Alzheimer's disease causes severe cognitive decline and lacks effective treatments to halt neurodegeneration or promote neuronal repair. Psychoactive substances, including central nervous system depressants and stimulants, cannabinoids, psychedelics, opioids, and ketamine, are being explored for their abilities to enhance learning and cognitive performance and potential neurorestorative functions. This review examines the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential of these compounds in Alzheimer's disease, aiming to guide future research directions.
A handheld meditation device uses sensors to measure skin conductance, electromyography, and heart rate in real time, detecting emotional fluctuations. When changes are detected, it plays music, releases scents, or adjusts lighting to help users enter and maintain a meditative state more effectively. Experiments verified the device's effectiveness and reliability. The paper describes the design principles, hardware components, and software algorithms behind the device, and discusses its potential for advancing meditation technology.
The Philadelphia Mindfulness Scale (PHLMS) was revised into a short version to better measure awareness and equanimity, two abilities cultivated in Goenka's 10-day Vipassana course that are not adequately captured by existing mindfulness scales. Data from Chinese university students and Chinese Buddhists showed that the original PHLMS had low factor loading on some items, while the short version had improved psychometric properties, especially for Buddhists. The short PHLMS also showed reasonable relationships with emotional outcomes and meditation practices among Buddhists.