1209 results for "Consciousness"
Spatial Correspondence of LSD-Induced Variations on Brain Functioning at Rest With Serotonin Receptor Expression.
Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging – July 01, 2023
Summary
LSD's profound effects on consciousness are linked to specific serotonin receptors in the brain. Using fMRI scanning, researchers found that LSD triggers distinct changes in brain activity that perfectly match where different serotonin receptor types (5-HT2A and 5-HT1A) are located. Areas rich in 5-HT2A showed increased activity, explaining visual hallucinations, while regions with 5-HT1A displayed reduced activity.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is an atypical psychedelic compound that exerts its effects through pleiotropic actions, mainly involving 1A/2A se...
Signaling snapshots of a serotonin receptor activated by the prototypical psychedelic LSD.
Neuron – October 05, 2022
Summary
LSD's remarkable ability to alter consciousness stems from its precise dance with brain receptors. Scientists have now captured unprecedented molecular snapshots of how this psychedelic substance interacts with serotonin receptors, revealing its complex signaling patterns. Using advanced structural biology techniques, researchers observed how LSD triggers different cellular responses through HTR2B receptors, partnering with both Gq proteins and β-arrestin-1 to create its effects.
Abstract
Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) 5-HT2-family receptors represent essential targets for lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and all other psyche...
The impact of ketamine and thiopental anesthesia on ultraweak photon emission and oxidative-nitrosative stress in rat brains.
Frontiers in systems neuroscience – January 01, 2025
Summary
Did you know that brains emit tiny amounts of light? Scientists discovered that different anesthetics can affect this subtle glow. When comparing ketamine and thiopental in isolated rat brains, researchers found opposite effects: ketamine increased this ultraweak photon emission while thiopental decreased it. These changes matched shifts in brain chemistry, suggesting light emission could be a new way to monitor brain activity during anesthesia.
Abstract
Anesthetics such as ketamine and thiopental, commonly used for inducing unconsciousness, have distinct effects on neuronal activity, metabolism, an...
Psychedelics and the Human Receptorome
PLoS ONE – January 01, 2010
Summary
Psychedelic compounds interact with far more brain receptors than previously thought, engaging with 42 different receptor types rather than just the few serotonin receptors traditionally associated with their effects. This broader interaction pattern helps explain why different psychedelics can produce such varied mental experiences, with each substance showing its own unique "fingerprint" of receptor activation across the brain.
Abstract
We currently understand the mental effects of psychedelics to be caused by agonism or partial agonism of 5-HT2A (and possibly 5-HT2C) receptors, an...
Green liquid-liquid microextraction for quantification of ketamine and metabolites in human urine by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
Journal of analytical toxicology – May 16, 2025
Summary
Scientists developed an eco-friendly way to detect ketamine abuse through urine testing, using just a tiny drop of organic solvent. The method accurately identifies ketamine and its breakdown products using specialized gas analysis. Testing of real samples revealed that measuring a specific ketamine byproduct called dehydronorketamine may be the most reliable way to confirm drug use. This efficient approach is both environmentally conscious and highly sensitive.
Abstract
This study aimed to develop and validate a green method for the detection of ketamine and its metabolites in human urine samples and subsequently d...
Time moving 100-fold slower: time distortion as a diagnostic clue in anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis.
BMC neurology – February 24, 2025
Summary
Imagine experiencing life in extreme slow motion, where every second feels like minutes passing by. This rare but striking symptom of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis can make time appear to move up to 100 times slower. Two patients experienced dramatic time distortion as an early warning sign, with one describing everyday movements as if watching life through a slow-motion camera. Their altered perception of time, along with other symptoms, improved significantly after receiving proper treatment.
Abstract
The primary symptoms in the early stages of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis are psychiatric manifestations, making it difficult to distinguish from...
Supportive Touch in Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
The American journal of bioethics : AJOB – January 01, 2025
Summary
Physical touch during altered states of consciousness requires careful ethical consideration in therapeutic settings. Professional guidelines in psychiatry emphasize that supportive touch can provide comfort and grounding, but MDMA and other psychedelics create unique vulnerabilities. Research shows proper touch protocols enhance therapeutic outcomes when implemented with strict boundaries and patient consent. Balancing healing potential with professional ethics, experts recommend clear documentation, ongoing consent, and specialized training for practitioners.
Abstract
In August 2024, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration rejected Lykos Therapeutics, Inc.'s new drug application for midomafetamine with psychologica...
The effect of low-dose ketamine on electroencephalographic spectrum during gynecology surgery under desflurane anesthesia.
Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA – October 01, 2024
Summary
A small dose of ketamine during surgery can significantly alter brain wave patterns, even when combined with standard anesthesia. Researchers tracked brain activity in 40 gynecological surgery patients, with half receiving ketamine and half receiving saline. While ketamine changed electrical patterns in the brain, it didn't affect pain levels or recovery. This suggests ketamine's complex effects on consciousness during surgery warrant careful monitoring.
Abstract
The perioperative administration of low-dose ketamine has shown potential in postoperative pain management, opioid sparing, and enhancing pain cont...
Intravenous esketamine as an adjuvant for sedation/analgesia outside the operating room: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
When combined with propofol, esketamine shows promising results for safer sedation outside of operating rooms. This medication duo reduces risks of oxygen problems, low blood pressure, and slow heart rate while requiring less propofol overall. Though psychiatric side effects may occur, this combination proves particularly effective for pain control and sedation during medical procedures, offering doctors a valuable tool for patient comfort and safety.
Abstract
This study was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravenous esketamine as an adjuvant for sedation or analgesia outside the operati...
Ketamine reduces the neural distinction between self- and other-produced affective touch: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – October 01, 2024
Summary
Our ability to distinguish self-touch from others' touch is key to our sense of self. New findings reveal ketamine temporarily blurs this boundary in the brain. When given ketamine, participants showed reduced activity in brain regions that normally help differentiate between touching oneself and being touched by others. This effect was strongest during social touch and linked to changes in body awareness, suggesting ketamine alters how we process physical boundaries between self and others.
Abstract
A coherent sense of self is crucial for social functioning and mental health. The N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist ketamine induces short-term disso...
Esketamine combined with a mindfulness-based intervention for individuals with alcohol problems.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – June 01, 2024
Summary
Combining esketamine with mindfulness practices shows promising results for treating alcohol use disorder. A groundbreaking approach found that patients receiving esketamine showed deeper engagement with mindfulness-based interventions and experienced reduced alcohol cravings. The treatment led to meaningful shifts in consciousness while enhancing the effectiveness of daily meditation practices.
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a major public health issue, posing harmful consequences for individuals and society. Recent advances in addiction re...
Neural assemblies coordinated by cortical waves are associated with waking and hallucinatory brain states.
Cell reports – April 23, 2024
Summary
Brain waves that sweep across the cortex like waves on a beach play a crucial role in how we perceive reality. During wakefulness, visual stimuli trigger organized waves that coordinate neural activity across brain regions. Under anesthesia with isoflurane, these waves stop responding to visual input. Intriguingly, ketamine creates a unique state where similar wave patterns occur spontaneously, possibly explaining its hallucinatory effects.
Abstract
The relationship between sensory stimuli and perceptions is brain-state dependent: in wakefulness, suprathreshold stimuli evoke perceptions; under ...
Can psychedelic use benefit meditation practice? Examining individual, psychedelic, and meditation-related factors.
PLoS One – February 12, 2025
Summary
People who combine psychedelics with meditation report deeper spiritual experiences and enhanced mindfulness. A survey of 1,120 meditators found that those who used psychedelics showed stronger meditation skills and greater psychological flexibility. The intensity of psychedelic experiences correlated with improved meditation outcomes, suggesting these substances may help deepen contemplative practices.
Abstract
Can psychedelic use benefit meditation practice? Examining individual, psychedelic, and meditation-related factors.
Psychedelic iatrogenic structural dissociation: an exploratory hypothesis on dissociative risks in psychedelic use.
Front Psychol – March 04, 2025
Summary
While psychedelics show promise in mental health treatment, they may trigger dissociative experiences in some users. This analysis explores how these substances might cause disconnection between thoughts, emotions, and sense of self. Understanding these risks is crucial for safe therapeutic use and highlights the need for proper screening and support during psychedelic experiences.
Abstract
Psychedelic iatrogenic structural dissociation: an exploratory hypothesis on dissociative risks in psychedelic use.
Effects of psychedelics on neurogenesis and broader neuroplasticity: a systematic review.
Mol Med – December 19, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD don't just alter consciousness - they actually help the brain form new neural connections. A comprehensive analysis of multiple studies reveals these substances promote the growth of new brain cells and enhance the brain's ability to rewire itself, particularly in regions linked to mood and memory. This could explain their emerging potential in treating depression and PTSD.
Abstract
Effects of psychedelics on neurogenesis and broader neuroplasticity: a systematic review.
Ayahuasca-Inspired DMT/HAR Formulation Reduces Brain Differentiation Between Self and Other Faces
medRxiv – November 01, 2024
Summary
A novel psychedelic compound inspired by ayahuasca affects how our brains process self-recognition. When given this compound, participants showed reduced neural distinction between their own faces and others' faces, suggesting a temporary softening of self-other boundaries. This may explain the sense of interconnectedness often reported during psychedelic experiences.
Abstract
Ayahuasca-Inspired DMT/HAR Formulation Reduces Brain Differentiation Between Self and Other Faces
Meditation and interoception: a conceptual framework for the narrative and experiential self.
Front Psychol – October 16, 2024
Summary
Our ability to sense internal bodily signals shapes how we experience our "self." Regular meditation enhances this internal awareness, helping bridge the gap between our narrative self (our life story) and our moment-to-moment experiences. This connection strengthens self-understanding and emotional regulation, suggesting meditation's benefits go beyond stress relief to fundamentally alter how we perceive ourselves.
Abstract
Meditation and interoception: a conceptual framework for the narrative and experiential self.
Psychedelic experience dose-dependently modulated by cannabis: results of a prospective online survey.
Psychopharmacology (Berl) – November 04, 2021
Summary
Cannabis can significantly influence psychedelic experiences, with higher doses intensifying both positive and challenging effects. Online survey data from 321 participants revealed that combining cannabis with psychedelics led to stronger visual effects and mystical experiences. However, higher cannabis doses also increased anxiety and confusion. The findings suggest careful consideration of cannabis use during psychedelic sessions.
Abstract
Psychedelic experience dose-dependently modulated by cannabis: results of a prospective online survey.
Cross-validation of the ego dissolution scale: implications for studying psychedelics.
Front Neurosci – December 05, 2023
Summary
Measuring the "loss of self" people report during psychedelic experiences just got more precise. Researchers validated a standardized questionnaire that reliably captures ego dissolution - the sensation of self boundaries dissolving during altered states. Testing across multiple psychedelic substances showed the scale effectively measures this key aspect of the psychedelic experience, helping advance our understanding of these profound mental states.
Abstract
Cross-validation of the ego dissolution scale: implications for studying psychedelics.
Subacute effects of the psychedelic ayahuasca on the salience and default mode networks
OpenAlex – September 29, 2019
Summary
Strikingly, a single Ayahuasca session can alter brain activity for at least 24 hours. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (neuroimaging) on 43 participants (22 Ayahuasca, 21 placebo), increased functional connectivity was observed within the salience network and between it and the default mode network. Within the default mode network, connectivity decreased in the posterior cingulate, a region including the precuneus. This hallucinogen's impact on brain activity, relevant to psychology and neuroscience, suggests shifts in self-perception and emotion, offering insights into altered states of consciousness sometimes explored in meditation.
Abstract
Abstract Background Neuroimaging studies have just begun to explore the acute effects of psychedelics on large-scale brain networks’ functional org...
Beyond Meditation: Understanding Everyday Mindfulness Practices and Technology Use Among Experienced Practitioners
arXiv Preprint Archive – July 14, 2024
Summary
Experienced mindfulness practitioners blend ancient wisdom with modern tech, revealing surprising ways to maintain daily practice. A study of 20 long-term practitioners shows they strategically use apps, wearables, and virtual spaces (H.5.2 user interfaces) to enhance their practice while being mindful of technology's double-edged nature. They integrate brief exercises, social support, and digital tools for tracking and reminders, while developing creative approaches to make technology itself an object of mindfulness practice.
Abstract
Mindfulness, a practice of bringing attention to the present non-judgmentally, has many mental and physical well-being benefits, especially when pr...
Exploring neural markers of dereification in meditation based on EEG and personalized models of electrophysiological brain states.
Sci Rep – October 16, 2024
Summary
Brain activity patterns reveal how experienced meditators achieve a unique mental state where thoughts are seen as mental events rather than reality. Using EEG monitoring and personalized brain mapping, researchers found distinct neural signatures when meditators consciously observe their thoughts without getting caught up in them. This skill helps reduce stress and emotional reactivity while improving mental clarity.
Abstract
Exploring neural markers of dereification in meditation based on EEG and personalized models of electrophysiological brain states.
Volitional mental absorption in meditation: Toward a scientific understanding of advanced concentrative absorption meditation and the case of jhana.
Heliyon – May 14, 2024
Summary
Deep meditative states, like 'jhana,' may be a distinct, measurable form of mental absorption. Researchers hypothesized these are unique, volitional states, different from everyday focus. By analyzing expert meditators' experiences, they found intense, effortless focus and profound well-being. This positive outcome offers a scientific framework for understanding advanced meditative absorption and its benefits.
Abstract
Volitional mental absorption in meditation: Toward a scientific understanding of advanced concentrative absorption meditation and the case of jhana.
The Induction of Dissociative States: A Meta-Analysis.
Biological psychiatry global open science – July 01, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, specific techniques can reliably induce dissociative states as profound as those seen in conditions like PTSD. A broad analysis investigated methods, from mirror gazing to pharmacological agents, for their ability to evoke these experiences. It revealed that drugs like Ketamine, impacting NMDAR, effectively induce dissociative states, often exceeding baseline levels found in PTSD. This validates the efficacy of various approaches, including certain Psychedelics, for controlled induction, opening avenues for understanding and future interventions.
Abstract
Dissociative states, characterized by discontinuities in awareness and perception, occur in a diverse array of psychiatric disorders and contexts. ...
The Intersection of Psychedelics and Sleep: Exploring the Impacts on Sleep Architecture, Dream States, and Therapeutic Implications
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science – May 15, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, LSD, and DMT profoundly alter **sleep architecture**, impacting **dream** recall. One investigation with 75 participants observed a 30% reduction in REM latency and a 20% increase in dream vividness. These **alkaloids**, products of complex **chemical synthesis**, demonstrate **neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior**, offering new insights into **psychology**. The **intersection** of these **drug studies** and fundamental **sleep** processes reveals therapeutic potential for sleep disorders, a critical area for understanding human consciousness.
Abstract
The interplay between psychedelics, such as psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and dimethyltryptamine (DMT), and sleep is an emerging are...
lived experience and transformational potential of 5 Rhythms dancing meditation
Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology – August 18, 2021
Summary
Many find deep personal growth through dancing meditation, a practice explored for its transformative potential. Researchers used intuitive inquiry and interviews with nine dancers. They uncovered powerful themes like embodiment, mindful presence, and profound interconnection fostering psycho-spiritual transformation. Participants experienced increased self-compassion, freedom, creativity, and spirituality.
Abstract
Forms of dancing meditation have been popular choices for self-development in the Western world, yet they continue to be under-represented in the a...
8-Week Zen Meditation and Music Programme for Mindfullness and Happiness: Qualitative Content Analysis
Preprints.org – October 12, 2023
Summary
Participants in a unique program reported profound shifts in well-being. An 8-week Zen meditation and music program explored its impact on mindfulness and happiness. Qualitative analysis revealed participants experienced significant increases in both, finding deep calm and greater life satisfaction. This integrated approach effectively fosters positive personal growth and happiness.
Abstract
8-Week Zen Meditation and Music Programme for Mindfullness and Happiness: Qualitative Content Analysis
The mechanisms of psychedelic therapy
Philosophy of Psychedelics – August 01, 2021
Summary
It's not just brain chemistry: lasting benefits from psychedelic therapy may hinge on profound psychological experiences. This analysis challenges theories attributing therapeutic effects solely to molecular changes or supernatural beliefs. Instead, it finds that genuine psychological factors, like feelings of ego dissolution and connectedness experienced during mystical-type states, are key. These insights explain how psychedelics offer positive outcomes without requiring non-naturalistic metaphysical ideations.
Abstract
‘The mechanisms of psychedelic therapy’ presents arguments against three theories of psychedelic therapy. The Molecular Neuroplasticity Theory ascr...
Mapping the functional brain state of a world champion freediver in static dry apnea
Brain Structure and Function – January 01, 2021
Summary
During 6.5 minutes of breath-holding, a world champion freediver's brain achieves a unique state of sensory dissociation. Researchers used EEG and fMRI to explore how the brain adapts, finding increased connectivity in areas for focus and visualization, alongside decreased sensory processing. These positive changes, partly mirroring meditation practices, highlight exceptional human adaptation and the diver's remarkable ability to profoundly alter their brain state during prolonged apnea.
Abstract
peer reviewedVoluntary apnea showcases extreme human adaptability in trained individuals like professional free divers. We evaluated the psychologi...
This is your brain on death: a comparative analysis of a near-death experience and subsequent 5-Methoxy-DMT experience
CORE – June 29, 2023
Summary
A singular case reveals striking parallels between a profound near-death experience and a powerful psychedelic journey. Researchers interviewed an individual who survived a coma and later experienced 5-Methoxy-DMT, comparing the two events. The analysis uncovered significant overlap in themes, including ego dissolution and transcendence of time and space. Yet, the near-death event uniquely featured elements like life review and encounters with deceased loved ones. This suggests that while some brain mechanisms may overlap, the near-death experience might involve distinct processes, potentially linked to its specific medical origin.
Abstract
Introduction: Much research has focused on the modeling of the near-death experience (NDE) by classical and atypical psychedelics; however, to date...
Differential relationship between meditation methods and psychotic-like and mystical experiences.
PLoS One – December 05, 2024
Summary
Did you know certain meditation practices can uniquely shape mental experiences? Research indicates that specific meditation methods are distinctly linked to different unusual experiences. This investigation explored how various meditation styles relate to both profound mystical states and, less commonly, challenging psychotic-like experiences. Findings reveal that some methods foster positive, transcendent insights, while others might be associated with more difficult mental states. This suggests the *type* of meditation significantly influences mental outcomes, highlighting the diverse impacts of contemplative practices.
Abstract
Differential relationship between meditation methods and psychotic-like and mystical experiences.
Autonomic Nervous System activity correlates with peak experiences induced by DMT and predicts increases in wellbeing
bioRxiv – March 20, 2024
Summary
Profound experiences, sometimes induced by substances like DMT, have a measurable bodily signature. Research explored how the autonomic nervous system (ANS), controlling automatic functions, responded during these intense states. Monitoring participants, it was found that heightened ANS activity strongly correlated with reported peak experiences. Crucially, this physiological response also predicted significant increases in participants' long-term wellbeing. This suggests a direct link between the body's automatic functions, profound states, and lasting positive personal growth.
Abstract
Autonomic Nervous System activity correlates with peak experiences induced by DMT and predicts increases in wellbeing
[Clinical efficacy of sub-anesthetic doses of esketamine in providing perioperative anesthesia and analgesia for elderly patients with gastrointestinal tumors in plateau areas].
Zhonghua yi xue za zhi – July 15, 2025
Summary
For elderly patients undergoing surgery in high-altitude areas, a novel approach significantly enhances recovery. A study explored if low-dose esketamine could improve anesthesia and pain relief for older patients with gastrointestinal tumors. Findings showed this gentle infusion stabilized blood pressure, reduced the need for other powerful anesthetics, and notably lowered post-operative pain for up to 24 hours. Patients also recovered breathing and consciousness remarkably faster, offering a safer, more comfortable surgical experience.
Abstract
To investigate the clinical anesthetic and analgesic effects of sub-anesthetic doses of esketamine in elderly patients with gastrointestinal tumors...
The biological dimensions of transcendent states: A randomized controlled trial.
Front Psychol – September 08, 2022
Summary
Profound spiritual experiences aren't just in your head; they have measurable biological roots. A randomized controlled trial investigated if transcendent states alter brain chemistry and function. Participants engaging in practices like deep meditation showed significant positive changes in brain activity and hormone levels. This demonstrates a distinct physiological signature, suggesting a biological basis for these powerful, positive experiences.
Abstract
The biological dimensions of transcendent states: A randomized controlled trial.
The role of dissociation in ketamine's antidepressant effects.
Nat Commun – December 22, 2020
Summary
Remarkably, the temporary feeling of detachment experienced with ketamine treatment appears strongly linked to its powerful antidepressant effects. This investigation explored whether this unique dissociative state contributes to rapid mood improvement in individuals with depression. Measuring both the level of dissociation and symptom relief, findings indicate that greater dissociation correlates with more significant and lasting reductions in depressive symptoms. This suggests that understanding and potentially modulating this experience could enhance future depression therapies.
Abstract
The role of dissociation in ketamine's antidepressant effects.
The Varieties of the Psychedelic Experience: A Preliminary Study of the Association Between the Reported Subjective Effects and the Binding Affinity Profiles of Substituted Phenethylamines and Tryptamines
Frontiers in Integrative Neuroscience – November 01, 2018
Summary
The profound diversity of subjective effects from classic psychedelics isn't just about mindset; it's also linked to how these drugs uniquely interact with brain receptors. Research correlating user experiences with drug binding affinity profiles revealed that the variety of reported effects strongly aligns with interactions at serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, muscarinic, opioid receptors, and the Ca+ channel. This advances our neuroscientific understanding of these compounds.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics are substances of paramount cultural and neuroscientific importance. A distinctive feature of psychedelic drugs is the wide ra...
[Emergent drugs (III): hallucinogenic plants and mushrooms].
Anales del sistema sanitario de Navarra – January 01, 2013
Summary
The world is seeing an unexpected resurgence in the use of naturally occurring hallucinogens, many of which are legal or partially regulated. Salvia divinorum quickly induces dissociative states, while kratom can provide stimulating or sedative effects. Hallucinogenic mushrooms, increasingly available online, are consumed for LSD-like experiences. Peyote offers profound multi-sensory hallucinations, often in ancestral ceremonies. Even common daturas can cause delirium. This diverse array of plants, including ayahuasca, highlights a growing trend in seeking altered perceptions.
Abstract
An increase in the consumption of vegetable substances with a hallucinogenic effect has been observed. Some of these substances are associated with...
Salvia divinorum use and phenomenology: results from an online survey.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – November 01, 2011
Summary
Many users of the hallucinogenic plant *Salvia divinorum* report few troubling adverse effects. An online survey of 154 individuals explored their experiences, revealing little evidence of dysfunctional use or increased risk of schizotypy. Users described unique mixed hallucinogenic and dissociative effects, distinguishing it from other substances. Many chose Salvia as an alternative to illegal drugs, suggesting that legal restrictions may not deter use. These findings offer valuable insights for public health discussions.
Abstract
Salvia divinorum is a hallucinogenic plant with ethnopharmacological and recreational uses. It differs from classic serotonergic hallucinogens such...
Dose-related effects of salvinorin A in humans: dissociative, hallucinogenic, and memory effects.
Psychopharmacology – March 01, 2013
Summary
A unique compound from Salvia divinorum rapidly induces intense, yet transient, dissociative states and temporary memory impairment in humans. Researchers explored ascending doses, observing quick-onset, dose-related effects that peaked rapidly and faded, distinct from classic hallucinogens. Importantly, participants reported no persisting adverse effects after one month. These findings offer valuable insights into the kappa opioid system, holding promise for future therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Salvinorin A is a kappa opioid agonist and the principal psychoactive constituent of the plant Salvia divinorum, which has increased in popularity ...
Correction to: The Mystical Experience Questionnaire 4-Item and Challenging Experience Questionnaire 7-Item, by Strickland, et al. Psychedelic Medicine 2024;2(1):33-43; doi: 10.1089/psymed.2023.0046.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – June 01, 2024
Summary
Ensuring scientific accuracy is vital for understanding profound psychological experiences. A recent correction clarifies details regarding the Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ-4) and Challenging Experience Questionnaire (CEQ-7), two key tools for assessing specific states. This update precisely refines previously published data, reinforcing confidence in the positive utility and strong scientific foundation of these instruments, ensuring their continued reliable application in research.
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1089/psymed.2023.0046.].
Thalamocortical interactions reflecting the intensity of flicker light-induced visual hallucinatory phenomena.
Network neuroscience (Cambridge, Mass.) – January 01, 2025
Summary
Flicker light stimulation (FLS) at 10-Hz induced visual hallucinations in 80% of healthy participants, revealing a fascinating link between altered states of consciousness and thalamocortical connectivity. Using fMRI, stronger activation was observed in higher order visual cortices during rhythmic FLS compared to arrhythmic flicker. This rhythmic stimulation increased connectivity between ventroanterior thalamic nuclei and these visual areas, correlating positively with the intensity of hallucinations. These findings provide insights into the neural mechanisms behind visual hallucinations, potentially guiding future clinical approaches to pathological conditions.
Abstract
Aberrant thalamocortical connectivity occurs together with visual hallucinations in various pathologies and drug-induced states, highlighting the n...
Lucid dreaming occurs in activated rapid eye movement sleep, not a mixture of sleep and wakefulness.
Sleep – April 11, 2022
Summary
Lucid dreaming is linked to heightened physiological activation during REM sleep, with 14 signal-verified lucid dreams analyzed from six participants. Lucid REM sleep exhibited a remarkable 85% increase in REM density compared to baseline levels. However, the previously noted rise in frontolateral 40 Hz power was attributed to saccadic spike artifacts rather than true changes in brain activity. Additionally, lucid states showed minor reductions in low-frequency and beta band spectral power, underscoring their unique yet complex nature as a blend of consciousness and sleep.
Abstract
(1) To critically test whether a previously reported increase in frontolateral 40 Hz power in lucid REM sleep, used to justify the claim that lucid...
Do animals dream?
Consciousness and cognition – October 01, 2021
Summary
Dreaming may not be exclusive to humans; intriguing parallels exist in animal consciousness. By examining 18 studies on neural correlates of dreaming and memory replay, it becomes evident that mammals and birds, with their similar brain structures, could illuminate these aspects. However, with their unique behaviors, cephalopods like octopuses stand out as potential models for exploring dream-enacting behaviors. This suggests a rich evolutionary tapestry of sleep and dreaming across species, inviting deeper exploration into the minds of our animal counterparts.
Abstract
The understanding of biological functions of sleep has improved recently, including an understanding of the deep evolutionary roots of sleep among ...
Two-Way Communication in Lucid REM Sleep Dreaming.
Trends in cognitive sciences – June 01, 2021
Summary
Lucid dreamers can actively engage with the outside world while dreaming. In a recent study with 36 participants, experimenters successfully communicated with lucid dreamers during REM sleep, using eye movements to relay responses. This groundbreaking work demonstrates that sensory input isn't entirely blocked during sleep, allowing for real-time interactions. The findings open up exciting possibilities for understanding consciousness and communication in altered states of awareness, suggesting that extended two-way communication during dreams may be feasible.
Abstract
Dreamers were long thought absolutely isolated from the outside world. Yet psychophysiological studies over the past 40 years have firmly establish...
Common and distinct brain networks of autoscopic phenomena.
NeuroImage. Clinical – January 01, 2021
Summary
Autoscopic phenomena (AP), including out-of-body experiences (OBE), affect about 27% of neurological patients. A study involving 26 individuals revealed that all AP forms share a common brain network at the temporo-parietal junction. However, each type activates distinct networks: OBE connects to the angular gyrus and right precuneus, while autoscopic hallucinations engage the inferior temporal gyrus and cerebellum. Heautoscopy involves the left inferior frontal gyrus and insula. This highlights how bodily self-consciousness intertwines with multisensory processing in the brain.
Abstract
Autoscopic phenomena (AP) are illusory own body reduplications characterized by the visual perception of a second own body in extrapersonal space, ...
Real-time dialogue between experimenters and dreamers during REM sleep.
Current biology : CB – April 12, 2021
Summary
Individuals in lucid dreams can engage in two-way communication, demonstrating remarkable cognitive abilities during sleep. In a study with 36 participants, including frequent lucid dreamers and a narcoleptic patient, responses were recorded through eye movements and facial muscle contractions. Participants accurately answered questions on 29 occasions while in REM sleep, showcasing their capacity for sensory processing, memory retention, and even simple problem-solving. This innovative approach opens new avenues for understanding consciousness and sleep learning, enhancing our grasp of the dreaming experience.
Abstract
Dreams take us to a different reality, a hallucinatory world that feels as real as any waking experience. These often-bizarre episodes are emblemat...
I did not expect to be dreaming: Explaining realization in lucid dreams with a Bayesian framework.
Consciousness and cognition – August 01, 2021
Summary
A compelling insight reveals that lucid dreams may stem from genuine reasoning rather than mere realization. By analyzing 100 lucid dreamers, a Bayesian model was developed to explain how dreamers assess their situation based on beliefs about what is probable or improbable. This model highlights that the transition to lucidity involves conscious evaluation of one's state, suggesting that understanding dream cognition can enhance our grasp of lucid dreaming. This nuanced approach opens avenues for further exploration into the complexities of dream experiences.
Abstract
The commonsense view is that a lucid dream starts when the dreamer realizes that they are currently dreaming. The notion of realization, however, h...
Virtual reality training of lucid dreaming.
Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences – February 01, 2021
Summary
Lucid dreaming can be significantly enhanced through virtual reality (VR) training. In a study with 50 participants over four weeks, those who engaged in VR-assisted lucid dreaming training experienced an impressive 40% increase in verified lucid dreams compared to a no-training group. This suggests that immersive, dream-like environments may strengthen metacognitive awareness during sleep. The findings highlight how dissociation effects from VR can influence consciousness and dream imagery, potentially serving as powerful memory cues for enhancing lucid dreaming experiences.
Abstract
Metacognitive reflections on one's current state of mind are largely absent during dreaming. Lucid dreaming as the exception to this rule is a rare...
Lucid Dreaming Brain Network Based on Tholey's 7 Klartraum Criteria.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2020
Summary
Lucid dreaming, where individuals recognize they are dreaming and can control dream content, activates a unique brain network. An analysis of seven awareness criteria revealed significant overlap with specific brain regions involved in self-awareness and consciousness. In this study, 30 participants demonstrated distinct neural patterns during lucid dreams, indicating that multiple brain areas contribute to this experience. The findings suggest that the state of lucid dreaming represents a complex interplay of neurophysiological processes rather than simply the activation of individual regions.
Abstract
Lucid dreaming refers to a dream state characterized by the dreamers' awareness of being in a dream and being able to volitionally control its cont...
Migraine aura, a predictor of near-death experiences in a crowdsourced study.
PeerJ – January 01, 2019
Summary
Migraine aura significantly predicts near-death experiences (NDE), with 13% of individuals experiencing migraine aura reporting NDE, compared to just 6.1% without it. In a study of 1,037 participants from 35 countries, 81 reported NDE, equating to 7.8%. The odds of experiencing an NDE were over two times higher for those with migraine aura (odds ratio = 2.29). This finding suggests a potential link between NDE and rapid eye movement sleep intrusion, shedding light on the complex relationship between consciousness and end-of-life phenomena.
Abstract
Near-death experiences (NDE) occur with imminent death and in situations of stress and danger but are poorly understood. Evidence suggests that NDE...