Chad Ruble's mother had a stroke some years ago and was left with aphasia. Ordinary phone conversation and email pose challenges. Chad built a system that helps his mother "Kinecticate" with her friends and family.

As our nation's leadership in scientific and technological innovation is challenged as never before, federal funding of basic scientific research remains essential, but that research should be potentially transformational.

As science makes a reality of what has been science fiction, we will face questions of how to best apply neurotechnologies. Should they be limited to helping those who have illnesses? Or should they bolster the performance of a wartime soldier, enable a C student to get As, or supercharge CEOs?