hmmm.. being very busy, I didn't see the other post 3 days ago.

Yes, I realize that it is just one report and one theory. My only real point is that there are viable scientific explanations for various 'unusual' experiences.

And Ebbie... re: "any explanation would not negate the experience itself."...of course- an experience IS an experience, and whatever is at the root of it, it may have a profound effect on one's life. It is just not necessary to assume that the experience is 'supernatural','metaphysical' or 'spiritual' in order for the experience itself to be relevant.
I have had dreams which affected me strongly and made me contemplate aspects of my life...valuable insights in some cases. I am simply able to understand that bio-feedback and other physical causes are often simpler explanations than more...ummm.. 'ephemeral' ones.

"Science sometimes does not include all the variables, I think.

Well, science, by its very rules, is limited in what it can even allow AS variables. It is constantly re-evaluating data and looking at theories and claims, but when certain claims are, by definition, not something that can BE tested and evaluated except by comparing stories about experiences, there is an impasse reached.
It becomes, automatically, subjective, as to one's accepting something other than causes which CAN be tested.
Belief is called 'belief' for a reason...because it is different from a firm concept of 'knowing'. There is no doubt that one has an experience, nor about what it means subjectively, and nothing *I* or science can say can make light of what it means to the one having the experience.....but assertions about META-physical causation, religious & otherwise, must remain listed under 'beliefs'.

As science progresses, we are learning more & more about things that used to be just speculation and wonder. I find it more 'comforting' to finally get glimmers of real answers rather than struggling to reconcile 'hard science' with all the 'maybe' stories I have heard all my life. This universe is full of wonder and surprises... I am in awe daily.... and if someday 'other' realms can be explained in ways that do not require a suspension of what I understand as 'data', I will be in awe of that. *smile*
Until then, I am a voice for caution.