What monkey thinks, robot arm does.

Scientists at Duke University reported recently that a macaque monkey with electrodes implanted in its brain could move a robot's arm, much as if it were moving its own arm. Researchers hope to adapt the technology for paralyzed humans. And experts working on the brain-machine interface say that experimental efforts for human use may begin within a few years. The long-term implantation of electrodes into human brain tissue is already being done with deep-brain stimulators that alleviate chronic pain. Some Pentagon strategists have another idea: creating a robot army controlled from a distance by the thoughts of its commanders.