Solitons

A group of scientists are arguing that our nervous systems use sound, rather than electricity, to transmit information.

"Heimburg and Jackson theorize that sound propagation is a much more likely explanation. Although sound waves usually weaken as they spread out, a medium with the right physical properties could create a special kind of sound pulse or "soliton" that can propagate without spreading or losing strength.

The physicists say because the nerve membrane is made of a material similar to olive oil that can change from liquid to solid through temperature variations, they can freeze and propagate the solitons.

The scientists, whose work is in the Biophysical Society's Biophysical Journal, suggested that anesthetics change the melting point of the membrane and make it impossible for their theorized sound pulses to propagate."

In that last paragraph, it's not clear to me whether this theory has been published in the journal, or if their work in general has been published. Neat idea, though, and if it's true, there will be much science book editing.

Black Sheep

Thanks to Charlie for sending me a link to this movie trailer. This looks like the cinematic event of our generation.

I so want this

I have a birthday coming up, and if you want to get me the perfect gift, here it is: the Mr. T head cookie jar. I think it speaks for itself.

Nope, I changed my mind, I'll speak for it. "I pity the fool who don't open up my head and take some cookies!"

Some music for March

This month's offerings in the mp3 club include some more electronic stuff, thanks in part to my renewed interest in Pandora, a great site for discovering new music.

Things are looking up...

...because The Venture Bros has been picked up for a third season! To celebrate, here is a link to a big picture of Brock Samson. Quit screwin' around, Doc, where are the boys?