With MRSA threatening to infect huge numbers of patients who make even short trips to the hospital, and the gradual increase in the number of bacteria that are resistant to all known antiobiotics, scientists are turning to new ways to conquer the killer bugs. The emergence of dangerous antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria is most prevalent in the USA where antibiotics are available over the counter and are often mishandled. The answers to these problems may be locked in the science of the former Soviet Union, and whether this potential can be unlocked depends on subtle aspects of intellectual property and patent law, since pharmaceutical companies must be able to control the revenues from a discovery. Join discussion...

In the midst of the Cold War the world's most brilliant scientist, Dr. Charles Forbin (Eric Braeden), devises a supercomputer for the Pentagon to control America's nuclear arsenal. Dubbed Colossus, this gargantuan mainframe is constructed inside a mountain in Colorado where, protected by automated defenses, it is impregnable to sabotage and attack. Its function is to detect, evaluate and respond to all strategic threats to the U.S. and her allies. Its creator hopes that with peace and freedom secured and the threat of accidental war eliminated, Colossus can then focus its attention on researching new scientific discoveries. Upon activating the vast machine, Forbin electronically seals the tomblike complex. Outside he is warmly greeted by the President of the United States (Blacula's Gordon Pinset), praising him for his monumental achievement. http://eccentric-cinema.com/cult_movies/colossus.htm Join discussion...

Open Manufacturing is about bringing free and open source software development methodology and philosophy to the design and construction of the physical world. Join discussion...

Buddhaware ... During this conversation we discuss an article written by Shambhala Acharaya Judy Lief entitled, Glimpses of Awakening. We discuss the ideals surrounding awakening, and use the classic three trainings model (of ethics, concentration, & wisdom) to explore what enlightenment is about. Join discussion...

"Dr. J. chats with Vince Horn of Buddhist Geeks. With radical advances in science in technology would it be possible for us to turn our world into a so-called, “Buddha Realm” or would it be more likely that we create some sort of God Realm, where awakening is discouraged because the conditions are so radically pleasant? And how specifically could these advances help us develop spiritually, on the path toward Buddhahood? Join discussion...

NING is an open source social networking site. transhumanist.ning is for all the xhumanists out there. Join discussion...