Research Square
July 8, 2025
A generative adversarial AI framework, pitting deep neural networks against interpretable neural field models, produces biologically realistic simulations of conscious and comatose brains that recapitulate features across humans, monkeys, rats, and bats. Without explicit programming, the AI retrodicts known responses to brain stimulation and generates testable predictions about unconsciousness mechanisms. Two predictions are validated: selective disruption of the basal ganglia indirect pathway, supported by diffusion MRI in 51 DOC patients; and increased cortical inhibitory-to-inhibitory synaptic coupling, supported by RNA sequencing from resected brain tissue in six human coma patients and a rat stroke model. The model also identifies high-frequency subthalamic nucleus stimulation as a promising intervention, supported by electrophysiology data from human patients.
Research Square
June 29, 2025
The authors argue that nonordinary experiences—such as hallucinations, mystical states, or altered perceptions—are more common than typically assumed and offer a valuable lens for studying consciousness. They review evidence suggesting these experiences are not inherently pathological but can provide insights into the nature of conscious awareness. The paper calls for a broader, more inclusive scientific approach that treats such phenomena as legitimate subjects of inquiry rather than anomalies to be dismissed.
Research Square
November 21, 2024
Conscious-Connected Breathwork (CCB), a high-ventilation breathing practice lasting over 15 minutes, consistently triggers altered states of consciousness, heightened emotional intensity, and decreased heart-rate variability (HRV) during the session, followed by increased baseline HRV afterward. The post-session HRV increase was larger in participants who experienced a wider range of emotions during the session, suggesting emotional catharsis rather than a purely physiological response may drive this improvement. The presence of evocative music did not significantly modulate any of these effects, indicating the breathing practice itself is the primary driver. This work characterizes subjective breathwork experiences using natural language processing and relates them to physiological changes.
Research Square
June 21, 2022
Individuals who report more frequent mind-wandering show weaker integration of the default mode network in their resting-state EEG functional networks. The finding suggests that a less cohesive default mode network is associated with greater propensity for task-unrelated thoughts.