Brain stimulation technologies, from implantable electrodes to remote treatments, are quickly becoming more mainstream. This means that we have to consider how the data collected from these treatments might be used against us in a court of law. For example, the heart data of Ross Compton was used against him in a criminal case. Neuroscientists are also exploring brain stimulation for a wide range of conditions, including long Covid and depression, as well as ways to enhance healthy brains. We need to think now about how to protect this data, so that it can’t be used against us in the future. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
