Abstract: The present invention relates to low-dose formulations of melatonin, and methods of use thereof, which provide a sustained release of melatonin so as to rapidly increase plasma levels of melatonin, maintain a relatively high level (which mimics the endogenous level of a young subject) for approximately 5-6 hours, and then decrease so as to achieve low levels by early morning (rapid washout), thereby avoiding a “hangover effect”. The sustained release formulations of the invention may be used to treat a variety of sleep-related disorders, including, but not limited to, delayed onset and maintenance forms of insomnia.

Abstract: A naturalistic illumination system for a user at a location having a light source for providing illumination of variable intensity above a non-zero value to the user location. A computer produces a variable signal to control a cycle of variable intensity illumination level output of the light source to correspond to the progressive variation in light level intensity above a non-zero value over a selected time of day period at a geographical location as selected from a computer input device. The variable signal is produced on a daily basis to produce the variable intensity illumination cycle for the same period of time in a manner to progressively shift the time of the start of the production of the variable intensity illumination cycle for the period of time each day over a period of successive days relative to the normal time of start of the production of the variable intensity illumination cycle during the period of successive days at the selected geographical location.

Abstract: A method for treating atypical depressive disorders characterized by reverse Neurovegetative symptoms such as hypersomnia, hyperphagia (with carbohydrate cravings) and fatigue in which a subject is exposed to high density negative ions produced by a high output negative ion generator at a density greater than 5.0.times.10.sup.5 ions/cm.sup.2 for brief periods of about 30 minutes per day for 10-20 successive days with the ions being supplied by a generator positioned close to the subject.

Abstract: Apparatus for adjusting the circadian rhythm of a subject in a space by producing a variable light intensity level on a continuous basis in which there is a light source and the light output from the source made available to the subject in the space is controlled in response to a control signal which varies in a manner corresponding to the solar and lunar altitude of a predetermined geographical location and the passage of time over a selected time interval of the day at predetermined geographical location.

Abstract: A combined work station and phototherapy unit in which the fixture containing the light source is mounted on a vertical support to be placed on the base of the open area for work to be performed, the fixture being at an angle, preferably in the range of 30.degree.-60.degree., so that the user will not be staring directly into the light from the fixture. There will be light both impringing upon the eyes of the user for photobiological effect and also light will be directed to the work area.