Frontiers in human neuroscience
January 1, 2024
Brian Lord, Joseph L Sanguinetti, Lisannette Ruiz et al.
28 citations
Transcranial focused ultrasound (TFUS) aimed at the posterior cingulate cortex reduces functional connectivity along the midline of the default mode network (DMN) in healthy people. In a randomized, single-blind trial with 30 participants, those receiving active TFUS showed significant connectivity decreases and reported increased state mindfulness, reduced vigor, and temporary changes in sense of self, time, and memory recall. The sham group also showed increased mindfulness but no other subjective effects. TFUS can alter DMN connectivity and subjective experience, suggesting it may serve as a research tool and potential therapeutic intervention.
Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging
April 1, 2025
Brian Lord, John J B Allen, Shinzen Young et al.
4 citations
Mindfulness benefits mental health and cognition through a combination of top-down attention and bottom-up emotional processes, with equanimity—the ability to maintain an open, nonreactive attitude toward all experiences—driving many of these benefits. Noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) can alter neural circuits involved in mindfulness, but most studies have focused on cognitive control rather than equanimity. Preliminary findings using focused ultrasound on the posterior cingulate cortex suggest NIBS can directly facilitate equanimity by inhibiting self-referential processing in the default mode network, promoting a more present-centered state. Future research should integrate NIBS with mindfulness training, targeting equanimity to advance contemplative neuroscience and develop individualized wellness interventions.
Addictive behaviors
June 1, 2026
Sebastian Ehmann, Nathan M Hager, Paul S Regier et al.
Using data from the 2023 U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health, lifetime use of mescaline or peyote was associated with lower opioid use disorder severity, while lifetime use of LSD, psilocybin, MDMA, or DMT was associated with higher severity. The link between mescaline/peyote use and lower severity appeared only among adults with high mental health impairment. The findings suggest that different types of psychedelic use have divergent relationships with opioid use disorder severity, and that mental health status may influence these associations.