystical luminosity experiences follow consistent stages during contemplation and altered states of consciousness, suggesting a universal basis for spiritual light visions.
Abstract
This paper examines the visionary experiences of Saint Teresa of Ávila (1515–1582) as described in The Life of Teresa of Jesus, through the lens of...
Sex and Age Differences in Ketamine Efficacy and Safety in Chronic Pain Alleviation.
Journal of clinical medicine – June 16, 2025
Summary
Ketamine's effectiveness in treating chronic refractory pain and depression appears consistent across different patient groups. A year-long study of 585 individuals found that repeated ketamine administrations offered similar relief from pain, anxiety, and depression for both sexes and various ages. While women experienced slightly more side effects, the overall positive impact on refractory pain and mood remained consistent.
Abstract
Background: Ketamine use for chronic pain and depression has increased worldwide, but sex differences in its efficacy and safety have been little s...
Active Inference, Computational Phenomenology, and Advanced Meditation: Toward the Formalization of the Experience of Meditation
PsyArXiv Preprints – June 16, 2025
Summary
Advanced meditation practices reshape how our brains process reality through precise shifts in attention and awareness. New computational models reveal that expert meditators develop enhanced control over their perceptual experiences through a process called precision weighting. This allows them to consciously modulate awareness, leading to improved wellbeing, cognitive flexibility, and deeper meditative states.
Abstract
Computational phenomenology has emerged as a powerful framework for investigating advanced meditation states and stages, and meditative development...
Santo Daime Ethnopsychiatry: Psychotherapy and Spiritual Care Implications of a Global Ayahuasca Healing Tradition from Amazonia
OpenAlex – June 16, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Treating War Trauma with Ibogaine and 5-MEO-DMT
OpenAlex – June 16, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
5-MEO-DMT: a Controversial Part of a Contemporary Psychedelic Scene
OpenAlex – June 16, 2025
Summary
No Summary
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Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Authenticity and Love Drugs: Insights from Psychedelic Therapy.
AJOB neuroscience – June 16, 2025
Summary
Many view "love drugs" as unethical because the emotions they create are seen as inauthentic. However, new perspectives, drawing from psychedelic-assisted therapy, suggest that psychoactive drugs can indeed foster genuine, meaningful feelings. If these experiences lead to lasting positive change and and align with personal desires, our ethics around authenticity may need rethinking, embracing the potential for profound therapy.
Abstract
In "Prescription for Love: An Experimental Investigation of Laypeople's Relative Moral Disapproval of Love Drugs," Lantian, Boudesseul, and Cova (2...
LSD Restores Synaptic Plasticity in VTA of Morphine-Treated Mice and Disrupts Morphine-Conditioned Place Preference.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology – June 15, 2025
Summary
Could psychedelics unlock new addiction treatments? One study shows LSD can reverse brain changes caused by opioids. In mice, a single dose or microdoses of LSD quickly reduced morphine preference. It also restored vital brain cell connections, previously damaged by morphine, and induced beneficial epigenetic shifts. These findings suggest LSD can positively reshape reward circuits, attenuating drug-seeking behaviors.
Abstract
Psychedelics are emerging as a promising treatment option for a range of neuropsychiatric disorders, including substance use disorders. One potenti...
Long‐term benefits of single‐dose psilocybin in depressed patients with cancer
Cancer – June 15, 2025
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, a natural compound, offers robust antidepressive activity for cancer patients. In 28 oncology patients with major depressive disorder, 53.6% experienced significant depression reduction (average -15.0 points on a rating scale) for two years. Further, 46.4% saw significant anxiety reduction (average -13.9 points). This medicine provides a promising complementary approach in internal medicine and psychiatry, demonstrating how psychedelics can enhance quality of life, potentially transforming mental health care for those facing cancer.
Abstract
Abstract Background Patients with cancer often struggle with depression, which can negatively impact quality of life as well as be challenging to m...
Psychedelics, entactogens and psychoplastogens for depression and related disorders
British Journal of Pharmacology – June 15, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics are revolutionizing Psychiatry. Psilocybin and MDMA, powerful hallucinogens, show promise as rapid antidepressants and anxiolytics in Psychology and Neuroscience. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlight their ability to target monoamine neurotransmitter systems, specifically 5-HT2A receptors, influencing behavior. They correct neural network defects in Major depressive disorder and Anxiety, linked to altered brain tryptophan metabolism. Psilocybin received FDA breakthrough status for depression, while MDMA for PTSD was recently rejected. This offers new hope for severe mental health conditions.
Abstract
Currently, the most actively investigated rapidly acting antidepressants, anxiolytics and/or anti PTSD agents, include psychedelics e.g. psilocybin...
Effects of sub-anesthetic doses of esketamine on postoperative sleep disturbance and pain in patients undergoing lumbar interbody fusion - A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-center trial.
Anaesthesia, critical care & pain medicine – June 14, 2025
Summary
Many patients struggle with poor sleep and pain after surgery, especially lumbar spine procedures. A recent trial explored if low-dose esketamine could help. It found that patients receiving esketamine experienced significantly less postoperative sleep disturbance and reduced pain after lumbar interbody fusion. This approach, part of multimodal analgesia, also improved overall recovery, offering a promising strategy for enhanced patient comfort.
Abstract
Postoperative sleep disturbance (PSD) is a common postoperative complication that significantly impacts patients' recovery, particularly after lumb...
Intravenous ketamine to prevent post-partum depression following cesarean under neuraxial anesthesia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics: the official organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics – June 14, 2025
Summary
New research challenges assumptions about ketamine's role in preventing postpartum depression. Analysis of over 2,200 women who underwent cesarean sections found that while ketamine administered during surgery reduced pain and lowered opioid use, it didn't significantly impact postpartum depression rates. The findings, drawn from multiple randomized controlled trials, suggest that alternative strategies for preventing post-birth mood disorders may be needed.
Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) significantly affects well-being and the ability to function normally, making preventive strategies crucial. The role o...
Evaluation of behavioural and neurochemical effects of psilocybin in mice subjected to chronic unpredictable mild stress
Translational Psychiatry – June 14, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, significantly reversed depressive and anxiolytic-like behaviors caused by chronic stress in an animal model. Two 1 mg/kg doses revealed neurochemical changes, boosting serotonin-2A-receptors—key for neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior—and increasing glucocorticoid-receptor expression. This Neuroscience and Psychology research, relevant for Medicine and Psychiatry, suggests psilocybin's potential. A psychotherapist might consider these insights from Psychedelics and Drug Studies, understanding how this tryptophan-derived compound modulates brain disorders.
Abstract
Abstract Depression and anxiety are disabling and high incidence mental disorders characterized by phenotypic heterogeneity. Currently available tr...
Mindfulness meditation alters alpha amplitude without affecting arousal.
International journal of psychophysiology : official journal of the International Organization of Psychophysiology – June 14, 2025
Summary
Mindfulness meditation can enhance attention without increasing stress. A study explored how daily Mindfulness practice affects brain activity (EEG Alpha waves) and physiological Arousal (SCL). Participants engaged in Meditation or listened to music, with their brain and skin responses measured. Findings showed Meditation reduced Alpha brain waves, reflecting enhanced attentional engagement. Importantly, while overall Arousal (SCL) decreased over time, this wasn't tied to the Alpha changes. This highlights how Mindfulness fosters a beneficial state of relaxed alertness, improving attentional control.
Abstract
Mindfulness meditation has experienced a surge in popularity due to its well-documented health benefits, although the mechanisms driving these bene...
Mycelium Growth and Development of Psilocybe spp. Mother Cultures on Agar-Based Media.
Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland) – June 13, 2025
Summary
Did you know optimizing mushroom production for therapeutic psilocybin starts with understanding tiny fungal threads? Mycology research explored how different nutrient-rich agars affect Psilocybe mycelium growth. By observing four Psilocybe types, clear insights emerged, providing a vital foundation. This work enables tailored approaches, significantly advancing consistent mycelium development for future applications.
Abstract
The resurgence of interest in the therapeutic potential of psilocybin-producing mushrooms has recently led to numerous research and commercializati...
LGBTQ+ Ayahuasca Retreat Experience is Associated with Benefits to Mental Health, Quality of Life, and Spiritual Well-being: A Prospective, Naturalistic Study
PsyArXiv Preprints – June 13, 2025
Summary
LGBTQ+ participants experienced significant mental health improvements after attending ayahuasca ceremonies at a week-long retreat. The study followed 19 individuals, finding marked decreases in depression and anxiety, while spiritual well-being and life quality increased. Many participants described the psychedelic experience as deeply meaningful, reporting better relationships and reduced substance use afterward.
Abstract
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals experience disproportionately high rates of depression, anxiety, trauma, and discrimination, yet remai...
MBSR at Work: Perspectives from an Instructor and Software Developers
arXiv Preprint Archive – June 13, 2025
Summary
Software developers who practiced mindfulness at work reported significant personal improvements in stress management, despite initial skepticism. A multinational tech company implemented Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques to help developers cope with workplace pressures. Through interviews, participants revealed better focus and reduced stress, though incorporating mindfulness into daily coding routines proved challenging.
Abstract
In this paper, we present the preliminary findings from a qualitative study (i.e., semi-structured interviews) on how a Mindfulness-Based Stress Re...
Comparison of the effect of intra-cuff normal saline, dexamethasone or ketamine for prevention of postoperative sore throat: A randomized controlled trial.
Brazilian journal of anesthesiology (Elsevier) – June 13, 2025
Summary
Filling endotracheal tube cuffs with dexamethasone instead of saline can significantly reduce throat pain and discomfort after surgery. In a study of 405 patients, those receiving dexamethasone experienced less coughing, hoarseness, and postoperative throat soreness compared to those treated with ketamine or saline. Over 92% of dexamethasone patients reported no throat pain within 2 hours after surgery.
Abstract
Postoperative Sore Throat (POST) may result in patient dissatisfaction and distress, which could possibly delay discharge. Various pharmacological ...
The French crisis: Rethinking the phenomenology of quantum mechanics.
Studies in history and philosophy of science – June 13, 2025
Summary
Edmund Husserl's phenomenology offers a fresh perspective on quantum theory's foundations. His analysis of mathematization in physics reveals how abstract mathematical concepts shape our understanding of reality. The work shows how quantum mechanics bridges pure mathematics and lived experience, addressing concerns raised in "The Crisis of European Sciences" about the disconnect between scientific models and everyday reality. The philosophy of physics gains new insights through this phenomenological lens.
Abstract
In his book, A Phenomenological Approach to Quantum Mechanics: Cutting the Chain of Correlations, Steven French argues that quantum mechanics, unde...
Synergistic behavioral and neuroplastic effects of psilocybin-NMDAR modulator administration
Translational Psychiatry – June 13, 2025
Summary
Combining psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, with NMDA receptor modulators significantly reduces adverse effects while boosting brain neuroplasticity. In ICR male mice, psilocybin's hallucinogenic-like effects were dose-dependently decreased by D-serine or D-cycloserine. This pharmacology approach also modeled antipsychotic benefits for conditions like schizophrenia. Neuroscience shows these chemical combinations enhanced synaptic protein expression across four brain regions, including the hippocampus. This breakthrough in Medicine and Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggests psychotherapists could utilize optimized psilocybin formulations, influencing neurotransmitter receptor behavior for Psychology applications.
Abstract
The full therapeutic potential of serotonergic psychedelics (SP) in treating neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression and schizophrenia, is l...
Network localization of functional brain changes associated with ketamine's therapeutic effects in depression.
Biological psychiatry – June 13, 2025
Summary
How does ketamine rapidly lift depression? A key insight reveals its therapeutic effects stem from changes within a specific brain network. By analyzing numerous brain imaging studies, researchers mapped how ketamine alters functional connectivity. This robust brain network, crucial for mood, consistently involves regions like the subgenual cingulate cortex. These findings offer a clearer understanding of ketamine's unique power in treating depression.
Abstract
Although numerous studies have attempted to identify the functional pathways underlying the rapid antidepressant effects of ketamine, their finding...
The pattern of dissociative symptoms differs between post-traumatic stress disorder and first esketamine administration for treatment-resistant depression.
Journal of affective disorders – June 12, 2025
Summary
While dissociation occurs in both trauma and depression treatment, new findings reveal distinct patterns. Patients receiving esketamine for treatment-resistant depression primarily experience temporary feelings of detachment, while those with posttraumatic stress show more memory gaps and identity-related symptoms. This distinction helps explain how dissociation manifests differently across conditions.
Abstract
Dissociative symptoms are commonly observed in a substantial minority of patients with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and during the first a...
Stimulants for disorders of consciousness in the intensive care unit: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
Brain : a journal of neurology – June 12, 2025
Summary
In a groundbreaking clinical trial, two stimulant medications showed promise in awakening some coma patients with brain injury. Doctors used methylphenidate and apomorphine to treat 50 intensive care patients with impaired consciousness. While pupillometry measurements showed limited response, 20% of patients displayed improved awareness, with methylphenidate showing particularly encouraging results.
Abstract
In the intensive care unit (ICU), management of unresponsive patients with brain injury focuses on preventing secondary brain damage. Therapeutic s...
Optimized Parenteral and Intranasal Formulations of Tryptamine Psychedelics for Rapid-Acting Antidepressant Therapy.
ACS medicinal chemistry letters – June 12, 2025
Summary
New formulations are revolutionizing how certain psychedelic compounds could treat depression. Injectable and nasal spray versions of DMT and 5-MeO-DMT address prior absorption and metabolism issues. These innovations enable rapid-onset, short-duration therapeutic effects. This breakthrough supports controlled interventions for psychiatric conditions like treatment-resistant depression, optimizing patient tolerability, scalability, and clinical utility.
Abstract
Innovative formulations of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) enable parenteral and intranasal delivery,...
Stability-Guided Formulation of a Light-Sensitive D-LSD Capsule for Clinical Investigation.
Pharmaceutics – June 11, 2025
Summary
A key challenge for D-LSD's therapeutic potential is its extreme light sensitivity. Researchers successfully developed a protective capsule, using advanced DFT and LC-IM-MS for orthogonal analysis of D-LSD degradation products. This robust formulation development significantly boosted the compound's photostability, preventing rapid degradation seen in solutions. This offers a stable platform for D-LSD's clinical investigation for alcohol use disorder.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: D-lysergic acid diethylamide (D-LSD) is under investigation as a potential therapeutic strategy for alcohol use disorder (AU...
Systematic Review on the Aftereffects of Near-Death Experiences.
Omega – June 11, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Near-death experiences (NDEs) are events reported by individuals close to death. This review examines the aftereffects of NDEs based on scientific ...
Developing a method for training clinical psychologists to recognize and repair alliance ruptures: a pilot study focusing on trainee experiences.
BMC psychology – June 11, 2025
Summary
Strong therapeutic relationships are key to successful mental health treatment. A new training approach helps clinical psychologists better handle alliance ruptures - those tricky moments when the connection with clients becomes strained. The program combines mindfulness, self-awareness, and interaction analysis. Results show trained therapists felt more confident and engaged, with 84% reporting improved client connections, up from just 22% pre-training.
Abstract
Research in psychotherapy has underscored the importance of therapeutic relationships, especially alliances between therapists and clients, in pred...
Comparison of Recurrence of Malignancy Following Two Opioid-free General Anesthesia Regimens versus Standard Care Using Opioids: A Retrospective Analysis.
Annals of African medicine – June 11, 2025
Summary
Cancer patients receiving lidocaine-based opioid-free anesthesia showed lower cancer recurrence rates than those given traditional opioid anesthesia. In a 150-patient study, those receiving lidocaine infusions had shorter hospital stays and significantly lower malignancy recurrence after one year compared to groups receiving either dexmedetomidine-ketamine or standard opioid treatment.
Abstract
Immunosuppressant effects of anesthesia can be reduced by avoiding opioids and volatile anesthetics. We retrospectively compared incidence of recur...
Ropivacaine combined with esketamine in ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral nerve block in lung cancer patients undergoing thoracoscopic radical surgery.
Discover oncology – June 11, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in pain management for lung cancer surgery shows promising results. By combining two anesthetic medications (ropivacaine and esketamine) with ultrasound-guided nerve blocks, doctors achieved better pain control in thoracoscopic procedures. Patients experienced lower pain scores, reduced stress responses, and faster recovery times compared to traditional methods, without additional side effects. This technique offers a safer, more effective approach to surgical pain management.
Abstract
We aim to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral nerve block (TPVB) using ropivacaine combined with esketamine...
From molecules to meaning: unpacking the antidepressant mechanisms of psychedelic drugs.
Expert review of clinical pharmacology – June 11, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough research reveals psychedelic compounds like psilocybin and LSD can rapidly alleviate depression through multiple interconnected pathways. Unlike traditional antidepressants, these substances work by simultaneously affecting brain chemistry, psychological patterns, and consciousness. The therapeutic effects emerge from a complex interplay of biological changes and meaningful experiences during psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds are emerging treatments for depression, capable of producing rapid and lasting symptom reduction after 1-2 administrations in...
Immunomodulatory and behavioral effects of ayahuasca and N, N-dimethyltryptamine in a rat model of lipopolysaccharide-induced depression.
Metabolic brain disease – June 11, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca, an ancient Amazonian medicine, shows promising effects in treating depression by reducing inflammation in the body. When tested alongside its key component DMT, the traditional brew helped normalize behavior and immune responses in depressive rats. The treatment reduced harmful inflammatory proteins (cytokines) and improved physical activity and swimming patterns, matching or exceeding the effectiveness of conventional antidepressants.
Abstract
Ayahuasca (Aya) is an Amazonian beverage traditionally used as medicine by Indigenous people in South America to treat various illnesses and have s...
Impacts of the Mindfulness Meditation Mobile App Calm on Undergraduate Students' Sleep and Emotional State: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.
JMIR formative research – June 11, 2025
Summary
College students using the mindfulness app Calm for just 20 minutes daily showed significant improvements in their emotional wellbeing. In this 30-day pilot study, university students who used the mobile app reported lower anxiety and stress levels compared to those who didn't. The app users also experienced better sleep quality. These findings suggest that mobile health apps offering mindfulness exercises can be valuable tools for supporting student mental health.
Abstract
Undergraduate students frequently experience negative emotional states and sleep quality, which is believed to have worsened following the COVID-19...
Prophylactic esketamine for postpartum depression after cesarean section: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of affective disorders – June 10, 2025
Summary
Up to 15% of new mothers experience postpartum depression, but a promising treatment shows hope. Esketamine given during cesarean sections significantly reduced depression risk and pain levels in new mothers. Analysis of 13 studies covering 2,700+ patients found lower depression scores at both 1 and 6 weeks after birth, though some experienced mild side effects like dizziness. This breakthrough could transform maternal mental health care.
Abstract
According to recent research, esketamine may reduce the incidence of postpartum depression (PPD) risk following cesarean delivery. To further asses...
Personalized stimulation therapies for disorders of consciousness: a computational approach to inducing healthy-like brain activity based on neural field theory.
Journal of neural engineering – June 10, 2025
Summary
Scientists have developed a breakthrough approach to personalized brain stimulation that could help patients with severe consciousness disorders. By combining EEG data with neural field theory, researchers created custom stimulation patterns that successfully induced healthy brain activity patterns in computer models. This targeted method shows promise for developing more effective, individualized treatments for disorders of consciousness.
Abstract
Objective.Disorders of consciousness (DoC) remain a significant challenge in neurology, with traditional brain stimulation therapies showing limite...
Oxidative Rearrangements of the Alkaloid Intermediate Geissoschizine.
Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English) – June 10, 2025
Summary
Plant enzymes perform an elegant chemical dance to create life-saving medicines. Three specialized P450s in medicinal plants transform geissoschizine, a natural product, into four distinct medicinal compounds through precise biosynthesis. This discovery reveals how plants efficiently generate diverse therapeutic molecules from a single starting material.
Abstract
Plants can generate structural diversity by enzymatic rearrangement of a central intermediate. 19E-geissoschizine is one such chemically versatile ...