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Model of the brain-machine interface for real-time synthetic speech production. The stroke-induced lesion (red X) disables speech output, but speech motor planning in the cerebral cortex remains intact. Signals collected from an electrode in the speech motor cortex are amplified and sent wirelessly across the scalp as FM radio signals. The Neuralynx System amplifies, converts, and sorts the signals. The neural decoder then translates the signals into speech commands for the speech synthesizer. Credit: Guenther, et al. (PhysOrg.com) -- By implanting an electrode into the brain of a person with locked-in syndrome, scientists have demonstrated how to wirelessly transmit neural...

AL ANBAR, Iraq (Feb. 14, 2006) -- When asked about the biggest challenge of operating in a foreign country such as Iraq, many service members will say it is the language barrier that causes the most frustration. To combat this challenge, Arabic speakers are hired from across the world to be a vital connection between the people of Iraq and the Coalition Forces. Without them, little could be accomplished. On a rare occasion, contracted interpreters are not necessary – not when you have Marines who can do the job. Such is the case with Lance Cpl. Brian Youssef, a Marine...