X-Message-Number: 1462 From: Subject: CRYONICS This and that Date: Thu, 17 Dec 92 12:06:02 PST Re Dave Pizer's posting: > . . . we should be working hard to build a >cohesive organization that can raise the money to do the research that >is needed to improve our suspension techniques. > >The fallacy is (in my humble opinion), that many cryonicists think that >we are preserving enough brain matter in a good enough state that >cryonics might work. However, many of the "experts" in cryonics feel >that we are not. While I mostly agree with Dave, improving suspension techniques is not easy. The main problem (besides money) is *measuring* improvement. But I feel that some of the indirect methods which have been used for some time will suffice. (Looking at enzyme levels and tissue photomicrographs.) This aside, we already *know* what could be done to greatly improve suspension quality--and it does not need research, "just" changes in the law. I refer, of course, to premortum suspension--the situation Dr, Donaldson tried to set up through the courts. The long period of low blood flow before most people deanimate causes significant damage. And it is going to take more improvement in suspension technique than I can imagine to compensate for 10 hours in a hot coroner van. Re Perry Metzger's suggestions, I agree that people do not need to respond to provocative postings. Along this line, I have to compliment Ralph Whelan for restraint. Re Saul's open letter, I think he misread the intent of my open letter, which was mostly to let the "winning" side know that they had to lead--which means to me that they have to get out there and set an example by *working* (not just politicking). I think that some of them (Brenda, for example) took it the way I intended. In my letter I wrote: ". . . . I will do my best to support our new president, Steve Bridge." I suspect a shortage of money is going to be Alcor's worst problem next year. I wrote the copy and hand signed 600 fund raising letters this week to help alleviate that problem. Re Saul having excessive influence over Alcor--Saul's goals are now fairly well known--we shall see. Keith Henson Rate This Message: http://www.cryonet.org/cgi-bin/rate.cgi?msg=1462