Altered States Of Consciousness Research Articles

Induction of altered states of consciousness during Floatation-REST is associated with the dissolution of body boundaries and the distortion of subjective time

Floatation-REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy) minimizes stimulation of the nervous system by immersing subjects in an environment without sound or light while they effortlessly float in thermoneutral water supersaturated with Epsom salt. Here we investigated the relationship between altered states of consciousness (ASC) and its association with the affective changes induced by Floatation-REST. Using a within-subject crossover design, 50 healthy subjects were randomized to 60 min of Floatation-REST or 60 min of Bed-REST (an active control condition that entailed lying supine on a warm waterbed in a dark and quiet room). Following Floatation-REST, subjects felt significantly more relaxed, less anxious, and less tired than after Bed-REST. Floatation-REST also induced significantly more pronounced ASC characterized by the dissolution of body boundaries and the distortion of subjective time. The loss of body boundaries mediated the loss of anxiety, revealing a novel mechanism by which Floatation-REST exerts its anxiolytic effect.

Phase 1, placebo-controlled, single ascending dose trial to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics and effect on altered states of consciousness of intranasal BPL-003 (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine benzoate) in healthy participants.

To investigate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of BPL-003, a novel intranasal benzoate salt formulation of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), in healthy participants. In all, 44 psychedelic-naïve participants enrolled in the double-blind, placebo-controlled single ascending dose study (1-12 mg BPL-003). Concentrations of 5-MeO-DMT and its pharmacologically active metabolite, bufotenine, were determined in plasma and urine. PD endpoints included subjective drug intensity (SDI) rating, the Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ-30) and the Ego Dissolution Inventory (EDI). BPL-003 was well tolerated at doses up to 12 mg. There were no serious adverse events (AEs), and most AEs were mild; the most common being nasal discomfort, nausea, headache and vomiting. 5-MeO-DMT was rapidly absorbed and eliminated; the median time to peak plasma concentration was approximately 8-10 min and the mean terminal elimination half-life was <27 min. 5-MeO-DMT systemic exposure increased approximately dose-proportionally, while plasma bufotenine concentrations and urinary excretion of 5-MeO-DMT and bufotenine were negligible. The intensity of the SDI ratings was associated with plasma 5-MeO-DMT concentrations. MEQ-30 and EDI scores generally increased with the BPL-003 dose; 60% of participants had a 'complete mystical experience' at 10 and 12 mg doses. Profound and highly emotional consciousness-altering effects were observed with BPL-003, with a rapid onset and short-lasting duration. The novel intranasal formulation of BPL-003 was well tolerated with dose-proportional increases in PK and PD effects. The short duration of action and induction of mystical experiences suggest clinical potential, warranting further trials. NCT05347849.

Clinical analysis of patients with deep sternal wound infection-induced sepsis: a retrospective cohort study

Abstract Background This study aimed to summarize the clinical characteristics of patients with deep sternal wound infection-induced sepsis after median sternotomy and improve the treatment outcomes of infection-related sepsis. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 21 patients with deep sternal wound infection-induced sepsis after median sternotomy who were admitted to the Department of Critical Care. The clinical manifestations, laboratory test results, infection control, and organ and nutritional support of the patients were summarized, and the follow-up data were obtained. Results The primary symptoms of deep sternal wound infection-induced sepsis included dyspnea, high fever, chills, and altered state of consciousness. Laboratory test results revealed increased inflammatory markers and decreased oxygenation index. Renal and liver function injury were observed in 8 and 4 patients, respectively; 18 and 12 patients demonstrated elevated D-dimer and N-terminal Pro B type natriuretic peptide levels, respectively. Of the 8 patients whose wound secretions tested positive for bacteria, Acinetobacter baumannii and Staphylococcus aureus infections were present in 6 and 2 patients, respectively. One of the 6 patients whose blood cultures tested positive for bacteria demonstrated Candida albicans infection. Fifteen patients received ventilator-assisted ventilation and 2 patients received renal replacement therapy. Of all the 21 patients, 17 were cured, 2 died, and 2 were discharged. Conclusion Postmedian sternotomy sepsis attributed to a deep sternal wound infection usually results from a preexisting condition. The most prominent clinical manifestation is dyspnea, which is sometimes accompanied by the impairment of organ function. Infection prevention, proper nutrition support, and maintenance of healthy organ function are the cornerstones for successful treatment outcomes.

Self-Rated Effectiveness of Ayahuasca and Breathwork on Well-Being, Psychological Resilience, Self-Compassion, and Personality: An Observational Comparison Study

Background: In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the therapeutic potential of classical psychedelics like ayahuasca for mental health improvement. Naturalistic studies at ayahuasca retreats have shown (short-term) improvements in mental well-being but understanding the psychological mechanisms is crucial. We are interested in psychological processes such as resilience, self-compassion, and personality traits. Additionally, it is unclear whether changes are solely due to ayahuasca or influenced by the social setting. To address this, a control group participating in a breathwork session, similar to ayahuasca retreats, was included. Methods: In this observational study, individuals who attended an ayahuasca retreat (n = 69) and individuals who participated in a breathwork session (n = 30) completed an online survey one week before (baseline) and one, six, and twelve weeks after they entered the retreat/session. The survey included a series of questionnaires, i.e., the World Health Organisation-Five Well-Being Index, 14-item Resilience Scale, Self-Compassion Scale–Short Form, and Big Five Inventory-10. A linear mixed model (LMM) was used to analyze the outcome data. Results: It was shown that well-being, resilience, and self-compassion increased and remained stable over 12 weeks compared to baseline, regardless of group (ayahuasca or breathwork). Older participants generally reported higher resilience and self-compassion. Self-compassion was also higher in the ayahuasca group overall. Neuroticism decreased in both groups, with lower scores in the ayahuasca group. Agreeableness increased over time, also not influenced by group membership, while there were no changes in extraversion, conscientiousness, or openness. Discussion: Both interventions improved well-being, aligning with prior research. Importantly, this study unveils a novel finding: both interventions enhance resilience and self-compassion for up to three months, offering promise for conditions marked by low well-being, resilience, and self-compassion like depression and anxiety-related disorders. While acknowledging its limitations (e.g., self-selected sample, no specific information of the ayahuasca brew or the breathwork technique), it emphasizes the need for controlled studies with control groups, attention to social contexts in research on these interventions, and to assess other variables like depth of altered states of consciousness that might explain improvement in psychological processes and wellbeing.

A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Slow Back Massage on Quality of Sleep among Patients in Selected Government Hospitals, Daman

Sleep is the natural state of rest and that observed throughout the animal kingdom including mammals and birds and, in many reptiles, also amphibians and fish.in humans, other mammals and many other animals that have been studies -such as fish, birds, ants, and fruit-flies- regular sleep in necessary for survival. the capability for arousal from sleep is a protective mechanism and also necessary for health and survival.1 Sleep can also defined that normal state of altered consciousness during time of body rests; it is characterized by decreased responsiveness to the environments, and a person can be aroused from it by external stimuli.1Slow -stroke back massage, uses this slow stroke. Slow Back was introduced within a hospital context by Elizabeth in 1996 as slow, gentle, and rhythmic hand movements on the patients back as the steady speed (about 60 movements per minute), with mild and gentle pressure, for 10 minutes.3Back massage care provided those who are admitted in the Hospitals by using various techniques of back massage like Effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement by using these techniques to improvement in the blood flow and also to relieve the deeper muscle tension and clear out toxins.5 THE OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY WERE TO- 1. assess the pre-test and post-test level on quality of sleep of slow back massage among patients admitted in selected government Hospitals, Daman 2. determine the effectiveness of slow back massage on quality of sleep among patients admitted in selected government Hospitals, Daman. 3. find out the association between the pre-test level on quality of sleep among patients with selected demographic variables in patients in selected Government Hospitals, Daman. METHODOLOGY: A Quantitative Research approach with pre-experimental, one-group pre-test post- test Research design was adopted for the study. A total 40 sample were selected in Government hospitals, Daman based on selection criteria.in this research study consecutive sampling technique was used. Data was collected by using demographic variables and the Groningen sleep quality scale for assessment of quality sleep before and after the intervention of slow back massage. RESULT: The present study assesses the effectiveness of slow back massage in terms of improvement of quality sleep among patients. The post-test mean sleep score 2.65(SD=2.007) was less than pre-test mean sleep score 11.95 (SD=1.934) and ‘t’ value was 15.353(t0.05, 39=2.02) which was the significant effect of the slow back massage (p&lt;0.05) and there is significant mean difference between the pre-test and post-test.the mean difference between the pre-test and post-test was 9.300.the chi-square calculated value shows there was no significant association with demographic variable. INTERPRETATION: Statistical significance was calculated by using paired t -test and chi-square. After slow back massage the quality of sleep has improved among patients. The findings of the study indicated the need of hospital to use the slow back massage to improvement the quality of sleep. This conclude that the non-pharmacological therapy such a slow back massage has significant impact in improvement the quality of sleep. KEY WORDS: slow back, Massage, quality sleep, patients.  

Septic shock secondary to xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis: A case report and literature review

Introduction: Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis is described by histopathology as a destruction of the renal parenchyma and replaced by a chronic infiltrate of lipid-laden macrophages. It is known that patients with xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis have a high rate of perioperative and postoperative morbimortality; however, there are few case reports on this entity. Case Report: A 35-year-old woman attended the emergency department due to the presence of pain in the left flank, accompanied by an altered state of consciousness and respiratory distress. The study protocol started, identifying a significant increase in the left kidney, the presence of a central staghorn stone, dilated minor calices, and clinically with septic shock. The clinical conditions improved by adding intravenous fluids, vasoactive amines, red blood cells concentrates, and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Subsequently, a left nephrectomy was performed. On the following days, the septic shock gradually resolved, leading to the patient’s discharge. Eventually, histopathology report was reviewed, confirming a xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis. Conclusion: When a xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis clinical suspicion is found, it is considered a surgical emergency. Furthermore, if proper management is not given immediately, there is a high risk of complications and death. However, the current statistics in Mexico have not been updated to contrast these data.

Producing Altered States of Consciousness, Reducing Substance Misuse: A Review of Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy, Transcendental Meditation and Hypnotherapy

A set of interventions that can produce altered states of consciousness (ASC) have shown utility in the treatment of substance misuse. In this review, we examine addiction-related outcomes associated with three common interventions that produce ASCs: psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PP), Transcendental Meditation (TM) and hypnotherapy (HT). While procedurally distinct, all three interventions are associated with some common phenomenological, psychological, and neurobiological features, indicating some possible convergent mechanisms of action. Along with addiction and mental health outcomes, these common features are reviewed, and their impact on substance misuse is discussed. While our review highlights some mixed findings and methodological issues, results indicate that PP and TM are associated with significant improvements in substance misuse, alongside improvements in emotional, cognitive and social functioning, behavior-change motivation, sense of self-identity, and meaning. In contrast, and despite its broader acceptance, HT has been associated with mixed and minimal results with respect to substance misuse treatment. Authors identify key research gaps in the role of ASC interventions in addiction and outline a set of promising future research directions.

Breaking through the doors of perception, consciousness, and existence: to what extent does psychedelic phenomenology ontologically depend on external factors?

AbstractAs reliable facilitators of characteristically unique altered states of consciousness that are notoriously difficult to comprehend, psychedelics naturally attract a multidisciplinary scope for their research, with direct relevance to neuroscience, pharmacology, psychology, as well as philosophy of mind, metaphysics, and epistemology — disciplines united by the common inquiry into the nature of conscious experience. Accordingly, the central focus of this paper concerns the metaphysical debate between internalism and externalism about whether psychedelic phenomenology — in particular, its ‘breakthrough’ level — could be said to directly ontologically depend on external factors, as well as the interpretive implications arising from each of those positions. The main contributions of the author of this paper include the provision of a coherent account of the essential phenomenal characteristics of psychedelic experiences, the integration of relatively fragmented philosophical debates on psychedelic phenomenology into the traditional internalist-externalist framework in metaphysics, as well as the exploration of the extent to which the externalist position on psychedelic phenomenology — traditionally associated with non-naturalism — is compatible with naturalistic explanatory frameworks. In Part 1, psychedelic phenomenology will be outlined first, after which the central inquiries of this paper will be contextualised and qualified. In Part 2, the internalist position on psychedelic phenomenology — both its strong and weak versions — will be discussed. In Part 3, the externalist position will be explored, which will be followed by a final evalutation between the three positions presented in this paper. The paper will conclude in favour of the weak internalist position, and that whilst the externalist position remains significantly more speculative than both the strong and the weak internalist positions, the externalist position cannot be rejected altogether until further progress in consciousness research is made.

Neck muscle spasticity in patients with disorder of consciousness: a pilot study.

Disorder of consciousness (DOC) is a state of prolonged altered consciousness due to severe acquired brain injury (ABI). DOC can be differentiated into coma, unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS), or minimally conscious state (MCS) depending on the behavioral features observed and their relationship to the level of consciousness. Spasticity is one of the most frequently reported medical comorbidities in DOC patients. Since there is a critical lack of spasticity-focused studies and, in turn, of target treatment, we designed this pilot prospective study to evaluate cervical spine muscle spasticity and its effect on rehabilitation outcome in a large cohort of patients followed from the post-acute phase to 6 months after severe ABI. To evaluate neck muscle spasticity and investigate its impact on neurological and functional outcome in a large cohort of adult patients with DOC followed from post-acute to 6 months after severe ABI. Single-center prospective pilot study. Highly specialized inpatient neurorehabilitation clinic. Patients with severe ABI admitted within 3 months after the acute event to our Neurorehabilitation Unit between May 21st, 2019 and April 23rd, 2020 for treatment of DOC as a part of their rehabilitation program. In this single-center prospective pilot study demographic data, etiology of ABI (traumatic versus non-traumatic), DOC evaluated with the revised Coma Recovery Scale (CRS-R), and neurological and functional outcome assessed respectively with the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) were considered. During cervical examination, we assessed spasticity with the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), deviation of head alignment with a goniometer, and pain with the Nociception Coma Scale-Revised (NCS-R). Of the 48 patients, 41.7% were diagnosed with UWS and 58.3% were in a minimally conscious state (MCS). We found spasticity of neck muscles in 91.7% of patients, with no difference in severity (assessed with MAS) between UWV and MCS. The NCS-R score at cervical spine examination was lower in UWS than MCS. Spasticity was severer in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) compared to non-traumatic. At multiple linear regression analysis, younger age, hemisyndrome, and tetraparesis were independent predictors of severity of neck muscle spasticity in MCS. More severe spasticity was a predictor of worse neurological and functional outcome at discharge in UWS patients, independently of the other confounding variables at admission (e.g., age, severity of brain injury, functional assessment, and pain). Spasticity of neck muscles frequently develops in patients with DOC and is more severe in those after TBI. UWV and MCS have different spasticity profiles as regards risk factors and neurological and functional outcome. Severity of neck muscle spasticity in UWV patients may represent an early indicator of worse neurological and functional outcome after inpatient rehabilitation. Our findings could prompt clinicians to redefine the rehabilitation aims regarding spasticity and to estimate the functional outcome in patients undergoing intensive rehabilitation after severe ABI.

Shaman Pots, Sympathetic Magic, and Spinning Souls among the Medio Period Casas Grandes: Altered States of Consciousness in Other-than-Human Persons

Medio Period (AD 1200 to 1450) Casas Grandes shamans used tobacco and possibly other entheogens to initiate trance states that allowed their spirits to travel across the cosmos. These trance experiences involved a sense of vertigo and soul flight that is cross-culturally common and occurs with tobacco-based nicotine intoxication. The Medio Period shamans also relied on and interacted with other-than-human persons during their travels, including macaw- and serpent-linked deities, as well as animated objects designed to participate in their shamanic journeys. The animated objects included Playas Red and Chihuahuan Polychrome pottery effigies of humans, macaws, and snakes with shamanic themes that represented the spirit world. I propose these pots were animate “pot-people” created for shamanic rituals. They were created with unusual designs including painted images and incised patterns that emphasized the spinning/vertigo that was central to the shamans’ soul flight experience. In some cases, the pots were literally spun, as evidenced by the distinctive wear patterns on their bases. The shamanic designs on the pots that reflected the upper and lower worlds, the depiction of spinning in the pottery decorations, and the literal spinning of some pots reflected the sympathetic and mimetic magic that linked them to the spirit world. They were imbued with the liminal nature of the creatures they depicted, and the symbolic and occasional literal emphasis on spinning would allow them to enter into a shamanic trance in a manner similar to their human counterparts. They, thus, were designed to enter into ASC in a manner that paralleled their human counterparts.

Cardio-audio synchronization elicits neural and cardiac surprise responses in human wakefulness and sleep

The human brain can encode auditory regularities with fixed sound-to-sound intervals and with sound onsets locked to cardiac inputs. Here, we investigated auditory and cardio-audio regularity encoding during sleep, when bodily and environmental stimulus processing may be altered. Using electroencephalography and electrocardiography in healthy volunteers (N = 26) during wakefulness and sleep, we measured the response to unexpected sound omissions within three regularity conditions: synchronous, where sound and heartbeat are temporally coupled, isochronous, with fixed sound-to-sound intervals, and a control condition without regularity. Cardio-audio regularity encoding manifested as a heartbeat deceleration upon omissions across vigilance states. The synchronous and isochronous sequences induced a modulation of the omission-evoked neural response in wakefulness and N2 sleep, the former accompanied by background oscillatory activity reorganization. The violation of cardio-audio and auditory regularity elicits cardiac and neural responses across vigilance states, laying the ground for similar investigations in altered consciousness states such as coma and anaesthesia.

Flicker light stimulation enhances the emotional response to music: a comparison study to the effects of psychedelics.

Flicker light stimulation (FLS) is a non-pharmacological method of inducing altered states of consciousness (ASCs), producing hallucination-like phenomena as well as effects extending beyond the visual modality, including emotional effects. Research into the psychological and neural mechanisms of FLS is still in its infancy, but can be informed by research into other methods of inducing ASCs. For instance, research on classic psychedelics has reported enhancement of emotional responses to music. Here, we test to what degree FLS might also enhance the emotional response to music, using a study protocol designed to resemble a previous study on the effects of LSD as closely as possible, to allow for comparison of effect sizes across modalities and inform future research into FLS as an ASC-induction method. Twenty participants listened to emotionally evocative music in two conditions - with and without FLS - and reported on their emotional response to the music. FLS showed a significant enhancing effect on reported music-evoked emotion, especially emotions relating to "Joyful Activation"; additionally, we found that the experienced intensity of FLS correlated with reports of higher levels of emotional arousal. These findings motivate further research into FLS as a method for inducing ASCs and into the interactions between visual phenomena and music-evoked emotion.

Soigner au seuil de la mort : l’expérience mystique d’un patient avec la thérapie assistée par la psilocybine

&lt;p&gt;Patients with serious illnesses like advanced cancer often experience existential and psychospiritual distress. Alleviating this form of pain and suffering has proven to be very challenging using conventional treatments. Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) employs the psychoactive effects of psilocybin as a catalyst for a psychotherapeutic process grounded in indigenous traditions and within the context of a therapeutic mindset and environment (“set and setting”). This carefully curated experience of an altered state of consciousness can promote healing and psychospiritual growth independently of the disease trajectory. Current research supports the use of this form of therapy as a safe and effective therapeutic tool for such patients. This narrative case report, based upon and written from the perspective of the treating physician, describes the therapeutic journey of a patient with the fictitious name Martin, as he receives his diagnosis of a terminal illness, engages in PAT, and on to his deathbed. Martin was the first patient in Quebec to receive psilocybin treatment through Canada’s Special Access Program (SAP) and chose to end his life with medical assistance in dying (MAID), both done in the context of homecare and paid for in its entirety by the public healthcare system of Quebec.&lt;/p&gt;

Glasgow Coma Scale: assessing consciousness for 50 years

The Glasgow Coma Scale, developed in 1974 by Teasdale and Jennett, has become a fundamental clinical tool in assessing consciousness and neurological response in patients with brain injuries or altered states of consciousness. Over the years, the Glasgow Coma Scale has undergone various modifications to improve its accuracy and applicability. In 2018, an enhanced version emerged, called the Glasgow Coma Scale with Pupillary Response, which included an additional criterion for assessing pupillary reactivity. The purpose of this article is to explore the temporal development of the Glasgow Coma Scale, its applications, and evolution over time. It is evident that the Glasgow Coma Scale continues to be an indispensable tool for assessing patients with altered consciousness, standing out for its simplicity and effectiveness. Its importance and adaptability in the medical field suggest that it will continue to evolve along with advances in medicine.

Virtual reality and neuromodulation in the induction of out-of-body experience (VR-NIOBE): A proof-of-concept new paradigm for psychological and neuroscientific study of an altered state of consciousness.

Virtual reality and neuromodulation in the induction of out-of-body experience (VR-NIOBE): A proof-of-concept new paradigm for psychological and neuroscientific study of an altered state of consciousness.

The secondary image as a psychocorrective resource: the search for new research opportunities

The authors consider in detail the problems of the "secondary image" in a historical context, as well as in modern research in connection with the state of the study of consciousness in philosophical and psychological concepts. The problem is the inattention of many, especially foreign authors, to this topic. The article considers the concept of "image-scheme" with the allocation of the "core" based on the primary image and the periphery of the figurative experience. In the article, the authors use a theoretical analysis based on the traditions of the Leningrad psychological school (B.G. Ananyev, B.F. Lomov), on the concept of "secondary image" in its correlation with primary sensory-perceptual images. Based on this basic content of images, the authors present a model of the formation and transformation of images in consciousness with the conditional allocation of a secondary image based on the traditions of the Leningrad psychological school. The correlation of the concept of "secondary image" with the images of "primary" – sensory-perceptual - is emphasized. The development of the theme of the "secondary image" in the context of its use in modern psychotherapeutic practice is proposed. In this regard, the relevance and theoretical significance of the problem of altered states of consciousness in general psychological and historical-psychological terms is emphasized. There is a high degree of multidimensionality and versatility of the figurative sphere as the most important component of consciousness. Based on the theoretical and methodological basis used, the author's vision of the topic is given in its application to the problem stated in the article. An adapted model of the formation and transformation of "primary" and "secondary" images in the stream of consciousness is proposed, highlighting the conditions for changing the integral imaginative sphere of a person in the psychocorrection process.

Changes in Intrinsic Connectivity Networks Topology Across Levels of Dexmedetomidine-Induced Alteration of Consciousness.

Human consciousness is generally thought to emerge from the activity of intrinsic connectivity networks (resting-state networks [RSNs]) of the brain, which have topological characteristics including, among others, graph strength and efficiency. So far, most functional brain imaging studies in anesthetized subjects have compared wakefulness and unresponsiveness, a state considered as corresponding to unconsciousness. Sedation and general anesthesia not only produce unconsciousness but also phenomenological states of preserved mental content and perception of the environment (connected consciousness), and preserved mental content but no perception of the environment (disconnected consciousness). Unresponsiveness may be seen during unconsciousness, but also during disconnectedness. Deep dexmedetomidine sedation is frequently a state of disconnected consciousness. In this study, we were interested in characterizing the RSN topology changes across 4 different and steady-state levels of dexmedetomidine-induced alteration of consciousness, namely baseline (Awake, drug-free state), Mild sedation (drowsy, still responding), Deep sedation (unresponsive), and Recovery, with a focus on changes occurring between a connected consciousness state and an unresponsiveness state. A functional magnetic resonance imaging database acquired in 14 healthy volunteers receiving dexmedetomidine sedation was analyzed using a method combining independent component analysis and graph theory, specifically looking at changes in connectivity strength and efficiency occurring during the 4 above-mentioned dexmedetomidine-induced altered consciousness states. Dexmedetomidine sedation preserves RSN architecture. Unresponsiveness during dexmedetomidine sedation is mainly characterized by a between-networks graph strength alteration and within-network efficiency alteration of lower-order sensory RSNs, while graph strength and efficiency in higher-order RSNs are relatively preserved. The differential dexmedetomidine-induced RSN topological changes evidenced in this study may be the signature of inadequate processing of sensory information by lower-order RSNs, and of altered communication between lower-order and higher-order networks, while the latter remain functional. If replicated in an experimental paradigm distinguishing, in unresponsive subjects, disconnected consciousness from unconsciousness, such changes would sustain the hypothesis that disconnected consciousness arises from altered information handling by lower-order sensory networks and altered communication between lower-order and higher-order networks, while the preservation of higher-order networks functioning allows for an internally generated mental content (or dream).

Neural complexity is increased after low doses of LSD, but not moderate to high doses of oral THC or methamphetamine.

Neural complexity correlates with one's level of consciousness. During coma, anesthesia, and sleep, complexity is reduced. During altered states, including after lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), complexity is increased. In the present analysis, we examined whether low doses of LSD (13 and 26 µg) were sufficient to increase neural complexity in the absence of altered states of consciousness. In addition, neural complexity was assessed after doses of two other drugs that significantly altered consciousness and mood: delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; 7.5 and 15 mg) and methamphetamine (MA; 10 and 20 mg). In three separate studies (N = 73; 21, LSD; 23, THC; 29, MA), healthy volunteers received placebo or drug in a within-subjects design over three laboratory visits. During anticipated peak drug effects, resting state electroencephalography (EEG) recorded Limpel-Ziv complexity and spectral power. LSD, but not THC or MA, dose-dependently increased neural complexity. LSD also reduced delta and theta power. THC reduced, and MA increased, alpha power, primarily in frontal regions. Neural complexity was not associated with any subjective drug effect; however, LSD-induced reductions in delta and theta were associated with elation, and THC-induced reductions in alpha were associated with altered states. These data inform relationships between neural complexity, spectral power, and subjective states, demonstrating that increased neural complexity is not necessary or sufficient for altered states of consciousness. Future studies should address whether greater complexity after low doses of LSD is related to cognitive, behavioral, or therapeutic outcomes, and further examine the role of alpha desynchronization in mediating altered states of consciousness.

Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for cancer patients

Despite significant advances in symptom management for patients affected by serious illness, physicians lack effective legal treatments for individuals suffering from demoralization, death anxiety, and existential distress. Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy employs psilocybin-containing mushrooms or synthetic psilocybin grounded in indigenous traditions and within the context of a therapeutic mindset and environment ("set and setting") to achieve altered states of consciousness that promote healing and psychospiritual growth while reducing suffering. Current research evidence suggests that this form of therapy could serve as a safe and effective therapeutic tool for such patients.&#x0D; This presentation will describe a case series of patients with advanced cancer who received physician-supervised home-based psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy in Montreal, Canada. Our experience postulates the safety and efficacy of this laborious treatment process. By executing this clinical  practice in the public healthcare system of Quebec for the first time, we have made an attempt to provide equitable access to these clinical therapies. Having performed these treatments outside the context of clinical trials, we have been able to tailor the therapeutic frame and treatment approach to a more patient-centric and culturally-informed manner. That being said, given the existing ​societal discrimination and stigma against this form of therapy, including by healthcare professionals, there remain further barriers to overcome in the equitable provision of care, especially to certain segments of the population. ​The authors will discuss these and potential solutions to addressing them.

Calling the tune in maladaptive daydreaming: The impact of music on the experience of compulsive fantasizing

This study aimed to shed light on the role of music in maladaptive daydreaming (MD), a psychological condition characterized by excessive, immersive daydreaming that interferes with well-being and functioning. Forty-one individuals with probable MD participated in asynchronous in-depth email interviews. A thematic analysis yielded three themes describing the role of music in MD. Two homogeneous themes pertained to outlier experiences: Music necessary and Music not desired. The third theme, Music enhances the MD experience, encompassed most of the data retrieved in this study and was further divided into five subthemes: Music avoided in “low energy” daydreaming scenes, Music as white noise, Music enhances MD creativity, Music as an MD trigger compromises the sense of agency; and Music as a powerful immerser that sets MD’s emotional “soundtrack.” This study adds to the sparse knowledge of complex visual narratives and identifies the essential role of music in inducing and formatting MD. The results led to the conclusion that music might be instrumental in MD by distancing the person from the external reality, triggering complex visual storylines, deepening the altered state of consciousness, and intensifying the vividness of the daydreamed plot by invoking an emotional response. Furthermore, hypothesis-driven controlled research was recommended.