Finding Genius Podcast

During the Ebola outbreak in Africa in 2014, a response camp was designed in order to create a clinical environment that included observation bays, recovery bays, and areas for isolation. When the project didn't go through at the last minute, the assets in place had to be burned due to an inability to disinfect the canvas structures that made up the camp. Not only is this an unsustainable use of resources, but the lack of pre-existing medical public health infrastructure created conditions conducive to an outbreak in the first place. Clinics On Wheels wants to develop medical public health infrastructure in austere environments in order to provide general public healthcare on a regular basis, while also being ready to respond immediately should an outbreak occur. In this episode, Tony Cowan, Director of Emergency Response Technology for Clinics on Wheels explains the varied uses and economic benefits of quality care that has mobile capabilities. For more information, visit www.clinicsonwheels.com, or their parent company, World Housing Solution, at www.worldhousingsolution.com. You can also email Cowan directly at tonyc@worldhousingsolution.com.

Around 2001, Dr. Cate Shanahan acquired a mysterious pain and inflammation in her knee, which her medical providers could not explain and even surgery could not fix. The pain sometimes made her febrile and even unable to walk. When she finally learned that it was caused by a virus in her knee resulting from a diet she had once believed to be healthy, she became inspired to learn more. A medical professional herself, Dr. Cate is familiar with the nutritional science training, or lack thereof, provided in medical school. She has turned her pursuit of knowledge of nutrition into a book, Deep Nutrition: Why Your Genes Need Traditional Food, with a new edition recently out. She joins us today to share her insights on nutrition. Press play to hear more. Find her book on most online retailers, including Amazon and Audible. You can find out more about Dr. Cate and what she does at drcate.com

BIOLIFE4D is back to tell us more about the technology they are using to create a bioengineered heart! In the United States, there are about 200,000 people who could use a heart transplant to save their lives, but only about 3,500 heart transplants take place each year. This discrepancy is due to a lack of viable donor hearts. BIOLIFE4D is addressing this problem by developing the technology to create a heart out of the cells of the very patient who will receive the heart for transplantation. Listen in to hear Steven Morris, CEO, and president of BIOLIFE4D, explain how such a heart can be made, why such a method reduces rejection risk, and how it can improve accuracy and ethics in drug testing. Learn more at www.BIOLIFE4D.com.

According to Nitish Padmanaban, the problem in vision is deceivingly simple: as a person ages, the lenses in their eyes stiffen and become unable to change shape enough to focus on different objects in their environment. As a result, a person might get reading or bifocal lenses to help them see what they need to. As a fifth-year Ph.D. student at Stanford University, Padmanaban is working on a unique solution to this problem, which is a focused, tunable lens that replaces the functionality that's lost by the eyes over time. These autofocus function as a combination of two types of eye-tracking software and a depth camera, and are able to determine exactly which object a person is looking at, how far from the person the object is located, and change shape accordingly so that the person can seamlessly focus on anything in their line of vision. In today's episode, Padmanaban discusses the technical details of how the product works, how the technology of the lenses is based upon the technology behind virtual reality headsets, what they're aiming to improve about the product in the future, and more. Tune in to hear the full conversation and check out https://www.computationalimaging.org/ to learn more.

Gary Marcus, the scientist, entrepreneur, and author of the buzz-worthy book, Rebooting AI: Building Artificial Intelligence We Can Trust, talks about the current state of AI and learning. Marcus is a scientist, first and foremost, and his extensive research has often focused on natural and artificial intelligence. Marcus was Founder and CEO of Geometric Intelligence, a successful machine learning company that was acquired by Uber. Marcus talks about his background, and his early interest in AI, and the possibilities to, as he states, "make machines do smart things." Marcus discusses his path from studying human cognition to AI. He states that much 'intelligence' is narrow, meaning the intelligence can only accomplish one or a few tasks. With general intelligence, the goal is to build machines that can figure things out for themselves, to analyze and adapt. The scientist and educator talk about human intelligence and our abilities. Continuing, Marcus discusses early chatbots and their relative intelligence levels. Additionally, he talks about self-driving software and some of the accidents that have caused injuries and even death. He states that none of this software has been properly debugged, but many people feel comfortable already. Marcus expounds upon the concept of deep comprehension, discussing data representations, and the ability to analyze things like space, time, causality, and individual objects. He explains his thoughts on how some things will be 'learned' but others will be built in. He talks about how AI needs to have a 'rough draft' of the psychology built-in, information and knowledge it needs to possess in order to function in the world around it, and that will ultimately make the learning process easier. Marcus discusses some of the problems and challenges that arise in the quest to advance AI and neuroscience. He explains his theories and expands on some of the themes in his new book. He discusses which aspects of problems can be readily solved and how machines often fail in analytical thinking unless proper programming is implemented. Gary Marcus, the scientist, entrepreneur, and author of the buzz-worthy book, Rebooting AI: Building Artificial Intelligence We Can Trust, talks about the current state of AI and learning. Marcus is a scientist, first and foremost, and his extensive research has often focused on natural and artificial intelligence. Marcus was Founder and CEO of Geometric Intelligence, a successful machine learning company that was acquired by Uber. Marcus talks about his background, and his early interest in AI, and the possibilities to, as he states, "make machines do smart things." Marcus discusses his path from studying human cognition to AI. He states that much 'intelligence' is narrow, meaning the intelligence can only accomplish one or a few tasks. With general intelligence, the goal is to build machines that can figure things out for themselves, to analyze and adapt. The scientist and educator talk about human intelligence and our abilities. Continuing, Marcus discusses early chatbots and their relative intelligence levels. Additionally, he talks about self-driving software and some of the accidents that have caused injuries and even death. He states that none of this software has been properly debugged, but many people feel comfortable already. Marcus expounds upon the concept of deep comprehension, discussing data representations, and the ability to analyze things like space, time, causality, and individual objects. He explains his thoughts on how some things will be 'learned' but others will be built in. He talks about how AI needs to have a 'rough draft' of the psychology built-in, information and knowledge it needs to possess in order to function in the world around it, and that will ultimately make the learning process easier. Marcus discusses some of the problems and challenges that arise in the quest to advance AI and neuroscience. He explains his theories and expands on some of the themes in his new book. He discusses which aspects of problems can be readily solved and how machines often fail in analytical thinking unless proper programming is implemented.

Dr. Amelia Mazgaloff, principal, Chiro-Health, Inc. (chirohealthsf.com), provides an overview of her work as a chiropractor, helping people heal their nervous system. Dr. Mazgaloff holds a master's degree in physical education and kinesiology (the study of human movement). She completed her education in X-ray technology and began her tenure at the Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan, a top-rated spine orthopedic hospital. Dr. Mazgaloff discusses joint pain and inflammation, and how chiropractic techniques can be utilized. She expounds upon the various treatments for misalignments of the joints, all of which can affect our nerves and muscles. She discusses the many ways that body problems can occur, from slip and fall injuries to accidents, and more, and how trauma can impact our joints. As she states, when there are alignment problems that cannot realign on their own, that's when chiropractors get involved, to manually realign and return the body to its normal state. The doctor discusses some of the issues she deals with, and how some patients respond. She explains that her goal is to fix problems permanently if possible, not just relieve pain and problems. She outlines their techniques and processes and explains how they adjust joints, with a discussion on maintenance adjustment and how they schedule patients for follow-ups. Typically, maintenance schedules are four to six weeks, but it depends on a particular person's activities and activity level.

Charles J. Meakin, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Care Oncology Clinic USA, provides an overview of his life's work in oncology and research. Dr. Meakin amassed 30 years of radiation oncology practice before joining Care Oncology in the summer of 2019. Dr. Meakin is interested in health optimization strategies and uses his extensive oncology background to develop and implement 'whole patient' care. Dr. Meakin completed his premed education at Notre Dame University, Medical School at the University of Cincinnati, and his oncology training at the prestigious Stanford University Hospital. Dr. Meakin talks about his early thoughts on diet, yoga, and other alternative elements to standard of care, in his pursuit of metabolic solutions to disease. He discusses the concept of reappropriating drugs that were designed for some other malady that can also be effective in cancer treatment. Dr. Meakin discusses tumors and drug/treatment options that impact disease on the cellular level. Dr. Meakin provides an overview of the Care Oncology Clinic's mission and some of its methods. Scientists have spent many years working to find safe and viable combinations of medicines to target the metabolic pathways of cancer. They are seeking combinations that will benefit a large section of people suffering from cancer as well as preventative cancer combinations. And Dr. Meakin discusses their protocol and some of their promising work and successes.

Trisha Pritikin, lawyer, and radiation exposure survivor talks in-depth about her past health problems, causes, and her efforts to educate the public about the dangers of radiation exposure. Trisha Pritikin was born and raised in Richland, Washington, just a couple miles from the Hanford Site, a decommissioned nuclear production complex that was operated by the United States government, on the Columbia River in Benton County, Washington. Her father worked around the reactors, overseeing operations. Eventually, the family moved away, but at the age of 18, Pritikin began to develop health problems she believes were caused by childhood exposure to radioactive iodine and other toxic radionuclides that were released from chemical separations at Hanford. Pritikin tells her story and explains her background. As she explains, the Hanford Site as part of the government's early plutonium production. She outlines the process they used and how toxins were released into the air and water. Pritikin's health deteriorated over time due to an undiagnosed autoimmune thyroid disorder known as Hashimoto's disease, and other related health issues. Pritikin explains the depth at which residents of the area were exposed to harmful radiation, and how, surprisingly, the public was never really informed for years and years. She talks about the many cancers that people of the area experienced, and how it is easy to see the connection. Pritikin talks about her efforts to make an impact, and the 24-year litigation that went on and on in an effort to gain settlements for plaintiffs. She talks about her book of stories, stories of people who suffered, and the release of her book. Continuing, she discusses her efforts to spread the word about dangerous exposures and provides information on some of their websites and info for the public.

Dr. Hanan Elsaie voted one of 'America's Top Dentists' discusses her background, goals, and extensive work in dentistry. Dr. Elsaie is a graduate of the University of Texas Health Science Center - Dental Branch, in Houston. Dr. Elsaie is skilled in all areas of general dentistry, and she specializes in general and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Elsaie received the honorific—'one of America's Top Dentists'— Consumers' Research Council of America, Guide to America's Top Dentists. Dr. Elsaie discusses her background and her holistic method of modern dentistry. She believes in taking a whole-body approach when caring for her patients. She promotes more natural medicines and supplements in her overall care plan. The doctor goes on to talk about gum disease and how it can affect the health of the entire body. Dr. Elsaie explains some of the problems that can develop, from gingivitis to periodontitis. The recognized dental doctor discusses her thoughts on fluoride and mouthwashes with preservatives (or alcohol), explaining that she is not an advocate whatsoever as they can do damage to the body. She delves into a discussion of saliva and things to watch for in regard to that. Continuing, Dr. Elsaie provides information on a few of the many natural foods, supplements, and more that can combat inflammation, and are excellent for gum health, etc. She discusses, in great detail, various sweeteners—the good versus the bad, discussing ingredients and effects. And she continues, discussing some of the potentially harmful chemicals that we could be exposed to. Wrapping up, she discusses new technologies and advances in the dental field. Dr. Elsaie's work has been recognized by her peers, and she is passionate about providing outstanding dental care to everyone. Dr. Elsaie is skilled in general and cosmetic dentistry, as well as oral surgery, including implant placement and surgical extractions, endodontics, periodontics, and prosthonotics.

Perry Marshall, a marketing expert, engineer, entrepreneur, and general scientific enthusiast, talks about the current state of scientific development, approaches, and practices. Marshall's sought-after consulting service provides independent entrepreneurs an opportunity to take part in high-level mentoring groups, to solve problems, and find exciting pathways to incredible success. Though Marshall's lifetime of marketing and business knowledge, he has developed a system that delivers state-of-the-art marketing methods to company owners and executives, managers and marketers, as well as hungry salespeople—all who want to find new ways to thrive. And Marshall's 80/20 Sales and Marketing concept is a foundation in the business world. Marshall discusses his Evolution 2.0 Prize, the largest "origin of life" prize thus far, that seeks to bridge the divide between the scientific fields of chemistry, genomics, and modern computing. Marshall discusses the difficulty level of attaining funding for research. He discusses some of the hurdles that scientists face in their attempt to get work published. He explains the peer review process and how 'good science' is evaluated. Continuing, the electrical engineer and general scientific enthusiast discuss his process to find judges for his Evolution 2.0 Prize. As he explains, many scientists wanted no part in it, but the ones who chose to be involved tended to be outspoken 'rock stars' so to speak in the world of science. He states, to take controversial positions, it requires some maneuvering that many ranks and file scientists are not able to do, due to lack of time/schedules, etc. Marshall explains why most scientists don't typically share their information with the general public from the outset. Going further, Marshall talks about how some scientists break out and become 'popular scientists,' such as Neil deGrasse Tyson, Stephen Hawking, and others.