Musings of a Nonlinear Thinker

President Bush Grants Himself Immunity

2007-09-21T21:22:00.000-04:00

The video speaks for itself.

The iLimb

2007-07-22T16:00:00.000-04:00

A new prosthetic arm has recently become commercially available from Touch Bionics. Using two myoelectric signals the hand can be easily manipulated to complete a number of tasks. This is a big step forward in the field of prosthetics as it is one of the most intuitive ever made. Its ability to resemble the look and function of a real human hand is another of its strong points. While fine motor skills are still out of the reach of this device, as it is essentially controlled by only two muscles, it reveals to us the possibilities in prosthetic development.

Senate Cuts Cheney's Funding

2007-07-11T00:19:00.000-04:00

In a valiant effort by Democrats to force Vice President Cheney to comply with Constitutional Law, they have cut $4.8 million of his budget. Cheney has refused for some time now to release how much information the executive branch classifies and declassifies. In an attempt to rise above the law Cheney and the Whitehouse have stated that he does not in fact classify as an "agency" of the executive branch thus he does not have to follow the same laws. Although some think this is going to negatively impact the relationship between the Senate and the Executive branches it seems that this relationship has already been experiencing some problems. I am glad to see that Democrats are finally refusing to back down when the Executive Branch is obviously abusing their power.

CNN Article: Senate Panel Moves to Cut Cheney's Funding

Destroying Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria

2007-07-10T23:39:00.000-04:00

It seems that researchers at the University of North Carolina have discovered a drug that destroys even the antibiotic-resistant bacteria that kill thousands a year. This development could have a major impact on how people are treated for bacterial infections around the world. The new drug could be used to treat Methicillin-resistant staff infections, pneumonia and tuberculosis since a number of the current antibiotics no longer have an effect on the bacteria that cause such problems. The researchers even claim that their new drug prevents bacteria from spreading the genetic information necessary to form strains of resistant bacteria.

While I hope their discovery is true, natures innate ability to find a way to survive in any situation gives me doubts. Which raises another concern of the overuse of antibiotics by health care professionals. While such drugs are very important for saving lives, they are often times used too liberally throughout the population allowing new strains of bacteria to evolve that resist all treatment options. The question then arises, if this drug is passed and starts its rounds in treating bacterial infections, will it be overused creating new strains of even more powerful bacteria? We can only hope not and spread the word that using antibiotics for every minor problem is only going to hurt our chances of survival. This new drug does seem promising and perhaps it will rid us of such problems, providing a permanent option for the treatment of all kinds of bacterial infections.

Original Article: Researchers Fight Resistant Bugs

CDC Expands Campaign Against Overuse of Antibiotics

Reprogenetics: Should It Be Used?

2007-07-10T23:16:00.000-04:00

With any emerging technology it is very easy to see that the possibilities provided by it can often conflict in moral and social aspects. This is especially true with technologies such as reprogenetics, where altering the most natural processes of life become possible. I believe that such a breakthrough can provide benefits never before obtained, while also creating the potential for malevolent acts.

I personally feel that the benefits of reprogenetics are too great to not explore further. The ability, for example, to become completely immune to an array of diseases from birth would save millions of lives. The only foreseeable issue with using reprogenetics to prevent contraction of diseases is the ever expanding definition of the word “disease”. Recently more and more problems have adopted the label of disease which raises the question of what we should and shouldn’t prevent from child birth. Depression for example, in severe forms creates serious problems for the normal function of some individuals’ lives. However, it has recently been shown that those who experience mild depression on a regular basis are far more empathetic to others than those who do not. There are a number of areas that this disease label could be applied ending in catastrophe for how we as humans are intended to function.

On a similar note is the idea of intelligence modification. Every parent wants their child to be as intelligent as possible so that their chances for success are greater. While the concept of manipulating genes in order to facilitate higher intelligence levels may be a good concept in theory it also presents several issues. Currently the gene we would use to make our children smarter is thought to be Human Accelerated Region 1(HAR1) that has been shown to have accelerated much faster in humans than any other species. However, since we do not fully understand all that this gene controls by altering it in order to force a false intelligence the consequences could be dire. Creating humans with no differentiating ideas or creativity, we could become more like computers, being able to perform tremendous calculations but produce no new ideas of our own.

In order to come to a conclusion of whether or not this technology should be used we must also take into consideration differing social and political environments. Some societies would use reprogenetics to aid in disease prevention, and the general welfare of the people within the society. On the other hand, some political leaders may choose to use such a technology for far less admirable means. For example, if Adolf Hitler had reprogenetics at his disposable he may have attempted to genetically alter all the births he could to create his idea of a “perfect race”. This and other frightening concepts are very valid reasons why such a technology must have some restrictions placed on it so that malicious individuals do not attempt such heinous acts.

In relation to Hitlers “perfect race” some families may feel that other than intelligence physical appearance may be important to the success of their child. I find the concept of genetically changing your child’s appearance to be a poor use of such an amazing technology. One of the most beautiful things about humanity is that we all look so remarkably different. By changing our children to look like our favorite movie stars we would be taking away one of the most important human characteristics, diversity.

With social differences and malevolent intentions aside I would personally use reprogenetics on my own children to ensure that they do not contract certain diseases. Conversely, I would not allow there appearance to be changed nor would I accept an adjustment to there level of intelligence. I also feel that if the human race had the maturity to use such a powerful tool I would like to see it used to an extent. I do fear that we would end up using it in an appalling manner though, but perhaps I should have more faith in humanity.

Social Neuroprosthetics

2007-07-10T22:58:00.001-04:00

As we gaze into the future of computers, and the Internet, we see that new problems and new assets will arise. We are quickly approaching a time when the human brain and the computer become one in a harmonious union of technology and humanity. This advancement will lead to many great abilities such as being able to instantly communicate with any individual wirelessly. While these advancements may be great there are some who believe that any combination of our species with the technology we create is ethically and morally wrong. While there may be several issues that are possible with this possible merger there are not any that cannot be overcome. By integrating computers into the brain we could seamlessly share our emotions with others over the Internet, creating a form of communication unlike any other.

Dr. Roy Bakay, a neuroprosthetics researcher at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia is quoted as saying, “If you can run a computer, you can talk to the world”. This idea becomes even more relevant when we take into account the possibilities presented by social neuroprosthetics. A pseudo-telepathy can be created out of the symbiosis between humans and computers that shows amazing potential. Because, while speech is a remarkable tool it also lacks in several abilities, for instance, being able to express abstract ideas like emotion in an efficient manner. By enabling the exchange of an entire perceptual experience to another person we could finally cross the boundary that language has surrounded us in for centuries.

Although there are a great many benefits to such a technology some still perceive problems with it. One of these foreseeable issues with a brain computer interface is a computers’ innate ability to be altered against the users will. By hacking or phreaking a computer linked to an individuals’ brain, negative emotions could be expressed or damage could even be done. Also, since our perceptions could be directly shared this could also mean that one could force false perceptions on another individual altering their experience entirely. Many who feel that humans should remain separate entities from the technology we create see this as a perfect example as to why computers and the brain should not be integrated. However, this concept merely means that only those with a high level of skill in computer systems should receive such implants, otherwise hacking could occur. Another possible solution is to develop software to prevent such malicious attacks. In an article on computer security by Spencer Kelly at the BBC he states, “All of it could have been prevented with anti-virus software and a firewall”.

One complaint against the use of the Internet in its current form is the ability for users to easily forget information since there is no urgency to recall it when it is so easily accessible. Although some individuals neglect to retain information when it can be found with little effort online this would no longer be a problem if neuroprosthetics were introduced. This is true since storage could be mediated by a computer system, thus all information on the Internet could be instantly remembered allowing for great leaps in knowledge. Another benefit is that information learned the old fashioned way, through paper based medium, could be easily absorbed and organized. Although some humanists will still feel that it is opposing to their morals to remember information in an unnatural way.

One key medical issue is found when realizing any foreign object found inside the body creates a possibility of rejection. While it can be overcome, such an obstacle must be taken seriously in order to prevent any complications. Many people would also be opposed to such a development feeling that combining humans and computers is taking technology beyond an already fuzzy moral boundary. While I respect the opinions of those who are against it I believe that as long as this technology is never forced upon an individual it should be allowed to be pursued.

Again, even with advancements in technology we see that any form of technology can be used incorrectly thus creating problems. However, when used responsibly the power of technology prevails over any negative consequences of its use. The Internet is one of the most influential tools that humans have at our disposal. While there may be a long path to follow before we can incorporate something as powerful as the Internet into our own brains we can see that its potential is immense. As long as we keep a suitable balance between our use of technology and humanity there is no reason we shouldn’t allow advancements as crucial as the Internet and social neuroprosthetics to flourish.

Ex-Hacker Warns on Computer Security
Think and It's Done(Warning:Subscription Required)

Neuroethical Implications of Psychopharmacology

2007-07-10T19:41:00.000-04:00

Medical personnel have reached a time when their implementation of medical technologies could present major moral dilemmas. With new classes of drugs available to the public designed to alter the function of our brains we are quickly approaching a new age in psychopharmacology. Soon it is possible that the majority of the human population will be consuming drugs to augment their mood and cognitive abilities. Are we entering a brave new world or starting on a foolhardy journey to the demise of what we now know as the human race?

Drugs designed to aid people’s ailments have been produced for centuries, it has been only a recent development, however, that these drugs are to be used to correct mental instabilities. Among the mental malfunctions that we as humans face is the dark state known as depression. In response to this common problem researchers created antidepressant medications. The most common form of these drugs is Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors or SSRIs. While they do help a large number of individuals with their constant battle with “the blues” they can also create problems. For example, sexual dysfunction has been reported by a large number of depression patients. In response to this, doctors often times merely prescribe more drugs to combat the newly created problem. This cycle of treating symptoms while ignoring the underlying issue lacks any and all ethical consideration for the mental state of the patient.

While the use of antidepressants can be justified in some cases a recent trend in the multiplication of prescriptions is troubling. It seems that over the past several years, individuals with milder depression have become more likely to be prescribed SSRIs. In addition to this they are also being used as preventative medicine in patients who show absolutely no symptoms of depression. Martha Farah at the Center for Cognitive Neuroscience addressed this issue stating, “changes in psychiatric practice have resulted in many people using SSRIs and other antidepressants who would not have been prescribed these drugs ten years ago”. This concept is not only ethically questionable it is in fact rather dangerous especially to younger individuals. As the brain develops, outside influences have an enormous impact on it. The decision to carelessly distribute antidepressants to teenagers could have long term repercussions on the natural function of their brains. These practices are unethical and irresponsible on the part of the doctors and of the patients who fail to understand the effects of their treatment.

Research conducted on the effects of anti-depressants on healthy individuals provided potentially frightening results. The effects were reported as, “Reducing self-reported negative affect (such as fear, hostility) while leaving positive affect (happiness, excitement) the same”. While it is obvious that we as humans dislike our negative emotions we must also take into consideration the important role they play in our lives. For example if no feelings of anger or deep rooted passion are felt about current issues plaguing our society, such as the constitutional rights that are being stripped from us, people may remain docile and allow these heinous acts to happen. In a similar study researchers found that “subjects were more cooperative” under the influence of these SSRIs. Again, in some individual cases this would have a rewarding effect on one’s life. However, when you view the society as a whole as being “more cooperative” it will also lose the passion to fight against the wrong doings within the society. Thus, as these drugs are distributed more freely to individuals with no consideration of whether or not they are in need of them serious social backlash could occur.

The use of mood enhancing drugs in the American society is dwarfed in comparison to the overwhelming demand for those designed for boosting our cognitive functions. Stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamines are among the most popular cognitive enhancing drugs on the market today. Originally designed to be used in the treatment of ADD and ADHD these drugs have quickly found there way into the hands of many with absolutely no medically diagnosable need for them.

When used in treating such conditions as Attention Deficit Disorder some positive results have been shown. Coupled with these results, however, are a list of side effects that can cause serious problems in the lives of patients. One side effect to note is a significant decrease in appetite. This can lead to serious weight loss in many individuals who were considered to be in the low weight bracket in the first place. Since these drugs are usually prescribed to children a lack of appetite can cause other problems like malnutrition leading to stunted growth and development. Another important side effect is a loss in the ability to sleep. Not only does it affect ones ability to fall asleep but it also causes serious problems with the brains natural circadian rhythm. The real question is, are all of these side effects really made up for by the slight increase in attention and memory retention?

Whether or not these stimulants are worth the risk seems to be of little significance in a society that relies on them to function. Even if there is no medical documentation of attention deficits, business professionals and students are finding ways to obtain these stimulants in order to increase productivity. “Methylphenidate is considered by some to be the most widely used recreational drug on American Campuses”. It seems that even among those who are not diagnosed with any form of attention deficit these stimulants have a great affect. An article in the journal Nature titled “Emerging Ethical Issues in Neuroscience” the author writes, “in normal individuals, these drugs induce reliable changes in vigilance response time and higher cognitive functions, such as novel problem solving and planning”.

There are several problems created by the use of these drugs to augment the brains natural ability to process information. One of these problems can be seen as a social one. With increased abilities in memorization and attention tasks individuals on such stimulants are given the upper hand in educational and business situations. This creates pressure on those who are opposed to enhancing their abilities with drugs to do just that. Another problem is that these drugs may in fact slow down the natural evolution of the human brain. If we no longer need to evolve to keep up with demand, because we have drugs to expand our abilities, then we will not. However, if ever we run out of supplies to continue creating such drugs then we will be set back by hundreds of years. Yet another significant issue that will effect our current generation is the possibility that “a youth spent scaling the heights of academic and job success thanks to enhancement by Ritalin will be followed by a middle age of premature memory loss and cognitive decline”. These are all ethical, moral and health issues that need to be taken into consideration by not only neuroethicists but the common individual.

It is of utmost importance for our society as a whole to realize the possible outcomes of attempting to enhance a system as complex as the human brain. It is even more pertinent, however, that individuals in the neuroscience fields remain responsible by preventing the over prescription of these potentially dangerous drugs. Therefore, our entire culture is obligated to understand the implications these psychopharmacological advancements have on the individuals’ and the societies’ well being.

Neuroethics: the Neuroscience Revolution, Ethics, and the Law
Emerging Ethical Issues in Neuroscience(Warning:PDF)

Multi-Touch Interaction

2007-07-10T16:57:00.000-04:00

Back in September of '06 I completed a class project on emerging interaction techniques. In it I covered Mutli-Touch Interaction Research. Recently I discovered a group of individuals who are as interested in FTIR as I am. FTIR or Frustrated Total Internal Reflection, is a fairly simple technology best described by this image.When used in correlation with a modified webcam and the appropriate software one can create a multi-touch interface for a fairly inexpensive amount of money. The NUI group is a collection of individuals helping each other to create these devices. I decided I would embark on this endeavor as well in order to work on my programming skills and simply because this technology has a lot of potential. I will be marking my progress along the way as soon as I get some of my initial parts. Some amazing things have already been accomplished with this technology, many are familiar with the iPhone and Microsoft's new table which follow a similar technology, and I would like to make some discoveries of my own in this field.

Here is a video of Jeff Han demoing the Multi-touch interface created at NYU:

An Introduction

2007-07-10T13:06:00.000-04:00

I am currently a college student pursuing a career in Brain Computer Interaction. I spend a great deal of my day reading news from various sources using Google Reader. My feeds range from Shashdot to CNN as I am interested in learning as much as possible and keeping up with current affairs. I also play and record music in my free time, this may come up from time to time because I may write about new recording equipment, albums, or various other music-centric topics. Music is a very important part of my life due to its unique ability to keep me sane through any event. Enough about me you are probably wondering what the purpose of this blog is.

The intention of this blog is to allow me to have an area to freely express the full gamut of ideas that run through my head on a daily basis. Some of these ideas may be in contrast to your own, if so please inform me of your own ideas in the comments and I assure you I will consider implementing them in my own ideology. I only ask that you also contemplate my own views before rushing to harsh conclusions. Being human gives us the ability to learn from nearly every experience and discussion. Appreciating others opinions is important because they often raise valuable points that need to be considered to fully understand a subject. This is also a place where I can write to both inform others and further cement new happenings of the world in my own brain. As my interests range from technology to politics I will often attempt to seamlessly lead from one to the other, thus the name Nonlinear Thinker. Well there goes my first post, have fun reading Musings of a Nonlinear Thinker.