Theoretical and Natural Science
June 23, 2026
Ruiqi Gao
Meditation is linked to measurable changes in brain activity, particularly in alpha (8–13 Hz), theta (4–8 Hz), and gamma (30–100 Hz) frequency bands. Analysis of electroencephalographic (EEG) data shows that the meditative state involves specific neuromodulation patterns across the cerebral cortex. These mechanisms may enhance emotional regulation and cognitive resilience.
Theoretical and Natural Science
December 24, 2025
Yiyin Hu
Ketamine, traditionally an anesthetic, has gained attention for its rapid antidepressant effects, especially in treatment-resistant depression. However, long-term or high-dose use may cause neurotoxicity, including nerve tissue damage, cognitive decline, mental health issues, and addiction risk. This review examines these dual effects, focusing on NMDA receptor antagonism as the mechanism for both therapeutic and harmful outcomes. It highlights the challenge of balancing efficacy with neurological safety, noting that dose control and monitoring strategies in long-term clinical use remain imperfect. Future research should clarify the dose-toxicity relationship and explore neuroprotective interventions.
Theoretical and Natural Science
March 5, 2024
Hou-Yu Zhao, Kun Liang, Yiqun Fang
Military personnel and veterans have distinct trauma exposures that lead to different patterns of mental disorders and treatment responses compared to the general population. This systematic review examined evidence for using cannabis and psychedelics to treat mental disorder symptoms in military populations. After searching databases up to May 2023, eight studies were included: five on cannabis and three on psychedelics. Most reported positive results, but detailed information on side effects and long-term follow-up was limited. The review concludes that potential benefits exist, yet the lack of high-quality randomized controlled trials underscores the need for more rigorous research.
Theoretical and Natural Science
December 20, 2023
Jingxuan Chen
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychoactive compound with a long history of traditional religious and therapeutic use. Recent research has renewed interest in its potential to treat depression and anxiety. Its pharmacodynamics involve rapid conversion to psilocin and activity on serotonin receptors, particularly 5HT2A/C and 5HT1A, as well as increased glutamate release, which may underlie its therapeutic effects. Clinical trials show long-lasting antidepressant effects with few side effects. The compound also shows benefits for addiction and obsessive-compulsive disorder, suggesting it may offer a valuable alternative to traditional therapies, though further study of its mechanisms and clinical optimization is needed.
Theoretical and Natural Science
September 24, 2025
Yichan Song
Gamma-band activity is a stable marker of resting-state cortical dynamics during eyes-closed meditation, modulated by gender and age but not substantially by prior training. In 24 participants (12 experienced meditators, 12 novices), gender consistently predicted EEG band power: males showed elevated beta, females higher gamma and delta. Age and meditation experience had minimal effects. Inter-hemispheric synchrony and local coherence were strong. Gamma-band enhancement was robust and temporally stable, especially in frontal and parietal regions. Beta activity was selectively enhanced in males, delta increases appeared in females and older adults. Meditation experience influenced only minor topographic patterns without significantly altering power.
Theoretical and Natural Science
March 13, 2025
Boyu Pan
Lucid dreaming—being aware of dreaming during a dream—has been studied for 50 years using polysomnography and fMRI. This review describes distinct neural features of lucid dreaming, including brain electrical activities, activated cortical regions, and related neural substrates. Lucid dreaming is linked to high-level cognitive functions such as metacognition, offering insight into the neural mechanisms of consciousness. Beyond basic research, lucid dreaming has applications in clinical therapy, motor skill training, and human-computer interaction, indicating its potential in neuroscience and everyday life.
Theoretical and Natural Science
November 13, 2023
Jianhongjing Ou
Lucid dreaming, a state where the dreamer knows they are dreaming, has been studied since Frederick van Eeden's early writings, with Stephen LaBerge later bringing it into scientific research. Advances in brain imaging have revealed neural processes underlying dreams and waking. This review synthesizes research milestones, neurobiological insights, and practical applications, finding therapeutic potential for anxiety and personal growth. Challenges include experimental reliability and limited methods, and the field lacks diversity among researchers and participants, calling for broader perspectives.