# White Noise Exemplifies the Constrained Disorder Principle-Based Concept of Overcoming Malfunctions
## 1 Introduction
### Using White Noise to Treat Clinical Conditions  
The CDP outlines a framework for using noise to correct system malfunctions [71; 73; 74]. Using WN to treat the disorder exemplifies the CDP-based concept of using noise. True WN is theoretically impossible to produce because of infinite bandwidth; however, practical implementations are limited by bandwidth [78]. The quality of WN depends on the effectiveness of the algorithm used. WN effectively masks unwanted sounds by adding either a natural or artificial sound to the environment. Research has also examined the changes in Mismatch Negativity (MMN) using WN masking. Notably, the amplitude of MMN is significantly reduced when subjected to contralateral WN masking [79; 80]. WN can be generated digitally with a digital signal processor, microprocessor, or microcontroller. This process typically involves feeding a suitable stream of random numbers into a digital-to-analog converter. Different sources of WN are marketed as privacy enhancers, sleep aids, and tinnitus masks. Alternatively, tuning an AM radio to unused frequencies, often called \"static\", is a more straightforward way to generate WN. Fans and air conditionersgenerate WN by producing countless audio frequencies, preventing the human brain from registering surrounding noises unless they are excessively loud [81; 82; 83]. WN has shown promise in treating various sleep-related conditions [3]. It has been found to improve sleep in environments with high levels of noise, based on both subjective reports and objective measurements from individuals having trouble sleeping due to such disturbances. WN improves sleep-wake cycles and decreases the time it takes to fall asleep. For patients with insomnia, it masks environmental disturbances, creates a consistent sound environment, and helps maintain sleep continuity. WN effectively reduces sleep latency in controlled environments, improves sleep quality metrics, and enhances overall sleep maintenance. WN decreases the difference between background and peak noise levels, raising the arousal threshold to noise [83; 84; 85]. WN leads to deeper sleep with fewer awakenings during the night. WN in the 50 to 75 dB range has positively affected participants' sleep and wake cycles. When mixed-frequency WN was added to ambient noise, it significantly reduced sleep-induced arousal and disturbances, as the difference between background noise and peak sounds was considerably minimized [3; 86; 87]. It aligns with the CDP-based notion of the advantage of adding noise for overcoming challenges [4; 5]. WN has also positively impacted sleep patterns in newborns, reducing crying in colicky babies and enhancing the sleep environment in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Infants exposed to WN have shown fewer nighttime awakenings and improved sleep quality. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) reported fewer delays in sleep onset and a reduction in night waking after this intervention [88; 89; 90]. WN is effective in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, schizophrenia, and dementia, as well as in relieving pain [3; 91; 92; 93]. It can help reduce stress responses and anxiety disorders by lowering cortisol levels and improving focus during anxiety-inducing situations. WN has also been beneficial in nursing homes, where it reduces verbal agitation in patients with dementia. Additionally, it decreased behavioral and psychological symptoms in patients with schizophrenia who also had dementia, and its improved symptoms of depression and anxiety. In elderly patients admitted to the intensive care units, WN contributed to a decreased heart rate, alleviated pain during vaccinations, and supported the development of sucking behaviors in newborns [94; 95; 96; 97]. The impact of WN on cognitive function is mixed, which supports the CDP concept's requirement for an appropriate range of noise under varying conditions. WN can enhance attention and concentration [98; 99; 100].