Brent Kearney

I wrote about the BrainGate Neural Implant in 2006, and now, 5 years later, they are reporting success in human clinical trials. The BrainGate implant has been operational in a paralyzed patient for over 1000 days, allowing her to control a computer mouse cursor by thinking about hand movements.

This is the first demonstration that this microelectrode array technology can provide useful neuroprosthetic signals allowing a person with tetraplegia to control an external device for an extended period of time.”

In the past 5 years, research into Brain-Computer Interfaces has been progressing rapidly. For example, devices which rest on the scalp are now good enough at reading brain waves that they can be used to play video games. In this TED Talk, Tan Le of Emotiv Systems demonstrates one such device.

Another company, Intendix, offers a similar brain-wave reading (EEG) product which allows it’s users to type on a virtual keyboard using only thoughts. BrainAthlete also uses EEG technology, marketed as a tool for helping athletes find “the zone”.

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Here’s a good “paleo” friendly, dairy-free, gluten-free bison meatloaf recipe.

Preheat oven to 350 °F (~175 °C). Combine these ingredients in a mixing bowl:

• 1 lb. ground bison
• ½ red bell pepper, finely chopped
• ½ cup green onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves of garlic, pressed/crushed
• fresh ground black pepper to taste
• ¼ – ½ cup ground flaxseed

Knead with your hands until mixed thoroughly. Pack the mixture into a loaf dish. Pour BBQ Sauce on the top, and bake for 1 hour.