Research
Meditation and guided imagery show reduction in chronic stress and increase in mental health-related quality of life for college students.
Journal of American college health : J of ACH – January 13, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Objective: To explore the effects of guided imagery with progressive deep muscle relaxation (PDMR) and meditation programs on chronic stress percep...
Enhancing proteasome activity by NMDAR antagonists explains their therapeutic effect in neurodegenerative and mental diseases.
Scientific reports – January 13, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough research reveals how common brain medications work: they boost the cellular "cleanup crew." NMDAR antagonists, used to treat both mental and neurodegenerative diseases, enhance proteasome activity - a vital process that removes damaged proteins from brain cells. This explains their effectiveness in conditions like Alzheimer's and depression, where protein buildup causes problems. Tests showed rapid improvements in brain chemistry within hours of treatment.
Abstract
NMDAR antagonists, such as memantine and ketamine, have shown efficacy in treating neurodegenerative diseases and major depression. The mechanism b...
A critical evaluation of psilocybin-assisted therapy protocol components from clinical trial patients, facilitators, and caregivers.
Psychotherapy – January 13, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapy holds transformative promise for mental health, making rigorous protocol development crucial for psychiatry. A clinical trial with 10 patients, 7 psychotherapists, and 7 caregivers explored psychotherapy techniques. Findings from this psychology study highlight tailoring treatment protocols to individual needs and ensuring collaborative care, echoing principles in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. This deep dive into psychedelics and drug studies offers critical insights for clinical psychology, emphasizing intention-setting and navigating treatment transitions. Effective protocol application is paramount.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) is an experimental treatment with transformative promise. Developing standards for PAT psychotherapy protocols is...
Proteomic patterns associated with ketamine response in major depressive disorders.
Cell biology and toxicology – January 10, 2025
Summary
Blood proteins may hold the key to predicting depression treatment success. Scientists identified specific biomarkers in patients' blood that can forecast who will respond best to ketamine therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD). By analyzing plasma proteomics before and after treatment, researchers discovered six key proteins linked to positive outcomes. The findings revealed that immune response plays a crucial role in ketamine's effectiveness, potentially revolutionizing how we personalize depression treatment.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest. Ketamine has been widely used to treat MDD...
Psychedelic-related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (1997-2022).
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 10, 2025
Summary
Despite widespread use of psychedelics, only 28 drug-related deaths were linked to these substances across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland over 25 years. While each death is tragic, this remarkably low number supports psychedelics' relative safety profile. Most cases involved multiple substances, with LSD and psilocybin being most common. Adverse effects were typically connected to unsafe physical environments or toxicity from mixing drugs.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs are increasingly visible in society once more, but their risks and adverse effects have received less attention than perhaps they...
Comparative Analysis of Preoperative Sedation Modalities: Oral Midazolam and Ketamine Versus Chloral Hydrate and Meperidine in Pediatric Tonsillectomy - A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Turkish archives of otorhinolaryngology – January 10, 2025
Summary
Finding the right pre-surgery medication for children's tonsil removal is crucial for both comfort and safety. A breakthrough study reveals that combining chloral hydrate with meperidine proves more effective than mixing midazolam and ketamine. Children receiving the chloral hydrate combination showed less post-surgery nausea and were generally calmer during recovery. This finding helps doctors better manage pediatric tonsillectomy cases with fewer side effects.
Abstract
A pre-anesthetic medication that is ideal for pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy should alleviate pediatric anxiety, facilitate the smooth...
Comparing psilocybin to metformin as neuroprotective agents against Parkinson's dementia: A systematic review of evidence and efficacy.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 10, 2025
Summary
Both metformin and psilocybin show promising potential in protecting brain cells from Parkinson's disease damage. While metformin works by reducing cellular stress and preventing protein buildup, psilocybin promotes brain repair through serotonin pathway activation. This groundbreaking comparison reveals both compounds could offer prophylactic treatment options for neurodegenerative disease prevention.
Abstract
Treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD) has remained largely unchanged and focuses primarily on symptomatic relief through activation of dopaminergic...
Arketamine alleviates cognitive impairments and demyelination in mice with postoperative cognitive dysfunction via TGF-β1 activation.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 10, 2025
Summary
Surgery-related cognitive decline affects millions, but a breakthrough treatment shows promise. A single dose of arketamine significantly improved memory and brain function in mice with postoperative cognitive dysfunction. The drug works by activating TGF-β1, which helps repair damaged nerve coatings (demyelination) in the brain. This discovery offers hope for preventing post-surgery cognitive complications.
Abstract
Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is characterized by a decline in cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and executive abiliti...
Effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine on the gut microbiota and metabolites in the small intestine, cecum, and colon of male rats.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 10, 2025
Summary
The entactogen MDMA affects more than just the brain - it significantly impacts the gut microbiota throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Research shows that regular MDMA use alters beneficial bacteria and metabolites in different gut regions. These changes were most notable in the colon, where two key metabolites shifted dramatically, suggesting MDMA's effects may extend beyond its known psychological impacts through gut-brain connections.
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; Ecstasy) is a widely abused recreational drug that has also gained interest for potential clinical applica...
Processing of self-related thoughts in experienced users of classic psychedelics: A source localisation EEG study.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 10, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Psychedelics have gained increasing interest in scientific research due to their ability to induce profound alterations in perception, emotional pr...
The immune regulatory mechanism of ketamine-induced psychiatric disorders: A new perspective on drug-induced psychiatric symptoms.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 10, 2025
Summary
Recent discoveries reveal ketamine's complex effects on mental health involve more than just brain chemistry - the immune system plays a crucial role. By examining how this new drug influences both nervous and immune systems, researchers uncovered that immune cells entering the brain may trigger psychiatric symptoms. This breakthrough in neuroimmunology opens promising avenues for treating drug-related mental health conditions.
Abstract
Ketamine, a psychoactive substance strictly regulated by international drug conventions, is classified as a "new type drug" due to its excitatory, ...
Efficacy of single and repeated ketamine administration for suicidal ideation in adults with psychiatric disorders: A meta-analysis.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 10, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking meta-analysis reveals ketamine's powerful potential in rapidly reducing suicidal thoughts. Analyzing data from nearly 4,000 participants across 49 clinical trials, researchers found that even a single dose significantly decreased suicidal ideation within 4 hours. Peak effectiveness occurred at 24 hours, with benefits lasting up to a month. Multiple doses showed similar success, offering hope for those needing urgent mental health intervention.
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated rapid-onset anti-suicidal ideation effects of ketamine. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and duration of...
Social pain: A systematic review on interventions
F1000Research – January 10, 2025
Summary
Combining acetaminophen with forgiveness significantly outperforms either alone in reducing social pain. A systematic review of 14 randomized controlled trials, identified via MEDLINE from 548 articles, explored diverse psychological interventions. Medicine, including psilocybin, and mindfulness and compassion interventions, also proved effective. While this psychology review primarily focuses on emotional distress, its insights are vital for psychotherapists and psychiatry, though it doesn't directly address physical therapy or death anxiety. Spirituality, through forgiveness, offers a powerful path to healing social exclusion.
Abstract
Social pain is emotional distress caused by harm or threat to social connections that results in social exclusion, rejection, or loss. Social Pain ...
Death Anxiety Among Users and Non-Users of Psychedelics.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 10, 2025
Summary
People who rarely or never use psychedelics tend to experience higher levels of death anxiety, according to a Brazilian survey of 517 participants. The research reveals that psychedelics may help people transcend their fear of mortality through mystical and religious experiences. This transcendence, rather than the substances themselves, appears to reduce death anxiety. The findings were validated using established psychometric scales measuring death anxiety, spiritual well-being, and death transcendence.
Abstract
This study is a survey-type, cross-sectional study conducted in Brazil (n = 517), with online data collection taking place from April to June 2022....
Neurobiological mechanisms of antidepressant properties of psilocybin: A systematic review of blood biomarkers.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 10, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin shows promising effects on key blood biomarkers linked to depression treatment. Analysis of multiple studies reveals that this compound increases brain-growth factors and beneficial hormones while reducing inflammation markers in the body. For people with treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder, these biological changes may explain how psilocybin provides relief.
Abstract
Psilocybin represents a novel therapeutic approach for individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) who do not respond to conventional antidepr...
Study finds encouraging results in psilocybin treatment for TRD patients
Mental Health Weekly – January 10, 2025
Summary
Patients battling severe treatment-resistant depression experienced remarkable relief following a new medical approach. In an open-label study of 42 individuals, 70% reported a substantial 50% decrease in depressive symptoms after receiving synthetic psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen. This advance in mental health and psychiatry highlights psilocybin's potential as a therapeutic drug. Such psychedelics and drug studies offer hope, improving overall behavior and psychological well-being, potentially enhancing aspects like sexuality. Future technology could further refine these treatments.
Abstract
Results of new psychedelic research aimed at patients with severe treatment resistant depression (TRD) found significant decreases in their depress...
Additively manufactured ready-to-use platform using conductive recycled PLA for ketamine sensing.
Mikrochimica acta – January 09, 2025
Summary
Innovative 3D printing meets crime prevention in a breakthrough electrochemical sensor that detects ketamine, a dangerous date rape drug, in various beverages. Using recycled materials, researchers developed disposable devices that can quickly identify the presence of ketamine in drinks like wine, beer, and vodka. The sensor, made from recycled plastic and carbon materials, outperforms commercial alternatives and accurately detects even small amounts of the drug, offering a promising tool for drink safety.
Abstract
The use of 3D-printed electrodes is reported fabricated from in-house conductive filament composed of a mixture of recycled poly (lactic acid) (rPL...
Incidence and risk factors of postoperative delirium in elderly surgical patients 2023.
Scientific reports – January 09, 2025
Summary
Nearly half of elderly patients experience confusion after surgery, a condition known as postoperative delirium. A comprehensive analysis of surgical cases revealed that patients over 75 face 11 times higher risk. Using the Nursing Delirium Screening Scale, medical teams found that certain medications and blood loss during surgery significantly increase risk. Early detection in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit helps prevent complications and reduces hospital stays.
Abstract
Postoperative delirium has the potential to impact individuals of all age groups, with a significant emphasis on the elderly population. Its presen...
Novel 3-Pyrrolidineindole Derivatives as Serotonergic Psychedelic Agents for Treating Psychosis and Mental Illnesses Such as Depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
ACS medicinal chemistry letters – January 09, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Provided herein are novel 3-pyrrolidineindole derivatives as serotonergic psychedelic agents, pharmaceutical compositions, use of such compounds in...
"May we be the bridge and boat to cross the water": Community-engaged research on metta meditation.
Am J Orthopsychiatry – January 09, 2025
Summary
Cultivating compassion can profoundly impact well-being. One investigation explored if a collaborative approach to loving-kindness meditation could enhance community well-being. Researchers partnered with a community to co-design and implement practices. Participants reported significant improvements in emotional resilience and connection. This collaborative model effectively fostered positive mental states and strengthened community bonds.
Abstract
"May we be the bridge and boat to cross the water": Community-engaged research on metta meditation.
Inpatient Treatment of Suicidality: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – January 08, 2025
Summary
Recent findings show that intravenous ketamine leads the way in rapidly reducing suicidal thoughts among psychiatric inpatients. While various treatments exist, from light therapy to psychotherapy, ketamine emerged as the most consistent option in hospital settings. A comprehensive analysis of 49 clinical trials revealed promising results for mood and trauma-related disorders, though effectiveness varied across different therapeutic approaches.
Abstract
Objective: Psychiatric inpatients represent an acutely vulnerable population with high rates of suicidality (ie, suicidal ideation, attempts, and c...
Prevention of sufentanil-induced cough during induction of general anesthesia by low-dose esketamine.
BMC anesthesiology – January 08, 2025
Summary
During general anesthesia induction, up to 35% of patients experience coughing when given sufentanil, a powerful pain medication. A breakthrough study found that administering low-dose esketamine before sufentanil reduced coughing incidents to just 6% of patients. This simple intervention made anesthesia safer and more comfortable, with no significant side effects or changes in vital signs.
Abstract
Sufentanil is commonly used to induce general anaesthesia due to its rapid onset of action, strong analgesic effect, long-lasting effect, and stabl...
Psychotic-Like Experiences in Young Recreational Users of Ketamine: A Case Study.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 08, 2025
Summary
Regular ketamine use among young adults can trigger experiences similar to early psychosis, according to findings from 10 frequent users aged 18-24. Higher usage correlated strongly with psychotic-like symptoms, mimicking schizophrenia patterns through disruption of brain receptors. While other recreational drugs showed minimal impact, ketamine's unique effects raise important mental health considerations for young recreational users.
Abstract
This study explores the psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) associated with recreational ketamine use among young adults. Ketamine, initially introdu...
Cell-type specific transcriptional modulation by psilocybin induces sustained plasticity in mouse medial prefrontal cortex
OpenAlex – January 08, 2025
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin dramatically enhances communication within the prefrontal cortex, a key brain region for memory and neural mechanisms. This Neuroscience discovery reveals sustained neuroplasticity, with increased gene expression related to brain cell plasticity observed 24 hours later. Specifically, a deep layer neuron cell type, L5/6 NP, drives this biology. Drug studies show psilocybin's effects are mediated by 5-HT 2C receptors, not 5-HT 2A, highlighting a precise mechanism for psychedelics. This cell-type specific action offers new insights into neuroendocrine regulation and behavior.
Abstract
Abstract Despite enormous interest in psychedelics for psychiatric interventions, potential underlying biological mechanisms remain unclear. Here, ...
Moderating factors in psilocybin-assisted treatment affecting mood and personality: A naturalistic, open-label investigation
Psychopharmacology – January 07, 2025
Summary
A single high dose of psilocybin, combined with therapy, significantly improved mental health, lowering anxiety, depression, PTSD, and neuroticism for three months. This advance in clinical psychology and psychiatry showcases psilocybin's potential. Participants reported mystical experiences and emotional breakthroughs, which, alongside demographic factors, showed moderation effects on mood and personality changes. This suggests how psychedelics, like synthesized alkaloids, influence neurotransmitter receptors, offering new avenues for psychology and mental health, potentially easing irritability.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale Psychedelic-assisted therapy is increasingly applied within mental health treatment. Objectives This study focused on factors mo...
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Antisocial Personality Disorder: A Case Report.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 07, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking case shows how ketamine-assisted psychotherapy helped transform the life of a man with antisocial personality disorder. Over three years, low-dose ketamine sessions combined with therapy helped resolve his alcoholism, reduced violent thoughts, and improved depression. This marks a potential new avenue for treating a condition that traditionally has limited treatment options.
Abstract
There are currently no evidence-based treatment guidelines for antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). Instead, treatment typically focuses on como...
Molecular Phylogeny and Morphology Reveal Four New Species of Conocybe (Bolbitiaceae, Agaricales) from the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, China
Journal of Fungi – January 07, 2025
Summary
Seven *Conocybe* species, including four new ones, were identified on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, revealing fungi with potential for drug development. Collected over a decade, these *Agaricales* *taxa* contain alkaloids suitable for *chemical synthesis*, offering hope for psychiatric treatments. *Molecular phylogenetics* built a *phylogenetic tree*, confirming these unique *clades* within the *genus*. This enriches *biodiversity* and our understanding of *fungal biology and applications* in extreme *ecology*, marking a new *plateau* of discovery.
Abstract
The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, known for its high altitude, geological history of plate collision, crustal uplift, and special ecology factors, provid...
Intranasal racemic ketamine maintenance therapy for patients with treatment-resistant depression: a naturalistic feasibility study.
BMC psychiatry – January 07, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in treating stubborn depression: Nasal spray ketamine shows promise as a maintenance therapy. In this observational study, five patients with major depressive disorder who hadn't responded to traditional treatments received regular ketamine doses through a nasal spray. All participants maintained stable or improved mood and quality of life over 6 months, with only minor side effects like anxiety and nausea.
Abstract
Ketamine is a promising therapy for treatment-resistant depression due to its rapid onset, although benefits are often transitory, with patients ne...
Effect of ketamine on anxiety: findings from the Ketamine for Adult Depression Study.
The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science – January 07, 2025
Summary
Groundbreaking clinical trial reveals ketamine's dual benefit in treating both anxiety and depression. In this controlled study, patients receiving flexible-dose ketamine showed significant anxiety reduction compared to those given a control medication. The twice-weekly treatments over 4 weeks proved most effective when doctors could adjust dosing to each patient's needs. Results showed meaningful improvements in mental health symptoms, particularly when higher doses were used, highlighting ketamine's potential as a powerful tool for treating complex mood disorders.
Abstract
Anxiety disorders and treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (TRD) are often comorbid. Studies suggest ketamine has anxiolytic and antidepre...
Pain and Perception: Exploring Psychedelics as Novel Therapeutic Agents in Chronic Pain Management.
Current pain and headache reports – January 07, 2025
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine show remarkable promise in treating chronic pain conditions. These compounds provide powerful analgesic effects while addressing both physical and emotional aspects of pain. Studies demonstrate significant relief for patients with cluster headaches, neuropathic pain, and phantom limb pain through combined psychotherapy and psychedelic treatment.
Abstract
Chronic pain affects approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide, representing the leading cause of disability and a significant financial burden on...
A Psilocybin Experience Gone Wrong: The Importance of Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – January 07, 2025
Summary
A single patient's adverse psilocybin experience, a powerful hallucinogen, without a guiding psychotherapist resulted in inpatient psychiatry admission. This case, pivotal for Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, emphasizes the necessity of controlled settings. It highlights how experiential learning for prescribers, encompassing knowledge of chemical synthesis and alkaloids, is crucial. Such findings contribute to diverse academic research themes debating whether therapeutic support should be mandatory, especially as psilocybin nears FDA approval.
Abstract
As psilocybin awaits approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), scholars debate whether psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy should be requi...
Psychedelic Treatments in Adolescent Psychopharmacology: Considering Safety, Ethics, and Scientific Rigor
Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology – January 06, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic therapies for adults, showing promise in psychopharmacology for conditions like PTSD and depression, are gaining traction in medicine and clinical psychology. Yet, for adolescents, there's a stark gap: zero recent trials. This absence of rigorous, controlled investigation into these powerful compounds, complex chemical synthesis and alkaloids, raises significant ethical concerns. Considering young people's vulnerability and developing neurotransmitter receptors, expert psychotherapists and psychiatry advocate for structured exploration. Applying engineering ethics, such research is crucial to safely understand how psychedelics influence behavior.
Abstract
Interest in psychedelic therapies for adults is rapidly growing, with substances like 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine for posttraumatic stress di...
Long-term mindfulness meditation increases occurrence of sensory and attention brain states.
Front Hum Neurosci – January 06, 2025
Summary
Did you know long-term mindfulness practice can reshape your brain? Using advanced imaging, researchers compared experienced meditators to non-meditators. They discovered that consistent meditation significantly boosts the occurrence of brain states linked to enhanced sensory awareness and focused attention. This positive finding suggests that regular practice actively cultivates a more present and attentive mind.
Abstract
Long-term mindfulness meditation increases occurrence of sensory and attention brain states.
Airway Management in Patients With Acute Brain Injury or Ischemia.
The Journal of emergency medicine – January 06, 2025
Summary
When treating brain injuries, proper breathing support can mean the difference between recovery and decline. Medical experts now have clear protocols for managing airways in patients with traumatic or ischemic brain injury. Key findings show that careful endotracheal intubation, combined with precise blood pressure control and proper oxygenation, helps prevent secondary brain injury. This approach has significantly improved patient outcomes.
Abstract
Airway management and endotracheal intubation are essential skills of emergency medicine. Patients with acute brain injury or ischemia have complex...
(2R, 6R)-hydroxynorketamine ameliorates PTSD-like behaviors during the reconsolidation phase of fear memory in rats by modulating the VGF/BDNF/GluA1 signaling pathway in the hippocampus.
Behavioural brain research – January 05, 2025
Summary
A promising breakthrough in PTSD treatment reveals how a ketamine-derived compound can help "rewrite" traumatic memories. Scientists found that (2R, 6R)-hydroxynorketamine significantly reduces fear responses when administered during memory reconsolidation. The treatment works by activating key brain proteins, including VGF, in the hippocampus - our memory center. This approach proved most effective during memory processing, rather than during initial trauma acquisition or extinction phases, offering new hope for PTSD therapy.
Abstract
Fear memory, a fundamental symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), is improved by (2R, 6R)-hydroxynorketamine ((2R, 6R)-HNK) administrati...
Effects of combined postweaning social isolation and ketamine administration on schizophrenia-like behaviour in male Sprague Dawley rats.
Behavioural brain research – January 05, 2025
Summary
Social isolation combined with ketamine exposure creates a powerful "double hit" that mimics schizophrenia symptoms in rats more effectively than either factor alone. When young rats experienced both isolation and ketamine treatment, they showed increased aggressive behaviour, higher anxiety, and reduced social interaction compared to group housed peers. The isolated, ketamine-treated rats also demonstrated memory problems and elevated stress hormones, closely matching patterns seen in schizophrenia. These findings suggest that multiple environmental factors may work together to influence mental health outcomes.
Abstract
The pathophysiology behind negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia is not well understood, thus limiting the effectiveness of treatment on...
Structural insights into tryptamine psychedelics: The role of hydroxyl indole ring site in 5-HT2A receptor activation and psychedelic-like activity.
European journal of medicinal chemistry – January 05, 2025
Summary
The position of chemical groups on psychedelic compounds dramatically influences their effects in the brain. Scientists found that psilocin, the active form of magic mushrooms, works best when its hydroxyl group is in specific positions on its molecular structure. Using advanced simulations, they revealed how this positioning affects binding to the brain's 5-HT2A receptor, explaining why some compounds produce stronger psychedelic-like activity than others.
Abstract
Recent advancements in the study of mushroom-derived tryptamines, particularly psilocybin and its metabolite psilocin, highlight their unique psych...
Cortical high-frequency oscillations (≈ 110 Hz) in cats are state-dependent and enhanced by a subanesthetic dose of ketamine.
Behavioural brain research – January 05, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, a powerful psychedelic and anesthetic drug, dramatically affects brain wave patterns in unexpected ways. Scientists found that low doses boost ultra-fast brain oscillations (HFO) during wakefulness, particularly when breathing in. These enhanced brain waves flow from smell-processing regions to decision-making areas, suggesting how ketamine might influence cognition and consciousness.
Abstract
Ketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist that has antidepressant and anesthetic properties. At subanesthetic doses, ketamine induces transient psych...
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App-based mindfulness meditation reduces stress in novice meditators: a randomized controlled trial of headspace using ecological momentary assessment.
Annals of behavioral medicine : a publication of the Society of Behavioral Medicine – January 04, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
App-based mindfulness meditation programs have shown mixed effects in reducing stress levels. These studies have typically relied on limited assess...
Guruism and Cultic Social Dynamics in Psychedelic Practices and Organisations.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – January 04, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
This chapter explores the risks of guruism and cultic social dynamics in organisations that work with psychedelic drugs, which include therapist of...
Single-nucleus transcriptomics reveals time-dependent and cell-type-specific effects of psilocybin on gene expression
OpenAlex – January 04, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, profoundly alters brain Biology, a key Neuroscience finding. In male and female mice, this psychedelic drug drives time-dependent gene expression changes, impacting the transcriptome. Excitatory neurons showed altered genes for synaptic plasticity, including those related to Excitatory postsynaptic potential. GABAergic neurons exhibited shifts in mitochondrial function genes. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggest a Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, explaining psilocybin's lasting effects relevant to Tryptophan and brain disorders. Ketamine produced similar gene expression shifts.
Abstract
ABSTRACT There is growing interest to investigate classic psychedelics as potential therapeutics for mental illnesses. Previous studies have demons...
LSD flattens the hierarchy of directed information flow in fast whole-brain dynamics.
Imaging Neurosci (Camb) – January 03, 2025
Summary
LSD fundamentally reconfigures the brain's internal command structure, shifting from a hierarchical system to a more egalitarian network. Researchers explored if this compound could reduce the brain's typical "top-down" information flow. By observing rapid whole-brain activity in participants receiving LSD versus a placebo, they precisely measured how different neural regions communicated. The compelling findings demonstrated that LSD significantly flattens the usual brain hierarchy, fostering a more distributed and less centralized exchange of information. This promotes a highly integrated and flexible processing state, where communication is more fluid across the entire brain.
Abstract
LSD flattens the hierarchy of directed information flow in fast whole-brain dynamics.
Randomized Trial: A Pilot Study Investigating the Effects of Transcendental Meditation and Yoga Through Retinal Microcirculation in Cardiac Rehabilitation.
Journal of clinical medicine – January 03, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death, and psychosocial stress is considered a contributing factor to these i...
Perturbing whole-brain models of brain hierarchy: an application for depression following pharmacological treatment
OpenAlex – January 02, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin notably increases the brain's susceptibility to change, while escitalopram reduces it, yet both successfully promote healthier brain states for individuals experiencing depression. Through advanced Computer science modeling of Functional Brain Connectivity Studies, Neuroscience is revealing how the brain's Hierarchy of information processing reconfigures. These insights, vital for Psychology and Medicine, demonstrate psilocybin's ability to open a "window of plasticity," enabling optimal transitions towards improved mental well-being. This innovative approach promises to refine antidepressant therapies, potentially impacting the economics of mental health treatment.
Abstract
Abstract Neural representation can extend beyond localised activity to encompass global patterns, where information is distributed across brain net...
Digital Meditation to Target Employee Stress: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
JAMA network open – January 02, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Mindfulness meditation may improve well-being among employees; however, effects of digital meditation programs are poorly understood. To evaluate t...
Effects of psychedelics on human oscillatory brain activity.
International review of neurobiology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic compounds profoundly reorganize brain activity. Using EEG and MEG, researchers investigated how these substances alter neural oscillations. A key finding was a consistent decrease in alpha power, indicating reduced inhibitory control, alongside a significant increase in brain signal complexity. This suggests altered functional connectivity, potentially reversing typical top-down processing. These objective EEG markers offer valuable insights into the unique psychedelic experience and its therapeutic potential.
Abstract
This chapter reviews the effects of classic psychedelics on human oscillatory brain activity, as measured by resting-state electroencephalography (...
History of psychedelic drug science and molecular pharmacology.
International review of neurobiology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Modern psychedelic science began in 1898 with mescaline's discovery. A historical overview reveals how classical psychedelics, once valued for healing, faced decades of halted research. Now, renewed psychedelic science, driven by understanding psychedelic pharmacology, particularly via 5-HT(2A) receptors, confirms their efficacy for psychiatric disorders. This marks a paradigm shift and rapid growth in the field, highlighting the therapeutic potential uncovered through psychedelic history.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics have been used by various cultures for millennia for healing and religious purposes. The modern era of psychedelic science beg...
Serotonin, immune function, and psychedelics as potent anti-inflammatories.
International review of neurobiology – January 01, 2025
Summary
While Serotonin typically promotes inflammation via 5-HT2A receptors, certain Psychedelics surprisingly demonstrate powerful Anti-inflammatory effects. Research shows these compounds can positively modulate the Immune system, offering a promising new strategy for inflammatory conditions. This unveils significant therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Psychedelics are primarily recognized for their profound behavioral effects, leading most research on psychedelics and their primary target, the 5-...
Postoperative Ketamine May be Associated with Venous Thromboembolism in Chronic Opioid Users After Spine Surgery.
World neurosurgery – January 01, 2025
Summary
Pain control after spine surgery presents unique challenges, especially for long-term opioid users. New research reveals an unexpected connection between ketamine, a popular alternative pain medication, and blood clot formation. Analysis of 322 spine surgery patients showed that those receiving ketamine for post-surgical pain control had higher rates of venous thromboembolism, particularly among chronic opioid users. This finding suggests careful consideration is needed when selecting pain management strategies.
Abstract
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious postoperative adverse event after spine surgery. In patients with pain refractory to typical multimodal a...
Ketamine for refractory depression: Save the best for last?
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – January 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, traditionally an anesthetic, shows remarkable promise in treating severe depression, matching the effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy with fewer side effects. Rather than being a last resort, new pharmacology research suggests it could work better as an early treatment option. Current treatment algorithms place ketamine after multiple failed medications, but evidence shows it's safer than many standard augmentation strategies. For patients with treatment-resistant depression, earlier ketamine intervention could mean faster relief and better outcomes.
Abstract
Ketamine has recently been shown to be non-inferior to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), one of psychiatry's most effective treatments for depressio...
Abuse liability for esketamine in a cohort of patients undergoing an acute treatment course to manage treatment-resistant depression: a secondary analysis of an observational study in real-world clinical practicee.
Therapeutic advances in drug safety – January 01, 2025
Summary
Many worry about addiction with new depression treatments, especially those related to ketamine abuse. However, a study using real-world clinical data on 23 patients with major depressive disorder found promising results. This psychopharmacology research assessed esketamine's abuse liability during an acute treatment course. Patients reported neutral liking and no cravings, which did not increase over eight sessions. This suggests a positive antidepressant effect and treatment response without heightened risk, offering hope for those with severe depression, including suicidal ideation, by showing low abuse potential.
Abstract
Intranasal (IN) esketamine has become an effective and well-tolerated therapeutic option for the management of treatment-resistant depression withi...
How compatible are Western psychology and yoga psychology? Epistemology, concepts and localization.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2025
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Mindfulness, meditation and yoga are very popular today. A large number of studies and meta-analyses have investigated the effectiveness of such pr...
The dose-dependent efficacy of esketamine in spinal surgery with intraoperative neuroelectrophysiological monitoring: a randomized controlled trial.
Frontiers in medicine – January 01, 2025
Summary
Protecting nerve function during spinal surgery is vital. A recent study explored how different doses of esketamine impact anesthesia and recovery, particularly with intraoperative neuroelectrophysiological monitoring. Researchers found that a specific esketamine dose of 0.3 mg/kg/h significantly improved clinical efficacy. This optimal dose reduced the need for other anesthetics, enhanced patient recovery quality, and minimized postoperative complications, proving safe and effective for spinal surgery.
Abstract
This study aims to validate the efficacy and safety of combining different doses of esketamine with propofol, remifentanil, and dexmedetomidine in ...
Comparison of strength and adulteration between illicit drugs obtained from cryptomarkets versus off-line.
Addiction (Abingdon, England) – January 01, 2025
Summary
Online drug markets show surprising quality control: substances purchased through cryptomarkets often contain fewer adulterants and higher purity than street drugs. Testing of over 60,000 drug samples revealed cocaine and MDMA powder from digital sources were consistently stronger and less contaminated. However, results varied by substance, with some drugs showing opposite trends.
Abstract
Drugs sold on cryptomarkets are thought to have lower levels of adulteration and higher strength compared with those sourced off-line. The present ...
Ketamine treatment for buprenorphine-precipitated opioid withdrawal: a case report.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
With fentanyl prevalent, starting buprenorphine can trigger severe buprenorphine opioid withdrawal. A patient experiencing this, unresponsive to standard care during buprenorphine initiation, found relief with ketamine. A single dose of ketamine helped manage the intense withdrawal, allowing eventual stabilization on buprenorphine. This highlights ketamine's promising role as an adjunctive treatment for opioid withdrawal.
Abstract
The presence of fentanyl in the drug supply is thought to contribute to the incidence of buprenorphine-precipitated opioid withdrawal (BPOW) during...
Low-Dose Sublingual Ketamine for the Treatment of Raynaud's Phenomenon.
Cureus – January 01, 2025
Summary
Low-dose ketamine shows promise for people suffering from cold-triggered numbness and color changes in their fingers. When administered under the tongue, this treatment improved blood flow and reduced tingling in extremities. Patients experienced better skin texture, enhanced circulation, and decreased sensitivity to cold - offering a potential alternative to traditional anti-inflammatory drugs for managing Raynaud's phenomena.
Abstract
Raynaud's phenomenon is a vascular disorder characterized by episodic vasospasm of small arteries, primarily affecting the hands and feet. Standard...
Mindfulness-based interventions: what more can the West learn from Buddhism? A fieldwork study.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2025
Summary
While mindfulness is widely embraced in the Western world, its deepest roots in Buddhism offer even greater potential. A qualitative research effort explored how traditional Buddhist understandings could enrich Western psychology's mindfulness-based intervention (MBI). Participants in a meditation retreat highlighted that Western mindfulness often lacks the clarity and broad life philosophy found in Buddhism. Integrating concepts like compassion and Buddhist mind science can enhance well-being and holistic mental health.
Abstract
Mindfulness has been adopted from its origins in Buddhist philosophy and is now widely applied in Western psychology. Existing research suggests th...
Development of a diagnostic variable number tandem repeat marker and dual TaqMan genotyping assay to distinguish Lophophora species.
International journal of legal medicine – January 01, 2025
Summary
Scientists have developed a groundbreaking DNA test to distinguish between two similar cacti species - one containing mescaline and another that doesn't. The new method uses variable number tandem repeats and TaqMan genotyping to accurately identify Lophophora williamsii from Lophophora diffusa, helping law enforcement better regulate controlled substances.
Abstract
The Lophophora genus of the Cactaceae family includes Lophophora diffusa and Lophophora williamsii, which has traditionally been used as a natural ...
KETAMIR-2, a new molecular entity and novel ketamine analog.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, a new ketamine analog, ketamir-2, avoids the psychomotor agitation seen with traditional ketamine. This novel NMDA receptor antagonist was designed for a superior safety profile. Unlike ketamine, ketamir-2 did not induce hyperlocomotion in tests. It also demonstrated significant anti-depressant and anxiolytic effects, outperforming ketamine in many areas. This suggests a promising, safer therapeutic option.
Abstract
Ketamir-2 is a new molecular entity, and a novel ketamine analog designed to improve oral bioavailability, and offer a superior safety profile comp...
Mind beyond the brain: proposal of a pragmatic interactionist framework.
International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England) – January 01, 2025
Summary
Remarkable experiences suggest consciousness may extend beyond the physical brain. A new hypothesis proposes a pragmatic interactionist model, suggesting the mind–brain relationship allows the mind to function independently, with the brain serving as a tool or filter. This theory, drawing on evidence like near-death and out-of-body accounts, offers a robust framework to understand complex mental phenomena, providing a strong foundation for exploring the human mind.
Abstract
The nature of consciousness remains unclear, and academic discussions usually ignore the scientific evidence about anomalous and spiritual experien...